Optical element

Abstract

The present application provides an optical element, which comprises first to fourth liquid crystal units stacked in sequence, each of the first to fourth liquid crystal units comprising a first substrate provided with a first pair of comb-shaped transparent electrodes and a second substrate provided with a second pair of comb-shaped transparent electrodes, the extending directions of the first pair of comb-shaped transparent electrodes and the second pair of comb-shaped transparent electrodes being crossed, and in different two liquid crystal units of the first to fourth liquid crystal units, one of the first pair of comb-shaped transparent electrodes of one liquid crystal unit is electrically connected with one of the second pair of comb-shaped transparent electrodes of the other liquid crystal unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One embodiment of the present invention relates to an optical element for controlling the light distribution of light emitted from a light source. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, optical elements, such as liquid crystal lenses (see, for example, Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2, or Patent Document 3), were known that utilize the principle that adjusting the voltage applied to a liquid crystal changes its refractive index. For example, the illumination devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 use liquid crystal lenses to distribute light from a light source into a circular shape. Furthermore, in the beam shaping device described in Patent Document 3, the shape of the light distribution is changed by altering the pattern of the electrodes applied 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] It is desirable to be able to control not only isotropic shapes but also anisotropic shapes in the shape of light distribution, especially to control elliptical shapes.

[0010] In view of the above-mentioned problems, one of the objectives of this invention is to provide an optical element capable of controlling light distribution with an anisotropic shape.

[0011] Solutions for solving technical problems

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an optical element comprising: a first liquid crystal unit; a second liquid crystal unit located on the first liquid crystal unit; a third liquid crystal unit located on the second liquid crystal unit; and a fourth liquid crystal unit located on the third liquid crystal unit. The first liquid crystal unit comprises: a first substrate, in a first direction, wherein a first transparent electrode and a second transparent electrode are alternately arranged in a comb-like configuration; and a second substrate, in a second direction intersecting the first direction, wherein a third transparent electrode and a fourth transparent electrode are alternately arranged in a comb-like configuration. The second liquid crystal unit comprises: a third substrate adjacent to the second substrate, in the first direction, wherein a fifth transparent electrode and a sixth transparent electrode are alternately arranged in a comb-like configuration; and a fourth substrate, in the second direction, wherein a seventh transparent electrode and an eighth transparent electrode are alternately arranged in a comb-like configuration. The third liquid crystal unit comprises: a fifth substrate adjacent to the fourth substrate, in the second direction, wherein a ninth transparent electrode and a tenth transparent electrode are alternately arranged in a comb-like configuration. The fourth liquid crystal unit includes: a seventh substrate adjacent to the sixth substrate, in which thirteenth and fourteenth transparent electrodes are alternately arranged in a comb-like shape in a second direction; and an eighth substrate, in which fifteenth and sixteenth transparent electrodes are alternately arranged in a comb-like shape in a first direction; the first transparent electrode and the fifteenth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other; the second transparent electrode and the sixteenth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other; the third transparent electrode and the thirteenth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other; the fourth transparent electrode and the fourteenth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other; the fifth transparent electrode and the eleventh transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other; the sixth transparent electrode and the twelfth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other; the seventh transparent electrode and the ninth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other; and the eighth transparent electrode and the tenth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of an optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

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

[0015] Figure 2B This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 3A This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the control of light distribution by an optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 3B This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the control of light distribution by an optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection of the transparent electrode of an optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 5A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 5B This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5C It is the measurement result of the azimuth angle of light transmitted through the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 6A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 6B It is the measurement result of the azimuth angle of light transmitted through the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 7A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 7B This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 7C It is the measurement result of the azimuth angle of light transmitted through the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 8A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 8B It is the measurement result of the azimuth angle of light transmitted through the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 9A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 9B This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 9CThis illustrates that in an optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention, a transparent electrode is supplied with... Figure 9A or Figure 9B The diagram shows a schematic representation of the shape of the light distribution at the potential shown in the timing diagram.

[0032] Figure 10A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 10B This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode of the optical element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 10C This illustrates that in an optical element according to one embodiment of the present invention, a transparent electrode is supplied with... Figure 10A or Figure 10B The diagram shows a schematic representation of the shape of the light distribution at the potential shown in the timing diagram. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, etc. However, the present invention can be implemented in various ways without departing from its technical spirit and is not limited to the description of the embodiments illustrated below.

[0036] To make the description clearer, the accompanying drawings may sometimes schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc., of various parts compared to the actual representation. However, these are merely examples, and the shapes shown in the drawings do not limit the interpretation of the invention. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, elements that have the same function as those described in the figures already presented in the specification are sometimes labeled with the same reference numerals, even in other figures, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0037] When a membrane is processed to form multiple structures, sometimes these structures have different functions and roles, and sometimes the substrates forming the structures are different. However, these multiple structures originate from a membrane formed as the same layer in the same process and have the same material. Therefore, these multiple membranes are defined as existing in the same layer.

[0038] When describing the arrangement of other structures on top of a certain structure, the term "on top" includes, unless otherwise specified, both cases where other structures are arranged directly above a certain structure and where other structures are arranged above a certain structure via yet another structure.

[0039] Reference Figures 1 to 8B The optical element 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0040] [1. Composition of optical elements]

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of an optical element 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 As shown, the optical element 10 includes a first liquid crystal unit 110-1, a second liquid crystal unit 110-2, a third liquid crystal unit 110-3, and a fourth liquid crystal unit 110-4. The first liquid crystal unit 110-1, the second liquid crystal unit 110-2, the third liquid crystal unit 110-3, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 110-4 are stacked in the z-axis direction. The second liquid crystal unit 110-2 is disposed on the first liquid crystal unit 110-1. The third liquid crystal unit 110-3 is disposed on the second liquid crystal unit 110-2. The fourth liquid crystal unit 110-4 is disposed on the third liquid crystal unit 110-3. Although not shown, the light source is positioned below the first liquid crystal unit 110-1. Therefore, light emitted from the light source passes sequentially through the first liquid crystal unit 110-1, the second liquid crystal unit 110-2, the third liquid crystal unit 110-3, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 110-4.

[0042] The first optical elastic resin layer 170-1 bonds and fixes the first liquid crystal cell 110-1 and the second liquid crystal cell 110-2. The second optical elastic resin layer 170-2 bonds and fixes the second liquid crystal cell 110-2 and the third liquid crystal cell 110-3. The third optical elastic resin layer 170-3 bonds and fixes the third liquid crystal cell 110-3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110-4. Each of the first optical elastic resin layer 170-1, the second optical elastic resin layer 170-2, and the third optical elastic resin layer 170-3 can be made of a binder containing a light-transmitting acrylic resin or epoxy resin, etc.

[0043] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 2A It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic cross-section within the zx plane cut by line A1-A2. Figure 2B It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the yz plane cut by line B1-B2. It should be noted that, in the following text, the x-axis direction and y-axis direction may sometimes be referred to as the first direction and the second direction, respectively.

[0044] The first liquid crystal unit 110-1 includes a first substrate 120-1 having a first transparent electrode 130-1 and a second transparent electrode 130-2, and a second substrate 120-2 having a third transparent electrode 130-3 and a fourth transparent electrode 130-4. A first alignment film 140-1 covering the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2 is formed on the first substrate 120-1. A second alignment film 140-2 covering the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4 is formed on the second substrate 120-2. The first substrate 120-1 and the second substrate 120-2 are arranged such that the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2 on the first substrate 120-1 are opposite to the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4 on the second substrate 120-2. A first sealing material 150-1 is formed at the periphery of each of the first substrate 120-1 and the second substrate 120-2. That is, the first substrate 120-1 and the second substrate 120-2 are bonded together via the first sealing material 150-1. In addition, liquid crystal is sealed in the space surrounded by the first substrate 120-1 (more specifically, the first alignment film 140-1), the second substrate 120-2 (more specifically, the second alignment film 140-2), and the first sealing material 150-1 to form a first liquid crystal layer 160-1.

[0045] The second liquid crystal unit 110-2 includes a third substrate 120-3 on which a fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and a sixth transparent electrode 130-6 are formed, and a fourth substrate 120-4 on which a seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and an eighth transparent electrode 130-8 are formed. A third alignment film 140-3 covering the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6 is formed on the third substrate 120-3. A fourth alignment film 140-4 covering the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8 is formed on the fourth substrate 120-4. The third substrate 120-3 and the fourth substrate 120-4 are arranged such that the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6 on the third substrate 120-3 are opposite to the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8 on the fourth substrate 120-4. Furthermore, a second sealing material 150-2 is formed on the periphery of both the third substrate 120-3 and the fourth substrate 120-4. That is, the third substrate 120-3 and the fourth substrate 120-4 are bonded via the second sealing material 150-2. In addition, liquid crystal is sealed in the space surrounded by the third substrate 120-3 (more specifically, the third alignment film 140-3), the fourth substrate 120-4 (more specifically, the fourth alignment film 140-4), and the second sealing material 150-2 to form a second liquid crystal layer 160-2.

[0046] The third liquid crystal unit 110-3 includes a fifth substrate 120-5 on which a ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and a tenth transparent electrode 130-10 are formed, and a sixth substrate 120-6 on which an eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and a twelfth transparent electrode 130-12 are formed. A fifth alignment film 140-5 covering the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10 is formed on the fifth substrate 120-5. A sixth alignment film 140-6 covering the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12 is formed on the sixth substrate 120-6. The fifth substrate 120-5 and the sixth substrate 120-6 are arranged such that the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10 on the fifth substrate 120-5 are opposite to the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12 on the sixth substrate 120-6. Furthermore, a third sealing material 150-3 is formed on the periphery of both the fifth substrate 120-5 and the sixth substrate 120-6. That is, the fifth substrate 120-5 and the sixth substrate 120-6 are bonded via the third sealing material 150-3. In addition, liquid crystal is sealed in the space surrounded by the fifth substrate 120-5 (more specifically, the fifth alignment film 140-5), the sixth substrate 120-6 (more specifically, the sixth alignment film 140-6), and the third sealing material 150-3 to form a third liquid crystal layer 160-3.

[0047] The fourth liquid crystal cell 110-4 includes a seventh substrate 120-7 on which a thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and a fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14 are formed, and an eighth substrate 120-8 on which a fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and a sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16 are formed. A seventh alignment film 140-7 covering the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14 is formed on the seventh substrate 120-7. An eighth alignment film 140-8 covering the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16 is formed on the eighth substrate 120-8. The seventh substrate 120-7 and the eighth substrate 120-8 are arranged such that the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14 on the seventh substrate 120-7 are opposite to the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16 on the eighth substrate 120-8. Furthermore, a fourth sealing material 150-4 is formed on the periphery of both the seventh substrate 120-7 and the eighth substrate 120-8. That is, the seventh substrate 120-7 and the eighth substrate 120-8 are bonded via the fourth sealing material 150-4. In addition, liquid crystal is sealed in the space surrounded by the seventh substrate 120-7 (more specifically, the seventh alignment film 140-7), the eighth substrate 120-8 (more specifically, the eighth alignment film 140-8), and the fourth sealing material 150-4 to form a fourth liquid crystal layer 160-4.

[0048] The first liquid crystal unit 110-1, the second liquid crystal unit 110-2, the third liquid crystal unit 110-3, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 110-4 have the same basic structure. However, the configuration of the transparent electrode 130 is different.

[0049] In the first liquid crystal cell 110-1, the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2 extend in the y-axis direction, and the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4 extend in the x-axis direction. Furthermore, the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2 are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the x-axis direction, and the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4 are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the y-axis direction. When viewed from above, the extending directions (y-axis direction) of the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2 are orthogonal to the extending directions (x-axis direction) of the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, but they may also be slightly offset and intersect.

[0050] In the second liquid crystal cell 110-2, the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6 extend in the y-axis direction, and the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8 extend in the x-axis direction. Furthermore, the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6 are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the x-axis direction, and the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8 are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the y-axis direction. When viewed from above, the extending directions (y-axis direction) of the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6 are orthogonal to the extending directions (x-axis direction) of the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8, but they may also be slightly offset and intersect.

[0051] In the third liquid crystal cell 110-3, the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10 extend in the x-axis direction, and the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12 extend in the y-axis direction. Furthermore, the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10 are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the y-axis direction, and the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12 are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the x-axis direction. When viewed from above, the extending directions (x-axis direction) of the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10 are orthogonal to the extending directions (y-axis direction) of the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12, but they may also be slightly offset and intersect.

[0052] In the fourth liquid crystal cell 110-4, the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14 extend in the x-axis direction, and the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16 extend in the y-axis direction. Furthermore, the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14 are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the y-axis direction, and the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16 are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the x-axis direction. When viewed from above, the extending directions (x-axis direction) of the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14 are orthogonal to the extending directions (y-axis direction) of the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16, but they may also be slightly offset and intersect.

[0053] When viewed from above, the first transparent electrode 130-1 of the first liquid crystal unit 110-1, the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 of the second liquid crystal unit 110-2, the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 of the third liquid crystal unit 110-3, and the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 of the fourth liquid crystal unit 110-4 overlap in a manner that is approximately aligned with each other in the extending direction (y-axis direction). However, the first liquid crystal unit 110-1 to the fourth liquid crystal unit 110-4 may also be arranged in a manner that slightly offsets the first transparent electrode 130-1, the fifth transparent electrode 130-5, the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11, and the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 while still overlapping.

[0054] Each of the first substrate 120-1 to the eighth substrate 120-8 may be a rigid substrate that is transparent, such as a glass substrate, a quartz substrate, or a sapphire substrate. Alternatively, each of the first substrate 120-1 to the eighth substrate 120-8 may be a flexible substrate that is transparent, such as a polyimide resin substrate, an acrylic resin substrate, a silicone resin substrate, or a fluoropolymer substrate.

[0055] The first transparent electrode 130-1 to the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16 function as electrodes for forming an electric field on the liquid crystal layer 160. Each of the first transparent electrode 130-1 to the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16 is made of a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO).

[0056] The first liquid crystal layer 160-1 to the fourth liquid crystal layer 160-4 can refract transmitted light or change the polarization state of transmitted light according to the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules. Nematic liquid crystals or the like are used as the liquid crystals for each of the first liquid crystal layer 160-1 to the fourth liquid crystal layer 160-4. The liquid crystal described in this embodiment is positive, but a negative configuration can also be applied by changing the initial orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules. Furthermore, the liquid crystal preferably includes a chiral agent that imparts twisting to the liquid crystal molecules.

[0057] The first alignment film 140-1 to the eighth alignment film 140-8 each align liquid crystal molecules within the liquid crystal layer 160 in a predetermined direction. Each of the first alignment film 140-1 to the eighth alignment film 140-8 uses a polyimide resin or the like. It should be noted that the first alignment film 140-1 to the eighth alignment film 140-8 can also be given alignment characteristics through alignment treatments such as rubbing or photoalignment. Rubbing is a method of rubbing the surface of the alignment film in one direction. Photoalignment is a method of irradiating the alignment film with linearly polarized ultraviolet light.

[0058] Each of the first sealing material 150-1 to the fourth sealing material 150-4 uses a bonding material containing epoxy resin or acrylic resin. It should be noted that the bonding material can be either UV-curable or thermosetting.

[0059] The optical element 10, by including at least two liquid crystal cells (e.g., a first liquid crystal cell 110-1 and a second liquid crystal cell 110-2), is able to control the distribution of unpolarized light. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a pair of polarizing plates, such as those provided on the surface and inside the liquid crystal display element, on the surfaces of the first substrate 120-1 of the first liquid crystal cell 110-1 and the eighth substrate 120-8 of the fourth liquid crystal cell 110-4.

[0060] [2. Control of light distribution by optical element 10]

[0061] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the control of light distribution by the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3A and Figure 3B It shows Figure 2A A partial cross-sectional view of the first liquid crystal cell 110-1 and the second liquid crystal cell 110-2 shown. Figure 3A The image shows the optical element 10 in a state where no potential is supplied to the transparent electrode 130. Figure 3B The image shows an optical element 10 in a state where a potential is supplied to the transparent electrode 130.

[0062] The first alignment film 140-1 is oriented in the x-axis direction. Therefore, as... Figure 3A As shown, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 120-1 side of the first liquid crystal layer 160-1 is aligned along the x-axis direction. That is, the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 120-1 side is orthogonal to the extending directions (y-axis direction) of the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2. Furthermore, the second alignment film 140-2 is aligned in the y-axis direction. Therefore, as... Figure 3A As shown, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 120-2 side of the first liquid crystal layer 160-1 is aligned along the y-axis direction. That is, the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 120-2 side is orthogonal to the extension direction (x-axis direction) of the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4. Therefore, as the liquid crystal molecules of the first liquid crystal layer 160-1 move from the first substrate 120-1 toward the second substrate 120-2, the direction of their long axis gradually changes from the x-axis direction to the y-axis direction, aligning in a state of 90-degree twist.

[0063] The liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer 160-2 are the same as those in the first liquid crystal layer 160-1, so the description is omitted here.

[0064] If a potential is supplied to the transparent electrode 130, then as Figure 3B As shown, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules changes. Here, the explanation focuses on supplying a low potential to the first transparent electrode 130-1, the third transparent electrode 130-3, the fifth transparent electrode 130-5, and the seventh transparent electrode 130-7, and a high potential to the second transparent electrode 130-2, the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, the sixth transparent electrode 130-6, and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8. It should be noted that... Figure 3B For convenience, "-" and "+" symbols are used to illustrate low and high potentials, respectively. It should be noted that the electric field generated between adjacent transparent electrodes will sometimes be referred to as the transverse electric field.

[0065] like Figure 3B As shown, due to the influence of the lateral electric field between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 120-1 side are generally oriented in a convex arc shape relative to the first substrate 120-1 along the x-axis. Similarly, due to the influence of the lateral electric field between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 120-2 side are generally oriented in a convex arc shape relative to the second substrate 120-2 along the y-axis. The orientation of the liquid crystal molecules located approximately in the center between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2 hardly changes due to either lateral electric field. Therefore, light incident on the first liquid crystal layer 160-1 diffuses in the x-axis direction according to the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules oriented in a convex arc shape along the x-axis on the first substrate 120-1 side, and diffuses in the y-axis direction according to the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules oriented in a convex arc shape along the y-axis on the second substrate 120-2 side.

[0066] It should be noted that, since the first substrate 120-1 and the second substrate 120-2 have a sufficiently separated inter-substrate distance, the lateral electric field between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2 of the first substrate 120-1 will not affect the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 120-2 side, or its effect is negligible. Similarly, the lateral electric field between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4 of the second substrate 120-2 will not affect the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 120-1 side, or its effect is negligible.

[0067] When a potential is supplied to the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 to the eighth transparent electrode 130-8, the liquid crystal molecules of the second liquid crystal layer 160-2 are the same as those of the first liquid crystal layer 160-1, so the description is omitted here.

[0068] Next, the light distribution of the transmission optical element 10 will be explained. The light emitted from the light source has a polarized component along the x-axis (P-polarized component) and a polarized component along the y-axis (S-polarized component), but for convenience, the light will be explained from the following description as mutually orthogonal P-polarized and S-polarized components. That is, the light emitted from the light source (refer to...) Figure 3A and Figure 3B (1) includes first polarized light 310 with a P-polarized light component and second polarized light 320 with an S-polarized light component. It should be noted that... Figure 3A and Figure 3B The arrows and the crosses inside the circles represent the P-polarized light component and the S-polarized light component, respectively.

[0069] After the first polarized light 310 is incident on the first substrate 120-1, it changes from a P-polarized light component to an S-polarized light component as it moves toward the second substrate 120-2, according to the twisting of the liquid crystal molecules (see reference). Figure 3A and Figure 3B (2) to (4)). More specifically, the first polarized light 310 has a polarization axis in the x-axis direction on the first substrate 120-1 side, but its polarization axis gradually changes as it passes through the thickness direction of the first liquid crystal layer 160-1, and has a polarization axis in the y-axis direction on the second substrate 120-2 side, and is then emitted from the second substrate 120-2 side (see reference). Figure 3A and Figure 3B (5) in the middle.

[0070] Here, if a transverse electric field is generated between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 120-1 side will align into 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, if a transverse electric field is generated between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 120-2 side will align into 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.

[0071] Therefore, in the absence of a transverse electric field (refer to...) Figure 3AThe polarization component of the first polarized light 310 transmitted through the first liquid crystal cell 110-1 changes from the P-polarized component to the S-polarized component. On the other hand, in the case of generating a transverse electric field (refer to...), Figure 3B The polarization component of the first polarized light 310 transmitted through the first liquid crystal cell changes from the P polarization component to the S polarization component and diffuses in the x-axis and y-axis directions.

[0072] After the second polarized light 320 is incident on the first substrate 120-1, it changes from an S-polarized light component to a P-polarized light component as it moves toward the second substrate 120-2, according to the twisting of the liquid crystal molecules (see reference). Figure 3A and Figure 3B (2) to (4)). More specifically, the second polarized light 320 has a polarization axis in the y-axis direction on the first substrate 120-1 side, but its polarization axis gradually changes as it passes through the thickness direction of the first liquid crystal layer 160-1, and has a polarization axis in the x-axis direction on the second substrate 120-2 side, and is then emitted from the second substrate 120-2 side (see reference). Figure 3A and Figure 3B (5) in the middle.

[0073] Here, if a transverse electric field is generated between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 120-1 side will align 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, since the polarization axis of the second polarized light 320 is orthogonal to the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 120-1 side, it is unaffected by the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules and passes directly without diffusion. Similarly, if a transverse electric field is generated between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 120-2 side will align 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, since the polarization axis of the second polarized light 320 is orthogonal to the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 120-2 side, it is unaffected by the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules and passes directly without diffusion.

[0074] Therefore, not only in the case where no transverse electric field is generated (refer to...) Figure 3A ), under the condition of generating a transverse electric field (refer to Figure 3B The polarization component of the second polarized light 320 transmitted through the first liquid crystal unit 110-1 also changes from the S polarization component to the P polarization component, but does not diffuse.

[0075] The liquid crystal molecules of the second liquid crystal layer 160-2 of the second liquid crystal unit 110-2 also have the same refractive index distribution as the liquid crystal molecules of the first liquid crystal layer 160-1 of the first liquid crystal unit 110-1. However, since the polarization axis changes when the first polarized light 310 and the second polarized light 320 pass through the first liquid crystal unit 110-1, the polarized light affected by the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules of the second liquid crystal layer 160-2 is opposite. That is, not only in the case where no transverse electric field is generated (refer to...) Figure 3A ), under the condition of generating a transverse electric field (refer to Figure 3B The polarization component of the first polarized light 310 transmitted through the second liquid crystal cell 110-2 also changes from the S-polarized component to the P-polarized component, but does not diffuse (see reference). Figure 3A and Figure 3B (6) to (8)). On the other hand, in the case where no transverse electric field is generated (see (6) to (8)). Figure 3A The second polarized light 320 transmitted through the second liquid crystal cell 110-2 only changes its polarization component from the P-polarized component to the S-polarized component, but under the condition of generating a transverse electric field (refer to...) Figure 3B The polarization component of the second polarized light 320 transmitted through the second liquid crystal unit 110-2 changes from the P polarization component to the S polarization component, and diffuses in the x-axis and y-axis directions.

[0076] As can be seen from the above, in the optical element 10, by stacking two liquid crystal cells 110 with the same structure, the polarization component of the light incident on the optical element 10 changes twice. As a result, the polarization components before and after incident remain unchanged (refer to...). Figure 3A and Figure 3B (1) and (9) in the above). On the other hand, the optical element 10 supplies a potential to the transparent electrode 130, causing a change in the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 of the liquid crystal unit 110, thereby enabling the light transmitted through the liquid crystal unit 110 to be refracted. More specifically, the first liquid crystal unit 110-1 can diffuse the light of the first polarized light 310 (P-polarized light component) in the x-axis direction, the y-axis direction, or both the x-axis and the y-axis directions, and the second liquid crystal unit 110-2 can diffuse the light of the second polarized light 320 (S-polarized light component) in the x-axis direction, the y-axis direction, or both the x-axis and the y-axis directions.

[0077] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3BOnly the first liquid crystal cell 110-1 and the second liquid crystal cell 110-2 are illustrated, and the light distribution of light transmitted through the first liquid crystal cell 110-1 and the second liquid crystal cell 110-2 is explained. However, the light distribution of light transmitted through the third liquid crystal cell 110-3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110-4 is the same. However, the third liquid crystal cell 110-3 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110-4 are stacked in a state of rotation of 90 degrees relative to the first liquid crystal cell 110-1 and the second liquid crystal cell 110-2, resulting in the substitution of the polarized light components. That is, the third liquid crystal cell 110-3 can diffuse the second polarized light 320 (S-polarized light component) in the x-axis direction, the y-axis direction, or both the x-axis and the y-axis directions, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 110-4 can diffuse the first polarized light 310 (P-polarized light component) in the x-axis direction, the y-axis direction, or both the x-axis and the y-axis directions.

[0078] [3. Potential supply from optical element 10 to the transparent electrode]

[0079] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection of the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] The first transparent electrode 130-1 and the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 are connected to the first potential supply line 200-1 that supplies the first potential V1. That is, the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 are electrically connected to each other.

[0081] The second transparent electrode 130-2 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16 are connected to the second potential supply line 200-2 that supplies the second potential V2. That is, the second transparent electrode 130-2 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16 are electrically connected to each other.

[0082] The third transparent electrode 130-3 and the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 are connected to the third potential supply line 200-3 that supplies the third potential V3. That is, the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 are electrically connected to each other.

[0083] The fourth transparent electrode 130-4 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14 are connected to the fourth potential supply line 200-4 that supplies the fourth potential V4. That is, the fourth transparent electrode 130-4 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14 are electrically connected to each other.

[0084] The fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 are connected to the fifth potential supply line 200-5 that supplies the fifth potential V5. That is, the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 are electrically connected to each other.

[0085] The sixth transparent electrode 130-6 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12 are connected to the sixth potential supply line 200-6 that supplies the sixth potential V6. That is, the sixth transparent electrode 130-6 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12 are electrically connected to each other.

[0086] The seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 are connected to the seventh potential supply line 200-7 that supplies the seventh potential V7. That is, the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 are electrically connected to each other.

[0087] The eighth transparent electrode 130-8 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10 are connected to the eighth potential supply line 200-8 that supplies the eighth potential V8. That is, the eighth transparent electrode 130-8 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10 are electrically connected to each other.

[0088] The first potential V1 to the eighth potential V8 can be fixed potentials or variable potentials. Not only are low and high potentials supplied to the first potential supply line 200-1 to the eighth potential supply line 200-8, but also intermediate potentials between the low and high potentials are supplied. That is, the first potential V1 to the eighth potential include three potentials with different absolute values. Therefore, the optical element 10 can diffuse light emitted from the light source in an elliptical shape with adjusted minor and major axes. An example of an elliptical shape will be described below.

[0089] [Specific Example 1. An elliptical shape with foci on the y-axis]

[0090] Reference Figures 5A-5C The light distribution of an elliptical shape with a focal point on the y-axis (i.e., a minor axis on the x-axis and a major axis on the y-axis) will be explained. It should be noted that, for convenience, the following explanation will use -5V and 5V as the low and high potentials, respectively, but it is not limited to these values.

[0091] Figure 5A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are potentials that repeat between -2V and +2V. However, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 is 4V.

[0093] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the phases of the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are reversed. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 is 10V.

[0094] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are 0V.

[0095] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 is 10V.

[0096] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. Light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction (e.g., the P-polarized component) diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (4V) between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, and the potential difference (4V) between the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16. Furthermore, light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, and the potential difference (10V) between the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14. Furthermore, the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization along the y-axis (e.g., the S-polarized component) diffuses along the y-axis due to the potential difference (10V) between the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8, and the potential difference (10V) between the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10. Therefore, a portion of the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization along the x-axis diffuses along the x-axis, while the remaining light diffuses along the y-axis. Thus, the light transmitted through the optical element 10 becomes an elliptical beam distribution with a minor axis along the x-axis and a major axis along the y-axis.

[0097] exist Figure 5A The timing diagram shown allows light polarized along the x-axis to diffuse in that direction, but it also allows light polarized along the y-axis to diffuse in that direction. This will be explained below.

[0098] Figure 5BThis is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are 0V.

[0100] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the phases of the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are reversed. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 is 10V.

[0101] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are potentials that repeat between -2V and +2V. However, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 is 4V.

[0102] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 is 10V.

[0103] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. The light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the y-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (4V) between the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6, and the potential difference (4V) between the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12. Furthermore, the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the y-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8, and the potential difference (10V) between the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10. Furthermore, the x-axis polarized light incident on the optical element 10 diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, and the potential difference (10V) between the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14. Therefore, a portion of the y-axis polarized light incident on the optical element 10 diffuses in the x-axis direction, while the remaining light diffuses in the y-axis direction. Consequently, the light transmitted through the optical element 10 becomes an elliptical beam distribution with a minor axis in the x-axis direction and a major axis in the y-axis direction.

[0104] Figure 5C This is a measurement result of the azimuth angle of light transmitted through the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. When the manufactured optical element 10 is supplied with... Figure 5A The potential of the time series diagram shown was measured. Figure 5C The light distribution is elliptical in shape as shown.

[0105] [Specific Example 2. An elliptical shape with foci on the y-axis]

[0106] Reference Figure 6A and Figure 6B The light distribution of an ellipse with a focal point on the y-axis (i.e., a minor axis on the x-axis and a major axis on the y-axis) will be explained. It should be noted that ellipse shape 2 is an ellipse that is closer to a circle than ellipse shape 1.

[0107] Figure 6A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are potentials that repeat between -1V and +1V. However, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 is 2V.

[0109] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the phases of the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are reversed. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 is 10V.

[0110] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are potentials that repeat between -1V and +1V. However, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 is 2V.

[0111] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 is 10V.

[0112] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. Light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction (e.g., the P-polarized component) diffuses slightly in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (2V) between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, and the potential difference (2V) between the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16. Furthermore, light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, and the potential difference (10V) between the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14. Furthermore, the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the y-axis direction (e.g., the S-polarized component) diffuses slightly in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (2V) between the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6, and the potential difference (2V) between the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12. Additionally, it diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8, and the potential difference (10V) between the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10. Therefore, a portion of the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction and a portion of the light with polarization in the y-axis direction diffuse in the x-axis direction, while the remaining light diffuses in the y-axis direction. Thus, in Specific Example 2, compared to the elliptical shape 1 in Specific Example 1, the brightness of the light diffused in the x-axis direction increases. Furthermore, when comparing the brightness of light in the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction, the relative brightness difference in the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction becomes smaller. Therefore, the light from the transmission optical element 10 becomes a nearly circular elliptical light distribution with a minor axis in the x-axis direction and a major axis in the y-axis direction.

[0113] Figure 6B This is a measurement result of the azimuth angle of light transmitted through the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. When the manufactured optical element 10 is supplied with... Figure 6A The potential of the time series diagram shown was measured. Figure 6B The light distribution is elliptical in shape. As described above, in this specific example 2, the degree of diffusion in the x-axis direction is increased compared to specific example 1. More specifically, not only a portion of the light with polarization in the x-axis direction, but also a portion of the light with polarization in the y-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction. Therefore, Figure 6B The light distribution state of the specific example 2 shown is compared to Figure 5C The light distribution state of the specific example 1 shown is closer to a circular elliptical light distribution.

[0114] [Specific Example 3. An elliptical shape with foci on the x-axis]

[0115] Reference Figures 7A to 7C The light distribution of an elliptical shape with a focal point on the x-axis (i.e., a major axis in the x-axis direction and a minor axis in the y-axis direction) is explained.

[0116] Figure 7A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 is 10V.

[0118] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are potentials that repeat between -2V and +2V. However, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 is 4V.

[0119] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 is 10V.

[0120] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are 0V.

[0121] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. Light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction (e.g., the P-polarized component) diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (4V) between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, and the potential difference (4V) between the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14. Furthermore, light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, and the potential difference (10V) between the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16. Furthermore, the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization along the y-axis (e.g., the S-polarized component) diffuses along the x-axis due to the potential difference (10V) between the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6, and the potential difference (10V) between the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12. Therefore, a portion of the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization along the x-axis diffuses along the y-axis, while the remaining light diffuses along the x-axis. Thus, the light transmitted through the optical element 10 becomes an elliptical beam distribution with a major axis along the x-axis and a minor axis along the y-axis.

[0122] exist Figure 7A The timing diagram shown allows light polarized along the x-axis to diffuse along the y-axis, but it also allows light polarized along the y-axis to diffuse along the y-axis. This will be explained below.

[0123] Figure 7B This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 is 10V.

[0125] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are 0V.

[0126] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 is 10V.

[0127] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are potentials that repeat between -2V and +2V. However, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 is 4V.

[0128] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. The light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the y-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (4V) between the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8, and the potential difference (4V) between the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10. Furthermore, the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the y-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6, and the potential difference (10V) between the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the second transparent electrode 130-12. Furthermore, the x-axis polarized light incident on the optical element 10 diffuses along the x-axis due to the potential difference (10V) between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, and the potential difference (10V) between the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16. Therefore, a portion of the y-axis polarized light incident on the optical element 10 diffuses along the y-axis, while the remaining light diffuses along the x-axis. Thus, the light transmitted through the optical element 10 becomes an elliptical beam distribution with a major axis along the x-axis and a minor axis along the y-axis.

[0129] Figure 7C This is a measurement result of the azimuth angle of light transmitted through the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. When the manufactured optical element 10 is supplied with... Figure 7A The potential of the time series diagram shown was measured. Figure 7C The light distribution is elliptical in shape as shown.

[0130] [Specific Example 4. An elliptical shape with foci on the x-axis]

[0131] Reference Figure 8A and Figure 8BThe light distribution of an ellipse with a focal point on the x-axis (i.e., a major axis in the x-axis direction and a minor axis in the y-axis direction) is explained. It should be noted that ellipse shape 4 is an ellipse that is closer to a circle than ellipse shape 3.

[0132] Figure 8A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 is 10V.

[0134] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are potentials that repeat between -1V and +1V. However, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 is 2V.

[0135] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 is 10V.

[0136] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are potentials that repeat between -1V and +1V. However, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 is 2V.

[0137] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. Light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction (e.g., the P-polarized component) diffuses slightly in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (2V) between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, and the potential difference (2V) between the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14. Furthermore, light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, and the potential difference (10V) between the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16. Furthermore, the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the y-axis direction (e.g., the S-polarized component) diffuses slightly in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (2V) between the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8, and the potential difference (2V) between the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10. Additionally, it diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6, and the potential difference (10V) between the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12. Therefore, a portion of the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction and a portion with polarization in the y-axis direction diffuse in the y-axis direction, while the remaining light diffuses in the x-axis direction. Thus, in Specific Example 4, compared to the elliptical shape 3 in Specific Example 3, the brightness of the light diffused in the y-axis direction increases. Furthermore, when comparing the brightness of light in the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction, the relative brightness difference in the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction becomes smaller. Therefore, the light from the transmission optical element 10 becomes an elliptical shape with a major axis in the x-axis direction and a minor axis in the y-axis direction.

[0138] Figure 8B This is a measurement result of the azimuth angle of light transmitted through the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. When the manufactured optical element 10 is supplied with... Figure 8A The potential of the time series diagram shown was measured. Figure 8B The light distribution is elliptical in shape. As described above, in this specific example 4, the degree of diffusion in the y-axis direction is increased compared to specific example 3. More specifically, not only a portion of the light with polarization in the y-axis direction, but also a portion of the light with polarization in the x-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction. Therefore, Figure 8B The light distribution state of the specific example 4 shown is compared to Figure 7C The light distribution state of the specific example 1 shown is closer to a circular elliptical light distribution.

[0139] According to the above, the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can control the lengths of the minor axis and the major axis in a light distribution having an elliptical shape as one of the anisotropic shapes.

[0140] <Second Implementation Method>

[0141] In the optical element 10, light distribution other than elliptical shapes can also be performed. Therefore, as an example of light distribution other than elliptical shapes, a cross-shaped light distribution with a length in the x-axis direction different from the length in the y-axis direction will be described below. It should be noted that when the configuration of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description of its configuration is sometimes omitted.

[0142] [Specific Example 1. A cross shape whose length along the y-axis is longer than its length along the x-axis 1]

[0143] Reference Figures 9A to 9C This section explains the cross-shaped light distribution where the length in the y-axis direction is longer than the length in the x-axis direction.

[0144] Figure 9A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are potentials that repeat between -2V and +2V. However, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 is 4V.

[0146] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are 0V.

[0147] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are 0V.

[0148] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 is 10V.

[0149] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. Light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction (e.g., the P-polarized component) diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (4V) between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, and the potential difference (4V) between the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16. Furthermore, light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the y-axis direction (e.g., the S-polarized component) diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8, and the potential difference (10V) between the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10. Therefore, a portion of the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarization in the x-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction, and the light with polarization in the y-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction. In this way, a cross-shaped light distribution is achieved by causing one polarized light component to diffuse only in the x-axis direction and the other polarized light component to diffuse only in the y-axis direction. Furthermore, the light distribution length in each direction of the cross-shaped light distribution is adjusted by changing the potential difference between the electrodes.

[0150] exist Figure 9A The timing diagram shown allows light polarized along the x-axis to diffuse in that direction, but it also allows light polarized along the y-axis to diffuse in that direction. This will be explained below.

[0151] Figure 9B This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are 0V.

[0153] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the phases of the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are reversed. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 is 10V.

[0154] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are potentials that repeat between -2V and +2V. However, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 is 4V.

[0155] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are 0V.

[0156] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. The light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the y-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (4V) between the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6, and the potential difference (4V) between the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12. Furthermore, the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the x-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, and the potential difference (10V) between the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14. Therefore, the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the x-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction, and a portion of the light with polarized light in the y-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction.

[0157] Figure 9C This illustrates that a transparent electrode 130 is supplied to the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9A or Figure 9B The timing diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the shape of the light distribution at the potential. The light from the transmission optical element 10 becomes... Figure 9C The cross-shaped light distribution shown is longer in the y-axis direction than in the x-axis direction.

[0158] [Specific Example 2. A cross shape whose length along the y-axis is shorter than its length along the x-axis 2]

[0159] Reference Figures 10A to 10C The light distribution of a cross shape with a length in the y-axis direction shorter than that in the x-axis direction is explained.

[0160] Figure 10A This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are 0V.

[0162] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are potentials that repeat between -2V and +2V. However, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 is 4V.

[0163] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are variable potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 is 10V.

[0164] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are 0V.

[0165] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. Light incident on the optical element 10 with x-axis polarization (e.g., the P-polarized component) diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (4V) between the third transparent electrode 130-3 and the fourth transparent electrode 130-4, and the potential difference (4V) between the thirteenth transparent electrode 130-13 and the fourteenth transparent electrode 130-14. Furthermore, light incident on the optical element 10 with y-axis polarization (e.g., the S-polarized component) diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the fifth transparent electrode 130-5 and the sixth transparent electrode 130-6, and the potential difference (10V) between the eleventh transparent electrode 130-11 and the twelfth transparent electrode 130-12. Therefore, a portion of the light incident on the optical element 10 with x-axis polarization diffuses in the y-axis direction, and the light with y-axis polarization diffuses in the x-axis direction.

[0166] exist Figure 10A The timing diagram shown allows light polarized along the x-axis to diffuse along the y-axis, but it also allows light polarized along the y-axis to diffuse along the y-axis. This will be explained below.

[0167] Figure 10B This is a timing diagram showing the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 of the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] The first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of low and high potentials. That is, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are potentials that repeat between -5V and +5V. However, the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential V1 and the second potential V2 is 10V.

[0169] The third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the third potential V3 and the fourth potential V4 are 0V.

[0170] The fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are intermediate fixed potentials. That is, the fifth potential V5 and the sixth potential V6 are 0V.

[0171] The seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are varying potentials driven by the reversal of the intermediate potential. That is, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are potentials that repeat between -2V and +2V. However, the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 are in phase reversal. Therefore, the absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential V7 and the eighth potential V8 is 4V.

[0172] By supplying the aforementioned potential to the transparent electrode 130, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160 changes according to the potential difference. The light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the y-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction due to the potential difference (4V) between the seventh transparent electrode 130-7 and the eighth transparent electrode 130-8, and the potential difference (4V) between the ninth transparent electrode 130-9 and the tenth transparent electrode 130-10. Furthermore, the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the x-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction due to the potential difference (10V) between the first transparent electrode 130-1 and the second transparent electrode 130-2, and the potential difference (10V) between the fifteenth transparent electrode 130-15 and the sixteenth transparent electrode 130-16. Therefore, a portion of the light incident on the optical element 10 with polarized light in the y-axis direction diffuses in the y-axis direction, and the light with polarized light in the x-axis direction diffuses in the x-axis direction.

[0173] Figure 10C This illustrates that in an optical element 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, a transparent electrode 130 is supplied with... Figure 10A or Figure 10B The timing diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the orientation shape at potential. The light from the transmitted optical element 10 becomes... Figure 10C The cross-shaped light distribution shown is shorter in the y-axis direction than in the x-axis direction.

[0174] According to the above, the optical element 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can control the lengths of the first direction and the second direction in a light distribution having a cross shape as one of the anisotropic shapes.

[0175] The above examples illustrate several light distribution patterns with anisotropic shapes, but the lengths in the first and second directions can be controlled by the magnitude of the intermediate potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130. For example, if the potential supplied to the transparent electrode 130 is increased, the light diffuses further, and the length increases. Furthermore, the shape of the light distribution can also be controlled, for example, by the distance between the substrates 120 or the spacing between the transparent electrodes 130.

[0176] Within the scope of the spirit of this invention, anything that a person skilled in the art would understand as equivalent to various modifications and alterations is also within the scope of this invention. For example, for the above-described embodiments, any appropriate additions, deletions, or design changes to constituent elements, or additions, omissions, or changes to processes or conditions, as long as they possess the spirit of this invention, are all included within the scope of this invention.

[0177] Furthermore, in this embodiment, any other effects resulting from the method that are clearly described in this specification or that are easily conceived by those skilled in the art are naturally understood to be caused by the present invention.

[0178] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0179] 10: Optical components

[0180] 110: Liquid Crystal Unit

[0181] 120: Substrate

[0182] 130: Transparent Electrode

[0183] 140: Orientation film

[0184] 150: Sealing material

[0185] 160: Liquid Crystal Layer

[0186] 170: Optical elastic resin layer

[0187] 200: Potential supply line

[0188] 310: First polarized light

[0189] 320: Second polarized light.

Claims

1. An optical element, comprising: First liquid crystal unit; The second liquid crystal unit is located above the first liquid crystal unit; The third liquid crystal unit is located above the second liquid crystal unit; as well as The fourth liquid crystal unit is located above the third liquid crystal unit. The first liquid crystal unit includes: A first substrate, wherein, in a first direction, a first transparent electrode and a second transparent electrode are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern; and In the second substrate, in a second direction intersecting the first direction, a third transparent electrode and a fourth transparent electrode are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern. The second liquid crystal unit includes: A third substrate, adjacent to the second substrate, wherein, in the first direction, a fifth transparent electrode and a sixth transparent electrode are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern; and On the fourth substrate, in the second direction, the seventh and eighth transparent electrodes are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern. The third liquid crystal unit includes: The fifth substrate, adjacent to the fourth substrate, has a ninth transparent electrode and a tenth transparent electrode alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the second direction. In the sixth substrate, in the first direction, the eleventh and twelfth transparent electrodes are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern. The fourth liquid crystal unit includes: A seventh substrate, adjacent to the sixth substrate, wherein, in a second direction, a thirteenth transparent electrode and a fourteenth transparent electrode are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern; and In the eighth substrate, the fifteenth and sixteenth transparent electrodes are alternately arranged in a comb-like pattern in the first direction. The first transparent electrode and the fifteenth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other. The second transparent electrode is electrically connected to the sixteenth transparent electrode. The third transparent electrode and the thirteenth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other. The fourth transparent electrode and the fourteenth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other. The fifth transparent electrode and the eleventh transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other. The sixth transparent electrode and the twelfth transparent electrode are electrically connected to each other. The seventh transparent electrode is electrically connected to the ninth transparent electrode. The eighth transparent electrode is electrically connected to the tenth transparent electrode.

2. The optical element according to claim 1, wherein, A first potential is supplied to the first transparent electrode and the fifteenth transparent electrode. A second potential is supplied to the second transparent electrode and the sixteenth transparent electrode. A third potential is supplied to the third transparent electrode and the thirteenth transparent electrode. A fourth potential is supplied to the fourth transparent electrode and the fourteenth transparent electrode. A fifth potential is supplied to the fifth transparent electrode and the eleventh transparent electrode. A sixth potential is supplied to the sixth transparent electrode and the twelfth transparent electrode. A seventh potential is supplied to the seventh transparent electrode and the ninth transparent electrode. An eighth potential is supplied to the eighth transparent electrode and the tenth transparent electrode. The first to the eighth potentials include a low potential, a high potential, and an intermediate potential between the low potential and the high potential, which are three potentials with different absolute values.

3. The optical element according to claim 2, wherein, The absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential and the second potential is smaller than the absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential and the fourth potential, and the absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential and the eighth potential.

4. The optical element according to claim 3, wherein, The fifth and sixth potentials are both 0V.

5. The optical element according to claim 2, wherein, The absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential and the sixth potential is smaller than the absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential and the fourth potential, and the absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential and the eighth potential.

6. The optical element according to claim 5, wherein, The first potential and the second potential are both 0V.

7. The optical element according to claim 3 or 5, wherein, The third potential is equal to the seventh potential. The fourth potential is equal to the eighth potential.

8. The optical element according to claim 7, wherein, The first potential is equal to the fifth potential. The second potential is equal to the sixth potential.

9. The optical element according to claim 2, wherein, The absolute value of the potential difference between the third potential and the fourth potential is smaller than the absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential and the second potential, and the absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential and the sixth potential.

10. The optical element according to claim 9, wherein, The seventh and eighth potentials are both 0V.

11. The optical element according to claim 2, wherein, The absolute value of the potential difference between the seventh potential and the eighth potential is smaller than the absolute value of the potential difference between the first potential and the second potential, and the absolute value of the potential difference between the fifth potential and the sixth potential.

12. The optical element according to claim 11, wherein, The third and fourth potentials are both 0V.

13. The optical element according to claim 9 or 11, wherein, The first potential is equal to the fifth potential. The second potential is equal to the sixth potential.

14. The optical element according to claim 13, wherein, The third potential is equal to the seventh potential. The fourth potential is equal to the eighth potential.

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