Lighting device

Abstract

Disclosed is a lighting device having a light source having a first optical element that emits light having directivity and a second optical element, and one liquid crystal optical element that transmits or transmits and diffuses light emitted from the light source, the light source being configured so that the first optical element and the second optical element make the emission direction of light different, the liquid crystal optical element having a first electrode group that opposes the light emission surface of the first optical element, and a second electrode group that opposes the light emission surface of the second optical element and is disposed adjacent to the first electrode group, the first electrode group having a first transparent electrode and a second transparent electrode that is disposed alternately with the first transparent electrode, the second electrode group having a third transparent electrode and a fourth transparent electrode that is disposed alternately with the third transparent electrode, the pitch at which the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode are disposed alternately being different from the pitch at which the third transparent electrode and the fourth transparent electrode are disposed alternately.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One embodiment of the present invention relates to an element for controlling light distribution using the optical properties of a liquid crystal, and an illumination device comprising an element for controlling light distribution using the optical properties of a liquid crystal. Background Technology

[0002] Liquid crystal lenses are known as optical elements (liquid crystal optical elements) that utilize liquid crystals to supply voltage to the liquid crystal, change the refractive index of the liquid crystal, and electrically control the focal distance. For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose illumination devices that use liquid crystal cells with electrodes arranged in a concentric circle to control the diffusion of light emitted from a light source. Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 3 discloses a beam shaping device pattern that controls light distribution by changing the shape of the electrodes used to supply voltage to the liquid crystal.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-317879

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-230887

[0007] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-160277 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] However, the lighting apparatus described in Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2 merely aims to control and focus the distribution of light diffusion, i.e., the light distribution angle, using a liquid crystal lens. In other words, in the lighting apparatus described in Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2, the light distribution pattern is limited to concentric circles. Furthermore, in the beam shaping apparatus described in Patent Document 3, in order to change the pattern of the light distribution pattern by altering the pattern of the electrodes applied to the liquid crystal, a change in the light orientation pattern is obtained, which requires a liquid crystal cell with a complex structure, lacking mass production capability.

[0010] In view of the aforementioned problems, one objective of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a liquid crystal optical element and an illumination device capable of controlling the light distribution or light distribution pattern of light.

[0011] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a lighting device comprising: a light source having a first optical element and a second optical element emitting directional light; and a liquid crystal optical element that allows light irradiated from the light source to pass through or pass through and diffuse, the light source being configured such that the first optical element and the second optical element emit light in different directions, the liquid crystal optical element having: a first electrode group configured to face the light-emitting surface of the first optical element; and a second electrode group disposed adjacent to the first electrode group, facing the light-emitting surface of the second optical element, the first electrode group having a first transparent electrode and a second transparent electrode arranged alternately in a comb-like pattern with the first transparent electrode, the second electrode group having a third transparent electrode and a fourth transparent electrode arranged alternately in a comb-like pattern with the third transparent electrode, the spacing between the alternating arrangement of the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode being different from the spacing between the alternating arrangement of the third transparent electrode and the fourth transparent electrode. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic end cross-sectional view of a lighting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a schematic end cross-sectional view of an optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view of a liquid crystal optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a schematic end cross-sectional view of a liquid crystal optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a schematic end cross-sectional view of a liquid crystal optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of a first transparent electrode, a second transparent electrode, a fifth transparent electrode, a sixth transparent electrode, a ninth transparent electrode, and a tenth transparent electrode on a first substrate in a liquid crystal optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of the third, fourth, seventh, eighth, eleventh, and twelfth transparent electrodes on the second substrate in a liquid crystal optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 8This is a schematic end cross-sectional view showing the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer of a liquid crystal optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a schematic end cross-sectional view showing the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer of a liquid crystal optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a schematic top view illustrating the structure of a lighting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a schematic top view illustrating the connection of the transparent electrodes of a liquid crystal optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from a lighting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from a lighting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 14 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from a lighting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 15 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from a lighting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 16 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from a lighting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 17 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from a lighting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 18 (A)~ Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (H) is a schematic diagram representing the light distribution pattern emitted from a lighting device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 19 This is an end cross-sectional view of a lighting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 20This is an end cross-sectional view of an optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 21 This is an end cross-sectional view of the lighting device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 22 This is a top view of the light source according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 23 This is an end cross-sectional view of the lighting device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 24 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of the first transparent electrode, the second transparent electrode, the fifth transparent electrode, the sixth transparent electrode, the ninth transparent electrode, and the tenth transparent electrode on the first substrate in the liquid crystal optical element according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 25 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of the third, fourth, seventh, eighth, eleventh, and twelfth transparent electrodes on the second substrate in the liquid crystal optical element according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 26 This is a schematic top view illustrating the connection of the transparent electrode of the liquid crystal optical element according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 27 This is a top view of the light source according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 28 (A)~ Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (F) is a schematic diagram representing the light distribution pattern emitted from the lighting device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention can be implemented in many different ways and is not limited to or intended to explain the contents of the embodiments illustrated below. In the drawings, to make the description clearer, the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part are sometimes schematically shown compared to the actual way, but this is only an example and is not intended to limit the interpretation of this disclosure. Furthermore, in this specification and the drawings, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements as those described in the drawings, letters such as a, b, A, B are added after the numbers, or hyphens and numbers are added after the numbers, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted. Moreover, the words "first" and "second" relative to the elements are convenient markers for distinguishing the elements, and do not have any other meaning unless specifically explained.

[0042] In this specification, the phrase "above (or below) other components or regions" means, unless otherwise specified, not only the case where a component or region is directly above (or directly below) other components or regions, but also the case where it is above (or below) other components or regions and contains other structural elements therebetween.

[0043] Furthermore, in this specification, when a single membrane is processed to form multiple structures, sometimes each structure has different functions or roles, and sometimes the substrates forming each structure are different. However, the aforementioned multiple structures originate from membranes formed into the same layer using the same process and have the same material. Therefore, the aforementioned multiple membranes are defined as existing in the same layer.

[0044] Furthermore, in this specification, expressions such as "α includes A, B, or C," "α includes any one of A, B, and C," and "α includes one selected from the group consisting of A, B, and C," unless otherwise expressly stated, do not preclude the possibility that α includes multiple combinations of A to C. Moreover, these expressions do not preclude the possibility that α includes other elements.

[0045] <First Implementation Method>

[0046] <1-1. Structure of Lighting Device 30>

[0047] Figure 1 A schematic end cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic end cross-sectional view of an optical element 40 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 As shown, the lighting device 30 includes a liquid crystal optical element 10 and a light source 20.

[0048] Details will be described below. The liquid crystal optical element 10 includes a first liquid crystal cell 110a, a second liquid crystal cell 110b, a third liquid crystal cell 110c, a fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, a first transparent adhesive layer 130a, a second transparent adhesive layer 130b, and a third transparent adhesive layer 130c. The first transparent adhesive layer 130a is disposed between the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the second transparent adhesive layer 130b is disposed between the second liquid crystal cell 110b and the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the third transparent adhesive layer 130c is disposed between the third liquid crystal cell 110c and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d. The first liquid crystal cell 110a, the first transparent adhesive layer 130a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the second transparent adhesive layer 130b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, the third transparent adhesive layer 130c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d are laminated along the z-axis.

[0049] The first transparent adhesive layer 130a bonds and fixes the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b. Similarly, the second transparent adhesive layer 130b bonds and fixes the second liquid crystal cell 110b and the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the third transparent adhesive layer 130c bonds and fixes the third liquid crystal cell 110c and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d.

[0050] The materials used to form the first transparent adhesive layer 130a, the second transparent adhesive layer 130b, and the third transparent adhesive layer 130c can be optically elastic resins. For example, an optically elastic resin may be an adhesive material containing an acrylic resin that is translucent.

[0051] The light source 20 has an optical element 40 and a support member 50a. The light source 20 is disposed below the first liquid crystal cell 110a of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Therefore, light emitted from the light source 20 passes through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d in sequence.

[0052] The support member 50a serves to support (fix) the optical element 40. The support member 50a has a curved surface and a convex shape when viewed in cross-section. The support member 50a can be made of a metal substrate, such as a polycarbonate substrate (PCB substrate), a ceramic substrate, or a metal material such as aluminum or copper.

[0053] In this embodiment, the optical element 40 is composed of a first optical element 40a, a second optical element 40b, and a third optical element 40c. The first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c are arranged parallel or substantially parallel to the x-axis or y-axis when viewed from above. In this embodiment, the first optical element 40a is disposed near the second optical element 40b, and the second optical element 40b is disposed near the third optical element 40c. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the optical element is sometimes referred to as an optical section.

[0054] A first optical element 40a, a second optical element 40b, and a third optical element 40c are mounted on the curved surface of the support member 50a. The first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c are directional in the direction of light emission. The first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c are configured to emit light in different directions. The light emitted from the optical element 40 is emitted in a direction perpendicular to the surface in contact with the curved surface. For example, when each optical element is configured as follows... Figure 1 As shown, the first optical element 40a emits light 180a in a direction tilted to the right relative to the z-axis, the second optical element 40b emits light 180b parallel or substantially parallel to the z-axis, and the third optical element 40c emits light 180c in a direction tilted to the left relative to the z-axis. In each of the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c, the surface containing the direction of the emitted light is sometimes referred to as the light emitting surface.

[0055] In this embodiment, the optical element 40 and the liquid crystal optical element 10 are as follows: Figure 1 The configuration shown. In other words, the three optical elements, with different light emission directions relative to the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c, are configured as follows: Figure 1 The diagram shows a liquid crystal optical element 10. As a result, three optical elements are used as a light source for the left side, a light source for the center, and a light source for the right side. The liquid crystal optical element 10 allows light emitted from each optical element in different directions to pass through or pass through and diffuse. Consequently, the lighting device 30 according to this embodiment can control the light distribution and light distribution pattern in various ways.

[0056] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light source 20 is composed of three optical elements (first optical element 40a, second optical element 40b, and third optical element 40c), and the structure of the light source 20 is not limited to the configuration described in this embodiment. For example, the light source 20 can be composed of at least two or more optical elements with different light emission directions. By using at least two or more optical elements with different light emission directions in the light source 20, the liquid crystal optical element 10 can allow light emitted from each optical element in different directions to pass through or pass through and diffuse, and the illumination device 30 according to this embodiment can control the light distribution and light distribution pattern in various ways.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown, the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c are respectively composed of, for example, a light-emitting element 210 and a reflector 220.

[0058] The light-emitting element 210 is, for example, a light bulb, a fluorescent lamp, a cold cathode tube, a light-emitting diode (LED), or a laser diode (LD). In this embodiment, the light-emitting element 210 is an LED. The luminous efficiency of LEDs is generally higher than that of light bulbs, fluorescent lamps, etc. Therefore, the lighting device 30 using LEDs is a high-brightness and low-power lighting device. In addition, LEDs and LDs respectively include organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and organic laser diodes (OLDs).

[0059] Reflector 220 is capable of reflecting light emitted from light-emitting element 210, allowing the reflected light to enter the liquid crystal optical element 10. The shape of reflector 220 is, for example, as follows: Figure 2 The reflector 220 is roughly conical in shape as shown, but its shape is not limited to roughly conical. Furthermore, the surface of the reflector 220 can be either flat or curved.

[0060] <1-2. Structure of Liquid Crystal Optical Element 10>

[0061] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view of a liquid crystal optical element 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 As shown, the liquid crystal optical element 10 includes a first liquid crystal cell 110a, a second liquid crystal cell 110b, a third liquid crystal cell 110c, and a fourth liquid crystal cell 110d. The first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d are laminated along the z-axis. The second liquid crystal cell 110b is disposed on the first liquid crystal cell 110a. The third liquid crystal cell 110c is disposed on the second liquid crystal cell 110b. The fourth liquid crystal cell 110d is disposed on the third liquid crystal cell 110c.

[0062] Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a liquid crystal optical element 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 4 For along Figure 3 The schematic cross-sectional view shown is taken within the zx plane, cut along line A1-A2. Figure 5 For along Figure 3 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional view within the yz plane cut by line B1-B2. In this embodiment, the x-axis, the y-axis intersecting the x-axis, and the z-axis intersecting both the x-axis and y-axis are sometimes referred to as the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction, respectively. Furthermore, the x-axis is orthogonal to the y-axis, and the z-axis is perpendicular to the xy-plane (both the x-axis and y-axis).

[0063] The first liquid crystal cell 110a includes a first substrate 111a having a first transparent electrode 181a, a second transparent electrode 182a, a fifth transparent electrode 185a, a sixth transparent electrode 186a, a ninth transparent electrode 189a and a tenth transparent electrode 190a, and a second substrate 121a having a third transparent electrode 183a, a fourth transparent electrode 184a, a seventh transparent electrode 187a, an eighth transparent electrode 188a, an eleventh transparent electrode 191a and a twelfth transparent electrode 192a.

[0064] A first alignment film 114a is formed on the first substrate 111a, covering the first transparent electrode 181a, the second transparent electrode 182a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, the ninth transparent electrode 189a and the tenth transparent electrode 190a.

[0065] Furthermore, a second alignment film 124a is formed on the second substrate 121a, covering the third transparent electrode 183a, the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, the eleventh transparent electrode 191a, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a.

[0066] Furthermore, the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a on the first substrate 111a are opposite to the third transparent electrode 183a and the fourth transparent electrode 184a on the second substrate 121a. The fifth transparent electrode 185a and the sixth transparent electrode 186a on the first substrate 111a are opposite to the seventh transparent electrode 187a and the eighth transparent electrode 188a on the second substrate 121a. The ninth transparent electrode 189a and the tenth transparent electrode 190a on the first substrate 111a are opposite to the eleventh transparent electrode 191a and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a on the second substrate 121a.

[0067] Sealing material 150a is disposed at the periphery of the first substrate 111a and the second substrate 121a, bonding the first substrate 111a and the second substrate 121a. A liquid crystal layer 160a containing liquid crystal is disposed within the space formed by the first substrate 111a (more specifically, the first alignment film 114a), the second substrate 121a (more specifically, the second alignment film 124a), and the sealing material 115.

[0068] The second liquid crystal cell 110b includes a first substrate 111b having a first transparent electrode 181b, a second transparent electrode 182b, a fifth transparent electrode 185b, a sixth transparent electrode 186b, a ninth transparent electrode 189b and a tenth transparent electrode 190b, and a second substrate 121b having a third transparent electrode 183b, a fourth transparent electrode 184b, a seventh transparent electrode 187b, an eighth transparent electrode 188b, an eleventh transparent electrode 191b and a twelfth transparent electrode 192b.

[0069] A first alignment film 114b is formed on the first substrate 111b, covering the first transparent electrode 181b, the second transparent electrode 182b, the fifth transparent electrode 185b, the sixth transparent electrode 186b, the ninth transparent electrode 189b and the tenth transparent electrode 190b.

[0070] Furthermore, a second alignment film 124b is formed on the second substrate 121b, covering the third transparent electrode 183b, the fourth transparent electrode 184b, the seventh transparent electrode 187b, the eighth transparent electrode 188b, the eleventh transparent electrode 191b, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192b.

[0071] Furthermore, the first transparent electrode 181b and the second transparent electrode 182b on the first substrate 111b are opposite to the third transparent electrode 183b and the fourth transparent electrode 184b on the second substrate 121b. The fifth transparent electrode 185b and the sixth transparent electrode 186b on the first substrate 111b are opposite to the seventh transparent electrode 187b and the eighth transparent electrode 188b on the second substrate 121b. The ninth transparent electrode 189b and the tenth transparent electrode 190b on the first substrate 111b are opposite to the eleventh transparent electrode 191b and the twelfth transparent electrode 192b on the second substrate 121b.

[0072] Sealing material 150b is disposed at the periphery of the first substrate 111b and the second substrate 121b, bonding the first substrate 111b and the second substrate 121b together. A liquid crystal layer 160b containing liquid crystal is disposed within the space surrounded by the first substrate 111b (more specifically, the first alignment film 114b), the second substrate 121b (more specifically, the second alignment film 124b), and the sealing material 115.

[0073] The third liquid crystal cell 110c includes a first substrate 111c having a first transparent electrode 181c, a second transparent electrode 182c, a fifth transparent electrode 185c, a sixth transparent electrode 186c, a ninth transparent electrode 189c and a tenth transparent electrode 190c, and a second substrate 121c having a third transparent electrode 183c, a fourth transparent electrode 184c, a seventh transparent electrode 187c, an eighth transparent electrode 188c, an eleventh transparent electrode 191c and a twelfth transparent electrode 192c.

[0074] A first alignment film 114c is formed on the first substrate 111c, comprising a first transparent electrode 181c, a second transparent electrode 182c, a fifth transparent electrode 185c, a sixth transparent electrode 186c, a ninth transparent electrode 189c, and a tenth transparent electrode 190c.

[0075] Furthermore, a second alignment film 124c comprising a third transparent electrode 183c, a fourth transparent electrode 184c, a seventh transparent electrode 187c, an eighth transparent electrode 188c, an eleventh transparent electrode 191c, and a twelfth transparent electrode 192c is formed on the second substrate 121c.

[0076] Furthermore, the first transparent electrode 181c and the second transparent electrode 182c on the first substrate 111c are opposite to the third transparent electrode 183c and the fourth transparent electrode 184c on the second substrate 121c. The fifth transparent electrode 185c and the sixth transparent electrode 186c on the first substrate 111c are opposite to the seventh transparent electrode 187c and the eighth transparent electrode 188c on the second substrate 121c. The ninth transparent electrode 189c and the tenth transparent electrode 190c on the first substrate 111c are opposite to the eleventh transparent electrode 191c and the twelfth transparent electrode 192c on the second substrate 121c.

[0077] Sealing material 150c is disposed on the periphery of the first substrate 111c and the second substrate 121c, bonding the first substrate 111c and the second substrate 121c together. A liquid crystal layer 160c containing liquid crystal is disposed within the space surrounded by the first substrate 111c (more specifically, the first alignment film 114c), the second substrate 121c (more specifically, the second alignment film 124c), and the sealing material 115c.

[0078] The fourth liquid crystal cell 110d includes a first substrate 111d having a first transparent electrode 181d, a second transparent electrode 182d, a fifth transparent electrode 185d, a sixth transparent electrode 186d, a ninth transparent electrode 189d and a tenth transparent electrode 190d, and a second substrate 121d having a third transparent electrode 183d, a fourth transparent electrode 184d, a seventh transparent electrode 187d, an eighth transparent electrode 188d, an eleventh transparent electrode 191d and a twelfth transparent electrode 192d.

[0079] A first alignment film 114d is formed on the first substrate 111d, covering the first transparent electrode 181d, the second transparent electrode 182d, the fifth transparent electrode 185d, the sixth transparent electrode 186d, the ninth transparent electrode 189d and the tenth transparent electrode 190d.

[0080] Furthermore, a second alignment film 124d is formed on the second substrate 121d, covering the third transparent electrode 183d, the fourth transparent electrode 184d, the seventh transparent electrode 187d, the eighth transparent electrode 188d, the eleventh transparent electrode 191d, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192d.

[0081] Furthermore, the first transparent electrode 181d and the second transparent electrode 182d on the first substrate 111d are opposite to the third transparent electrode 183d and the fourth transparent electrode 184d on the second substrate 121d. The fifth transparent electrode 185d and the sixth transparent electrode 186d on the first substrate 111d are opposite to the seventh transparent electrode 187d and the eighth transparent electrode 188d on the second substrate 121d. The ninth transparent electrode 189d and the tenth transparent electrode 190d on the first substrate 111d are opposite to the eleventh transparent electrode 191d and the twelfth transparent electrode 192d on the second substrate 121d.

[0082] Sealing material 150d is disposed at the periphery of the first substrate 111d and the second substrate 121d, and adheres the first substrate 111d and the second substrate 121d. Liquid crystal layer 160d containing liquid crystal is disposed within a space surrounded by the first substrate 111d (more specifically, the first alignment film 114d), the second substrate 121d (more specifically, the second alignment film 124d), and the sealing material 115d.

[0083] The first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d have the same basic structure. However, the configurations of the first transparent electrode 181, the second transparent electrode 182, the third transparent electrode 183, the fourth transparent electrode 184, the fifth transparent electrode 185, the sixth transparent electrode 186, the seventh transparent electrode 187, the eighth transparent electrode 188, the ninth transparent electrode 189, the tenth transparent electrode 190, the eleventh transparent electrode 191, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 are different.

[0084] In the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the first transparent electrode 181a, the second transparent electrode 182a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, the ninth transparent electrode 189a, and the tenth transparent electrode 190a extend along the y-axis, and the third transparent electrode 183a, the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, the eleventh transparent electrode 191a, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a extend along the x-axis.

[0085] The first transparent electrode 181a, the second transparent electrode 182a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, and the ninth transparent electrode 189a and the tenth transparent electrode 190a are arranged in a comb-like pattern alternately along the x-axis. The third transparent electrode 183a, the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191a and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a are arranged in a comb-like pattern alternately along the second direction. When viewed from above, the extension directions (y-axis) of the first transparent electrode 181a, the second transparent electrode 182a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, the ninth transparent electrode 189a, and the tenth transparent electrode 190a are orthogonal to the extension directions (x-axis) of the third transparent electrode 183a, the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, the eleventh transparent electrode 191a, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a, but they can also intersect slightly at different angles.

[0086] In the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the first transparent electrode 181b, the second transparent electrode 182b, the fifth transparent electrode 185b, the sixth transparent electrode 186b, the ninth transparent electrode 189b, and the tenth transparent electrode 190b extend along the y-axis, and the third transparent electrode 183b, the fourth transparent electrode 184b, the seventh transparent electrode 187b, the eighth transparent electrode 188b, the eleventh transparent electrode 191b, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192b extend along the x-axis.

[0087] The first transparent electrode 181b, the second transparent electrode 182b, the fifth transparent electrode 185b, the sixth transparent electrode 186b, and the ninth transparent electrode 189b and the tenth transparent electrode 190b are arranged in a comb-like pattern alternately along the x-axis. The third transparent electrode 183b, the fourth transparent electrode 184b, the seventh transparent electrode 187b, the eighth transparent electrode 188b, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191b and the twelfth transparent electrode 192b are arranged in a comb-like pattern alternately along the second direction. When viewed from above, the extension directions (y-axis) of the first transparent electrode 181b, the second transparent electrode 182b, the fifth transparent electrode 185b, the sixth transparent electrode 186b, the ninth transparent electrode 189b, and the tenth transparent electrode 190b are orthogonal to the extension directions (x-axis) of the third transparent electrode 183b, the fourth transparent electrode 184b, the seventh transparent electrode 187b, the eighth transparent electrode 188b, the eleventh transparent electrode 191b, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192b, but they can also intersect slightly at different angles.

[0088] In the third liquid crystal cell 110c, the first transparent electrode 181c, the second transparent electrode 182c, the fifth transparent electrode 185c, the sixth transparent electrode 186c, the ninth transparent electrode 189c, and the tenth transparent electrode 190c extend along the y-axis, and the third transparent electrode 183c, the fourth transparent electrode 184c, the seventh transparent electrode 187c, the eighth transparent electrode 188c, the eleventh transparent electrode 191c, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192c extend along the x-axis.

[0089] The first transparent electrode 181c, the second transparent electrode 182c, the fifth transparent electrode 185c, the sixth transparent electrode 186c, and the ninth transparent electrode 189c and the tenth transparent electrode 190c are arranged in a comb-like pattern alternately along the x-axis. The third transparent electrode 183c, the fourth transparent electrode 184c, the seventh transparent electrode 187c, the eighth transparent electrode 188c, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191c and the twelfth transparent electrode 192c are arranged in a comb-like pattern alternately along the second direction. When viewed from above, the extension directions (y-axis) of the first transparent electrode 181c, the second transparent electrode 182c, the fifth transparent electrode 185c, the sixth transparent electrode 186c, the ninth transparent electrode 189c, and the tenth transparent electrode 190c are orthogonal to the extension directions (x-axis) of the third transparent electrode 183c, the fourth transparent electrode 184c, the seventh transparent electrode 187c, the eighth transparent electrode 188c, the eleventh transparent electrode 191c, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192c, but they can also intersect slightly at different angles.

[0090] In the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, the first transparent electrode 181d, the second transparent electrode 182d, the fifth transparent electrode 185d, the sixth transparent electrode 186d, the ninth transparent electrode 189d, and the tenth transparent electrode 190d extend along the y-axis, and the third transparent electrode 183d, the fourth transparent electrode 184d, the seventh transparent electrode 187d, the eighth transparent electrode 188d, the eleventh transparent electrode 191d, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192d extend along the x-axis.

[0091] The first transparent electrode 181d, the second transparent electrode 182d, the fifth transparent electrode 185d, the sixth transparent electrode 186d, and the ninth transparent electrode 189d and the tenth transparent electrode 190d are arranged in a comb-like pattern alternately along the x-axis. The third transparent electrode 183d, the fourth transparent electrode 184d, the seventh transparent electrode 187d, the eighth transparent electrode 188d, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191d and the twelfth transparent electrode 192d are arranged in a comb-like pattern alternately along the second direction. When viewed from above, the extension directions (y-axis) of the first transparent electrode 181d, the second transparent electrode 182d, the fifth transparent electrode 185d, the sixth transparent electrode 186d, the ninth transparent electrode 189d, and the tenth transparent electrode 190d are orthogonal to the extension directions (x-axis) of the third transparent electrode 183d, the fourth transparent electrode 184d, the seventh transparent electrode 187d, the eighth transparent electrode 188d, the eleventh transparent electrode 191d, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192d, but they can also intersect slightly at different angles.

[0092] When viewed from above, the first transparent electrodes 181 disposed on the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d overlap in a manner that is consistent or substantially consistent with each other in their extending directions (y-axis). Similarly, the transparent electrodes disposed on the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d also overlap in a manner that is consistent or substantially consistent with each other in their extending directions (y-axis or x-axis). Furthermore, as... Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, in the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the lower substrate (the substrate on the light source side) of the upper and lower pairs of substrates constituting each liquid crystal cell becomes the first substrate 111a and 111b. In contrast, in the third liquid crystal cell 110c and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, the upper substrate of the upper and lower pairs of substrates forming each liquid crystal cell becomes the first substrate 111c and 111d.

[0093] The first substrate 111a, first substrate 111b, first substrate 111c, first substrate 111d, second substrate 121a, second substrate 121b, second substrate 121c, and second substrate 121d can, for example, use a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate that is transparent to light. The rigid substrate that is transparent to light is, for example, a glass substrate, a quartz substrate, or a sapphire substrate. The flexible substrate that is transparent to light is, for example, a polyimide resin substrate, an acrylic resin substrate, a silicone resin substrate, or a fluoropolymer substrate.

[0094] The first transparent electrode 181, the second transparent electrode 182, the third transparent electrode 183, the fourth transparent electrode 184, the fifth transparent electrode 185, the sixth transparent electrode 186, the seventh transparent electrode 187, the eighth transparent electrode 188, the ninth transparent electrode 189, the tenth transparent electrode 190, the eleventh transparent electrode 191, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 function as electrodes that form an electric field in the liquid crystal layer 160 included in each liquid crystal cell. The material forming the first transparent electrode 181, the second transparent electrode 182, the third transparent electrode 183, the fourth transparent electrode 184, the fifth transparent electrode 185, the sixth transparent electrode 186, the seventh transparent electrode 187, the eighth transparent electrode 188, the ninth transparent electrode 189, the tenth transparent electrode 190, the eleventh transparent electrode 191, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 is, for example, a transparent conductive material. Examples of transparent conductive materials include indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO).

[0095] Liquid crystal layers 160a, 160b, 160c, and 160d can refract transmitted light or change the polarization state of transmitted light according to the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules. The liquid crystal contained in each of the liquid crystal layers 160a, 160b, 160c, and 160d can, for example, be a twisted nematic liquid crystal. In this embodiment, as an example, a positive twisted nematic liquid crystal is used, but it can also be made into a negative twisted nematic liquid crystal by changing the initial orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules. Furthermore, the liquid crystal preferably contains a chiral agent that imparts twist to the liquid crystal molecules.

[0096] The first alignment films 114a, 114b, 114c, and 114d, the second alignment films 124a, 124b, 124c, and 124d, and the liquid crystal molecules within the liquid crystal layer 160 of each liquid crystal cell are respectively arranged in a predetermined direction. The materials used to form the first alignment films 114a, 114b, 114c, 114d, and the second alignment films 124a, 124b, 124c, and 124d can, for example, be polyimide resin.

[0097] The first alignment films 114a, 114b, 114c, and 114d, and the second alignment films 124a, 124b, 124c, and 124d may also be endowed with alignment properties through an alignment treatment. The alignment treatment can be performed, for example, by rubbing or photo-alignment. Rubbing is a method of rubbing the surface of the alignment film in one direction. Photo-alignment is a method of emitting linearly polarized ultraviolet light onto the alignment film.

[0098] The sealing material 115 can be, for example, an epoxy resin adhesive or an acrylic resin adhesive. The adhesive can be UV-curable or thermosetting.

[0099] The liquid crystal optical element 10, by comprising at least two liquid crystal cells (e.g., a first liquid crystal cell 110a and a second liquid crystal cell 110b), is capable of controlling the light distribution of unpolarized light. Therefore, the surfaces of the first substrate 111a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second substrate 121b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, as well as the surfaces of the second substrate 121c of the third liquid crystal cell 110c and the first substrate 111b of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, do not require, for example, a pair of polarizing plates disposed on the back surface of the liquid crystal display element.

[0100] <1-3. Configuration of Transparent Electrodes>

[0101] Figure 6 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of the first transparent electrode 181, the second transparent electrode 182, the fifth transparent electrode 185, the sixth transparent electrode 186, the ninth transparent electrode 189, and the tenth transparent electrode 190 on the first substrate 111 in a liquid crystal optical element 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7This is a schematic top view illustrating the arrangement of the third transparent electrode 183, fourth transparent electrode 184, seventh transparent electrode 187, eighth transparent electrode 188, eleventh transparent electrode 191, and twelfth transparent electrode 192 on the second substrate 121 in a liquid crystal optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 7 The electrode assembly and wiring shown can be visually confirmed through the second substrate 121, but are primarily easy to understand. Figure 7 These components are shown in solid lines. (The following will be discussed further.) Figure 25 The same applies.

[0102] exist Figure 6 In the structure of the transparent electrode shown, a first electrode group 117-1, a second electrode group 117-3, and a third electrode group 117-5 are disposed on a first substrate 111. The second electrode group 117-3 is disposed between the first electrode group 117-1 and the third electrode group 117-5. Furthermore, the first electrode group 117-1 is disposed facing the first optical element 40a and the light emission surface of the first optical element 40a, the second electrode group 117-3 is disposed facing the second optical element 40b and the light emission surface of the second optical element 40b, and the third electrode group 117-5 is disposed facing the third optical element 40c and the light emission surface of the third optical element 40c.

[0103] The first electrode group 117-1 includes a first transparent electrode 181 and a second transparent electrode 182. The first electrode group 117-1 supplies potential to the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182, for example, by providing a potential to a first optical element 40a used as a light source on the right side. Figure 1 The first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 are alternately arranged along the x-axis and extend along the y-axis. The width of the first transparent electrode 181 and the width of the second transparent electrode 182 along the x-axis are a first width w1. The distance between the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 along the x-axis (electrode spacing) is a first electrode spacing s1. The distance between the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 is a first spacing p1, which satisfies p1 = w1 + s1.

[0104] The first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 are electrically connected to the first wiring 116-1 and the second wiring 116-2 formed on the first substrate 111, respectively. The first wiring 116-1 may be formed below or above the first transparent electrode 181. Furthermore, the first wiring 116-1 may be formed in the same layer as the first transparent electrode 181. The second wiring 116-2 may be formed below or above the second transparent electrode 182. Furthermore, the second wiring 116-2 may be formed in the same layer as the second transparent electrode 182. In this embodiment, the first transparent electrode 181, the second transparent electrode 182, the first wiring 116-1, and the second wiring 116-2 are formed in the same layer.

[0105] The second electrode group 117-3 includes a fifth transparent electrode 185 and a sixth transparent electrode 186. The second electrode group 117-3 supplies potential to the fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186, for example, by providing a potential to the second optical element 40b (used as a central light source). Figure 1 The emitted light has the function of passing through or passing through and diffusing. The fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 are alternately arranged along the x-axis and extend along the y-axis. The width of the fifth transparent electrode 185 and the width of the sixth transparent electrode 186 along the x-axis is a second width w2. The distance between the fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 along the x-axis (electrode spacing) is a second electrode spacing s2. The distance between the fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 is a second spacing p2, which satisfies p2 = w2 + s2.

[0106] The fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 are electrically connected to the first wiring 116-1 and the second wiring 116-2 formed on the first substrate 111, respectively. The first wiring 116-1 can be formed below or above the fifth transparent electrode 185. Furthermore, the first wiring 116-1 can be formed on the same layer as the fifth transparent electrode 185. The second wiring 116-2 can be formed below or above the sixth transparent electrode 186. Furthermore, the second wiring 116-2 can be formed on the same layer as the sixth transparent electrode 186. In this embodiment, the fifth transparent electrode 185, the sixth transparent electrode 186, the first wiring 116-1, and the second wiring 116-2 are formed on the same layer.

[0107] The second width w2, the second electrode distance s2, and the second spacing p2 of the fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 are narrower than the first width w1, the first electrode distance s1, and the first spacing p1 of the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182.

[0108] The third electrode group 117-5 includes a ninth transparent electrode 189 and a tenth transparent electrode 190. The third electrode group 117-5 supplies potential to the ninth transparent electrode 189 and the tenth transparent electrode 190, for example, by having a third optical element 40c used as a light source on the left side. Figure 1 The emitted light can pass through or pass through and diffuse. The ninth transparent electrode 189 and the tenth transparent electrode 190 have the same structure and function as the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182, and detailed descriptions are omitted here. In addition, the first electrode group 117-1 and the third electrode group 117-5 can also switch functions.

[0109] The first orientation film 114a is along the x-axis ( Figure 6 The alignment process is performed in the direction indicated by the hollow arrow. In this case, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111 side constituting the liquid crystal layer 160a is aligned along the x-axis. That is, the alignment direction (x-axis) of the first alignment film 114a is orthogonal to the extension direction (y-axis) of the first transparent electrode 181, the second transparent electrode 182, the fifth transparent electrode 185, the sixth transparent electrode 186, the ninth transparent electrode 189, and the tenth transparent electrode 190.

[0110] exist Figure 7 In the structure of the transparent electrode shown, a fourth electrode group 117-2, a fifth electrode group 117-4, and a sixth electrode group 117-6 are disposed on the second substrate 121. The fifth electrode group 117-4 is disposed between the fourth electrode group 117-2 and the sixth electrode group 117-6. Furthermore, the fourth electrode group 117-2 is disposed facing the first optical element 40a and the light emission surface of the first optical element 40a, the fifth electrode group 117-4 is disposed facing the second optical element 40b and the light emission surface of the second optical element 40b, and the sixth electrode group 117-6 is disposed facing the third optical element 40c and the light emission surface of the third optical element 40c.

[0111] The fourth electrode group 117-2 includes a third transparent electrode 183 and a fourth transparent electrode 184. The fourth electrode group 117-2 supplies potential to the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184, for example, by having a first optical element 40a (used as a light source on the right side)... Figure 1The emitted light has the function of passing through or passing through and diffusing. The third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 are alternately arranged along the y-axis and extend along the x-axis. The width of the third transparent electrode 183 and the width of the fourth transparent electrode 184 along the x-axis is a third width w3. The distance between the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 along the x-axis (electrode spacing) is a third electrode spacing s3. The distance between the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 is a third spacing p3, which satisfies p3 = w3 + s3.

[0112] The third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 are electrically connected to the third wiring 116-3 and the fourth wiring 116-4 formed on the second substrate 121, respectively. The third wiring 116-3 may be formed below or above the third transparent electrode 183. Furthermore, the third wiring 116-3 may be formed on the same layer as the third transparent electrode 183. The fourth wiring 116-4 may be formed below or above the fourth transparent electrode 184. Furthermore, the fourth wiring 116-4 may be formed on the same layer as the fourth transparent electrode 184. In this embodiment, the third transparent electrode 183, the fourth transparent electrode 184, the third wiring 116-3, and the fourth wiring 116-4 are formed on the same layer.

[0113] The fifth electrode group 117-4 includes a seventh transparent electrode 187 and an eighth transparent electrode 188. The fifth electrode group 117-4 supplies potential to the seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188, for example, by having a second optical element 40b (used as a central light source)... Figure 1 The emitted light has the function of passing through or passing through and diffusing. The seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 are alternately arranged along the y-axis and extend along the x-axis. The width of the seventh transparent electrode 187 and the width of the eighth transparent electrode 188 along the x-axis is the fourth width w4. The distance between the seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 along the x-axis (electrode spacing) is the fourth electrode spacing s4. The distance between the seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 is the fourth spacing p4, which satisfies p4 = w4 + s4.

[0114] The seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 are electrically connected to the third wiring 116-3 and the fourth wiring 116-4 formed on the second substrate 121, respectively. The third wiring 116-3 may be formed below or above the seventh transparent electrode 187. Furthermore, the third wiring 116-3 may be formed on the same layer as the seventh transparent electrode 187. The fourth wiring 116-4 may be formed below or above the eighth transparent electrode 188. Furthermore, the fourth wiring 116-4 may be formed on the same layer as the eighth transparent electrode 188. In this embodiment, the seventh transparent electrode 187, the eighth transparent electrode 188, the third wiring 116-3, and the fourth wiring 116-4 are formed on the same layer.

[0115] The fourth width w4, the fourth electrode distance s4, and the fourth spacing p4 of the seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 are narrower than the third width w3, the third electrode distance s3, and the third spacing p3 of the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184.

[0116] The sixth electrode group 117-6 includes an eleventh transparent electrode 191 and a twelfth transparent electrode 192. The sixth electrode group 117-6 supplies potential to the eleventh transparent electrode 191 and the twelfth transparent electrode 192, for example, by having a third optical element 40c (used as a light source on the left side) Figure 1 The emitted light can pass through or pass through and diffuse. The eleventh transparent electrode 191 and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 have the same structure and function as the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184, so detailed descriptions are omitted here. In addition, the fourth electrode group 117-2 and the sixth electrode group 117-6 can also switch functions.

[0117] The second orientation film 124 is along the y-axis ( Figure 7 The alignment process is performed in the direction indicated by the hollow arrow. In this case, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121 side of the liquid crystal molecules constituting the liquid crystal layer 160 is aligned along the y-axis. That is, the alignment direction (y-axis) of the second alignment film 124 is orthogonal to the extending direction (x-axis) of the third transparent electrode 183, the fourth transparent electrode 184, the seventh transparent electrode 187, the eighth transparent electrode 188, the eleventh transparent electrode 191, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192.

[0118] The first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 can be formed on the first substrate 111 by a comb-like pattern having a first spacing p1. The fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 can be formed on the first substrate 111 by a comb-like pattern having a second spacing p2. The ninth transparent electrode 189 and the tenth transparent electrode 190 can be formed on the first substrate 111 by a comb-like pattern having a first spacing p1. Similarly, the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 can be formed on the second substrate 121 by a comb-like pattern having a third spacing p3. The seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 can be formed on the second substrate 121 by a comb-like pattern having a fourth spacing p4. The eleventh transparent electrode 191 and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 can be formed on the second substrate 121 by a comb-like pattern having a third spacing p3.

[0119] In the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 are opposite to the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 through the liquid crystal layer 113, the fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 are opposite to the seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 through the liquid crystal layer 113, and the ninth transparent electrode 189 and the tenth transparent electrode 190 are opposite to the eleventh transparent electrode 191 and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 through the liquid crystal layer 113.

[0120] Here, the extending directions (y-axis) of the first transparent electrode 181, the second transparent electrode 182, the fifth transparent electrode 185, the sixth transparent electrode 186, the ninth transparent electrode 189, and the tenth transparent electrode 190 are orthogonal to the extending directions (x-axis) of the third transparent electrode 183, the fourth transparent electrode 184, the seventh transparent electrode 187, the eighth transparent electrode 188, the eleventh transparent electrode 191, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192. In other words, the comb-shaped electrode pattern formed on the first substrate 111 and the comb-shaped electrode pattern formed on the second substrate 121 are orthogonal to each other when viewed from above.

[0121] Furthermore, a fifth wiring 116-5 and a sixth wiring 116-6 are formed on the first substrate 111. When the first substrate 111 is bonded to the second substrate 121, the third wiring 116-3 and the fourth wiring 116-4 are electrically connected to the fifth wiring 116-5 and the sixth wiring 116-6 disposed on the first substrate 111, respectively. Additionally, as... Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 Each electrode shown is disposed on the side of the liquid crystal layer opposite to the side of the substrate that is in contact with the transparent adhesive layer. In other words, Figure 6 as well as Figure 7The electrodes shown are disposed opposite to each other on surfaces separated by a liquid crystal layer (opposing surfaces). For example, when viewing the first substrate 111 from the light-emitting side of the liquid crystal optical element 10 (on the z-axis, opposite to the side where the light source 20 is disposed), Figure 6 The electrodes shown are disposed on the surface (opposing surface) of the first substrate 111a in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and on the back surface (opposing surface) of the first substrate 111c in the third liquid crystal cell 110c. For example, when viewing the second substrate 121 from the light-emitting side of the liquid crystal optical element 10, Figure 7 The electrodes shown are disposed on the back side (opposite side) of the second substrate 121a in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and on the surface (opposite side) of the second substrate 121c in the third liquid crystal cell 110c.

[0122] The third wiring 116-3 and the fifth wiring 116-5, as well as the fourth wiring 116-4 and the sixth wiring 116-6, can be electrically connected, for example, using silver paste or conductive particles. Additionally, the conductive particles comprise particles coated with metal.

[0123] In this embodiment, the first direction in which the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 are alternately arranged, and the second direction in which the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 are alternately arranged, are orthogonal, but they only need to intersect. Similarly, the first direction in which the fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 are alternately arranged, and the second direction in which the seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 are alternately arranged, are orthogonal, but they only need to intersect. The first direction in which the ninth transparent electrode 189 and the tenth transparent electrode 190 are alternately arranged, and the second direction in which the eleventh transparent electrode 191 and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 are alternately arranged, are orthogonal, but they only need to intersect. The intersection angle is of course 90 degrees, preferably in the range of 90 ± 10 degrees, and more preferably in the range of 90 ± 5 degrees.

[0124] An optical pad (not shown) is formed on the side of the first substrate 111 opposite to the second substrate 121, or on the side of the second substrate 121 opposite to the first substrate 111, to maintain the spacing between the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121.

[0125] The materials used to form the first wiring 116-1, the second wiring 116-2, the third wiring 116-3, the fourth wiring 116-4, the fifth wiring 116-5, and the sixth wiring 116-6 can be metallic or transparent conductive materials. Examples of metallic or transparent conductive materials include aluminum, molybdenum, indium tin oxide (ITO), or indium zinc oxide (IZO). Furthermore, the first wiring 116-1, the second wiring 116-2, the third wiring 116-3, the fourth wiring 116-4, the fifth wiring 116-5, and the sixth wiring 116-6 can also be provided with terminals for connecting to external devices, and these terminals can also be used for connecting to external devices.

[0126] The first wiring 116-1, the second wiring 116-2, the fifth wiring 116-5 (or the third wiring 116-3), and the sixth wiring 116-6 (or the fourth wiring 116-4) are electrically insulated from each other. Therefore, in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the first transparent electrode 181a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, and the ninth transparent electrode 189a; the second transparent electrode 182a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, and the tenth transparent electrode 190a; the third transparent electrode 183a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191a; the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a can be independently controlled, and the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 113 can be controlled using each transparent electrode. For example, the first transparent electrode 181a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, and the ninth transparent electrode 189a supply a first potential V1; the second transparent electrode 182a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, and the tenth transparent electrode 190a supply a second potential V2; the third transparent electrode 183a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191a supply a third potential V3; and the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a supply a fourth potential V4. Furthermore, the first potential V1, the second potential V2, the third potential V3, and the fourth potential V4 can be different potentials or the same potential.

[0127] The lighting device 30 of this embodiment controls the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 113 by intersecting the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 included in the first electrode group 117-1 of the first substrate 111 with the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 included in the fourth electrode group 117-2 of the second substrate 121, thereby controlling the potential supplied to each transparent electrode. Furthermore, the lighting device 30 of this embodiment controls the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 113 by intersecting the fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 included in the second electrode group 117-3 of the first substrate 111 with the seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 included in the fifth electrode group 117-4 of the second substrate 121, thereby controlling the potential supplied to each transparent electrode. Furthermore, the illumination device 30 according to this embodiment controls the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 113 by intersecting the ninth transparent electrode 189 and the tenth transparent electrode 190 included in the third electrode group 117-5 of the first substrate 111 with the eleventh transparent electrode 191 and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 included in the sixth electrode group 117-6 of the second substrate 121, thereby controlling the voltage supplied to each transparent electrode. As a result, the liquid crystal optical element 10 transmits or diffuses light from the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c in three different directions using the first electrode group 117-1 and the fourth electrode group 117-2 to the right, using the second electrode group 117-3 and the fifth electrode group 117-4 to the center, and using the third electrode group 117-5 and the sixth electrode group 117-6 to the left.

[0128] Furthermore, in the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to this embodiment, by narrowing the width, inter-electrode distance, and inter-electrode spacing of the transparent electrodes of the second electrode group 117-3 disposed at the center or approximately the center of the first substrate 111 and the fifth electrode group 117-4 disposed at the center or approximately the center of the second substrate 121, when a potential is supplied to the transparent electrodes disposed at the second electrode group 117-3 and the fifth electrode group 117-4, the range of liquid crystal alignment can be controlled within a narrow range. That is, in the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to this embodiment, the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b having the same transparent electrode configuration are laminated, and the degree of light diffusion in the x-axis direction of light diffused towards the center or approximately the center can be precisely controlled. Furthermore, in the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to this embodiment, by laminating a third liquid crystal cell 110c and a fourth liquid crystal cell 110d having the same transparent electrode configuration onto the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b having the same transparent electrode configuration, the degree of light diffusion along the y-axis can be precisely controlled. As a result, light from the second optical element 40b disposed at the center or approximately the center can be diffused more precisely in the left-right and up-down directions, and the light distribution and light distribution pattern in the left-right and up-down directions can be precisely controlled.

[0129] Furthermore, in the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to this embodiment, the ends of the second transparent electrode 182, the sixth transparent electrode 186, and the tenth transparent electrode 190 are configured to be separated from the first wiring 116-1 by a distance d1. The ends of the first transparent electrode 181, the fifth transparent electrode 185, and the ninth transparent electrode 189 are configured to be separated from the second wiring 116-2 by a distance d2. The end of the fourth transparent electrode 184 is configured to be separated from the third wiring 116-3 by a distance d3. The end of the eighth transparent electrode 188 is configured to be separated from the third wiring 116-3 by a distance d5. The end of the twelfth transparent electrode 192 is configured to be separated from the third wiring 116-3 by a distance d7. The end of the third transparent electrode 183 is configured to be separated from the fourth wiring 116-4 by a distance d4. The end of the seventh transparent electrode 187 is configured to be separated from the fourth wiring 116-4 by a distance d6. The end of the eleventh transparent electrode 191 is configured to be separated from the fourth wiring 116-4 by a distance d8. Distances d1 and d2 are larger than the distance s1 between the first electrodes and the width s2 between the second electrodes. Distances d3, d4, d5, d6, d7, and d8 are larger than the distance s3 between the third electrodes and the width s4 between the fourth electrodes. Because the end of the transparent electrode is configured to be separated from the wiring 116 connecting the transparent electrodes, the electric field generated between the end of the transparent electrode and the wiring 116 can be reduced to a negligible level relative to the magnitude of the transverse electric field generated between the transparent electrodes. Therefore, in the lighting device 30 according to this embodiment, the influence of the electric field generated between the end of the transparent electrode and the wiring 116 can be suppressed. In this embodiment, the electric field generated between adjacent transparent electrodes is sometimes referred to as a transverse electric field.

[0130] <1-4. Control of light distribution implemented by liquid crystal optical element 10>

[0131] Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 This is a schematic end cross-sectional view showing the orientation of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160a of a liquid crystal optical element 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 Corresponding to along Figure 3 The image shows a portion of the end cross-sectional view of the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b along line A1-A2. The following description will primarily focus on the structure of either the first liquid crystal cell 110a or the second liquid crystal cell 110b.

[0132] exist Figure 8The image shows a liquid crystal optical element 10 in a state where no potential is supplied to the first transparent electrode 181a, the second transparent electrode 182a, the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the first transparent electrode 181b, the second transparent electrode 182b, and the fourth transparent electrode 184b. Figure 9 The image shows a liquid crystal optical element 10 in which potentials are supplied to the first transparent electrode 181a, the second transparent electrode 182a, the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the first transparent electrode 181b, the second transparent electrode 182b, and the fourth transparent electrode 184b. Specifically, a low potential is supplied to the first transparent electrode 181a and the fourth transparent electrode 184a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and a high potential is supplied to the second transparent electrode 182a and the third transparent electrode 183a (not shown). Similarly, a low potential is supplied to the first transparent electrode 181b and the fourth transparent electrode 184b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and a high potential is supplied to the second transparent electrode 182b and the third transparent electrode 183b (not shown). Figure 9 For ease of explanation, the symbols "-" and "+" are used to illustrate the Low potential and High potential, respectively. In this embodiment, the electric field generated between adjacent transparent electrodes is sometimes referred to as the transverse electric field.

[0133] The first orientation film 114a is oriented along the x-axis. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side of the liquid crystal layer 160a is aligned along the x-axis. That is, the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side is orthogonal to the extending direction (y-axis) of the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a. Furthermore, the second alignment film 124a is aligned along the y-axis. Additionally, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121a side of the liquid crystal layer 160a is aligned along the y-axis. That is, the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121a side of the liquid crystal layer 160a is orthogonal to the extending direction (y-axis) of the fourth transparent electrode 184a and the third transparent electrode 183a. Figure 7 The direction of extension (x-axis) is orthogonal to the direction of the liquid crystal layer 160a. Therefore, as the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 160a move from the first substrate 111a toward the second substrate 121a, the orientation of the long axis gradually changes from the x-axis to the y-axis, and is oriented in a 90-degree twisted state.

[0134] When a potential is supplied to the transparent electrode, such as Figure 9As shown, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules changes. Due to the influence of the transverse electric field between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a of the liquid crystal layer 160a, the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side of the liquid crystal layer 160a are oriented as a whole in a convex arc shape relative to the first substrate 111a along the x-axis. Similarly, due to the influence of the transverse electric field between the fourth transparent electrode 184a and the third transparent electrode 183a of the liquid crystal layer 160a, the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121a side of the liquid crystal layer 160a are oriented as a whole in a convex arc shape relative to the second substrate 121a along the y-axis. The liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 160a located approximately at the center between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a show almost no change in orientation even when subjected to any transverse electric field. Therefore, light incident on the liquid crystal layer 160a diffuses along the x-axis according to the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules oriented in a convex arc shape along the x-axis of the first substrate 111a side, and diffuses along the y-axis according to the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules oriented in a convex arc shape along the y-axis of the second substrate 121a side.

[0135] Furthermore, the first substrate 111a and the second substrate 121a have a sufficiently separated inter-substrate distance. Therefore, the transverse electric field between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a of the first substrate 111a will not affect the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121a side, or is so small as to be negligible. Similarly, the transverse electric field between the fourth transparent electrode 184a and the third transparent electrode 183a of the second substrate 121a will not affect the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side, or is so small as to be negligible.

[0136] The liquid crystal molecules in liquid crystal layer 160b when a potential is supplied to the first transparent electrode 181b to the fourth transparent electrode 184b are the same as those in liquid crystal layer 160a, so the description is omitted here.

[0137] Next, the light distribution of light transmitted through the liquid crystal optical element 10 will be explained. Light emitted from the light source has a polarized component along the x-axis (P-polarization component) and a polarized component along the y-axis (S-polarization component), but for ease of explanation, the light will be described below as having both P-polarization and S-polarization components. That is, the light emitted from the light source (refer to...) Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 (1) includes a first polarizer 310 having a P-polarization component and a second polarizer 320 having an S-polarization component. Additionally, for... Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 The arrow symbol and the circle marked with "×" represent the P-polarization component and the S-polarization component, respectively. Furthermore, the light emitted from the light source is the light incident on the liquid crystal optical element 10 (incident light 180).

[0138] After the first polarizer 310 is incident on the first substrate 111a, as it moves toward the second substrate 121a, its polarization composition changes from P-polarization to S-polarization due to the twisting of the liquid crystal molecules' orientation (see reference). Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 (2) to (4)). More specifically, the first polarizer 310 has a polarization axis along the x-axis on the first substrate 111a side, but its polarization axis gradually changes as it passes through the thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer 160a. In addition, the first polarizer 310 has a polarization axis along the y-axis on the second substrate 121a side, and then is emitted from the second substrate 121a side (see reference). Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 (5) in the middle.

[0139] Here, when a transverse electric field is generated between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a, the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side are oriented in a convex arc shape along the x-axis due to the influence of this transverse electric field, resulting in a change in the refractive index distribution. Therefore, the first polarized light 310 diffuses along the x-axis according to the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules. Furthermore, when a transverse electric field is generated between the fourth transparent electrode 184a and the third transparent electrode 183a, the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121a side are oriented in a convex arc shape along the y-axis due to the influence of this transverse electric field, resulting in a change in the refractive index distribution. Therefore, the first polarized light 310 diffuses along the y-axis according to the change in the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules.

[0140] Therefore, in the case where no transverse electric field is generated (refer to...) Figure 8 Under these conditions, the polarization composition of the first polarizer 310 transmitted through the first liquid crystal cell 110a changes from P polarization to S polarization. On the other hand, in the case where a transverse electric field is generated (see...), Figure 9 Under these conditions, the polarization component of the first polarizer 310 transmitted through the first liquid crystal cell 110a changes from the P polarization component to the S polarization component, and diffuses along the x-axis and y-axis.

[0141] After the second polarizer 320 is incident on the first substrate 111a, as it moves toward the second substrate 121a, its polarization composition changes from S-polarization to P-polarization due to the twisting of the liquid crystal molecules' orientation (see reference). Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 (2) to (4)). More specifically, the second polarizer 320 has a polarization axis along the y-axis on the first substrate 111a side, but its polarization axis gradually changes as it passes through the thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer 160a. Furthermore, the second polarizer 320 has a polarization axis along the x-axis on the second substrate 121a side, and is then emitted from the second substrate 121a side (see reference 1). Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 (5) in the middle.

[0142] Here, when a transverse electric field is generated between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a, the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side are oriented in a convex arc shape along the x-axis due to the influence of this transverse electric field, resulting in a change in the refractive index distribution. However, the polarization axis of the second polarizer 320 is orthogonal to the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side, and therefore is not affected by the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules, passing directly without diffusion. Furthermore, when a transverse electric field is generated between the fourth transparent electrode 184a and the third transparent electrode 183a, the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121a side are oriented in a convex arc shape along the y-axis due to the influence of this transverse electric field, resulting in a change in the refractive index distribution. However, the polarization axis of the second polarizer 320 is orthogonal to the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121a side, and therefore is not affected by the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules, passing directly without diffusion.

[0143] Therefore, not only in the case where no transverse electric field is generated (refer to...) Figure 8 Under the condition of generating a transverse electric field (refer to...) Figure 9 Under these conditions, the polarization composition of the second polarizer 320 transmitted through the first liquid crystal cell 110a also changes from the S polarization composition to the P polarization composition, but does not diffuse.

[0144] The liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b also have the same refractive index distribution as the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a. However, the first polarized light 310 and the second polarized light 320 pass through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, thus changing the polarization axis. Therefore, the polarized light affected by the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160b is opposite. That is, not only in the case of generating a transverse electric field (see...) Figure 8 Under the condition of generating a transverse electric field (refer to...) Figure 9 Under these conditions, the polarization composition of the first polarizer 310 transmitted through the second liquid crystal cell 110b also changes from S polarization composition to P polarization composition, but does not diffuse (see reference). Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 (6) to (8)). On the other hand, in the case where no transverse electric field is generated (see (6) to (8)). Figure 8 Under these conditions, the polarization composition of the second polarizer 320 transmitted through the second liquid crystal cell 110b changes only from the P polarization composition to the S polarization composition. However, in the case of generating a transverse electric field (see reference...), Figure 9 Under these conditions, the polarization composition of the second polarizer 320 transmitted through the second liquid crystal cell 110b changes from the P polarization composition to the S polarization composition, and diffuses along the x-axis and y-axis.

[0145] As described above, in the liquid crystal optical element 10, by laminating two liquid crystal cells (first liquid crystal cell 110a and second liquid crystal cell 110b) with the same structure, the polarization composition of the light incident on the liquid crystal optical element 10 undergoes two changes. As a result, in the liquid crystal optical element 10, it is possible to change the polarization composition before and after incident (refer to...). Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 (1) and (9) in the above). That is, in the liquid crystal optical element 10, the polarization composition of the incident light 180 and the polarization composition of the emitted light 200 can be changed.

[0146] Furthermore, the liquid crystal optical element 10 supplies a potential to the transparent electrode, causing a change in the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, which can refract light transmitted through the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Specifically, the first liquid crystal cell 110a can diffuse the light of the first polarized light 310 (P-polarized component) along the x-axis, y-axis, or both x-axis and y-axis, and the second liquid crystal cell 110b can diffuse the light of the second polarized light 320 (S-polarized component) along the x-axis, y-axis, or both x-axis and y-axis.

[0147] exist Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 In this illustration, only the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b are shown, and the light distribution of light transmitted through the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b is explained. However, the light distribution of light transmitted through the third liquid crystal cell 110c and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d is the same. That is, the third liquid crystal cell 110c can diffuse the second polarized light 320 (S-polarized component) along the x-axis, y-axis, or both x-axis and y-axis, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d can diffuse the first polarized light 310 (P-polarized component) along the x-axis, y-axis, or both x-axis and y-axis.

[0148] <1-5. Potential supply from the liquid crystal optical element 10 to the transparent electrode>

[0149] Figure 10 This is a schematic top view illustrating the structure of a lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection of the transparent electrode of a liquid crystal optical element 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] like Figure 10 As shown, the lighting device 30 includes a sensor 60, a control circuit 70, a light source 20 having three optical elements: a first optical element 40a, a second optical element 40b, and a third optical element 40c, and a liquid crystal optical element 10. The liquid crystal optical element 10 and the light source 20 have the capability to use... Figures 1-9 The composition and function of the components are explained, therefore detailed descriptions are omitted here. Sensor 60 is electrically connected to control circuit 70. Control circuit 70 is electrically connected to light source 20 and liquid crystal optical element 10.

[0151] Sensor 60 is, for example, an infrared sensor. Sensor 60 can detect people in the vicinity of the sensor and output a sensing signal to control circuit 70.

[0152] The control circuit 70 includes circuitry for driving the liquid crystal optical element 10 and the light source 20. For example, when the control circuit 70 receives a sensing signal from the sensor 60, it outputs a potential controlling the alignment state of the liquid crystals via a flexible wiring substrate (not shown) relative to the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d. Furthermore, when the control circuit 70 receives a sensing signal from the sensor 60, it outputs a potential controlling the ON or OFF state of the LEDs of the light source 20 via the flexible wiring substrate (not shown).

[0153] like Figure 11 As shown, the first transparent electrode 181a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, and the ninth transparent electrode 189a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and the first transparent electrode 181d, the fifth transparent electrode 185d, and the ninth transparent electrode 189d of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d are connected to the first potential supply line 461 supplying the first potential V1. That is, the first transparent electrode 181a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, and the ninth transparent electrode 189a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and the first transparent electrode 181d, the fifth transparent electrode 185d, and the ninth transparent electrode 189d of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d are electrically connected to each other.

[0154] Furthermore, the second transparent electrode 182a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, and the tenth transparent electrode 190a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and the second transparent electrode 182d, the sixth transparent electrode 186d, and the tenth transparent electrode 190d of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, are connected to the second potential supply line 462 that supplies the second potential V2. That is, the second transparent electrodes 182a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, and the tenth transparent electrode 190a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and the second transparent electrodes 182d, the sixth transparent electrode 186d, and the tenth transparent electrode 190d of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d are electrically connected to each other.

[0155] The third transparent electrode 183a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and the third transparent electrode 183d, the seventh transparent electrode 187d, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191d of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d are connected to the third potential supply line 463 that supplies the third potential V3. That is, the third transparent electrode 183a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and the third transparent electrode 183d, the seventh transparent electrode 187d, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191d of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d are electrically connected to each other.

[0156] The fourth transparent electrode 184a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and the fourth transparent electrode 184d, the eighth transparent electrode 188d, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192d of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, are connected to the fourth potential supply line 464 that supplies the fourth potential V4. That is, the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and the fourth transparent electrode 184d, the eighth transparent electrode 188d, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192d of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d are electrically connected to each other.

[0157] The first transparent electrode 181b, the fifth transparent electrode 185b, and the ninth transparent electrode 189b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and the first transparent electrode 181c, the fifth transparent electrode 185c, and the ninth transparent electrode 189c of the third liquid crystal cell 110c, are connected to the fifth potential supply line 481 that supplies the fifth potential V5. That is, the first transparent electrode 181b, the fifth transparent electrode 185b, and the ninth transparent electrode 189b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and the first transparent electrode 181c, the fifth transparent electrode 185c, and the ninth transparent electrode 189c of the third liquid crystal cell 110c are electrically connected to each other.

[0158] The second transparent electrode 182b, the sixth transparent electrode 186b, and the tenth transparent electrode 190b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and the second transparent electrode 182c, the sixth transparent electrode 186c, and the tenth transparent electrode 190c of the third liquid crystal cell 110c, are connected to the sixth potential supply line 482 that supplies the sixth potential V6. That is, the second transparent electrode 182b, the sixth transparent electrode 186b, and the tenth transparent electrode 190b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and the second transparent electrode 182c, the sixth transparent electrode 186c, and the tenth transparent electrode 190c of the third liquid crystal cell 110c are electrically connected to each other.

[0159] The third transparent electrode 183b, the seventh transparent electrode 187b, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and the third transparent electrode 183c, the seventh transparent electrode 187c, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191c of the third liquid crystal cell 110c, are connected to the seventh potential supply line 483 that supplies the seventh potential V7. That is, the third transparent electrode 183b, the seventh transparent electrode 187b, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and the third transparent electrode 183c, the seventh transparent electrode 187c, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191c of the third liquid crystal cell 110c are electrically connected to each other.

[0160] The fourth transparent electrode 184b, the eighth transparent electrode 188b, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and the fourth transparent electrode 184c, the eighth transparent electrode 188c, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192c of the third liquid crystal cell 110c, are connected to the eighth potential supply line 484 that supplies the eighth potential V8. That is, the fourth transparent electrode 184b, the eighth transparent electrode 188b, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and the fourth transparent electrode 184c, the eighth transparent electrode 188c, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192c of the third liquid crystal cell 110c are electrically connected to each other.

[0161] Figure 11 The first potential V1 to the eighth potential V8 shown can be fixed potentials or variable potentials. The first potential supply line 461 to the eighth potential supply line 484 supplies not only Low potential and High potential, but also an intermediate potential between Low and High potential. That is, the first potential V1 to the eighth potential V8 include three potentials with different absolute values. Therefore, the liquid crystal optical element 10 allows light emitted from the three optical elements 40a, 40b, and 40c to pass through and diffuse along the x-axis and y-axis, and the illumination device 30 according to this embodiment can control the light distribution and light distribution pattern in various ways.

[0162] For ease of explanation, the following description will use the following terms to describe the potentials supplied to each transparent electrode: a first variable potential (e.g., a Low potential of 0V and a High potential of 30V), a second variable potential that is phase-inverted with the first variable potential (e.g., a Low potential of 0V and a High potential of 30V), and an intermediate potential (e.g., 15V). The intermediate potential, which is the potential between the Low potential and the High potential, can be a fixed potential or a variable potential. The potentials supplied to each transparent electrode according to this embodiment are just an example, and the potentials supplied to each transparent electrode are not limited to those shown herein.

[0163] <1-5-1. Controlling Three Optical Elements>

[0164] Figure 12 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from a lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 In this paper, the optical axis of the second optical element 40a is set to a polar angle of 0°, and the optical elements are arranged in a left-right direction along the paper (hereinafter, Figures 13-17 The same applies in China. Furthermore, Figure 12 This is a graph illustrating the situation where the control circuit 70 supplies the potential of the LEDs of the three optical elements (first optical element 40a, second optical element 40b, and third optical element 40c) with different light emission directions to the first optical element 40a, second optical element 40b, and third optical element 40c, and supplies intermediate potentials to the transparent electrodes of the liquid crystal cells of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Specifically, the first potential V1 to the eighth potential V8 supplied by the control circuit 70 to the transparent electrodes of the liquid crystal cells of the liquid crystal optical element 10 are intermediate potentials.

[0165] At this time, in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, there is no potential difference between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a, or between the third transparent electrode 183a and the fourth transparent electrode 184a. Even in each of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, there is no potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as in the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Therefore, the light emitted from the first optical element 40a passes through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, and is emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10 as light with a peak polar angle of 40 degrees.

[0166] Similarly, in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, there is no potential difference between the fifth transparent electrode 185a and the sixth transparent electrode 186a, or between the seventh transparent electrode 187a and the eighth transparent electrode 188a. Even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, there is no potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as in the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Therefore, the light emitted from the second optical element 40b passes through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, and for example, it is emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10 as light with a peak polar angle of 0 degrees. Furthermore, similarly, in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, there is no potential difference between the ninth transparent electrode 189a and the tenth transparent electrode 190a, and between the eleventh transparent electrode 191a and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a. Even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, there is no potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as in the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Therefore, the light emitted from the third optical element 40c passes through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, and is emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10, for example, as light with a peak polar angle of -40 degrees.

[0167] Figure 13 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from the lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 This is a graph showing the supply of a first or second variable potential to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10 for the LEDs of three optical elements (first optical element 40a, second optical element 40b, and third optical element 40c) with different light emission directions for the control circuit 70. For example, the first potential V1, the third potential V3, the fifth potential V5, and the seventh potential V7 supplied from the control circuit 70 to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10 are the first variable potentials, and the second potential V2, the fourth potential V4, the sixth potential V6, and the eighth potential V8 are the second variable potentials.

[0168] At this time, the potential difference between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a, the potential difference between the third transparent electrode 183a and the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the potential difference between the fifth transparent electrode 185a and the sixth transparent electrode 186a, the potential difference between the seventh transparent electrode 187a and the eighth transparent electrode 188a, the potential difference between the ninth transparent electrode 189a and the tenth transparent electrode 190a, and the potential difference between the eleventh transparent electrode 191a and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a in the first liquid crystal cell 110a is 30V. Even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, the potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as the first liquid crystal cell 110a is also 30V. As a result, the light emitted from the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c diffuses into the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, respectively. Therefore, the light emitted from the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c diffuses at least as light emitted from... Figure 12 The light diffused from the polar angle of 60 degrees to the polar angle of -60 degrees is emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10.

[0169] <1-5-2. Controlling Two Optical Elements>

[0170] Figure 14 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from the lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 This is a graph illustrating how the control circuit 70 supplies the potentials of the LEDs in the first optical element 40a (located on the right) and the third optical element 40c (located on the left) from three optical elements (first optical element 40a, second optical element 40b, and third optical element 40c) with different light emission directions to the first optical element 40a and the third optical element 40c, and supplies intermediate potentials to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10. Specifically, the first potential V1 to the eighth potential V8 supplied by the control circuit 70 to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10 are intermediate potentials.

[0171] In the first liquid crystal cell 110a, there is no potential difference between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a, or between the third transparent electrode 183a and the fourth transparent electrode 184a. Even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, there is no potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as in the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Therefore, the light emitted from the first optical element 40a passes through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, and is emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10 as light with a peak polar angle of 40 degrees.

[0172] Similarly, in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, there is no potential difference between the ninth transparent electrode 189a and the tenth transparent electrode 190a, and between the eleventh transparent electrode 191a and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a. Even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, there is no potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as in the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Therefore, the light emitted from the third optical element 40c passes through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, and is emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10, for example, as light with a peak polar angle of -40 degrees.

[0173] Similarly, in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, there is no potential difference between the fifth transparent electrode 185a and the sixth transparent electrode 186a, or between the seventh transparent electrode 187a and the eighth transparent electrode 188a. Even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, there is no potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as in the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Therefore, the LED of the second optical element 40b is not lit, and no light is emitted from the second optical element 40b.

[0174] Figure 15 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from the lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15This graph illustrates the supply of a first or second variable potential to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10, specifically to the LEDs of the first optical element 40a (located on the right) and the third optical element 40c (located on the left), which are three optical elements (first optical element 40a, second optical element 40b, and third optical element 40c) with different light emission directions for the control circuit 70. For example, the first potential V1, third potential V3, fifth potential V5, and seventh potential V7 supplied from the control circuit 70 to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10 are the third variable potentials, and the second potential V2, fourth potential V4, sixth potential V6, and eighth potential V8 are the fourth variable potentials. Here, compared to the first variable potential, the potential difference between the Low and High potentials is smaller, and the fourth variable potential is a phase reversal with the third variable potential.

[0175] In the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the potential differences between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a, the third transparent electrode 183a and the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a and the sixth transparent electrode 186a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a and the eighth transparent electrode 188a, the ninth transparent electrode 189a and the tenth transparent electrode 190a, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191a and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a are, for example, 10V. The voltage difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as the first liquid crystal cell 110a is between 10V and 15V, even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d. Therefore, the light emitted from the first optical element 40a and the light emitted from the third optical element 40c diffuse in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, respectively. Thus, the light emitted from the first optical element 40a and the light emitted from the third optical element 40c diffuse at least within... Figure 15 The light emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10 has weaker peaks near the polar angle of 50 degrees and near the polar angle of -50 degrees, and diffuses from the polar angle of 60 degrees to the polar angle of -60 degrees. The potential difference between the third and fourth variable potentials is smaller than the potential difference between the first and second variable potentials. Therefore, the light diffusion is less when the third and fourth variable potentials are applied than when the first and second variable potentials are applied to each electrode.

[0176] <1-5-3. Controlling an Optical Element>

[0177] Figure 16This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from the lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16 This is a graph showing the situation where the control circuit 70 supplies the potential of the LED in the third optical element 40c (located on the left) of the three optical elements (first optical element 40a, second optical element 40b, and third optical element 40c) with different light emission directions to the third optical element 40c, and supplies an intermediate potential to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Specifically, the first potential V1V1 to the eighth potential V8 supplied by the control circuit 70 to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10 are intermediate potentials.

[0178] In the first liquid crystal cell 110a, there is no potential difference between the ninth transparent electrode 189a and the tenth transparent electrode 190a, and between the eleventh transparent electrode 191a and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a. Even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, there is no potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as in the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Therefore, the light emitted from the third optical element 40c passes through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, and is emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10 as light with a peak polar angle of -40 degrees.

[0179] In the first liquid crystal cell 110a, there is no potential difference between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a, the third transparent electrode 183a and the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a and the sixth transparent electrode 186a, and the seventh transparent electrode 187a and the eighth transparent electrode 188a. Even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, there is no potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as in the first liquid crystal cell 110a. However, the LEDs of the first optical element 40a and the second optical element 40b are not lit, so no light is emitted from the first optical element 40a and the second optical element 40b.

[0180] Figure 17 This is a graph showing the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle in light emitted from the lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17This is a graph showing the supply of a first or second variable potential to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10 for the LED of the third optical element 40c (located on the left side) among the three optical elements (first optical element 40a, second optical element 40b, and third optical element 40c) with different light emission directions in the control circuit 70. For example, the first potential V1, third potential V3, fifth potential V5, and seventh potential V7 supplied from the control circuit 70 to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10 are the fifth variable potentials, and the second potential V2, fourth potential V4, sixth potential V6, and eighth potential V8 are the sixth variable potentials. Here, compared to the third variable potential, the potential difference between the Low and High potentials is larger in the fifth variable potential. The sixth variable potential is a phase reversal of the fifth variable potential.

[0181] In the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the potential difference between the ninth transparent electrode 189a and the tenth transparent electrode 190a, and between the eleventh transparent electrode 191a and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a, is 30V or slightly less. Even in the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, the potential difference between electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as in the first liquid crystal cell 110a is also 30V or slightly less. Therefore, the light emitted from the third optical element 40c diffuses in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, respectively. Thus, the light emitted from the third optical element 40c diffuses at least in… Figure 17 The light emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10 has a weak peak near the polar angle of -40 degrees and diffuses from the polar angle of 60 degrees to the polar angle of 0 degrees.

[0182] In the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the potential difference between the first transparent electrode 181a and the second transparent electrode 182a, the potential difference between the third transparent electrode 183a and the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the potential difference between the fifth transparent electrode 185a and the sixth transparent electrode 186a, and the potential difference between the seventh transparent electrode 187a and the eighth transparent electrode 188a are 30V or less. Even if the potential difference between the electrodes corresponding to the same electrodes as the first liquid crystal cell 110a in each of the second liquid crystal cell 110b, the third liquid crystal cell 110c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d is 30V or less, the LEDs of the first optical element 40a and the second optical element 40b are not lit, and therefore no light is emitted from the first optical element 40a and the second optical element 40b.

[0183] <1-5-4. Examples of Light Distribution Patterns>

[0184] Figure 18 (A)~ Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (H) is a schematic diagram representing the light distribution pattern emitted from the lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 18 (A)~ Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (H) is a pattern projected onto the emission surface of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d (the surface opposite to the side where the light source 20 is located in the z-axis) (appearing on the emission surface).

[0185] Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (A) is Figure 12 The light distribution pattern shown corresponds to the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle. That is, the light distribution pattern of light emitted from the illumination device 30 when the three optical elements are lit and an intermediate potential is supplied to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 18 (A) shows the light distribution pattern when the right-side point light 80a, the center point light 80b, and the left-side point light 80c, which are arranged along the x-axis, are illuminated.

[0186] In addition, such as Figure 14 As shown in the light distribution pattern corresponding to the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle, the LEDs of the first optical element 40a on the right and the third optical element 40c on the left are illuminated, supplying an intermediate potential to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10. Although the illustration is omitted, in this case, point light is irradiated from the illumination device 30 on the right and left sides relative to the x-axis.

[0187] In addition, such as Figure 16 As shown in the light distribution pattern corresponding to the relationship between relative brightness and polar angle, the LED of the third optical element 40c, which is located on the left side of the three optical elements, is lit to supply an intermediate potential to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Although the illustration is omitted, in this case, point light is irradiated from the illumination device 30 on the left side relative to the x-axis.

[0188] In addition, it can also form Figure 18 (B) shows the light distribution pattern. That is, the light distribution pattern of light emitted from the illumination device 30 when the three optical elements are illuminated and a first variable potential or a second variable potential is selectively supplied to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. More specifically, for each liquid crystal cell, the first variable potential and the second variable potential are supplied alternately with respect to electrodes arranged along the x-axis and extending along the y-axis. Thus, the incident light from each optical element diffuses along the x-axis. Figure 18 (B) shows the light distribution pattern representing the state of light (diffuse light 81) emitted and diffused relative to the x-axis.

[0189] Furthermore, the control circuit 70 illuminates the three optical elements, adjusting the potential supplied to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10, thereby enabling the illumination device 30 to function as described above. Figure 18 (C) shows the ability to illuminate light from the right, center, and left sides as diffused light (diffuse light 82a, 82b, 82c) relative to the y-axis. More specifically, for each liquid crystal cell, a first variable potential and a second variable potential are alternately supplied with respect to electrodes arranged along the y-axis and extending along the x-axis. Thus, incident light from each optical element diffuses along the y-axis. Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (C) represents the states of emitted diffuse light 82a, 82b, and 82c.

[0190] Furthermore, by using the control circuit 70, the lighting device 30, such as Figure 18 As shown in (D), light from the right, center, and left sides can be irradiated as an elliptical light (diffuse light 83) that diffuses relative to the x-axis and y-axis. Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (D) represents the state of the emitted diffuse light 83.

[0191] Furthermore, by using the control circuit 70, the lighting device 30, such as Figure 18 As shown in (E), light from the right, center, and left sides can be diffused in a cross shape relative to the x-axis and y-axis, respectively, to illuminate the source as composite light 84. More specifically, all three optical elements are illuminated, and a first potential V1 and a second potential V2, which supply potentials to multiple electrodes disposed on the first substrate 111a side of the first liquid crystal cell 110a and multiple electrodes disposed on the second substrate 121d side of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, are respectively used as the first variable potential and the second variable potential. A seventh potential V7 and an eighth potential V8, which supply potentials to multiple electrodes disposed on the second substrate 121b side of the second liquid crystal cell 110b and multiple electrodes disposed on the first substrate 111c side of the third liquid crystal cell 110c, are respectively used as the first variable potential and the second variable potential. As a result, the incident light from each optical element diffuses in a cross shape along the x-axis and y-axis. Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (E) represents the state of the emitted light 84.

[0192] In addition, it can also form Figure 18(F) shows the light distribution pattern. This refers to the light distribution pattern of the light 85 emitted from the illumination device 30 when the LEDs of the first optical element 40a (located on the right) and the third optical element 40c (located on the left) are illuminated, and a first or second variable potential is supplied to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10. More specifically, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2, which supply potentials to the multiple electrodes on the first substrate 111a side of the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the multiple electrodes on the second substrate 121d side of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, are respectively used as the first variable potential and the second variable potential. The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8, which supply potentials to the multiple electrodes on the second substrate 121b side of the second liquid crystal cell 110b and the multiple electrodes on the first substrate 111c side of the third liquid crystal cell 110c, are respectively used as the first variable potential and the second variable potential. Thus, the incident light from each optical element diffuses in a cross shape along the x-axis and y-axis. Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (F) represents the state of the emitted light at 85°. For example... Figure 18 As shown in (F), the illumination device 30 diffuses the light from the right and left sides relative to the x-axis and y-axis, respectively, and can further diffuse the light diffused along the x-axis on the right and left sides using the electrode group at the center of each liquid crystal cell. However, since it is not direct light but light that is further diffused along the x-axis, the cross-shaped diffusion pattern, as shown in regions 85a and 85b, is not strong, and as shown in region 85c, the diffusion effect cannot be visually confirmed near the center.

[0193] In addition, it can also form Figure 18 (G) shows the light distribution pattern. That is, when the LED of the third optical element 40c, one of the three optical elements located on the left, is lit, and a first variable potential or a second variable potential is selectively supplied to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10, the light distribution pattern of the light emitted from the illumination device 30 is as follows: More specifically, for each liquid crystal cell, the first variable potential and the second variable potential are supplied alternately with respect to electrodes arranged along the y-axis and extending along the x-axis. Thus, the incident light from each optical element diffuses along the y-axis. Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (G) represents the state of the emitted light 86. For example... Figure 18 As shown in (G), the lighting device 30 is capable of illuminating light that diffuses along the y-axis on the left side.

[0194] Able to form Figure 18(H) shows the light distribution pattern. This refers to the light distribution pattern of the light 87 emitted from the illumination device 30 when the LED of the third optical element 40c (located on the left side) is lit, and a first variable potential or a second variable potential is selectively supplied to the transparent electrodes of each liquid crystal cell in the liquid crystal optical element 10. More specifically, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2, which supply potentials to the multiple electrodes disposed on the first substrate 111a side of the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the multiple electrodes disposed on the second substrate 121d side of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d, are respectively used as the first variable potential and the second variable potential. The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8, which supply potentials to the multiple electrodes disposed on the second substrate 121b side of the second liquid crystal cell 110b and the multiple electrodes disposed on the first substrate 111c side of the third liquid crystal cell 110c, are respectively used as the first variable potential and the second variable potential. Thus, the incident light from each optical element diffuses in a cross shape along the x-axis and y-axis. Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (H) represents the state of the emitted light 87. For example... Figure 18 As shown in (H), the illumination device 30 diffuses the light on the left side in a cross shape, and uses the electrode group in the center of each liquid crystal cell and the electrode group on the right side to diffuse the light diffused along the x-axis further to the right in a cross shape. However, since the light is diffused again along the central direction instead of directly, the cross-shaped diffusion is not strong. For example, as shown in region 87a, the diffusion effect cannot be visually confirmed beyond the center.

[0195] The liquid crystal optical element 10 of this embodiment enables light emitted from three optical elements—a first optical element 40a, a second optical element 40b, and a third optical element 40c—which have different light emission directions, to pass through and diffuse along the x-axis and y-axis. As a result, the illumination device 30 of this embodiment can control the light distribution and light distribution pattern in various ways.

[0196] <1-6. First Variation of the Lighting Device>

[0197] Figure 19 This is an end cross-sectional view of a lighting device 30b according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 19 The lighting device 30b shown is Figure 1 Compared to the illumination device 30 shown, the optical element 20b differs in that it has a support member 50b. The support member 50b has a concave shape when viewed in cross-section. When as... Figure 19When the optical elements are configured as shown, the first optical element 40a emits light 180a in a direction tilted to the left relative to the z-axis, the second optical element 40b emits light 180b parallel or approximately parallel to the z-axis, and the third optical element 40c emits light 180c in a direction tilted to the right relative to the z-axis. The illumination device 30b is identical to the illumination device 30 except for this, therefore a detailed description is omitted here.

[0198] <1-7. Second variation of the lighting device>

[0199] Figure 20 This is an end cross-sectional view of an optical element 40 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 20 The optical element 40 shown is Figure 2 Compared to the optical element 40 shown, it differs in having a convex lens 230. The convex lens 230 can focus the light emitted from the light-emitting element 210, so that the focused light enters the liquid crystal optical element 10. The reflector 220 can reflect the light emitted from the light-emitting element 210, so that the reflected light enters the convex lens 230. Figure 20 The optical element 40 shown is Figure 2 The optical element 40 shown is identical to the one shown, except for the other two points, so detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0200] use Figures 1 to 20 The lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figures 1 to 20 The lighting device 30 shown is an example, and the lighting device 30 involved in one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to that described above. Figures 1 to 20 As shown in the diagram.

[0201] By using the lighting device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to control the ON and OFF states of the optical elements that illuminate light in different directions, as well as the potential supplied to each transparent electrode of the liquid crystal optical element. As a result, the transmission and diffusion of light in different directions can be precisely controlled relative to the object being illuminated.

[0202] <Second Implementation Method>

[0203] In the second embodiment, the light source 20c is composed of a fourth optical element 40d, a fifth optical element 40e, and a sixth optical element 40f, and each optical element is described in a way that it faces different reflectors 220 when viewed in cross-section. Figure 21 This is an end cross-sectional view of the lighting device 30c according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 22 This is a top view of the light source 20c according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 21 as well as Figure 22The lighting device 30c shown is an example, and the lighting device 30c involved in the second embodiment is not limited to that described in the example. Figure 21 as well as Figure 22 The method shown is as described. In the description of the second embodiment, the same descriptions as in the first embodiment are sometimes omitted.

[0204] Figure 21 The lighting device 30c shown is Figure 1 Compared to the illumination device 30 shown, the light source 20c differs in that it has a support member 50c, and it is composed of a fourth optical element 40d, a fifth optical element 40e, and a sixth optical element 40f. Furthermore, each optical element has a reflector 220 facing a different direction when viewed in cross-section. The illumination device 30c is identical to the illumination device 30 in all other respects, therefore detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0205] like Figure 21 As shown, the lighting device 30c includes a liquid crystal optical element 10 and a light source 20c. The light source 20c includes an optical element 40 and a support member 50c. The support member 50c serves to support (fix) the optical element 40. The support member 50a has a flat surface when viewed in cross-section. The support member 50c can be made of the same material as the support member 50a.

[0206] The optical element 40 is composed of a fourth optical element 40d, a fifth optical element 40e, and a sixth optical element 40f. When viewed from above, the fourth optical element 40d, the fifth optical element 40e, and the sixth optical element 40f are arranged parallel or substantially parallel along the x-axis or y-axis. In this embodiment, the fourth optical element 40d is disposed near the fifth optical element 40e, and the fifth optical element 40e is disposed near the sixth optical element 40f.

[0207] The fourth optical element 40d, the fifth optical element 40e, and the sixth optical element 40f are mounted on the flat surface of the support member 50c facing the liquid crystal optical element 10. The fourth optical element 40d has a first reflector 220a and a first light-emitting element 210a. The fifth optical element 40e has a second reflector 220b and a second light-emitting element 210b. The sixth optical element 40f has a third reflector 220c and a third light-emitting element 210c.

[0208] The first reflector 220a, the second reflector 220b, and the third reflector 220c are arranged in different directions to direct the reflected light in different directions. For example, when... Figure 21When the optical elements are configured as shown, the fourth optical element 40d with the first reflector 220a emits light 180d in a direction that is tilted to the right relative to the z-axis, the fifth optical element 40e with the second reflector 220b emits light 180e in a direction that is parallel or substantially parallel to the z-axis, and the sixth optical element 40f with the third reflector 220c emits light 180f in a direction that is tilted to the left relative to the z-axis.

[0209] The positional relationships between the fourth optical element 40d, the fifth optical element 40e, and the sixth optical element 40f and each electrode group are the same as those between the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c and each electrode group. For example, the first electrode group 117-1 and the fourth electrode group 117-2 are arranged facing the light emission surfaces of the fourth optical element 40d and the fourth optical element 40d, the second electrode group 117-3 and the fifth electrode group 117-4 are arranged facing the light emission surfaces of the fifth optical element 40e and the fifth optical element 40e, and the third electrode group 117-5 and the sixth electrode group 117-6 are arranged facing the light emission surfaces of the sixth optical element 40f and the sixth optical element 40f.

[0210] In this embodiment, such as Figure 21 The illustrated configuration includes optical elements 40 and 10 with reflectors, each oriented in a different direction. In other words, the fourth optical element 40d, the fifth optical element 40e, and the sixth optical element 40f each have a reflector. These three optical elements have different light emission directions relative to the fourth optical element 40d, the fifth optical element 40e, and the sixth optical element 40f. Figure 21 The configuration shown includes a liquid crystal optical element 10. As a result, three optical elements are used as a light source for the left side, a light source for the center, and a light source for the right side. The liquid crystal optical element 10 allows light emitted from each optical element in different directions to pass through or diffuse.

[0211] The fourth optical element 40d, the fifth optical element 40e, and the sixth optical element 40f can also be randomly arranged in multiples on the support member 50c. For example, in Figure 22 In the example shown, three optical elements 40d, 40e, and 40f are randomly arranged on the support member 50c.

[0212] By using a light source 20c equipped with multiple optical elements that emit light in different directions, it is possible to use them separately and emit light with higher linearity and light with stronger oblique direction. For example, by arranging a lighting device 30c in a mobile device such as a car, airplane, or tram, it is possible to illuminate the central seat with higher linearity relative to three adjacent seats, and illuminate the seat adjacent to the right of the center with stronger oblique direction. That is, the lighting device 30 can simultaneously illuminate multiple different symmetrical objects with light of different directions.

[0213] Furthermore, the light source 20c can utilize various configurations. For example, the light source 20c can be a light source with a configuration that overlaps light guide plates, or it can be a light source with red-emitting LEDs, green-emitting LEDs, and blue-emitting LEDs disposed on a substrate. The light source can be a MiniLED directly below a lens array, or it can be an organic light-emitting element (OLED). Additionally, it can be disposed between each optical element and the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 20 The convex lens 230 shown.

[0214] <Third Implementation Method>

[0215] In the third embodiment, a liquid crystal optical element is provided for each of the fourth optical element 40d, the fifth optical element 40e, and the sixth optical element 40f included in the light source 20c shown in the second embodiment. Figure 23 This is an end cross-sectional view of the lighting device 30d according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23 The lighting device 30d shown is an example, and the lighting device 30d involved in the third embodiment is not limited to that described in the example. Figure 23 The method shown is as described. In the description of the third embodiment, the same descriptions as those in the first and second embodiments are sometimes omitted.

[0216] Figure 23 The lighting device 30d shown is Figure 21 Compared to the illumination device 30c shown, the difference lies in the fact that a liquid crystal optical element is provided for each of the fourth optical element 40d, the fifth optical element 40e, and the sixth optical element 40f. Illumination device 30d is identical to illumination device 30c except for this, therefore a detailed description is omitted here.

[0217] Figure 23The illumination device 30d shown includes a liquid crystal optical element 10a, a liquid crystal optical element 10b, a liquid crystal optical element 10c, and a light source 20c. The structure of the light source 20c is the same as that of the light source 20c shown in the second embodiment, and the light source 20c includes a fourth optical element 40d, a fifth optical element 40e, and a sixth optical element 40f.

[0218] The fourth optical element 40d is opposite to the liquid crystal optical element 10a. Light 180d emitted from the fourth optical element 40d in a direction tilted to the right relative to the z-axis is incident on the liquid crystal optical element 10a. The fifth optical element 40e is opposite to the liquid crystal optical element 10b. Light 180e emitted from the fifth optical element 40e in a direction parallel or approximately parallel to the z-axis is incident on the liquid crystal optical element 10b. The sixth optical element 40f is opposite to the liquid crystal optical element 10c. Light 180f emitted from the sixth optical element 40f in a direction tilted to the left relative to the z-axis is incident on the liquid crystal optical element 10c.

[0219] The positional relationships between the fourth optical element 40d, the fifth optical element 40e, and the sixth optical element 40f and each electrode group are the same as those between the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c and each electrode group. For example, the electrode groups included in the liquid crystal optical element 10a are arranged facing the light emission surfaces of the fourth optical element 40d and the fourth optical element 40d, the electrode groups included in the liquid crystal optical element 10b are arranged facing the light emission surfaces of the fifth optical element 40e and the fifth optical element 40e, and the electrode groups included in the liquid crystal optical element 10c are arranged facing the light emission surfaces of the sixth optical element 40f and the sixth optical element 40f.

[0220] By using Figure 23 The lighting device 30d shown can further refine the control of light transmission and diffusion from different directions relative to the object being illuminated.

[0221] <Fourth Implementation Method>

[0222] In the fourth embodiment, for those capable of being relative to Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 The configuration of the transparent electrodes shown is explained in a way that allows for independent control of each transparent electrode. Figure 24 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of the first transparent electrode 181, the second transparent electrode 182, the fifth transparent electrode 185, the sixth transparent electrode 186, the ninth transparent electrode 189, and the tenth transparent electrode 190 on the first substrate 111 in the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 25This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of the third transparent electrode 183, the fourth transparent electrode 184, the seventh transparent electrode 187, the eighth transparent electrode 188, the eleventh transparent electrode 191, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 on the second substrate 121 in the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 26 This is a schematic top view illustrating the connection of the transparent electrode of the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figures 24-26 The liquid crystal optical element 10 shown is an example, and the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to the fourth embodiment is also an example. The liquid crystal optical element 10 according to the fourth embodiment is not limited to this. Figures 24-26 The method shown is as described. In the description of the fourth embodiment, the same descriptions as those in the first to third embodiments are sometimes omitted.

[0223] Figure 24 as well as Figure 25 The configuration of the transparent electrodes shown is consistent with Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 Compared to the configuration of transparent electrodes shown, the difference lies in the ability to control each transparent electrode independently. Figure 24 as well as Figure 25 The configuration of the transparent electrodes shown is consistent with Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 The configuration of the transparent electrodes shown is the same as that shown, except for the other points, so detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0224] exist Figure 24 In this configuration, the first transparent electrode 181 is electrically connected to the first wiring 116-1. The second transparent electrode 182 is electrically connected to the second wiring 116-2. The fifth transparent electrode 185 is electrically connected to the seventh wiring 116-7. The sixth transparent electrode 186 is electrically connected to the eighth wiring 116-8. The ninth transparent electrode 189 is electrically connected to the thirteenth wiring 116-13. The tenth transparent electrode 190 is electrically connected to the fourteenth wiring 116-14.

[0225] The first wiring 116-1, the second wiring 116-2, the fifth wiring 116-5, the sixth wiring 116-6, the seventh wiring 116-7, the eighth wiring 116-8, the eleventh wiring 116-11, the twelfth wiring 116-12, the thirteenth wiring 116-13, the fourteenth wiring 116-14, the seventeenth wiring 116-17, and the eighteenth wiring 116-18 are disposed on the first substrate 111.

[0226] The first wiring 116-1 can be formed below the first transparent electrode 181, above the first transparent electrode 181, or in the same layer as the first transparent electrode 181. The second wiring 116-2 can also be formed below the second transparent electrode 182, above the second transparent electrode 182, or in the same layer as the second transparent electrode 182. The seventh wiring 116-7 can also be formed below the fifth transparent electrode 185, above the fifth transparent electrode 185, or in the same layer as the fifth transparent electrode 185. The eighth wiring 116-8 can also be formed below the sixth transparent electrode 186, above the sixth transparent electrode 186, or in the same layer as the sixth transparent electrode 186. The thirteenth wiring 116-13 can also be formed below the ninth transparent electrode 189, above the ninth transparent electrode 189, or in the same layer as the ninth transparent electrode 189. The fourteenth wiring 116-14 can be formed below the tenth transparent electrode 190, above the tenth transparent electrode 190, or in the same layer as the tenth transparent electrode 190.

[0227] exist Figure 25 In this configuration, the third transparent electrode 183 is electrically connected to the third wiring 116-3. The fourth transparent electrode 184 is electrically connected to the fourth wiring 116-4. The seventh transparent electrode 187 is electrically connected to the ninth wiring 116-9. The eighth transparent electrode 188 is electrically connected to the tenth wiring 116-10. The eleventh transparent electrode 191 is electrically connected to the fifteenth wiring 116-15. The twelfth transparent electrode 192 is electrically connected to the sixteenth wiring 116-16.

[0228] The third wiring 116-3, the fourth wiring 116-4, the ninth wiring 116-9, the tenth wiring 116-10, the fifteenth wiring 116-15, and the sixteenth wiring 116-16 are disposed on the second substrate 121.

[0229] The third wiring 116-3 can be formed below the third transparent electrode 183, above the third transparent electrode 183, or in the same layer as the third transparent electrode 183. The fourth wiring 116-4 can be formed below the fourth transparent electrode 184, above the fourth transparent electrode 184, or in the same layer as the fourth transparent electrode 184. The ninth wiring 116-9 can be formed below the seventh transparent electrode 187, above the seventh transparent electrode 187, or in the same layer as the seventh transparent electrode 187. The tenth wiring 116-10 can be formed below the eighth transparent electrode 188, above the eighth transparent electrode 188, or in the same layer as the eighth transparent electrode 188. The fifteenth wiring 116-15 can be formed below the eleventh transparent electrode 191, above the eleventh transparent electrode 191, or in the same layer as the eleventh transparent electrode 191. The sixteenth wiring 116-16 can be formed below the twelfth transparent electrode 192, above the twelfth transparent electrode 192, or in the same layer as the twelfth transparent electrode 192.

[0230] When the first substrate 111 is bonded to the second substrate 121, the third wiring 116-3, the fourth wiring 116-4, the ninth wiring 116-9, the tenth wiring 116-10, the fifteenth wiring 116-15, and the sixteenth wiring 116-16 disposed on the second substrate 121 are electrically connected to the fifth wiring 116-5, the sixth wiring 116-6, the eleventh wiring 116-11, the twelfth wiring 116-12, the seventeenth wiring 116-17, and the eighteenth wiring 116-18 disposed on the first substrate 111, respectively.

[0231] The third wiring 116-3 and the fifth wiring 116-5, the fourth wiring 116-4 and the sixth wiring 116-6, the ninth wiring 116-9 and the eleventh wiring 116-11, the tenth wiring 116-10 and the twelfth wiring 116-12, the fifteenth wiring 116-15 and the seventeenth wiring 116-17, and the sixteenth wiring 116-16 and the eighteenth wiring 116-18 can be electrically connected, for example, using silver paste or conductive particles. Furthermore, the conductive particles comprise particles coated with metal.

[0232] The first wiring 116-1, the second wiring 116-2, the fifth wiring 116-5, the sixth wiring 116-6, the seventh wiring 116-7, the eighth wiring 116-8, the eleventh wiring 116-11, the twelfth wiring 116-12, the thirteenth wiring 116-13, the fourteenth wiring 116-14, the seventeenth wiring 116-17, and the eighteenth wiring 116-18 can also be terminals for connecting to external devices.

[0233] The first wiring 116-1, the second wiring 116-2, the fifth wiring 116-5 (or the third wiring 116-3), the sixth wiring 116-6 (or the fourth wiring 116-4), the eleventh wiring 116-11 (or the ninth wiring 116-9), the twelfth wiring 116-12 (or the tenth wiring 116-10), the seventeenth wiring 116-17 (or the fifteenth wiring 116-15), and the eighteenth wiring 116-18 (or the sixteenth wiring 116-16) are electrically insulated from each other. Therefore, in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the first transparent electrode 181a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, the ninth transparent electrode 189a, the second transparent electrode 182a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, the tenth transparent electrode 190a, the third transparent electrode 183a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, the eleventh transparent electrode 191a, the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a can be controlled independently, and the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 113 can be controlled using each transparent electrode. For example, the first transparent electrode 181a, the fifth transparent electrode 185a, and the ninth transparent electrode 189a supply a first potential V1; the second transparent electrode 182a, the sixth transparent electrode 186a, and the tenth transparent electrode 190a supply a second potential V2; the third transparent electrode 183a, the seventh transparent electrode 187a, and the eleventh transparent electrode 191a supply a third potential V3; and the fourth transparent electrode 184a, the eighth transparent electrode 188a, and the twelfth transparent electrode 192a supply a fourth potential V4. Furthermore, the first potential V1, the second potential V2, the third potential V3, and the fourth potential V4 can be different potentials or the same potential.

[0234] In the lighting device 30 of this embodiment, the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 included in the first electrode group 117-1 of the first substrate 111 intersect with the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 included in the fourth electrode group 117-2 of the second substrate 121, thereby controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 113 by controlling the potential supplied to each transparent electrode. Furthermore, in the lighting device 30 of this embodiment, the fifth transparent electrode 185 and the sixth transparent electrode 186 included in the second electrode group 117-3 of the first substrate 111 intersect with the seventh transparent electrode 187 and the eighth transparent electrode 188 included in the fifth electrode group 117-4 of the second substrate 121, thereby controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 113 by controlling the potential supplied to each transparent electrode. Furthermore, in the lighting device 30 according to this embodiment, the ninth transparent electrode 189 and the tenth transparent electrode 190 included in the third electrode group 117-5 of the first substrate 111 intersect with the eleventh transparent electrode 191 and the twelfth transparent electrode 192 included in the sixth electrode group 117-6 of the second substrate 121, thereby controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 113 by controlling the voltage supplied to each transparent electrode. As a result, the liquid crystal optical element 10 can transmit or diffuse light from three different directions emitted from the three optical elements (e.g., the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c) to the right using the first electrode group 117-1 and the fourth electrode group 117-2, transmit or diffuse light towards the center using the second electrode group 117-3 and the fifth electrode group 117-4, and transmit or diffuse light to the left using the third electrode group 117-5 and the sixth electrode group 117-6.

[0235] Furthermore, in the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to this embodiment, by narrowing the width, distance between electrodes, and spacing between transparent electrodes of the second electrode group 117-3 and the fifth electrode group 117-4 disposed at the center or approximately the center of the first substrate 111, when a potential is supplied to the transparent electrodes disposed at the second electrode group 117-3 and the fifth electrode group 117-4, the range of liquid crystal alignment can be controlled within a narrower range. That is, the degree of light diffusion in the x-axis or y-axis direction of light diffused towards the center or approximately the center can be precisely controlled. In the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to this embodiment, the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b having the same transparent electrode configuration are laminated, and the degree of light diffusion in the x-axis direction of light diffused towards the center or approximately the center can be precisely controlled. Furthermore, in the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to this embodiment, by laminating a third liquid crystal cell 110c and a fourth liquid crystal cell 110d having the same transparent electrode configuration on top of a first liquid crystal cell 110a and a second liquid crystal cell 110b having the same transparent electrode configuration, the degree of light diffusion along the y-axis can be precisely controlled. As a result, light from the second optical element 40b disposed at the center or approximately the center can be diffused more precisely in the left-right and up-down directions, and the light distribution and light distribution pattern in the left-right and up-down directions can be precisely controlled.

[0236] For explanation Figure 26 The schematic top view showing the connection of the transparent electrodes is used for illustration. Figure 11 Compared to the schematic top view showing the connection of the transparent electrodes, the difference lies in the fact that potentials are supplied to each transparent electrode independently. Figure 26 The diagram shown is Figure 11 The figures shown are identical except for one point, so detailed explanations are omitted here.

[0237] The first transparent electrode 181a and the first transparent electrode 181d are connected to the first potential supply line 461 supplying the first potential V1. The fifth transparent electrode 185a and the fifth transparent electrode 185d are connected to the ninth potential supply line 465 supplying the ninth potential V9. The ninth transparent electrode 189a and the ninth transparent electrode 189d are connected to the seventeenth potential supply line 469 supplying the seventeenth potential V17.

[0238] The second transparent electrode 182a and the second transparent electrode 182d are connected to the second potential supply line 462 supplying the second potential V2. The sixth transparent electrode 186a and the sixth transparent electrode 186d are connected to the tenth potential supply line 466 supplying the tenth potential V10. The tenth transparent electrode 190a and the tenth transparent electrode 190d are connected to the eighteenth potential supply line 470 supplying the eighteenth potential V18.

[0239] The third transparent electrode 183a and the third transparent electrode 183d are connected to the third potential supply line 463 supplying the third potential V3. The seventh transparent electrode 187a and the seventh transparent electrode 187d are connected to the eleventh potential supply line 467 supplying the eleventh potential V11. The eleventh transparent electrode 191a and the eleventh transparent electrode 191d are connected to the nineteenth potential supply line 471 supplying the nineteenth potential V19.

[0240] The fourth transparent electrode 184a and the fourth transparent electrode 184d are connected to the fourth potential supply line 464 supplying the fourth potential V4. The eighth transparent electrode 188a and the eighth transparent electrode 188d are connected to the twelfth potential supply line 468 supplying the twelfth potential V12. The twelfth transparent electrode 192a and the twelfth transparent electrode 192d are connected to the twentieth potential supply line 472 supplying the twentieth potential V20.

[0241] The first transparent electrode 181b and the first transparent electrode 181c are connected to the fifth potential supply line 481 supplying the fifth potential V5. The fifth transparent electrode 185b and the fifth transparent electrode 185c are connected to the thirteenth potential supply line 485 supplying the thirteenth potential V13. The ninth transparent electrode 189b and the ninth transparent electrode 189c are connected to the twenty-first potential supply line 489 supplying the twenty-first potential V21.

[0242] The second transparent electrodes 182b and 182c are connected to the sixth potential supply line 482 supplying the sixth potential V6. The sixth transparent electrodes 186b and 186c are connected to the fourteenth potential supply line 486 supplying the fourteenth potential V14. The tenth transparent electrodes 190b and 190c are connected to the twenty-second potential supply line 490 supplying the twenty-second potential V22.

[0243] The third transparent electrode 183b and the third transparent electrode 183c are connected to the seventh potential supply line 483 supplying the seventh potential V7. The seventh transparent electrode 187b and the seventh transparent electrode 187c are connected to the fifteenth potential supply line 487 supplying the fifteenth potential V15. The eleventh transparent electrode 191b and the eleventh transparent electrode 191c are connected to the twenty-third potential supply line 491 supplying the twenty-third potential V23.

[0244] The fourth transparent electrode 184b and the fourth transparent electrode 184c are connected to the eighth potential supply line 484 supplying the eighth potential V8. The eighth transparent electrode 188b and the eighth transparent electrode 188c are connected to the sixteenth potential supply line 488 supplying the sixteenth potential V16. The twelfth transparent electrode 192b and the twelfth transparent electrode 192c are connected to the twenty-fourth potential supply line 492 supplying the twenty-fourth potential V24.

[0245] Figure 26 The first potential V11 to the twenty-fourth potential V24 shown can be either fixed potentials or variable potentials. In the first potential supply line 461 to the twenty-fourth potential supply line 492, not only are Low potentials and High potentials supplied, but also intermediate potentials between Low and High potentials are supplied. That is, the first potential V11 to the twenty-fourth potential V24 contain three potentials with different absolute values.

[0246] In the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to the fourth embodiment, each transparent electrode is connected to the control circuit 70 ( Figure 10 The potential is supplied independently. Therefore, light emitted from the first optical element 40a, the second optical element 40b, and the third optical element 40c can be transmitted and diffused independently along the x-axis and y-axis, respectively. As a result, the illumination device including the liquid crystal optical element 10 according to the fourth embodiment can further control the light distribution and light distribution pattern in various shapes.

[0247] <Fifth Implementation Method>

[0248] In the fifth embodiment, the arrangement of the four optical elements in a matrix along the x-axis and y-axis will be described. Figure 27 This is a top view of the light source 20d according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 28 (A)~ Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (F) is a schematic diagram representing the light distribution pattern emitted from the lighting device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 28 (A)~ Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (F) is a pattern projected (illuminated) onto the emission surface of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110d (the surface opposite to the side where the light source 20 is located in the z-axis).

[0249] Figure 27 as well as Figure 28 (A)~ Figure 28 The method shown in (F) is an example, and the fifth embodiment is not limited to... Figure 27 as well as Figure 28 (A)~ Figure 28The method shown in (F) is sometimes omitted in the description of the fifth embodiment, as is the same as in the first to fourth embodiments.

[0250] exist Figure 27 In the light source 20d, there are optical elements 40 and supporting members 50d. The optical elements 40 are composed of a fifth optical element 40g, a sixth optical element 40h, a seventh optical element 40i, and an eighth optical element 40j. When viewed from above, the fifth optical element 40g, the sixth optical element 40h, the seventh optical element 40i, and the eighth optical element 40j are arranged in a matrix on the supporting members 50d along the x-axis and y-axis.

[0251] For example, the sixth optical element 40h is arranged adjacent to the fifth optical element 40g with respect to the x-axis and adjacent to the eighth optical element 40j with respect to the y-axis. The seventh optical element 40i is arranged diagonally relative to the sixth optical element 40h, adjacent to the eighth optical element 40j with respect to the x-axis, and adjacent to the fifth optical element 40g with respect to the y-axis. The eighth optical element 40j is arranged diagonally relative to the fifth optical element 40g. Each optical element can be the same as the optical elements shown in the first to fourth embodiments.

[0252] exist Figure 27 The image shows an example of a separate configuration for each optical element, but the configuration of the optical elements is not limited to this. Figure 27 The example shown. The optical elements can also be configured in a close-fitting manner.

[0253] An example is shown where the support member 50d has a flat surface, and the fifth optical element 40g, the sixth optical element 40h, the seventh optical element 40i, and the eighth optical element 40j are disposed on this flat surface. However, the support member 50d is not limited to the example shown in the fifth embodiment. For example, when viewed in cross-section, the support member 50d may also have a convex shape as shown in the first embodiment, or it may have a concave shape as shown in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the support member 50d can use the same substrate as the support members 50a or 50b shown in the first embodiment.

[0254] Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (A) is the light distribution pattern of light emitted from the illumination device 30 when four optical elements are lit and an intermediate potential is supplied to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (A) is that four point lights 90a, 90b, 90c, and 90d are irradiated in a matrix shape along the x-axis and y-axis.

[0255] Figure 28(B) shows the light distribution pattern of light emitted from the illumination device when two optical elements (the fifth optical element 40g and the seventh optical element 40i) are lit and a first variable potential or a second variable potential is supplied to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 28 (B) shows the light distribution pattern of light (diffuse light 91) diffused by the fifth optical element 40g and the seventh optical element 40i arranged parallel to the y-axis.

[0256] Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (C) is the light distribution pattern of light emitted from the illumination device when two optical elements (the fifth optical element 40g and the sixth optical element 40h) are lit and a first variable potential or a second variable potential is supplied to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 18 The light distribution pattern shown in (C) is light diffused by irradiating the fifth optical element 40g and the sixth optical element 40h arranged parallel to the x-axis (diffuse light 92).

[0257] Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (D) is the light distribution pattern of light emitted from the illumination device when four optical elements are lit and a first or second variable potential that suppresses the diffusion of light along the x-axis is supplied to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (D) is light diffused by the fifth optical element 40g and the seventh optical element 40i arranged parallel to the y-axis (diffuse light 93a), and light diffused by the sixth optical element 40h and the eighth optical element 40j arranged parallel to the y-axis (diffuse light 93b).

[0258] Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (E) is the light distribution pattern of light emitted from the illumination device when four optical elements are lit and a first or second variable potential that suppresses the diffusion of light along the y-axis is supplied to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (E) is light diffused along the fifth optical element 40g and the sixth optical element 40h arranged parallel to the x-axis (diffuse light 94a), and light diffused along the seventh optical element 40i and the eighth optical element 40j arranged parallel to the x-axis (diffuse light 94b).

[0259] Figure 28The light distribution pattern shown in (F) is the light distribution pattern of light emitted from the illumination device when four optical elements are lit and a first variable potential or a second variable potential is supplied to each transparent electrode of each liquid crystal cell of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 28 The light distribution pattern shown in (F) is light 95 that is a composite of light diffused along the fifth optical element 40g and the sixth optical element 40h arranged parallel to the x-axis, light diffused along the seventh optical element 40i and the eighth optical element 40j arranged parallel to the x-axis, light diffused along the fifth optical element 40g and the seventh optical element 40i arranged parallel to the y-axis, and light diffused along the sixth optical element 40h and the eighth optical element 40j arranged parallel to the y-axis.

[0260] exist Figure 28 (A)~ Figure 28 In the light distribution pattern shown in (F), control signals for turning the LEDs of the four optical elements of the light source 20d on or off are sent from the control circuit 70 to the light source 20d. Furthermore, a predetermined potential is supplied from the control circuit 70 to each transparent electrode included in the liquid crystal optical element 10.

[0261] The light source 20d according to the fifth embodiment has four optical elements, enabling it to emit light in four directions. The illumination device according to the fifth embodiment can transmit and diffuse light emitted from the four optical elements—the fifth optical element 40g, the sixth optical element 40h, the seventh optical element 40i, and the eighth optical element 40j—which have different light irradiation directions, along the x-axis and y-axis using the liquid crystal optical element 10. As a result, the illumination device according to the fifth embodiment can control the light distribution and light distribution pattern in various ways.

[0262] As embodiments of the present invention, the structures of the liquid crystal optical element, the light source, and the illumination device described above can be appropriately combined to implement the invention, as long as they do not contradict each other. Furthermore, any additions, deletions, or design changes to constituent elements, or additions, omissions, or changes to processes performed by those skilled in the art based on the structures of the liquid crystal optical element, the light source, and the illumination device, are included within the scope of the present invention, provided they capture the spirit of the invention.

[0263] Furthermore, other effects that differ from those of the embodiments described above, effects that are obvious according to the description in this specification, or effects that are easily predicted by those skilled in the art can also be understood as effects brought about by the present invention.

[0264] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0265] 10: Liquid crystal optical element; 10a: Liquid crystal optical element; 10b: Liquid crystal optical element; 10c: Liquid crystal optical element; 20: Light source; 20b: Optical element; 20c: Light source; 20d: Light source; 30: Illumination device; 30b: Illumination device; 30c: Illumination device; 30d: Illumination device; 40: Optical element; 40a: First optical element; 40b: Second optical element; 40c: Third optical element; 40d: Fourth optical element; 40e: Fifth optical element; 40f: Sixth optical element; 40g: Fifth optical element; 40h: Sixth optical element; 40i: Seventh optical element; 40j: Eighth optical element; 50a: Support member; 50b: Support member; 50c: Support structure Component; 50d: Supporting component; 60: Sensor; 70: Control circuit; 80a: Right side spot light; 80b: Center spot light; 80c: Left side spot light; 81, 82a, 82b, 82c, 83: Diffuse light; 84, 85, 86, 87: Light; 85a, 85b, 85c, 87a: Area; 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d: Spot light; 91, 92: Diffuse light; 93a, 93b: Diffuse light; 94a, 94b: Diffuse light; 95: Light; 110a: First liquid crystal cell; 110b: Second liquid crystal cell; 110c: Third liquid crystal cell; 110d: Fourth liquid crystal cell; 111: First substrate; 111a: First substrate; 111b: First substrate; 111c: First... Substrate; 111d: First substrate; 113: Liquid crystal layer; 114a: First alignment film; 114b: First alignment film; 114c: First alignment film; 114d: First alignment film; 115: Sealing material; 116: Wiring; 116-1: First wiring; 116-11: Eleventh wiring; 116-12: Twelfth wiring; 116-13: Thirteenth wiring; 116-14: Fourteenth wiring; 116-17: Seventeenth wiring; 116-18: Eighteenth wiring; 116-2: Second wiring; 116-3: Third wiring; 116-4: Fourth wiring; 116-5: Fifth wiring; 116-6: Sixth wiring; 116-7: Seventh wiring; 116-8: Eighth wiring; 117 -1: First electrode group; 117-2: Fourth electrode group; 117-3: Second electrode group; 117-4: Fifth electrode group; 117-5: Third electrode group; 117-6: Sixth electrode group; 121: Second substrate; 121a: Second substrate; 121b: Second substrate; 121c: Second substrate; 121d: Second substrate; 124: Second alignment film; 124a: Second alignment film; 124b: Second alignment film; 124c: Second alignment film; 124d: Second alignment film; 130a: First transparent adhesive layer; 130b: Second transparent adhesive layer; 130c: Third transparent adhesive layer; 150a: Sealing material; 150b: Sealing material; 150c: Sealing material; 150d: Sealing material;160: Liquid crystal layer; 160a: Liquid crystal layer; 160b: Liquid crystal layer; 160c: Liquid crystal layer; 160d: Liquid crystal layer; 180: Incident light; 180a: Light; 180b: Light; 180c: Light; 180d: Light; 180e: Light; 180f: Light; 181: First transparent electrode; 181a: First transparent electrode; 181b: First transparent electrode; 181c: First transparent electrode; 181d: First transparent electrode; 182: Second transparent electrode; 182a: Second transparent electrode; 182b: Second transparent electrode; 182c: Second transparent electrode; 182d: Second transparent electrode; 183: Third transparent electrode; 183a: Third transparent electrode; 183b: Third transparent electrode; 1 83c: Third transparent electrode; 183d: Third transparent electrode; 184: Fourth transparent electrode; 184a: Fourth transparent electrode; 184b: Fourth transparent electrode; 184c: Fourth transparent electrode; 184d: Fourth transparent electrode; 185: Fifth transparent electrode; 185a: Fifth transparent electrode; 185b: Fifth transparent electrode; 185c: Fifth transparent electrode; 185d: Fifth transparent electrode; 186: Sixth transparent electrode; 186a: Sixth transparent electrode; 186b: Sixth transparent electrode; 186c: Sixth transparent electrode; 186d: Sixth transparent electrode; 187: Seventh transparent electrode; 187a: Seventh transparent electrode; 187b: Seventh transparent electrode; 187c: Seventh transparent electrode; 1 87d: Seventh transparent electrode; 188: Eighth transparent electrode; 188a: Eighth transparent electrode; 188b: Eighth transparent electrode; 188c: Eighth transparent electrode; 188d: Eighth transparent electrode; 189: Ninth transparent electrode; 189a: Ninth transparent electrode; 189b: Ninth transparent electrode; 189c: Ninth transparent electrode; 189d: Ninth transparent electrode; 190: Tenth transparent electrode; 190a: Tenth transparent electrode; 190b: Tenth transparent electrode; 190c: Tenth transparent electrode; 190d: Tenth transparent electrode; 191: Eleventh transparent electrode; 191a: Eleventh transparent electrode; 191b: Eleventh transparent electrode; 191c: Eleventh transparent electrode; 191d: Eleventh transparent electrode 192: Transparent electrode; 192a: Transparent electrode; 192b: Transparent electrode; 192c: Transparent electrode; 192d: Transparent electrode; 200: Emitted light; 210: Light-emitting element; 210a: First light-emitting element; 210b: Second light-emitting element; 210c: Third light-emitting element; 220: Reflector; 220a: First reflector; 220b: Second reflector; 220c: Third reflector; 230: Convex lens; 310: First polarized light; 320: Second polarized light; 461: First potential supply line; 462: Second potential supply line; 463: Third potential supply line; 464: Fourth potential supply line; 465: Ninth potential supply line;466: Tenth potential supply line; 467: Eleventh potential supply line; 468: Twelfth potential supply line; 469: Seventeenth potential supply line; 470: Eighteenth potential supply line; 471: Nineteenth potential supply line; 472: Twentieth potential supply line; 481: Fifth potential supply line; 482: Sixth potential supply line; 483: Seventh potential supply line; 484: Eighth potential supply line; 485: Thirteenth potential supply line; 486: Fourteenth potential supply line; 487: Fifteenth potential supply line; 488: Sixteenth potential supply line; 489: Twenty-first potential supply line; 490: Twenty-second potential supply line; 491: Twenty-third potential supply line; 492: Twenty-fourth potential supply line.

Claims

1. A lighting device, comprising: A light source having a first optical element and a second optical element that emit directional light; as well as A liquid crystal optical element that allows light incident from the light source to pass through or pass through and diffuse. The light source is configured such that the first optical element and the second optical element emit light in different directions. The liquid crystal optical element has: The first electrode group is positioned opposite the light-emitting surface of the first optical element; as well as The second electrode group is positioned opposite the light-emitting surface of the second optical element and is disposed adjacent to the first electrode group. The first electrode group has a first transparent electrode and a second transparent electrode arranged alternately with the first transparent electrode. The second electrode group has a third transparent electrode and a fourth transparent electrode arranged alternately with the third transparent electrode. The spacing between the alternating arrangement of the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode is different from the spacing between the alternating arrangement of the third transparent electrode and the fourth transparent electrode.

2. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first electrode group and the second electrode group are electrically connected.

3. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first electrode group and the second electrode group are supplied with potential independently.

4. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first transparent electrode, the second transparent electrode, the third transparent electrode, and the fourth transparent electrode are arranged in parallel along a first direction.

5. The lighting device according to claim 4, wherein, The lighting device has: A first substrate is provided with the first electrode group and the second electrode group; The second substrate overlaps with the first substrate; The third electrode group is disposed on the second substrate opposite to the first electrode group; as well as The fourth electrode group is disposed on the second substrate, opposite to the second electrode group, near the third electrode group.

6. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein, The third electrode group has a fifth transparent electrode and a sixth transparent electrode arranged alternately with the fifth transparent electrode. The fourth electrode group has a seventh transparent electrode and an eighth transparent electrode arranged alternately with the seventh transparent electrode. The fifth transparent electrode, the sixth transparent electrode, the seventh transparent electrode, and the eighth transparent electrode are arranged parallel to each other along a second direction that intersects the first direction.

7. The lighting device according to claim 6, wherein, The liquid crystal optical element has a first liquid crystal cell, a second liquid crystal cell overlapping the first liquid crystal cell, a third liquid crystal cell overlapping the second liquid crystal cell, and a fourth liquid crystal cell overlapping the third liquid crystal cell. Each of the first liquid crystal battery, the second liquid crystal battery, the third liquid crystal battery, and the fourth liquid crystal battery has a first electrode group, a second electrode group, a third electrode group, and a fourth electrode group.

8. The lighting device according to claim 7, wherein, The second substrate included in the second liquid crystal cell overlaps with the first substrate included in the first liquid crystal cell. The second substrate included in the third liquid crystal cell overlaps with the second substrate included in the second liquid crystal cell. The second substrate included in the fourth liquid crystal cell overlaps with the first substrate included in the second liquid crystal cell.

9. The lighting device according to claim 8, wherein, The first transparent electrode and the third transparent electrode are electrically connected and supplied with a first potential. The second transparent electrode and the fourth transparent electrode are electrically connected and supplied with a second potential. The fifth transparent electrode and the seventh transparent electrode are electrically connected and supplied with a third potential. The sixth transparent electrode and the eighth transparent electrode are electrically connected and supplied with a fourth potential.

10. The lighting device according to claim 9, wherein, The lighting device has a control circuit. The control circuit sends control signals to the first and second optical elements to control the illumination of light by the first and second optical elements. The first potential is supplied to the first transparent electrode and the third transparent electrode, the second potential is supplied to the second transparent electrode and the fourth transparent electrode, the third potential is supplied to the fifth transparent electrode and the seventh transparent electrode, and the fourth potential is supplied to the sixth transparent electrode and the eighth transparent electrode.

11. The lighting device according to claim 10, wherein, The control circuit sets the first potential, the second potential, the third potential, and the fourth potential to one of at least three potentials with different absolute values.

12. The lighting device according to claim 6, wherein, The second direction is a direction orthogonal to the first direction.

13. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first optical element and the second optical element are disposed on a support member having a convex surface in the end section.

14. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first optical element and the second optical element are disposed on a support member having a concave surface in the end section.

15. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first optical element and the second optical element each have a light-emitting element that emits light when a potential is supplied.

16. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first optical element and the second optical element each have a convex lens for focusing light.

17. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first optical element and the second optical element each have a reflector that reflects light in a manner that allows light to be incident on the liquid crystal optical element.

Images