Display switching device, switch, and electrical device

Abstract

Provided is a display switching device that can be easily incorporated into an electrical device or the like having a curved surface. The display switching device (11) includes a lens array (44) and a display unit (43), in at least a part of the lens array, (1) the curved surface of the average surface of the light incident surfaces is concave and the curved surface of the average surface of the light exit surfaces is convex, or (2) the curved surface of the average surface of the light incident surfaces is convex and the curved surface of the average surface of the light exit surfaces is concave.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display switching device for switching a displayed image, a switch including the display switching device, and an electrical device including the switch. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a backlight display device for automatic visual use including a lenticular image card having a lighting source, the lighting source selectively illuminating each image formed on a lenticular medium by design. In the backlight display device, the lighting source of the display is adapted to the viewing distance and the selected viewing angle of the card, guiding light through the microlens side of the lenticular image card to sequentially and continuously illuminate each image.

[0003] Prior Art Documents

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-195216 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] However, the surface of the device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is flat. Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult to incorporate it into an electrical device having a curved surface or the like.

[0008] An object of an embodiment of the present disclosure is to realize a display switching device or the like that can be easily incorporated into an electrical device having a curved surface or the like.

[0009] Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] To solve the above problems, a display switching device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure switches a displayed image by switching the irradiation of light from a plurality of light sources. The display switching device includes: a lens array formed by arranging a plurality of lenses; and a display unit including a plurality of pixel regions. The plurality of pixel regions are configured to include regions through which light condensed by each of the respective lenses of the lens array from each of the plurality of light sources passes. The transmittance of each of the pixel regions is set corresponding to a prescribed still pattern. In at least a part of the lens array, the average plane of the light incident surface and the average plane of the light exit surface are curved surfaces, and (1) the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is concave and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is convex, or (2) the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is convex and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is concave.

[0011] Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display switching device or the like that can be easily incorporated into an electrical device having a curved surface or the like can be realized. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the basic structure of a display switching device illustrating an application example of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 2 (a) to (d) are respectively diagrams showing Figure 1 the switching display examples of the display section in

[0015] Figure 3 is a diagram showing Figure 1 the correspondence relationship among the display section, the lenses constituting the microlens array, and the light source in

[0016] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of a display switching device illustrating a structural example of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the curvature of each of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface.

[0018] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the operation of a display switching device illustrating a structural example of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of a switch of a display switching device including a structural example of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of a display switching device illustrating a first modification example of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 9 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of a display switching device illustrating a second modification example of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 10 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of a display switching device illustrating a third modification example of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of a switch of a display switching device including a third modification example of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 12 is a perspective view showing an example of a shape different from that shown in Figure 10 of the lens array included in a display switching device illustrating a third modification example of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 13 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of a display switching device illustrating a fourth modification example of the present disclosure. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0026] Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of a switch of a display switching device including a fourth modification of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 15 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of a display switching device according to a fifth modification of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 16 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of a display switching device according to a sixth modification of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 17 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of a display switching device according to a seventh modification of the present disclosure. Detailed implementation mode

[0030] Hereinafter, an implementation mode of one aspect of the present disclosure (hereinafter, also referred to as "this implementation mode") will be described based on the drawings.

[0031] §1 Application example

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the basic structure of the display switching device 11 of this application example. As Figure 1 shown, the display switching device 11 includes a light absorption member 2, a light diffusion member 3, a display condensing portion 4, a plurality of light sources 5, and a substrate 6 in the order from top to bottom in the drawing.

[0033] Hereinafter, a case where the display switching device 11 is applied as a key cap for text input will be described. Regarding the dimensions of each member described below, preferred examples in the case of application to a key cap are shown.

[0034] The light absorption member 2 is square in plan view and has a side length of 14 mm. In addition, it is preferable that there are four light sources 5 and they are red, green, and blue light emitting diodes (RGB LEDs), and the distance between adjacent light sources 5 is 8 mm. However, the display switching device 11 may not include the light source 5 as needed. In this case, the light source is prepared by the user.

[0035] As an example, the light absorption member 2 includes smoke and has a thickness of 1 mm. For example, the transmittance of the light absorption member 2 is preferably 20%, for example.

[0036] The light diffusion member 3 provided below the light absorption member 2 preferably has a thickness of 0.1 mm and a haze value of 90%. In addition, the details of the light absorption member 2 and the light diffusion member 3 will be described later.

[0037] ​​​​The light condensing section 4 includes a display section 43 and a microlens array (hereinafter simply referred to as a lens array) 44. The display section 43 includes an image layer 41 and a matrix layer 42, and displays an image (display image) P to be displayed. The thickness of the image layer 41 is 0.1 mm. The matrix layer 42 includes, for example, a pixel region 45a (opening, the same hereinafter) and a region other than the pixel region 45a, i.e., a pixel peripheral region 45b (mask, the same hereinafter). The image layer 41 is joined to the matrix layer 42. In addition, the so-called "pixel peripheral region 45b" here refers to a region that is located around each of the pixel regions 45a and has a constant transmittance. Further, the pixel peripheral region 45b blocks light from the light source side, i.e., light from the side where the lens array 44 is disposed.

[0038] The lens array 44 disposed below the display section 43 condenses the light emitted from a plurality of light sources 5 mounted on the substrate 6. Its thickness is 0.4 mm. The lens array 44 is formed by arranging a plurality of lenses.

[0039] The display section 43 includes a plurality of pixel regions 45a. The pixel region 45a is a region configured to include an area through which light emitted from the positions of the plurality of light sources 5 and condensed by each lens of the lens array 44 passes. The transmittance of each of the pixel regions 45a is set corresponding to a prescribed still pattern.

[0040] The light absorption member 2, the light diffusion member 3, the display section 43, and the lens array 44 are supported by a frame 7. Further, by mounting the frame 7 on the substrate 6 on which the plurality of light sources 5 are mounted, the basic structure of the display switching device 11 is formed. In addition, the display switching device 11 may include a protective layer for preventing damage above the light absorption member 2. Details of the substrate 6 and the frame 7 will be described later. In addition, the distance from the upper end of the light source 5 to the lower end of the lens array 44 is 20 mm.

[0041] In the display switching device 11 having the above-described structure, the display image P is switched by switching the irradiation of light from the positions of the plurality of light sources 5. In addition, the switching of the lighting / extinguishing of the light sources 5 is performed by a light source control section (not shown). The light source control section includes, for example, an integrated circuit (IC) chip provided in a substrate in a keyboard, and performs light source control, for example, based on an instruction from a personal computer (PC) main body.

[0042] Figure 2 (a) to (d) respectively are diagrams showing switching display examples of the display section 43. Figure 2 (a) is a display example of the display section 43 (image layer 41), (b) is an example of the displayed pattern, (c) is an enlarged view of part A in (a), and (d) is an enlarged view of part B in (c).

[0043] In Figure 2 In the display example shown, for example, the third image P3 (hiragana "ki" in the example), the fourth image P4 (pattern "△" in the example), the fifth image P5 (capital letter "G" in the example), and the sixth image P6 (number "6" in the example) can be switched and displayed on the same image layer.

[0044] As Figure 2 shown in (d) of [], as an example, the entire display unit 43 can be divided into multiple regions (multiple pixels) so as to include at most four pixel regions 45a in one region for switching display.

[0045] Here, as an example, the spacing between adjacent regions can be about 200 μm, the distance between adjacent pixel regions 45a within the same region can be about 100 μm, and the diameter of the multiple pixel regions 45a can be 30 μm to 80 μm. Additionally, as Figure 2 shown in (d) of [], the region other than the pixel region 45a of the display unit 43 is the pixel peripheral region 45b.

[0046] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship among the display unit 43, the lenses constituting the lens array 44, and the light source 5. Figure 3 The light sources 5a to 5d shown are, for example, respectively set as light sources that emit white light, green light, red light, and blue light.

[0047] In Figure 3 , two pixels are illustrated. The light from each of the light sources is condensed onto the lens array 44 and emitted from the corresponding pixel region 45a respectively. Each pixel is divided into a pixel region 45a and a pixel peripheral region 45b.

[0048] §2 Structural Example

[0049] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of the display switching device 11 representing the structural example of the present disclosure. As Figure 4 shown, the display switching device 11 includes a display unit 43 and a lens array 44. Additionally, as Figure 1 shown, the display switching device 11 may further include a light absorption member 2, a light diffusion member 3, a display condensing unit 4, multiple light sources 5, and a substrate 6.

[0050] The lens array 44 has a light incident surface 441 and a light exit surface 442. In this structural example, multiple lenses are formed on one side of the light incident surface 441 of the lens array 44. However, in the display switching device of the present disclosure, multiple lenses may also be formed on one side of the light exit surface 442.

[0051] In each of the light incident surface 441 and the light exit surface 442, for the surface, a surface that approximates a plane or a curved surface is called an average surface. In at least a part of the lens array 44, the average surfaces of the light incident surface 441 and the light exit surface 442 are curved surfaces. In Figure 4 , in the entire lens array 44, the average surfaces of the light incident surface 441 and the light exit surface 442 are curved surfaces.

[0052] In the display switching device 11 of the present disclosure, in Figure 4 the example shown, the curved surface of the average surface of the light incident surface 441 is concave, and the curved surface of the average surface of the light exit surface 442 is convex. In addition, as will be described later, the curved surface of the average surface of the light incident surface 441 may be convex, and the curved surface of the average surface of the light exit surface 442 may be concave. In the present specification, concave means recessed backward when the direction from the surface of the lens array 44 toward the outside of the lens array 44 is defined as the front. In addition, in the present specification, convex means protruding forward when the direction from the surface of the lens array 44 toward the outside of the lens array 44 is defined as the front. In the case of such a shape, the directions of the surface bending of the light incident surface 441 and the light exit surface 442 are the same, so the volume of the lens array 44 can be reduced. Thereby, reduction of the component cost and the weight of the display switching device 11 can be achieved.

[0053] As Figure 4 shown, in the lens array 44, the curved surface of the average surface of the light incident surface 441 is concave. In addition, the curved surface of the average surface of the light exit surface 442 is convex. Thereby, the deviation of the distances between the light source 5 (refer to Figure 1 etc.) and the respective positions on the average surface of the light incident surface 441 can be reduced. Therefore, the condensing performance of each lens of the lens array 44 can be made more uniform, and the amount of light emitted from each lens can also be made more uniform.

[0054] In the lens array 44, the curvature of the curved surface of the average surface of the light incident surface 441 and the curvature of the curved surface of the average surface of the light exit surface 442 may vary according to the position. For example, the lens array 44 having a planar shape may be in a bent shape. In this case, the curvature of the bent portion locally increases, and the curvature of the other planar portions is 0. In addition, in this case, the display portion 43 may also be in the shape following the bent lens array 44. Furthermore, a structure may be adopted in which the lenses in the lens array 44 and the pixel regions in the display portion 43 are not formed in the bent portion.

[0055] In this structural example, the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface 441 and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface 442 are greater than 0 in the first direction along the curved surface. In addition, the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface 441 and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface 442 are 0 in the second direction along the curved surface that is different from the first direction. In Figure 4 the direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the second direction. Thus, the display switching device 11 can perform display on a surface having curvature only in one direction.

[0056] The lens array 44 can be formed by injection molding using a mold that forms a shaped product into the above shape. Alternatively, the lens array 44 can also be formed by bending a lens array that is formed by injection molding using a mold that makes the light incident surface 441 and the light exit surface 442 of the shaped product into flat surfaces.

[0057] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the curvature of each of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface 441 and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface 442. In Figure 5 the example shown, the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface 442 is larger than the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface 441.

[0058] When a plurality of lenses are formed on the side of the light incident surface 441, if the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface 441 is too large, it may be difficult to demold the light incident surface 441 when forming the lens array 44 by injection molding. By the lens array 44 having Figure 5 the shape shown, even when it is desired to increase the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface 441, the curvature can be limited to a level at which the lens array 44 can be demolded.

[0059] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the operation of the display switching device 11. In Figure 6 it, in addition to showing the display unit 43 and the lens array 44 included in the display switching device 11, light sources 5e and 5f as the light source 5 are also shown. In addition, in Figure 6 pixel regions 45aa and 45ab as the pixel region 45a are shown. The pixel regions 45aa and 45ab are pixel regions 45a for displaying mutually different images.

[0060] The light emitted from the light source 5e is condensed by the lens array 44 to each pixel region 45aa. The light emitted from the light source 5f is condensed by the lens array 44 to each pixel region 45ab different from the pixel region 45aa. Therefore, according to the display switching device 11, the displayed image can be switched by switching the light-emitting light source.

[0061] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of the switch 110 including the display switching device 11. In Figure 7 the example shown, as the switch 110, a device having a cylindrical shape and performing a switch operation by an operation of pressing in the axial direction or an operation of rotating around the axis is envisaged. The side surface of the cylindrical shape is an example of a surface having a curvature only in one direction. The display switching device 11 can be provided on the side surface of the cylindrical shape of the switch 110, or can be provided as a display portion on the side surface of the cylindrical-shaped member.

[0062] §3 Variation example

[0063] <3.1>

[0064] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of the display switching device 11A which is the first variation example of the present disclosure. As Figure 8 shown, the display switching device 11A includes a display portion 43 and a lens array 44 in the same manner as the display switching device 11. In Figure 8 it, the lens array 44 includes microlenses L0 to L6.

[0065] The display switching device 11A includes light sources 51A to 57A belonging to the first light source group and light sources 51B to 57B belonging to the second light source group as a plurality of light sources 5. In addition, the display switching device 11A includes a first pixel region group including a pixel region 4A (first pixel region) and a second pixel region group including a pixel region 4B (second pixel region) as pixel regions.

[0066] The light emitted from the light source 51A belonging to the first light source group is condensed by the microlens L0 of the lens array 44 and then irradiated to Figure 8The pixel region 4A included in the first pixel region group of the display switching device 11A shown. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 52A belonging to the first light source group is condensed by the microlens L1 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4A. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 53A belonging to the first light source group is condensed by the microlens L2 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4A. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 54A belonging to the first light source group is condensed by the microlens L3 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4A. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 55A belonging to the first light source group is condensed by the microlens L4 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4A. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 56A belonging to the first light source group is condensed by the microlens L5 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4A. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 57A belonging to the first light source group is condensed by the microlens L6 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4A. In the present embodiment, the case where the light from seven different light sources 51A to 57A is irradiated onto the pixel region 4A via different microlenses L0 to L6 is taken as an example for illustration, but it is not limited thereto.

[0067] Similarly, the light emitted from the light source 51B belonging to the second light source group is condensed by the microlens L0 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto Figure 8 the pixel region 4B included in the second pixel region group of the display switching device 11A shown. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 52B belonging to the second light source group is condensed by the microlens L1 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4B. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 53B belonging to the second light source group is condensed by the microlens L2 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4B. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 54B belonging to the second light source group is condensed by the microlens L3 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4B. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 55B belonging to the second light source group is condensed by the microlens L4 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4B. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 56B belonging to the second light source group is condensed by the microlens L5 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4B. In addition, the light emitted from the light source 57B belonging to the second light source group is condensed by the microlens L6 of the microlens array 44 and then irradiated onto the pixel region 4B. In the present embodiment, the case where the light from seven different light sources 51B to 57B is irradiated onto the pixel region 4B via different microlenses L0 to L6 is taken as an example for illustration, but it is not limited thereto.

[0068] According to the display switching device 11A, the display uniformity of each of the pixel regions 4A (first pixel region) and 4B (second pixel region) can be improved. Furthermore, the luminance uniformity between the pixel region 4A (first pixel region) and the pixel region 4B (second pixel region) can also be improved. Therefore, it is also possible to achieve enlargement and thinning of the display switching device 11A.

[0069] As Figure 8 shown, the light sources 51A belonging to the first light source group and the light sources 51B belonging to the second light source group are arranged in the first arrangement region. In addition, the light sources 52A belonging to the second light source group and the light sources 52B belonging to the second light source group are arranged in the second arrangement region. The first arrangement region and the second arrangement region are adjacent to each other. The same applies to the light sources 53A to 57A belonging to the first light source group and the light sources 53B to 57B belonging to the second light source group.

[0070] In addition, in the display switching device 11A, in order to appear bright from a specific angle, for example, only the light sources 56A to 57A belonging to the first light source group and the light sources 56B to 57B belonging to the second light source group, or the light sources 51A to 52A belonging to the first light source group and the light sources 51B to 52B belonging to the second light source group may be lit. Furthermore, in order to appear bright from a specific angle, for example, only the light sources 56A to 57A belonging to the first light source group and the light sources 56B to 57B belonging to the second light source group, or the light sources 51A to 52A belonging to the first light source group and the light sources 51B to 52B belonging to the second light source group may be provided on the substrate 6.

[0071] <3.2>

[0072] Figure 9 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of the display switching device 11B according to the second modification of the present disclosure. As Figure 9 shown, the display switching device 11B includes a display unit 43B and a lens array 44B. In addition, the display switching device 11B may also include a light absorption member 2, a light diffusion member 3, a display condensing unit 4, a plurality of light sources 5, and a substrate 6, in the same manner as the display switching device 11 and the like. The display unit 43B has the same structure as the display unit 43, except for having an aspect along the shape of the lens array 44B.

[0073] As Figure 9 shown, in the lens array 44B, a plurality of lenses are formed on the side of the light incident surface 441. Furthermore, in the lens array 44B, the average surface of the light incident surface 441 is convex, and the average surface of the light exit surface 442 is concave. The display unit 43B is different from the display unit 43 only in that it has an aspect along the shape of the lens array 44B.

[0074] In the display switching device 11B, since the lens array 44B has the above-described shape, the deviation of the distances from the user of the display switching device 11B to the respective positions on the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface 442 of the lens array 44B can be reduced. Therefore, it is also easy to visually recognize the display content at any position of the display unit 43.

[0075] In addition, among the buttons pressed by the user of the device including the display switching device 11B, there are buttons whose depression surfaces are concave in shape in consideration of the touch feeling during depression. The display switching device 11B can be applied to such buttons.

[0076] <3.3>

[0077] Figure 10 FIG. is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of the display switching device 11C which represents the third modification of the present disclosure. As Figure 10 shown, the display switching device 11C includes a lens array 44C. In addition, the display switching device 11C includes a display unit (not shown) along the shape of the light exit surface 442 of the lens array 44C. Similar to the display switching device 11 and the like, the display switching device 11C may further include a light absorption member 2, a light diffusion member 3, a display condensing unit 4, a plurality of light sources 5, and a substrate 6.

[0078] In Figure 10 , the curve A1 is a curve along the first direction on the average plane of the light incident surface 441 and the average plane of the light exit surface 442 of the lens array 44C. In addition, the curve A2 is a curve along the second direction on the average plane of the light incident surface 441 and the average plane of the light exit surface 442 of the lens array 44C.

[0079] As Figure 10 shown, in the lens array 44C, the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface 441 and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface 442 are greater than 0 in the first direction along the curved surface. In addition, the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface 441 and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface 442 are also greater than 0 in the second direction along the curved surface which is different from the first direction. Since the lens array 44C has such a shape, the display switching device 11C can perform display on a surface having curvatures in two directions.

[0080] In Figure 10In the example shown, the center of curvature C1 in the first direction and the center of curvature C2 in the second direction both exist on the light incident surface 441 side with respect to the lens array 44C. The radius of curvature of the lens array 44C in the first direction is R1, and the radius of curvature of the lens array 44C in the second direction is R2. That is, the curvature of the lens array 44C in the first direction is 1 / R1, and the curvature of the lens array 44C in the second direction is 1 / R2. The values of R1 and R2 may be the same as each other or different from each other.

[0081] In Figure 10 it, the plane S1 is a plane including the curve A1. In addition, the plane S2 is a plane including the curve A2. The angle θ formed by the plane S1 and the plane S2 may be 90°, or may be an angle different from 90°. However, when the angle θ is 90°, the processing and evaluation of the lens array 44C become easy.

[0082] Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the switch 120 including the display switching device 11C. In Figure 11 the example shown, the switch 120 is provided on a part of the steering wheel of an automobile. Therefore, the switch 120 has a part having a shape that bends a cylinder. The side surface of the part having a shape that bends a cylinder is an example of a surface having curvature in two directions. The display switching device 11C may be provided on the button-shaped switch 120 provided on a part of the steering wheel, or may be provided as a display portion provided on a part of the steering wheel.

[0083] Figure 12 is a perspective view showing an example of a shape different from that of the lens array 44C shown in Figure 10 the example shown. In Figure 12 it, the diagrams denoted by reference numerals 1201 and 1202 show examples in which the shapes of the lens array 44C are different from each other.

[0084] In the example denoted by reference numeral 1201, the center of curvature C1 of the lens array 44C in the first direction is located on the light exit surface 442 side with respect to the lens array 44C. On the other hand, the center of curvature C2 of the lens array 44C in the second direction is located on the light incident surface 441 side with respect to the lens array 44C. In the example denoted by reference numeral 1202, the center of curvature C1 of the lens array 44C in the first direction and the center of curvature C2 of the lens array 44C in the second direction are both located on the light exit surface 442 side with respect to the lens array 44C. The lens array 44C having the shapes denoted by reference numerals 1201 and 1202 can also be displayed on a surface having curvature in two directions corresponding to their respective shapes.

[0085] <3.4>

[0086] Figure 13This is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of the display switching device 11D according to the fourth modified example of the present disclosure. As Figure 13 shown, the display switching device 11D includes a lens array 44D. In addition, the display switching device 11D includes a display section (not shown) along the shape of the light-emitting surface 442 of the lens array 44D. The display switching device 11D may also include a light absorption member 2, a light diffusion member 3, a display condensing section 4, a plurality of light sources 5, and a substrate 6, in the same manner as the display switching device 11 and the like. In Figure 13 this, reference numerals 1301 and 1302 represent different examples of the shape of the lens array 44D.

[0087] In Figure 13 the example shown by reference numeral 1301 in this, the curved surface of the average plane of the light-emitting surface 442 of the lens array 44D includes a part of a virtual spherical surface B1. In Figure 13 the example shown by reference numeral 1302 in this, the curved surface of the average plane of the light-emitting surface 442 of the lens array 44D includes a part of a virtual ellipsoidal surface B2. Thus, in the display switching device 11D, the curved surface of the average plane of the light-emitting surface 442 includes a part of the spherical surface B1 or the ellipsoidal surface B2. According to the display switching device 11D, display can be performed on a spherical surface or an ellipsoidal surface.

[0088] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing an example of a switch 130 including the display switching device 11D. The switch 130 has a rod-shaped shape with a spherical part at the front end. The display switching device 11D is provided on the surface of the spherical part of the switch 130.

[0089] <3.5>

[0090] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of the display switching device 11E according to the fifth modified example of the present disclosure. As Figure 15 shown, the display switching device 11E includes a display section 43E and a lens array 44E. In addition, the display switching device 11E may also include a light absorption member 2, a light diffusion member 3, a display condensing section 4, a plurality of light sources 5, and a substrate 6, in the same manner as the display switching device 11 and the like. The display section 43E has the same structure as the display section 43, except that it has an aspect along the shape of the lens array 44E.

[0091] As Figure 15 shown, the lens array 44E has a central region Rc and an outer edge region Re. The central region Rc is a region including the center of the curved surface of the average plane of the light-emitting surface 442 of the lens array 44E. The outer edge region Re is a region arranged around the central region Rc.

[0092] In the curved surface of the average plane of the light-emitting surface 442 of the lens array 44E, the curvature of the outer edge region Re is larger than the curvature of the central region Rc. According to the display switching device 11E, for example, display can be performed on a surface having a shape such as a button in which the curvature is small in the central region Rc and the curvature becomes larger in the outer edge region Re.

[0093] In addition, in the lens array 44E, by increasing the curvature in the outer edge region Re, the amount of light emitted at a larger angle with respect to the direction of the optical axis of the light emitted from the curved surface of the outer edge region Re can be increased. Therefore, according to the display switching device 11E, the visibility from a wider viewing angle can be improved.

[0094] <3.6>

[0095] Figure 16 FIG. is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of the display switching device 11F according to the sixth modification of the present disclosure. As Figure 16 shown, the display switching device 11F includes a display unit 43F, a lens array 44F, and a transparent member layer 46. In addition, the display switching device 11F may further include a light absorption member 2, a light diffusion member 3, a display condensing unit 4, a plurality of light sources 5, and a substrate 6 in the same manner as the display switching device 11 and the like. In Figure 16 FIG., six examples of the display switching device 11F in which the structures of the transparent member layers 46 are different from each other are denoted by reference numerals 1601 to 1606.

[0096] The display switching device 11F is different from the display switching device 11 in that a transparent member layer 46 is included on the light-emitting side of the lens array 44F. The transparent member layer 46 is a layer formed of a transparent material. As the material of the transparent member layer 46, a resin or glass having translucency can be used without particular limitation.

[0097] The transparent member layer 46 may be in contact with the lens array 44F, or there may be a gap between the transparent member layer 46 and the lens array 44F. In addition, when there is a gap between the transparent member layer 46 and the lens array 44F, an adhesive or the like may be filled in the gap.

[0098] In the example shown by reference numeral 1601, the structures of the display unit 43F and the lens array 44F are the same as the structures of the display unit 43 and the lens array 44 in the display switching device 11. The transparent member layer 46 has a shape in which the thickness varies depending on the position. In the example shown by reference numeral 1601, the thickness of the transparent member layer 46 is thick near the center of the lens array 44F and becomes thinner as it approaches the outer edge of the lens array 44F. However, the thickness corresponding to the position of the transparent member layer 46 is not limited to this.

[0099] In the example shown by reference numeral 1602, the structure of the lens array 44F is the same as that of the lens array 44C in the display switching device 11C. The structure of the display unit 43F is the same as that of the display unit 43 except for the aspect of having a shape along the light-emitting side surface of the lens array 44F. The transparent member layer 46 has a shape with different thicknesses according to the position. In the example shown by reference numeral 1602, the thickness of the transparent member layer 46 is thick near the center of the lens array 44F and becomes thinner as it approaches the outer edge of the lens array 44F. However, the thickness corresponding to the position of the transparent member layer 46 is not limited to this.

[0100] In the examples shown by reference numerals 1601 and 1602, a transparent member layer 46 having a curved surface shape different from the curved surface shape of the light-emitting surface 442 of the lens array 44F can be provided, so that the degree of freedom of the curved surface shape of the light-emitting surface of the display switching device 11F can be improved. Therefore, for example, even when there is an upper limit to the curvature of the curved surface of the light-emitting surface 442 due to structural reasons for lens formation, a display switching device having a greater curvature of the light-emitting surface can be provided.

[0101] In the example shown by reference numeral 1603, the structures of the display unit 43F and the lens array 44F are the same as the structures of the display unit 43 and the lens array 44 in the display switching device 11. The transparent member layer 46 is colored or the light transmittance is adjusted. Specifically, a coloring agent or an additive that changes the light transmittance is added to the transparent member layer 46. Thereby, the designability of the display switching device 11F and switches including the display switching device 11F is improved. In addition, in the example shown by reference numeral 1603, the transparent member layer 46 has a certain thickness regardless of the position.

[0102] In the example shown by reference numeral 1604, the structures of the display unit 43F and the lens array 44F are the same as the structures of the display unit 43 and the lens array 44 in the display switching device 11. The transparent member layer 46 has a diffusion layer 46a that diffuses light on the surface on the light-incident side. The diffusion layer 46a can be a diffusion sheet that diffuses light, a layer printed with ink that diffuses light, or a structure that diffuses light. Thereby, the viewing angle characteristics of the display switching device 11F are improved.

[0103] In the example shown by reference numeral 1605, the structures of the display unit 43F and the lens array 44F are the same as the structures of the display unit 43 and the lens array 44 in the display switching device 11. The transparent member layer 46 includes a reflectance adjustment layer that adjusts the reflectance of light. The reflectance adjustment layer can be a transparent or opaque color layer, or a semi-reflective mirror layer.

[0104] In the example shown by reference numeral 1606, the structures of the display unit 43F and the lens array 44F are the same as those of the display unit 43 and the lens array 44 in the display switching device 11. The transparent member layer 46 has a light-shielding layer 46b that shields light on a part of the surface on the light-incident side. The light-shielding layer 46b can shield the unintended light emission of the display switching device 11F. In reference numeral 1606, the light-shielding layer 46b is located near the end of the transparent member layer 46. Therefore, the light-shielding layer 46b can shield the unintended light emission at the end of the display switching device 11F. However, the position of the light-shielding layer 46b is not limited to near the end of the transparent member layer 46.

[0105] In Figure 16 any of the examples shown, the transparent member layer 46 is disposed on the light-emitting side of the display unit 43F. However, the transparent member layer 46 may be disposed as long as it is on the light-emitting side of the lens array 44F, and may be disposed, for example, between the lens array 44F and the display unit 43F.

[0106] In addition, when the transparent member layer 46 is disposed on the light-emitting side of the display unit 43F, the surface on the light-emitting side of the transparent member layer 46 is exposed to the outside of the display switching device 11F. In this case, a coating for preventing damage to the transparent member layer 46 can be provided on the surface on the light-emitting side of the transparent member layer 46.

[0107] <3.7>

[0108] In any of the above-described structural examples and modified examples, only the curvature of the average plane of the light-incident surface 441 and the curvature of the average plane of the light-emitting surface 442 have been described. However, in the display switching device of the present disclosure, the entire average plane may not be a curved surface.

[0109] Figure 17 is a diagram showing the structure of the main part of the display switching device 11G according to the seventh modified example of the present disclosure. As Figure 17 shown, the display switching device 11G includes a display unit 43G and a lens array 44G. In Figure 17 reference numerals 1701 and 1702 represent mutually different examples of the shape of the lens array 44G. In addition, the display switching device 11G may also include a light absorption member 2, a light diffusion member 3, a display condensing unit 4, a plurality of light sources 5, and a substrate 6, in the same manner as the display switching device 11 and the like. The display unit 43G has the same structure as the display unit 43, except for having an aspect along the shape of the lens array 44G.

[0110] The lens array 44G has a planar region Ra and a curved surface region Rb. The planar region Ra is a region where the average plane of the light-incident surface 441 and the average plane of the light-emitting surface 442 are planar. The curved surface region Rb is a region where the average plane of the light-incident surface 441 and the average plane of the light-emitting surface 442 are curved surfaces. InFigure 17 In the example shown by symbol 1701, in the curved surface region Rb, the average surface of the light incident surface 441 is concave, while the average surface of the light exit surface 442 is convex. In Figure 17 In the example shown by symbol 1702, in the curved surface region Rb, the average surface of the light incident surface 441 is convex, and the average surface of the light exit surface 442 is concave. In Figure 17 In the example shown, the curved surface region Rb is located near the center of the lens array 44G, and the planar region Ra is located outside the curved surface region Rb. With such a display switching device 11G, display can also be performed on surfaces having corresponding shapes.

[0111] However, the positional relationship between the planar region Ra and the curved surface region Rb in the lens array 44G is not limited to Figure 17 the example shown. For example, the planar region Ra may be located on one side of the lens array 44G, and the curved surface region Rb may be located on the other side. Additionally, the planar region Ra may be located near the center of the lens array 44G, and the curved surface region Rb may be located outside the planar region Ra.

[0112] <3.8>

[0113] Within the technical scope of the present disclosure, in addition to the display switching device including the above structural examples and modified examples, it also includes a switch that detects a user's operation on the display switching device. Furthermore, within the technical scope of the present disclosure, an electrical device including the switch and operating through the switch is included.

[0114] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described respective embodiments, and various changes can be made within the scope shown in the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means separately disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0115] 〔Supplementary Notes〕

[0116] The present disclosure can also be expressed as follows.

[0117] The display switching device according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure switches a displayed image by switching the irradiation of light from a plurality of light sources. The display switching device includes: a lens array formed by arranging a plurality of lenses; and a display unit including a plurality of pixel regions configured to include regions through which light emitted from each of the plurality of light sources and condensed by each of the lenses of the lens array passes. The transmittance of each of the pixel regions is set corresponding to a prescribed still pattern. In at least a part of the lens array, the average plane of the light incident surface and the average plane of the light exit surface are curved surfaces, and (1) the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is concave and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is convex, or (2) the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is convex and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is concave.

[0118] According to the above structure, a display switching device capable of performing display on a curved surface portion in the case where various devices or members have a curved surface can be provided. Therefore, the variety of devices and members into which the display switching device can be incorporated can be greatly expanded.

[0119] In addition, in the light incident surface and the light exit surface, the directions of the surface curvature are the same, so the volume of the lens array can be reduced. Therefore, reduction of component cost and reduction of device weight can be achieved.

[0120] The display switching device according to Embodiment 2 of the present disclosure is based on Embodiment 1, and it is possible that the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface are greater than 0 in a first direction and the curvature is 0 in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0121] According to the above structure, a display switching device capable of performing display on a surface having curvature only in one direction can be provided.

[0122] The display switching device according to Embodiment 3 of the present disclosure is based on Embodiment 1 or 2, and it is possible that the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is concave and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is convex.

[0123] According to the above structure, since the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface of the lens array is concave, the deviation of the distance between the light source and each position on the curved surface can be reduced. Therefore, the condensing performance of each lens of the lens array can be made more uniform, and the amount of light emitted from each lens can also be made more uniform.

[0124] The display switching device according to Embodiment 4 of the present disclosure is based on any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, and it is possible that the lens is formed on the light incident surface side, and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is larger than the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface.

[0125] When a lens is formed on the light incident surface side, if the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is too large, there is a problem that demolding of the light incident surface becomes difficult when molding the lens array. In contrast, according to the structure, when it is desired to increase the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface, the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface can also be set to a degree that allows demolding.

[0126] The display switching device according to Embodiment 5 of the present disclosure is based on Embodiment 1 or 2. Among them, it is possible that the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is convex, and the curved surface of the average plane of the light emitting surface is concave.

[0127] According to the structure, the curved surface of the average plane of the light emitting surface of the lens array is concave, so the deviation of the distance between the user of the display switching device and each position on the curved surface can be reduced. Therefore, a display switching device that is also easy to visually recognize the display content at any position of the display unit can be provided.

[0128] In addition, for example, a display switching device can be provided in which a push button having a concave shape on the pressing surface in consideration of the touch feeling during pressing displays on the pressing surface.

[0129] The display switching device according to Embodiment 6 of the present disclosure is based on Embodiment 1. Among them, it is possible that the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light emitting surface are greater than 0 in the first direction, and the curvature is also greater than 0 in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0130] According to the structure, a display switching device that displays on a surface having curvature in two directions can be provided.

[0131] The display switching device according to Embodiment 7 of the present disclosure is based on Embodiment 1. Among them, it is possible that the curved surface of the average plane of the light emitting surface includes a part of a spherical surface or an ellipsoidal surface.

[0132] According to the structure, a display switching device that displays on a spherical surface or an ellipsoidal surface can be provided.

[0133] The display switching device according to Embodiment 8 of the present disclosure is based on any one of Embodiments 1 to 6. Among them, it is possible that in the curved surface of the average plane of the light emitting surface, the curvature of the outer edge region disposed around the central region including the center of the curved surface is larger than the curvature of the central region.

[0134] According to the above structure, a display switching device can be provided which has a surface such as a button shape, with a small curvature in the central region and a larger curvature in the outer edge region for display. Additionally, by increasing the curvature in the outer edge region, the amount of light emitted at a larger angle with respect to the optical axis direction of the light emitted from the curved surface can be increased. Therefore, the visibility from a wider viewing angle can be improved.

[0135] The display switching device according to Embodiment 9 of the present disclosure is based on any one of Embodiments 1 to 8, and it can be that a transparent member layer formed of a transparent material is further provided on the light emitting side of the lens array.

[0136] According to the above structure, a transparent member layer with a curved surface shape different from that of the light emitting surface of the lens array can be provided, so the degree of freedom of the curved surface shape of the light emitting surface of the display switching device can be improved. Therefore, for example, even when there is an upper limit to the curvature of the curved surface of the light emitting surface of the lens array due to structural reasons in lens formation, a display switching device with a larger curvature of the light emitting surface can be provided.

[0137] The switch according to Embodiment 10 of the present disclosure includes the display switching device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 9, and detects an operation of the user on the display switching device.

[0138] According to the above structure, the same effect as that of the display switching device of any of the above embodiments is achieved.

[0139] The electrical device according to Embodiment 11 of the present disclosure includes the switch according to Embodiment 10 and operates through the switch.

[0140] According to the above structure, the same effect as that of the switch is achieved.

[0141] Explanation of reference numerals

[0142] 5, 5a, 5e, 5e, 5f, 5f, 51A, 51B, 52A, 52B, 53A, 53B, 54A, 54B, 55A, 55B, 56A, 56B, 57A, 57B: Light sources

[0143] 11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F, 11G: Display switching devices

[0144] 41, 43, 43B, 43E, 43F, 43G: Display units

[0145] 42, 44, 44B, 44C, 44D, 44E, 44F, 44G: Lens arrays

[0146] 4A, 4B, 45a, 45aa, 45ab: Pixel regions

[0147] 441: Light incident surface

[0148] 442: Light exit surface

Claims

1. A display switching device that switches a displayed image by switching the irradiation of light from a plurality of light sources, the display switching device comprising: a lens array formed by arranging a plurality of lenses; and a display unit, wherein the display unit includes a plurality of pixel regions configured to include regions through which light emitted from each of the plurality of light sources and condensed by each of the lenses of the lens array passes, the transmittance of each of the pixel regions is set corresponding to a prescribed stationary pattern, in at least a part of the lens array, the average plane of the light incident surface and the average plane of the light exit surface are curved surfaces, (1) the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is concave and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is convex, or (2) the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is convex and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is concave.

2. The display switching device according to claim 1, wherein, The curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface are greater than 0 in a first direction along the curved surface, and the curvature is 0 in a second direction along the curved surface different from the first direction.

3. The display switching device according to claim 2, wherein, The curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is concave and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is convex.

4. The display switching device according to claim 3, wherein, The lens is formed on the light incident surface side, and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is larger than the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface.

5. The display switching device according to claim 2, wherein, The curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface is convex and the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface is concave.

6. The display switching device according to claim 1, wherein, The curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light incident surface and the curvature of the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface are greater than 0 in a first direction along the curved surface, and the curvature is also greater than 0 in a second direction along the curved surface different from the first direction.

7. The display switching device according to claim 1, wherein The curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface includes a part of a spherical surface or an ellipsoidal surface.

8. The display switching device according to claim 1, wherein, In the curved surface of the average plane of the light exit surface, the curvature of an outer edge region arranged around a central region including the center of the curved surface is larger than the curvature of the central region.

9. The display switching device according to claim 1, wherein, A transparent member layer formed of a transparent material is further provided on the light exit side of the lens array.

10. A switch comprising the display switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and detecting an operation of a user on the display switching device.

11. An electrical device comprising the switch according to claim 10, and operating through the switch.

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