Liquid crystal optical element and lighting device

Abstract

This liquid crystal optical element (10) has a first liquid crystal cell (110a) and a second liquid crystal cell (110b) superimposed on the first liquid crystal cell (110a). The first liquid crystal cell (110a) and the second liquid crystal cell (110b) each have: a first substrate (111a, 111b); a first electrode (181) and a second electrode (182) that are disposed on the first substrates (111a, 111b); second substrates (121a, 121b) disposed so as to face the first substrates (111a, 111b); a third electrode (183) and a fourth electrode (184) disposed on the second substrates (121a, 121b); and liquid crystal layers (160a, 160b) disposed between the first substrates (111a, 111b) and the second substrates (121a, 121b), in which the first electrodes (181) and the second electrodes (182) are alternately disposed parallel to a first direction (x-axis), and the third electrodes (183) and the fourth electrodes (184) are alternately disposed parallel to the first direction (x-axis). The first electrode (181) overlaps a first end portion of the third electrode (183), a space between the third electrode (183) and the fourth electrode (184), and a first end portion of the fourth electrode (184), and the fourth electrode (184) overlaps a space between the first electrode (181) and the second electrode (182), and a first end portion of the second electrode (182).

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Liquid crystal lenses are known optical elements that use liquid crystals to electrically control the focal length by changing the refractive index of the liquid crystal by supplying a voltage to it. For example, Patent Document 1 describes an illumination device that can use a liquid crystal lens to control the diffusion of light.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-231976 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] For example, in recent years, there has been a demand for lighting devices that can control the direction of light distribution (orientation direction) and the angle of light distribution (orientation angle).

[0008] In view of the above problems, one of the objectives of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a liquid crystal optical element and an illumination device capable of controlling the light distribution direction and the light distribution angle.

[0009] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a liquid crystal optical element having a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell stacked on the first liquid crystal cell. Each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell has: a first substrate; a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the first substrate; a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate; a third electrode and a fourth electrode disposed on the second substrate; and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first electrode and the second electrode are alternately arranged parallel to a first direction and extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The third electrode and the fourth electrode are alternately arranged parallel to the first direction and extend in the second direction. In a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction, the first end of the first electrode and the third electrode, the space between the third electrode and the fourth electrode, and the first end of the fourth electrode overlap. In the third direction, the space between the fourth electrode and the first electrode and the second electrode, and the first end of the second electrode overlap.

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a lighting device comprising a liquid crystal optical element and a control device. The liquid crystal optical element has a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell stacked on the first liquid crystal cell. Each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell has: a first substrate; a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the first substrate; a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate; a third electrode and a fourth electrode disposed on the second substrate; and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first electrode and the second electrode are alternately arranged parallel to a first direction and extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The third electrode and the fourth electrode are alternately arranged parallel to the first direction and extend in the second direction. In a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction, the first end of the first electrode and the third electrode, the space between the third electrode and the fourth electrode, and the first end of the fourth electrode overlap. In the third direction, the space between the fourth electrode and the first electrode and the second electrode, and the first end of the second electrode overlap. The control device is electrically connected to the liquid crystal optical element and supplies control signals to the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode.

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a liquid crystal optical element having a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell stacked on the first liquid crystal cell. Each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell has: a first substrate; a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the first substrate; a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate; a third electrode and a fourth electrode disposed on the second substrate; and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first electrode and the second electrode are alternately disposed parallel to a first direction and extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The third electrode is disposed parallel to the first direction and extends in the second direction. The fourth electrode is disposed on the second substrate in a manner that covers the third electrode. In a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction, the first end of the first electrode and the third electrode and the space between the third electrode overlap. In the third direction, the space between the third electrode and the first electrode and the second electrode, and the first end of the second electrode overlap. The space between the third electrodes overlaps with the space between the first electrode and a second electrode that is different from the second electrode. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the lighting device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a top view showing the arrangement of electrodes of the liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a top view showing the arrangement of electrodes of the liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the light distribution of a liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

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

[0021] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the relationship between each region and the phase difference in the liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer of the liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the relationship between each region and the phase difference in the liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a timing diagram showing the voltage supplied to each terminal of the liquid crystal optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a simplified diagram illustrating the direction of light distribution in the lighting device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 14 This is a simplified diagram illustrating the light source according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 15This is a simplified diagram illustrating the light source according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the lighting device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 19 This is a top view showing the arrangement of electrodes of the liquid crystal optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 20 This is a top view showing the arrangement of electrodes of the liquid crystal optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the light distribution of a liquid crystal optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 23 This is a diagram showing the relationship between each region and the phase difference in the liquid crystal optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 24 This is a timing diagram showing the voltage supplied to each terminal of the liquid crystal optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 25 This is a timing diagram showing the voltage supplied to each terminal of the liquid crystal optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 26 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the lighting device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 27 This is a top view showing the arrangement of electrodes of the liquid crystal optical element according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 28 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the lighting device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention can be implemented in many different aspects and is not limited to the description of the embodiments illustrated below. To make the explanation clearer, the drawings sometimes schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc., of various parts compared to the actual aspects; however, this is only an example and does not limit the interpretation of this disclosure. Furthermore, in this specification and the drawings, for elements that are the same as those described in the preceding figures, letters such as a, b, A, B, etc., may be used after the same reference numeral or number, or hyphens and numbers may be used after numbers, and detailed descriptions may be appropriately omitted. Moreover, the words "first" and "second" used to label each element are convenient identifiers used to distinguish each element and do not have further meaning unless specifically explained.

[0043] In this specification, the term "above (or below)" a component or region, unless otherwise specified, includes not only the case where it is located directly above (or directly below) another component or region, but also the case where it is located above (or below) another component or region, that is, the case where other constituent elements are contained between the component or region above (or below) it.

[0044] Furthermore, in this specification, when a single membrane is processed to form multiple structures, sometimes each structure has different functions or roles, and sometimes the substrates forming each structure are different. However, 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.

[0045] Furthermore, in this specification, unless otherwise expressly stated, expressions such as "α includes A, B, or C," "α includes any one of A, B, and C," and "α includes one selected from the group consisting of A, B, and C" do not exclude the possibility that α includes multiple combinations of A to C. Moreover, these expressions do not exclude the possibility that α includes other elements.

[0046] In this specification, the x-axis direction, the y-axis direction intersecting the x-axis direction, and the z-axis direction intersecting both the x-axis and y-axis are sometimes referred to as the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction, respectively. Furthermore, the x-axis and y-axis are orthogonal, and the z-axis is perpendicular to the xy-plane (the x-axis and y-axis).

[0047] In this specification, when the terms orthogonal, perpendicular, parallel, identical, and consistent are used, these terms may also include errors within the design scope.

[0048] <First Implementation>

[0049] <1-1. Composition of the lighting device 100>

[0050] Reference Figure 1 The general structure of the lighting device 100 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the lighting device 100.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the lighting device 100 includes a liquid crystal optical element 10, a light source 30, and a control device 40. The liquid crystal optical element 10 includes a first liquid crystal unit 110a, an adhesive layer 130a, a wavelength plate 140, an adhesive layer 130b, and a second liquid crystal unit 110b, as detailed later. The adhesive layer 130a is disposed between the first liquid crystal unit 110a and the wavelength plate 140, and the adhesive layer 130b is disposed between the wavelength plate 140 and the second liquid crystal unit 110b. The first liquid crystal unit 110a, the adhesive layer 130a, the wavelength plate 140, the adhesive layer 130b, and the second liquid crystal unit 110b are stacked along the z-axis in a manner that they are sequentially positioned starting from the side closest to the light source.

[0052] The first liquid crystal unit 110a and the second liquid crystal unit 110b have the same basic structure and function. Therefore, without distinguishing between the first liquid crystal unit 110a and the second liquid crystal unit 110b, the liquid crystal unit will be described as liquid crystal unit 110, and with distinction between the first liquid crystal unit 110a and the second liquid crystal unit 110b, the liquid crystal unit will be described as the first liquid crystal unit 110a and the second liquid crystal unit 110b.

[0053] Adhesive layer 130a bonds and fixes the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the wavelength plate 140. Adhesive layer 130b bonds and fixes the wavelength plate 140 and the second liquid crystal cell 110b. The materials forming adhesive layers 130a and 130b can be optical elastic resins. Optical elastic resins are, for example, adhesive materials containing acrylic resins that are light-transmitting.

[0054] Wavelength plate 140 has the function of controlling polarized light. For example, wavelength plate 140 has the function of causing a phase difference between the polarization component (P-polarization component) in the x-axis direction and the polarization component (S-polarization component) in the y-axis direction of the light emitted from the light source (incident light 180) and thus causing it to be emitted. For example, the phase difference can be λ / 2 or something other than λ / 2. As an example, the wavelength plate 140 of the illumination device 100 is a wavelength plate with a phase difference of λ / 2.

[0055] Light source 30 emits light into liquid crystal optical element 10. For example, light source 30 may include a light-emitting diode (LED). The light source 30 used for lighting device 100 is not limited to LED. Light source 30 can be any element or device capable of emitting light. In addition, light source 30 may also include multiple LEDs.

[0056] The control device 40 controls the liquid crystal optical element 10 and the light source 30. Specifically, the control device 40 can supply control signals (potentials) to the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b of the liquid crystal optical element 10 to control the light distribution direction and orientation angle, and can supply control signals (potentials) to control the lighting and brightness of the light source 30.

[0057] The liquid crystal optical element 10 and the light source 30 are electrically connected to the control device 40. For example, the control device 40 is electrically connected to the liquid crystal optical element 10 and the second liquid crystal cell 110b. The control device 40 is electrically connected via a first flexible wiring substrate 11a electrically connected to the terminal portion 12a of the first liquid crystal cell 110a and a second flexible wiring substrate 11b electrically connected to the terminal portion 12b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b.

[0058] Light emitted from the light source 30 to the liquid crystal optical element 10 passes through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the adhesive layer 130a, the wavelength plate 140, the adhesive layer 130b, and the second liquid crystal cell 110b, and is emitted from the second liquid crystal cell 110b. For example, the light passing through the liquid crystal optical element 10 is refracted in the x-axis or y-axis direction based on the configuration of each electrode included in the liquid crystal cell 110 and the voltage supplied to each electrode from the control device 40, as detailed later. That is, the illumination device 100 can use the liquid crystal optical element 10 to adjust the light distribution direction and the light distribution angle, and can illuminate light with various adjusted light distribution directions and angles.

[0059] <1-2. Structure of Liquid Crystal Optical Element 10>

[0060] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The general structure of the liquid crystal optical element 10 will be described below. Figure 2 and Figure 3This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Specifically, Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The schematic cross-sectional view of the zx plane after being cut along line A1-A2 is shown. Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the yz plane after being cut along line B1-B2. Additionally, with... Figure 1 The same or similar composition shall be described as needed.

[0061] As described in "1-1. Configuration of the Lighting Device 100", the first liquid crystal unit 110a and the second liquid crystal unit 110b have the same basic configuration and function. In the following description, the configuration and function of the first liquid crystal unit 110a will be described, and the configuration and function of the second liquid crystal unit 110b will be described as needed.

[0062] The first liquid crystal unit 110a includes a first substrate 111a, a second substrate 121a, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 (e.g., first transparent electrode 181-1a), a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 (e.g., second transparent electrode 182-1a, second transparent electrode 182-2a), a plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 (e.g., third transparent electrode 183-1a, third transparent electrode 183-2a), a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 (e.g., fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, fourth transparent electrode 184-2a), a first alignment film 114a, a second alignment film 124a, and a liquid crystal layer 160a.

[0063] A plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 are disposed on a first substrate 111a and covered by a first alignment film 114a. A portion of the first alignment film 114a is in contact with the first substrate 111a, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182.

[0064] A plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 are disposed on the second substrate 121a and covered by a second alignment film 124a. A portion of the second alignment film 124a is in contact with the second substrate 121a, the plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and the plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184.

[0065] The first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 on the first substrate 111a are arranged opposite to the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 on the second substrate 121a.

[0066] It should be noted that the sealing material (not shown) is disposed at the periphery of the first substrate 111a and the second substrate 121a, bonding the first substrate 111a and the second substrate 121a together. The liquid crystal layer 160a containing liquid crystal is disposed in the space surrounded by the first substrate 111a (more specifically, the first alignment film 114a), the second substrate 121a (more specifically, the second alignment film 124a) and the sealing material.

[0067] Multiple first transparent electrodes 181, multiple second transparent electrodes 182, multiple third transparent electrodes 183, and multiple fourth transparent electrodes 184 each extend in the y-axis direction.

[0068] Among the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182, the first transparent electrodes 181 and the second transparent electrodes 182 are alternately and repeatedly arranged along the x-axis direction. Among the plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and the plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184, the third transparent electrodes 183 and the fourth transparent electrodes 184 are alternately and repeatedly arranged along the x-axis direction.

[0069] For example, rigid substrates with light transmittance, such as glass substrates, quartz substrates, or sapphire substrates, can be used as the first substrate 111a and the second substrate 121a. Alternatively, flexible substrates with light transmittance, such as polyimide resin substrates, acrylic resin substrates, silicone resin substrates, or fluoropolymer substrates, can also be used as the first substrate 111a and the second substrate 121a.

[0070] Multiple first transparent electrodes 181, multiple second transparent electrodes 182, multiple third transparent electrodes 183, and multiple fourth transparent electrodes 184 function as electrodes for forming an electric field in the liquid crystal layer 160a. For example, transparent conductive materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO) are used as the multiple first transparent electrodes 181, multiple second transparent electrodes 182, multiple third transparent electrodes 183, and multiple fourth transparent electrodes 184.

[0071] The first alignment film 114a and the second alignment film 124a align the long axes of the liquid crystal molecules within the liquid crystal layer 160a in a predetermined direction. Without applying voltage to the transparent electrodes, the liquid crystal molecules within the liquid crystal layer 160a are aligned based on the alignment characteristics of the first alignment film 114a or the second alignment film 124a. It should be noted that, for convenience, the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the illumination device 100 is set as the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules. Polyimide resin or the like is used as the first alignment film 114a and the second alignment film 124a. The first alignment film 114a and the second alignment film 124a 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.

[0072] The first alignment film 114a is endowed with alignment characteristics such that the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side of the first liquid crystal cell 110a is orthogonal to the extending directions of the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182. Furthermore, the second alignment film 124a is endowed with alignment characteristics such that the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121a side of the first liquid crystal cell 110a is orthogonal to the extending directions of the plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and the plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184. Figure 2 and Figure 3 For convenience, arrows and symbols with crosses inside circles are used to indicate the orientation direction of liquid crystal molecules within liquid crystal layer 160a. Arrows indicate the orientation direction of liquid crystal molecules aligned in a direction parallel to the paper surface, while symbols with crosses inside circles indicate the orientation direction of liquid crystal molecules aligned in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface. The orientation directions of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side and the second substrate 121a side are along the x-axis.

[0073] The liquid crystal layer 160a contains liquid crystal. The liquid crystal layer 160a can change the refraction or polarization of transmitted light depending on the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal. Nematic liquid crystals, etc., are used as the liquid crystal layer 160a. The liquid crystal described in this embodiment is positive, but by changing the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in a state where no voltage is applied to each transparent electrode, a negative liquid crystal can also be used instead of a positive one. Furthermore, it is preferable that the liquid crystal contains a chiral agent that imparts twisting to the liquid crystal molecules.

[0074] The second liquid crystal unit 110b includes a first substrate 111b, a second substrate 121b, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 (e.g., first transparent electrode 181-1b), a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 (e.g., second transparent electrode 182-1b, second transparent electrode 182-2b), a plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 (e.g., third transparent electrode 183-1b, third transparent electrode 183-2b), a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 (e.g., fourth transparent electrode 184-1b, fourth transparent electrode 184-2b), a first alignment film 114b, a second alignment film 124b, and a liquid crystal layer 160b. The first substrate 111b, the second substrate 121b, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 (e.g., first transparent electrode 181-1b), a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 (e.g., second transparent electrode 182-1b, second transparent electrode 182-2b), a plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 (e.g., third transparent electrode 183-1b, third transparent electrode 183-2b), a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 (e.g., fourth transparent electrode 184-1b, fourth transparent electrode 184-2b), a first alignment film 114b, a second alignment film 124b, and a liquid crystal layer 160b each have an alignment layer with the first transparent electrode 181-1b, second transparent electrode 124b, and liquid crystal layer 160b respectively. The substrate 111a, the second substrate 121a, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 (e.g., first transparent electrode 181-1a), a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 (e.g., second transparent electrode 182-1a, second transparent electrode 182-2a), a plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 (e.g., third transparent electrode 183-1a, third transparent electrode 183-2a), a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 (e.g., fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, fourth transparent electrode 184-2a), a first alignment film 114a, a second alignment film 124a, and a liquid crystal layer 160a have the same structure and function. Therefore, the description of the second liquid crystal cell 110b is omitted here.

[0075] When viewed from above, the first transparent electrodes 181 disposed on the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b overlap in their extending directions (y-axis direction). Similarly, the transparent electrodes with the same name disposed on the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b also overlap in their extending directions (y-axis direction). That is, the illumination device 100 includes a configuration of overlapping liquid crystal cells (first liquid crystal cell 110a and second liquid crystal cell 110b) of the same structure. It should be noted that, as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the lower substrate (the substrate on the light source side) of the pair of upper and lower substrates constituting the first liquid crystal unit 110a and the second liquid crystal unit 110b is the first substrate 111a and the first substrate 111b.

[0076] As described in "1-1. Configuration of the Lighting Device 100", the first liquid crystal unit 110a and the second liquid crystal unit 110b have the same basic configuration and function. Therefore, the first substrate 111a and the first substrate 111b, the second substrate 121a and the second substrate 121b, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 (e.g., first transparent electrode 181-1a, first transparent electrode 181-1b), a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 (e.g., second transparent electrode 182-1a, second transparent electrode 182-2a, second transparent electrode 182-1b, second transparent electrode 182-2b), and a plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 (e.g., third transparent electrode 183-1a, third transparent electrode 183-2b) are all present in the same configuration. The following are described using their respective names, where they are distinguished: electrode 183-2a, third transparent electrode 183-1b, third transparent electrode 183-2b); multiple fourth transparent electrodes 184 (e.g., fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, fourth transparent electrode 184-2a, fourth transparent electrode 184-1b, fourth transparent electrode 184-2b); first alignment film 114a and first alignment film 114b; second alignment film 124a and second alignment film 124b; liquid crystal layer 160a and liquid crystal layer 160b. When the constituent elements of the first liquid crystal unit 110a and the second liquid crystal unit 110b are not distinguished, each constituent element of the first liquid crystal unit 110a and the second liquid crystal unit 110b shall be described as a first substrate 111, a second substrate 121, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181, a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182, a plurality of third transparent electrodes 183, a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184, a first alignment film 114, a second alignment film 124, and a liquid crystal layer 160.

[0077] <1-3. Configuration of Transparent Electrodes>

[0078] Reference Figure 1 , Figures 4-6 The general outline of each electrode of the liquid crystal optical element 10 will be described. Figure 4 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 on the first substrate 111 of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 5 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of a plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 on the second substrate 121 of the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element 10. It should be noted that... Figure 6 Corresponding to along Figure 1 The cross-sectional structure of the first liquid crystal cell 110a along line A1-A2 is shown. As needed, [the structure is modified / adjusted / adjusted]. Figures 1-3 Explain the same or similar composition.

[0079] The cross-sectional structure of the first liquid crystal unit 110a is the same as that of the second liquid crystal unit 110b. The cross-sectional structure of the first liquid crystal unit 110a will be described here, and the cross-sectional structure of the second liquid crystal unit 110b will be described as needed.

[0080] First, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 A summary of the electrodes of the liquid crystal optical element 10 as viewed from above is provided. Figure 4 As shown, when viewed from above, multiple first transparent electrodes 181, multiple second transparent electrodes 182, a first terminal 119-1, and a second terminal 119-2 are disposed on the first substrate 111. Additionally, a fifth wiring 116-5, a sixth wiring 116-6, multiple first power supply terminals 118-1, multiple second power supply terminals 118-2, a third terminal 119-3, and a fourth terminal 119-4 are disposed on the first substrate 111.

[0081] Multiple first transparent electrodes 181 and multiple second transparent electrodes 182 are supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40, and have the functions of allowing light emitted from the light source 30 to pass through, making it difficult to pass through, diffusing it, and refracting it.

[0082] The plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 include a first transparent electrode 181-1. The plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 include a second transparent electrode 182-1 and a second transparent electrode 182-2. The major axis of each of the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 extends in the y-axis direction, and the first transparent electrodes 181 and the second transparent electrodes 182 are alternately arranged in the x-axis direction.

[0083] The width of the first transparent electrode 181 and the width (width in the x-axis direction) of the second transparent electrode 182 are both defined as a first width w1. The distance between the first transparent electrode 181 and the second transparent electrode 182 in the x-axis direction (electrode spacing) is defined as a first electrode spacing p1. In the lighting device 100, the first width w1 is the same as the first electrode spacing p1, but the first width w1 may also be different from the first electrode spacing p1. The width of the first transparent electrode 181 and the width of the second transparent electrode 182 may also be different.

[0084] Furthermore, the cell gap d is smaller (narrower) than the first width w1 and the distance p1 between the first electrodes. For example, the cell gap d is 8μm≤d≤50μm, preferably 10μm≤d≤30μm, and more preferably 15μm≤d≤25μm. For example, the cell gap d of the illumination device 100 is 30μm, and the first width w1 and the distance p1 between the first electrodes are 35μm. Therefore, the transverse electric field generated on the first substrate 111a side and the second substrate 112a side affects the liquid crystal molecules located near the center between the first substrate 111a and the second substrate 112a, and the illumination device 100 can bend the incident light 180.

[0085] A plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 are electrically connected to a first wiring 116-1, and the first wiring 116-1 is electrically connected to a first terminal 119-1. The first wiring 116-1 can be formed under or on the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181. Alternatively, the first wiring 116-1 can be formed on the same layer as the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181. A plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 are electrically connected to a second wiring 116-2, and the second wiring 116-2 is electrically connected to a second terminal 119-2. The second wiring 116-2 can be formed under or on the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182. Alternatively, the second wiring 116-2 can be formed on the same layer as the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182. For example, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 of the lighting device 100 are formed on the same layer as the first wiring 116-1 and the second wiring 116-2.

[0086] The fifth wiring 116-5 is electrically connected to multiple first power supply terminals 118-1 and first terminal 119-1. The sixth wiring 116-6 is electrically connected to multiple second power supply terminals 118-2 and fourth terminal 119-4.

[0087] The first alignment film 114 disposed on the first substrate 111 in the x-axis direction (in Figure 4 The alignment process is performed in the direction indicated by the hollow arrow. In this case, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111 side of the liquid crystal molecules constituting the liquid crystal layer 160 is aligned along the x-axis direction. That is, the alignment direction (x-axis direction) of the first alignment film 114 is orthogonal to the extension direction (y-axis direction) of the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182.

[0088] like Figure 5 As shown, when viewed from above, a plurality of third transparent electrodes 183, a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184, a third wiring 116-3, a fourth wiring 116-4, a plurality of third power supply terminals 118-3 and a plurality of fourth power supply terminals 118-4 are disposed on the second substrate 121.

[0089] The plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and the plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184, like the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182, are supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40, and have the functions of allowing light emitted from the light source 30 to pass through, making it difficult to pass through, diffusing it, and refracting it.

[0090] The plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 include third transparent electrode 183-1 and third transparent electrode 183-2. The plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 include fourth transparent electrode 184-1 and fourth transparent electrode 184-2. The major axes of the plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and the plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 extend in the y-axis direction, and the third transparent electrodes 183 and the fourth transparent electrodes 184 are alternately arranged in the x-axis direction. The width of the electrode of the third transparent electrode 183 and the width of the electrode of the fourth transparent electrode 184 (width in the x-axis direction) is a second width w2. The distance between the electrodes (electrode spacing) of the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 in the x-axis direction is a second electrode spacing p2.

[0091] In the lighting device 100, the second width w2 is wider (thicker) than the first width w1, and the distance between the second electrodes p2 is narrower (thinner) than the distance between the first electrodes p1. It should be noted that the widths of the third transparent electrode 183 and the fourth transparent electrode 184 may also be different.

[0092] Multiple third transparent electrodes 183 are electrically connected to third wiring 116-3, and third wiring 116-3 is electrically connected to multiple third power supply terminals 118-3. Multiple fourth transparent electrodes 184 are electrically connected to fourth wiring 116-4, and fourth wiring 116-4 is electrically connected to multiple fourth power supply terminals 118-4. The third wiring 116-3 can be formed below or above the multiple third transparent electrodes 183. Alternatively, the third wiring 116-3 can be formed on the same layer as the multiple third transparent electrodes 183. The fourth wiring 116-4 can be formed below or above the multiple fourth transparent electrodes 184. Alternatively, the fourth wiring 116-4 can be formed on the same layer as the multiple fourth transparent electrodes 184. For example, the multiple third transparent electrodes 183, multiple fourth transparent electrodes 184, third wiring 116-3, and fourth wiring 116-4 of the lighting device 100 are formed on the same layer. It should be noted that the third wiring 116-3, the plurality of third power supply terminals 118-3, the fourth wiring 116-4 and the plurality of fourth power supply terminals 118-4 can be formed on the same layer as the plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and the plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184.

[0093] In the liquid crystal cell 110, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 are positioned opposite to a plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 separated by a liquid crystal layer 160a. Furthermore, the extending directions (y-axis direction) of the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 are parallel to the extending directions (y-axis direction) of the plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 and the plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184.

[0094] When the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121 are bonded, each of the plurality of first power supply terminals 118-1 is electrically connected to a corresponding third power supply terminal 118-3, and each of the plurality of second power supply terminals 118-2 is electrically connected to a corresponding fourth power supply terminal 118-4. As a result, the first wiring 116-1 is electrically connected to the third wiring 116-3, and the second wiring 116-2 is electrically connected to the fourth wiring 116-4. For example, the first power supply terminals 118-1 and the third power supply terminals 118-3, and the second power supply terminals 118-2 and the fourth power supply terminals 118-4, can be electrically connected using silver paste or conductive particles. It should be noted that the conductive particles include particles coated with metal.

[0095] For example, such as Figure 1 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the length of the second substrate 121 along the x-axis is shorter than the length of the first substrate 111 along the x-axis. The first terminal 119-1, the second terminal 119-2, the third terminal 119-3, and the fourth terminal 119-4 are disposed on the terminal portion 12 of the first substrate 111. As a result, when the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121 are attached, the first terminal 119-1, the second terminal 119-2, the third terminal 119-3, and the fourth terminal 119-4 are exposed and not covered by the second substrate 121.

[0096] Therefore, in the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the terminal portion 12a can be easily attached to the first flexible wiring substrate 11a, and can be easily electrically connected. As a result, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 are connected from the control device 40 (see reference 110a) via the first flexible wiring substrate 11a, the terminal portion 12a, the first terminal 119-1, and the first wiring 116-1. Figure 1A plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 are supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40 via the first flexible wiring substrate 11a, terminal portion 12a, second terminal 119-2, and second wiring 116-2. A plurality of third transparent electrodes 183 are supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40 via the first flexible wiring substrate 11a, terminal portion 12a, third terminal 119-3, fifth wiring 116-5, a plurality of first power supply terminals 118-1, third wiring 116-3, and a plurality of third power supply terminals 118-3. A plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 184 are supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40 via the first flexible wiring substrate 11a, terminal portion 12a, fourth terminal 119-4, sixth wiring 116-6, a plurality of second power supply terminals 118-2, fourth wiring 116-4, and a plurality of fourth power supply terminals 118-4. Similar to the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the terminal portion 12b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b can also be easily bonded to the second flexible wiring substrate 11b, enabling easy electrical connection. Furthermore, similar to the first liquid crystal cell 110a, each electrode within the second liquid crystal cell 110b is also supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40.

[0097] It should be noted that a light spacer (not shown) may be formed on the side of the first substrate 111 opposite to the second substrate 121, or on the side of the second substrate 121 opposite to the first substrate 111. By including the light spacer, the lighting device 100 can maintain a constant distance between the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121.

[0098] The materials used to form the first wiring 116-1, the second wiring 116-2, the third wiring 116-3, the fourth wiring 116-4, the fifth wiring 116-5, the sixth wiring 116-6, the plurality of first power supply terminals 118-1, the plurality of third power supply terminals 118-3, the plurality of second power supply terminals 118-2, the plurality of fourth power supply terminals 118-4, the first terminal 119-1, the second terminal 119-2, the third terminal 119-3, and the fourth terminal 119-4 can be metallic materials. Examples of metallic materials include aluminum and molybdenum. For example, when the materials forming the first wiring 116-1, the second wiring 116-2, the first terminal 119-1, and the second terminal 119-2 are metallic, it is preferable that the materials forming the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 are ITO or IZO. The plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 are arranged to overlap the first wiring 116-1 (on the side opposite to the first substrate 111), and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 are arranged to overlap the second wiring 116-2 (on the side opposite to the first substrate 111). When the materials forming the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 are ITO or IZO, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 have high resistance to corrosion. By disposing a plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and a plurality of second transparent electrodes 182, which have high resistance to corrosion, on a first wiring 116-1, a second wiring 116-2, a first terminal 119-1, and a second terminal 119-2 formed of a metallic material (on the side opposite to the first substrate 111), corrosion of the first wiring 116-1, the second wiring 116-2, the first terminal 119-1, and the second terminal 119-2 can be suppressed.

[0099] Next, refer to Figure 6 The cross-sectional structure of a portion of the liquid crystal optical element 10 will be described.

[0100] The first transparent electrode 181-1a is sandwiched between two adjacent second transparent electrodes 182-1a and 182-2a. Along the z-axis, the first transparent electrode 181-1a overlaps with the end of the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a on the side of the third transparent electrode 183-2a, the space between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a, and the end of the third transparent electrode 183-2a on the side of the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a.

[0101] Along the z-axis, the space between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the second transparent electrode 182-1a overlaps with the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a. Along the z-axis, the space between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the second transparent electrode 182-2a overlaps with the third transparent electrode 183-2a.

[0102] Along the z-axis, the end of the second transparent electrode 182-1a on the side of the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a in the third transparent electrode 183-1a, the space between the third transparent electrode 183-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, and the end of the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a on the side of the third transparent electrode 183-1a overlap.

[0103] The second transparent electrode 182-2a is constructed in the same manner as the second transparent electrode 182-1a.

[0104] The third transparent electrode 183-2a is sandwiched between two adjacent fourth transparent electrodes 184-1a and 184-2a. The fourth transparent electrode 184-1a is sandwiched between two adjacent third transparent electrodes 183-1a and 183-2a.

[0105] The first liquid crystal unit 110a includes a plurality of first regions ZN1 and a plurality of second regions ZN2. The plurality of first regions ZN1 and the plurality of second regions ZN2 are arranged alternately along the x-axis direction.

[0106] The first region ZN1 is adjacent to the second region ZN2. Furthermore, the first region ZN1 includes a region along the z-axis where the space between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the second transparent electrode 182-1a overlaps with the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a. Further, the first region ZN1 includes a region along the z-axis where the space between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the second transparent electrode 182-2a overlaps with the third transparent electrode 183-2a. Width OV2 is the width along the z-axis where the ends of the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the third transparent electrode 184-1a overlap on the side of the third transparent electrode 183-2a. Width OV3 is the width along the z-axis where the ends of the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a overlap on the side of the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a.

[0107] The second region ZN2 includes, along the z-axis direction, a region overlapping the ends of the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the third transparent electrode 184-1a on the side of the third transparent electrode 183-2a, a region spatially overlapping between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a, and a region overlapping the ends of the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a on the side of the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a. Additionally, the second region ZN2 includes, along the z-axis direction, a region overlapping the ends of the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a on the side of the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a, a region spatially overlapping between the third transparent electrode 183-2a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a, and a region overlapping the ends of the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a on the side of the third transparent electrode 183-2a. Width OV4 is the width of the overlap between the ends of the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a of the third transparent electrode 183-2a along the z-axis direction. Width OV1 can be either the width of the overlap between the ends of the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-1a of the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a along the z-axis direction, or the width of the overlap between the ends of the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a of the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a along the z-axis direction.

[0108] The cell gap d can be the distance between the surfaces of the liquid crystal layer 160a and the first alignment film 114a, or it can be the distance between the first substrate 111a and the second substrate 121a. For example, the cell gap d of the lighting device 100 is the distance between the surfaces of the liquid crystal layer 160a and the first alignment film 114a.

[0109] <1-4. Control of light distribution by liquid crystal optical element 10>

[0110] Reference Figures 7-13 The light distribution using the liquid crystal optical element 10 will be explained. Figure 7 Corresponding to along Figure 1 The cross-sectional structure of the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b along line A1-A2 is shown. Figure 8 and Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view showing the orientation of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer of a liquid crystal cell. Figure 9 and Figure 11 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the different regions in a liquid crystal cell and the phase difference. Figure 12 It is a timing diagram showing the voltage supplied to each terminal included in the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 13This is a simplified diagram illustrating the direction of light distribution in the lighting device 100. Adjustments can be made as needed. Figures 1-6 Explain the same or similar composition.

[0111] In the first liquid crystal cell 110a, the first alignment film 114a is aligned in the x-axis direction and in a direction away from the terminal portion 12 (see reference). Figure 4 The second alignment film 124a is oriented in the x-axis direction and in the direction close to the terminal portion 12 (see reference). Figure 5 Therefore, the long axes of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side and the long axes of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 121a side are aligned in the x-axis direction. The liquid crystal molecules of the first alignment film 114b, the second alignment film 124b, and the liquid crystal layer 160b of the second liquid crystal cell 110b are configured in the same way as those of the first liquid crystal cell 110a.

[0112] First, refer to Figure 7 The liquid crystal optical element 10 in a state where no potential is supplied to each transparent electrode of the first liquid crystal cell 110a and the second liquid crystal cell 110b will be described. Figure 7 A liquid crystal optical element 10 indicating a state in which no potential is supplied to the first transparent electrodes 181-1a and 181-1b, the second transparent electrodes 182-1a, 182-2a, 182-1b and 182-2b, the third transparent electrodes 183-1a, 183-2a, 183-1b and 183-2b, and the fourth transparent electrodes 184-1a, 184-2a, 184-1b and 184-2b. Figure 7 In the original text, adhesive layers 130a and 130b are omitted.

[0113] like Figure 7 As shown, the light emitted from the light source has a polarization component along the x-axis (P-polarization component) and a polarization component along the y-axis (S-polarization component). For convenience, the light will be described using P-polarization and S-polarization components. The light emitted from the light source (refer to...) Figure 7 (1) includes a first polarized light 61 with a P polarization component and a second polarized light 62 with an S polarization component. Figure 7 The arrow symbol and the symbol with a cross inside the circle represent the P-polarization component and the S-polarization component, respectively. The arrow indicates parallelism to the x-axis, and the symbol with a cross inside the circle indicates parallelism to the y-axis. The light emitted from the light source is the light incident on the liquid crystal optical element 10 (incident light 180°).

[0114] After the first polarized light 61 is incident on the first substrate 111a, it maintains the P polarization component and is emitted from the side of the second substrate 121a (see reference). Figure 7(2) and (3) in the text). Furthermore, after the first polarized light 61 is incident on the wavelength plate 140, as it moves toward the second liquid crystal cell 110b, it changes from a P-polarized component to an S-polarized component based on λ / 2, which is the phase difference of the wavelength plate 140 (see reference). Figure 7 (5)). Furthermore, after the first polarized light 61 is incident on the first substrate 111b, it maintains the S polarization component and is emitted from the second substrate 121a side (see reference). Figure 7 (6) to (8) in the middle.

[0115] After the second polarized light 62 is incident on the first substrate 111a, it maintains the S polarization component and is emitted from the side of the second substrate 121a (see reference). Figure 7 (2) and (3) in the text). Furthermore, after the second polarized light 62 is incident on the wavelength plate 140, as it moves toward the second liquid crystal cell 110b, it changes from an S-polarization component to a P-polarization component based on λ / 2, which is the phase difference of the wavelength plate 140 (see reference). Figure 7 (5)). Furthermore, after the second polarized light 62 is incident on the first substrate 111b, it maintains the P polarization component and is emitted from the second substrate 121a side (see reference). Figure 7 (5) to (8) in the middle.

[0116] The liquid crystal optical element 10 has a structure obtained by stacking two liquid crystal units (first liquid crystal unit 110a and second liquid crystal unit 110b) having the same structure, causing the polarization component of the light incident on the liquid crystal optical element 10 to change once. As a result, the liquid crystal optical element 10 can change the polarization component before and after incident (refer to...). Figure 7 (1) to (8)). That is, in the liquid crystal optical element 10, the polarization component of the incident light 180 and the polarization component of the outgoing light can be rotated by 90 degrees.

[0117] Next, refer to Figures 8-13 The liquid crystal optical element 10, which supplies potential to each transparent electrode of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, will be described. It should be noted that the structure and function of the second liquid crystal cell 110b are the same as those of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and therefore will be described as needed.

[0118] When different control signals (potentials) are supplied from the control device 40 to adjacent first transparent electrodes 181 and second transparent electrodes 182, a potential difference is generated between adjacent first transparent electrodes 181 and second transparent electrodes 182. As a result, an electric field (first electric field) is generated between adjacent first transparent electrodes 181 and second transparent electrodes 182. Similarly, when different control signals (potentials) are supplied from the control device 40 to adjacent third transparent electrodes 183 and fourth transparent electrodes 184, and a potential difference is generated between adjacent third transparent electrodes 183 and fourth transparent electrodes 184, an electric field (second electric field) is generated between adjacent third transparent electrodes 183 and fourth transparent electrodes 184. For example, the first electric field and the second electric field are referred to as transverse electric fields.

[0119] Furthermore, a potential difference is generated between the opposing first transparent electrode 181 and the third transparent electrode 183, and between the opposing second transparent electrode 182 and the fourth transparent electrode 184. As a result, electric fields (a third electric field and a fourth electric field) are generated between the opposing first transparent electrode 181 and the third transparent electrode 183, and between the opposing second transparent electrode 182 and the fourth transparent electrode 184. It should be noted that no potential difference is generated between the opposing first transparent electrode 181 and the fourth transparent electrode 184, and between the opposing second transparent electrode 182 and the third transparent electrode 183, because the same control signal (potential) is supplied.

[0120] For example, such as Figure 8 and Figure 12 As shown, a low potential VL is supplied to the second transparent electrode 182-1a, the second transparent electrode 182-2a, the third transparent electrode 183-1a, and the third transparent electrode 183-2a, while a high potential VH is supplied to the first transparent electrode 181-1a, the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, and the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a. As a result, a potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the first transparent electrode 181-1a, creating a transverse electric field. A similar potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between other adjacent electrodes, also creating a transverse electric field. For example, the high potential VH is greater than the low potential VL; the high potential VH is the potential after reversing the polarity of the low potential VL. Furthermore, the mid-potential VM is a reference potential, which can be ground potential or 0V. For example, the absolute value of the potential difference between the high potential VH and the mid-potential VM is the same as the absolute value of the potential difference between the low potential VL and the mid-potential VM.

[0121] Furthermore, a potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a, and between the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a, thus generating an electric field. It should be noted that no potential difference or electric field is generated between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, or between the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a.

[0122] When an electric field is generated, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160a affected by the electric field changes.

[0123] First, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the first region ZN1 will be explained. The long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side is oriented in a convex arc shape in the x-axis direction based on the lateral electric field between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the first transparent electrode 181-1a. Furthermore, as moving from the first substrate 111a toward the second substrate 121a, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is oriented obliquely from the x-axis direction toward the z-axis direction based on the electric field between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a. It should be noted that there are also cases where the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is oriented obliquely from the x-axis direction toward the z-axis direction due to the influence of the lateral electric field between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a.

[0124] Furthermore, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side is oriented in a convex arc shape in the x-axis direction based on the lateral electric field between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the first transparent electrode 181-1a. Moreover, as moving from the first substrate 111a towards the second substrate 121a, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is oriented obliquely from the x-axis direction to the z-axis direction based on the electric field between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a. It should be noted that there are also cases where the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is oriented obliquely from the x-axis direction to the z-axis direction due to the influence of the lateral electric field between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a.

[0125] As a result, for example, the first polarized light 61 incident on the first region ZN1 travels from the second transparent electrode 182-1a toward the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, with a controlled angle θ bending. The first polarized light 61 incident on the first region ZN1 travels from the first transparent electrode 181-1a toward the third transparent electrode 183-2a, with a controlled angle θ bending. For example, the controlled angle θ is the angle between the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules and the incident surface 63 during cross-sectional observation.

[0126] Next, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the second region ZN2 will be explained. For example, since no electric field is generated between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is aligned parallel to the x-axis. In reality, there are also cases where the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is tilted from the x-axis direction to the z-axis direction due to the influence of the transverse electric fields between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the first transparent electrode 181-1a, and between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a. Furthermore, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is aligned along the z-axis direction based on the electric field between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a. It should be noted that there are also cases where the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is tilted from the z-axis direction to the x-axis direction due to the influence of the transverse electric field between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a. As a result, for example, the first polarized light 61 incident on the second region ZN2 travels in a roughly straight line from the second transparent electrode 182-1a toward the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, but there are also cases where it is tilted from the z-axis direction toward the x-axis direction.

[0127] Furthermore, for example, since no electric field is generated between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is aligned parallel to the x-axis. In reality, there are also cases where the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is tilted from the x-axis direction to the z-axis direction due to the influence of the transverse electric fields between the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the first transparent electrode 181-1a, and between the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a. Additionally, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is aligned along the z-axis direction based on the electric field between the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a. It should be noted that there are also cases where the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is tilted from the z-axis direction to the x-axis direction due to the influence of the transverse electric field between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a. As a result, for example, the first polarized light 61 incident on the second region ZN2 travels in a roughly straight line from the second transparent electrode 182-2a toward the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a, but there are also cases where it is tilted from the z-axis direction toward the x-axis direction.

[0128] Figure 8 The orientation of the liquid crystal in each region shown can be used as a representation of the relationship between each region and the phase difference, such as... Figure 9 As shown. In this specification and accompanying drawings, the phase difference is represented by the element gap d, and the coefficient Δn is expressed as the product of the element gap d and the coefficient Δn, i.e., Δnd. Furthermore, the control angle θ can be adjusted according to the potential supplied to each electrode. For example, Figure 8 and Figure 9 The control angle θ is smaller than 90 degrees.

[0129] like Figure 9 As shown, the phase difference of light incident on the first region ZN1 gradually increases as it moves from the first substrate 111a side towards the second substrate 121a side. This increased phase difference means the light exits from the first substrate 111a side towards the second substrate 121a side. That is, the light incident on the first region ZN1 bends as it moves from the first substrate 111a side towards the second substrate 121a side and exits from the second substrate 121a. Conversely, the phase difference of light incident on the second region ZN2 decreases slightly as it moves from the first substrate 111a side towards the second substrate 121a side. This decreased phase difference means the light moves from the second substrate 121a side towards the first substrate 111a side and does not exit from the second substrate 121a. That is, the light incident on the second region ZN2 does not exit from the second substrate 121a.

[0130] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, by supplying a high potential VH or a low potential VL to each electrode of the illumination device 100, the illumination device 100 can make the light incident on the incident surface 63 of the first liquid crystal cell 110a (for example, incident light 180 (refer to...)) so that the light is... Figure 1 To control the bending angle θ and emit the liquid crystal from the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Additionally, as... Figure 13 As schematically shown, the bent light emitted from the first liquid crystal cell 110a passes through the wavelength plate 140 and the second liquid crystal cell 110b and exits from the second liquid crystal cell 110b. The first polarized light 61, incident on the incident surface 63 of the first liquid crystal cell 110a, bends and, after the wavelength plate 140 is rotated 90 degrees, passes through the second liquid crystal cell 110b and exits from the liquid crystal optical element 10. The second polarized light 62, having rotated 90 degrees relative to the first polarized light 61, passes through the first liquid crystal cell 110a, and after the wavelength plate 140 is rotated 90 degrees, bends in the second liquid crystal cell 110b in the same way as the first polarized light 61 and exits from the liquid crystal optical element 10. It should be noted that... Figure 13 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the lighting device 100. In reality, the first polarized light 61 and the second polarized light 62 are rotated 90 degrees.

[0131] For example, with a cell gap d of 30 μm, a first electrode distance p1 of 35 μm, and Δn of 0.2, and with a high potential VH and a low potential VL set, the control angle θ is 10 degrees. That is, under these conditions, the illumination device 100 can bend light incident on the incident surface 63 of the first liquid crystal cell 110a at a 10-degree angle and emit it from the first liquid crystal cell 110a. Furthermore, the illumination device 100 can cause the light emitted from the first liquid crystal cell 110a, bent at a 10-degree angle, to pass through the second liquid crystal cell 110b and be emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10 (second liquid crystal cell 110b) after the wavelength plate 140 rotates 90 degrees. Additionally, the illumination device 100 can cause light incident on the incident surface 63 of the first liquid crystal cell 110a to pass through the first liquid crystal cell 110a and be emitted from it. Furthermore, the illumination device 100 enables the light emitted from the first liquid crystal cell 110a to bend at an angle of 10 degrees in the second liquid crystal cell 110b after the wavelength plate 140 is rotated 90 degrees, and then emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10 (second liquid crystal cell 110b).

[0132] Additionally, for example, such as Figure 10 and Figure 12 As shown, a high potential VH (+) is supplied to the second transparent electrode 182-1a, the second transparent electrode 182-2a, the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, and the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a, while a low potential VL (-) is supplied to the first transparent electrode 181-1a, the third transparent electrode 183-1a, and the third transparent electrode 183-2a. As a result, a potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the first transparent electrode 181-1a, generating a transverse electric field. A similar potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between the other adjacent electrodes, also generating a transverse electric field.

[0133] Furthermore, a potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a, and between the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-2a, thus generating an electric field. It should be noted that no potential difference or electric field is generated between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-1a, between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, and between the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a.

[0134] When an electric field is generated, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 160a affected by the electric field changes.

[0135] Figure 10 The configuration shown is relative to Figure 8The configuration shown reverses the polarity of the potentials supplied to the second transparent electrode 182-1a, the second transparent electrode 182-2a, and the first transparent electrode 181-1a. Therefore, Figure 10 The orientation of liquid crystal molecules in each region shown is the same as... Figure 8 The orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in the regions shown is symmetrical along the z-axis. Below, regarding... Figure 10 An example of the orientation of liquid crystal molecules in the various regions shown is illustrated, but not described below. Figure 10 The orientation of liquid crystal molecules in each region shown is the same as... Figure 8 The orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in each region shown is symmetrical along the z-axis.

[0136] For example, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the first region ZN1 will be explained. The long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 111a side is oriented in a convex arc shape in the x-axis direction based on the lateral electric field between the second transparent electrode 182-1a and the first transparent electrode 181-1a. Furthermore, as moving from the first substrate 111a toward the second substrate 121a, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is oriented obliquely from the x-axis direction toward the z-axis direction based on the electric field between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a. It should be noted that there are also cases where the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is oriented obliquely from the x-axis direction toward the z-axis direction due to the influence of the lateral electric field between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-1a.

[0137] As a result, for example, the first polarized light 61 incident on the first region ZN1 bends from the first transparent electrode 181-1a toward the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a at a controlled angle θ. Additionally, the first polarized light 61 incident on the first region ZN1 bends from the second transparent electrode 182-3a toward the third transparent electrode 183-2a at a controlled angle θ.

[0138] For example, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules in the second region ZN2 will be explained. Since no electric field is generated between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is aligned parallel to the x-axis. However, there are also cases where the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is tilted from the x-axis direction to the z-axis direction due to the influence of the transverse electric fields between the second transparent electrode 182-2a and the first transparent electrode 181-1a, and between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a. Furthermore, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is aligned along the z-axis direction based on the electric field between the first transparent electrode 181-1a and the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a. It should be noted that there are also cases where the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules is tilted from the z-axis direction to the x-axis direction due to the influence of the transverse electric field between the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-2a. As a result, for example, the first polarized light 61 incident on the second region ZN2 travels approximately in a straight line from the first transparent electrode 181-1a toward the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a, but there is also a case where it is tilted from the z-axis direction toward the x-axis direction. Furthermore, for example, the materials forming the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182 may not be transparent materials, but rather opaque materials, such as metallic materials like aluminum or molybdenum. In this case, the first polarized light 61 incident on the second region ZN2 travels approximately in a straight line from the first transparent electrode 181-1a side toward the fourth transparent electrode 184-1a side, thus only curved light is emitted.

[0139] Figure 10 The orientation of the liquid crystal in each region shown can be used as a representation of the relationship between each region and the phase difference, such as... Figure 11 As shown. In Figure 10 The orientation of liquid crystal molecules in each region shown is the same as that in... Figure 8 The orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in the regions shown is symmetrical along the z-axis. Therefore, Figure 11 The relationship between the regions shown and the phase difference is relative to Figure 9 The relationship between the regions and the phase difference shown in the diagram has an inverted slope on the straight line. That is, in Figure 9 In the first region ZN1 shown, the phase difference increases as the distance from the first region ZN1 to the second region ZN2 increases. Conversely, in Figure 11 In the first region ZN1 shown, the phase difference increases as the second region ZN2 gets closer to the first region ZN1. Figure 11 The phase difference of the second region shown is Figure 11 The phase difference of the first region ZN1 shown is similarly, relative to Figure 9 The phase difference in the second region shown indicates that the slope of the straight line is reversed.

[0140] Right now, Figure 10 and Figure 11 The configuration shown is to make the light direction and Figure 8 and Figure 9 The configuration shown is a configuration that bends in opposite directions along the x-axis. For example, Figure 8 The control angle θ in the configuration shown is less than 90 degrees, but Figure 10 The control angle θ in the configuration shown is greater than 90 degrees. For example, Figure 10 The lighting device 100 shown is constructed by using Figure 8 The lighting device 100 shown can bend light to the left under conditions that cause light to bend to the right.

[0141] As explained above, the illumination device 100 can cause light bent at a control angle θ to be emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10. Furthermore, by supplying potentials to the electrodes included in the liquid crystal optical element 10, the illumination device 100 can cause light bent at a control angle θ corresponding to the supplied potentials to be emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 10. Therefore, the illumination device 100 can use the liquid crystal optical element 10 to adjust the light distribution direction and light distribution angle, and can illuminate light having various adjusted light distribution directions and angles.

[0142] <1-5. Composition of Light Source 30>

[0143] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a simplified diagram representing light source 30. For example, as shown... Figure 14 As shown, the light source 30 may include a light-emitting element 31 and a reflector 32, such as... Figure 15 As shown, the light source 30 may also include a light-emitting element 31 and a convex lens 33. It should be noted that the configuration and function of the light source are not limited to those of the light source 30. For example, the light source 30 may also be configured to distribute light at a narrow angle.

[0144] For example, the light-emitting element 31 is an LED. The reflector 32 is able to reflect the light emitted from the light-emitting element 31 and emit the reflected light toward the liquid crystal optical element 10. Figure 15 The reflector 32 shown is approximately conical in shape, but its shape is not limited to approximately conical. Furthermore, the surface of the reflector 32 can be either flat or curved. The convex lens 33 can focus the light emitted from the light-emitting element 31 and direct the focused light towards the liquid crystal optical element 10.

[0145] <Second Implementation>

[0146] Reference Figures 16-25 The general structure of the lighting device 200 according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 16This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the lighting device 200. Compared to the lighting device 100, the lighting device 200 does not include the wavelength plate 140, and the configurations of the electrodes on the first substrate and the electrodes on the second substrate are different. The other configurations of the lighting device 200 are the same as those of the lighting device 100. Therefore, the configurations identical to those of the lighting device 100 will be described as needed. Furthermore, the configurations identical to those of the lighting device 100 will be described as needed. Figures 1 to 15 Explain the same or similar composition.

[0147] <2-1. Composition of the lighting device 200>

[0148] Reference Figure 16 The general structure of the lighting device 200 will be described below. Figure 16 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the lighting device 200.

[0149] like Figure 16 As shown, the lighting device 200 includes a liquid crystal optical element 20, a light source 30, and a control device 40. The liquid crystal optical element 20 includes a first liquid crystal unit 210a, an adhesive layer 230a, and a second liquid crystal unit 210b, as detailed later. The adhesive layer 230a is disposed between the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b. The first liquid crystal unit 210a, the adhesive layer 230a, and the second liquid crystal unit 210b are stacked along the z-axis in a manner that they are sequentially positioned starting from the side closest to the light source.

[0150] The first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b have the same basic structure and function. Therefore, without distinguishing between the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b, the liquid crystal unit will be described as liquid crystal unit 210, and with distinction between the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b, the liquid crystal unit will be described as the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b.

[0151] The adhesive layer 230a bonds and fixes the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b. The material forming the adhesive layer 230a can be the same as the material of the adhesive layer 130a.

[0152] The light source 30 and the control device 40 have the same configuration as the lighting device 100. The control device 40 controls the liquid crystal optical element 20 and the light source 30. Specifically, the control device 40 can supply control signals (potentials) to the first liquid crystal cell 210a and the second liquid crystal cell 210b of the liquid crystal optical element 20 to control the light distribution direction and orientation angle, and can supply control signals (potentials) to control the lighting and brightness of the light source 30.

[0153] The liquid crystal optical element 20 and the light source 30 are electrically connected to the control device 40. For example, the control device 40 is electrically connected to the liquid crystal optical element 20 and the second liquid crystal cell 210b. The control device 40 is electrically connected via a first flexible wiring substrate 11a electrically connected to the terminal portion 22a of the first liquid crystal cell 210a and a second flexible wiring substrate 11b electrically connected to the terminal portion 22b of the second liquid crystal cell 210b.

[0154] Light emitted from the light source 30 to the liquid crystal optical element 20 passes through the first liquid crystal cell 210a, the adhesive layer 230a, and the second liquid crystal cell 210b, and is emitted from the second liquid crystal cell 210b. For example, the light passing through the liquid crystal optical element 20 is refracted in the x-axis or y-axis direction based on the configuration of each electrode included in the liquid crystal cell 210 and the voltage supplied to each electrode from the control device 40, as detailed later. That is, the illumination device 200 can use the liquid crystal optical element 20 to adjust the light distribution direction and the light distribution angle, and can illuminate light with various adjusted light distribution directions and angles.

[0155] <2-2. Composition of Liquid Crystal Optical Element 20>

[0156] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 18 The general structure of the liquid crystal optical element 20 will be described below. Figure 17 and Figure 18 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element 20. Specifically, Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 The schematic cross-sectional view within the zx plane after being cut along line C1-C2 is shown. Figure 18 It is along Figure 16 A schematic cross-sectional view of the yz plane after being cut along line D1-D2. Additionally, further details can be added as needed. Figure 16 The same or similar configurations will be described. In the following description, the configuration and function of the first liquid crystal unit 210a will be described, and the configuration and function of the second liquid crystal unit 210b will be described as needed.

[0157] The first liquid crystal unit 210a includes a first substrate 211a, a second substrate 221a, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 (e.g., first transparent electrode 281-1a, first transparent electrode 281-2a), a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 (e.g., second transparent electrode 282-1a, second transparent electrode 282-2a, second transparent electrode 282-3a), a plurality of third electrodes 283 (e.g., third electrode 283-1a, third electrode 283-2a, third electrode 283-3a), a fourth transparent electrode 284, a first alignment film 214a, a second alignment film 224a, and a liquid crystal layer 260a.

[0158] The structures of the first substrate 211a, the second substrate 221a, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, the first alignment film 214a, the second alignment film 224a, and the liquid crystal layer 260a are the same as those of the first substrate 111a, the second substrate 121a, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182, the first alignment film 114a, the second alignment film 124a, and the liquid crystal layer 160a. Therefore, the structures of the first substrate 211a, the second substrate 221a, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, the first alignment film 214a, the second alignment film 224a, and the liquid crystal layer 260a will be described as needed.

[0159] A plurality of third electrodes 283 are disposed on the second substrate 221a. The plurality of third electrodes 283 function as a light-shielding film. A fourth transparent electrode 284 is disposed in contact with the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the second substrate 221a in such a way that it covers the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the second substrate 221a. A first transparent electrode 281 and a second transparent electrode 282 on the first substrate 211a are disposed opposite to the third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284 on the second substrate 221a.

[0160] It should be noted that, similar to the lighting device 100, the first substrate 211a and the second substrate 221a of the lighting device 200 are bonded together using a sealing material (not shown), and the liquid crystal layer 260a containing liquid crystal of the lighting device 200 is disposed in the space surrounded by the first alignment film 214a, the second alignment film 224a and the sealing material.

[0161] Multiple first transparent electrodes 281, multiple second transparent electrodes 282, and multiple third electrodes 283 each extend in the y-axis direction. The multiple third electrodes 283 are arranged at intervals along the x-axis direction.

[0162] Similar to the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, and the plurality of third electrodes 283, the fourth transparent electrode 284 functions as an electrode for forming an electric field in the liquid crystal layer 260a. The plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, and the fourth transparent electrode 284 are, for example, made of transparent conductive materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO).

[0163] The first alignment film 214a is endowed with alignment characteristics such that the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 211a side of the first liquid crystal cell 210a is orthogonal to the extending directions of the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282. For example, by making the directions of the long axes of the first transparent electrodes 281 and the second transparent electrodes 282 orthogonal to the x-axis direction of the alignment process, the direction of the alignment process is consistent with the direction of the electric field when a potential difference is generated between the first transparent electrodes 281 and the second transparent electrodes 282. As a result, the light extraction efficiency of the liquid crystal optical element 10 is good.

[0164] In addition, the second alignment film 224a is given alignment characteristics, such that the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 221a side of the first liquid crystal cell 210a is parallel to the extension direction of the plurality of third electrodes 283.

[0165] exist Figure 17 and Figure 18 For convenience, arrows and symbols with crosses inside circles are used to indicate the orientation direction of liquid crystal molecules within liquid crystal layer 260a. Arrows indicate the orientation direction of liquid crystal molecules aligned in a direction parallel to the paper surface, while symbols with crosses inside circles indicate the orientation direction of liquid crystal molecules aligned in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface. For example, the orientation direction of liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 211a side is the x-axis direction, and the orientation direction of liquid crystal molecules on the second substrate 221a side is the y-axis direction.

[0166] like Figure 17 As shown, the liquid crystal molecules in the cross-sectional structure of the liquid crystal optical element 20 along the x-axis direction change their orientation from the x-axis direction to the y-axis direction as they move from the first substrate 211a side to the second substrate 221a side, and are oriented in a 90-degree twist.

[0167] like Figure 18 As shown, in the cross-sectional structure of the liquid crystal optical element 20 along the x-axis, the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules changes from the y-axis to the x-axis as they move from the first substrate 211a side towards the second substrate 221a side, aligning in a 90-degree twist. It should be noted that... Figure 17 and Figure 18 This is the state of the liquid crystal optical element 20 in which no potential is supplied to each transparent electrode of the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b.

[0168] The second liquid crystal unit 210b includes a first substrate 211b, a second substrate 221b, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 (e.g., first transparent electrode 281-1b, first transparent electrode 281-2b), a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 (e.g., second transparent electrode 282-1b, second transparent electrode 282-2b, second transparent electrode 282-3b), a plurality of third electrodes 283 (e.g., third electrode 283-1b, third electrode 283-2b, third electrode 283-3b), a fourth transparent electrode 284, a first alignment film 214b, a second alignment film 224b, and a liquid crystal layer 260b. The first substrate 211b, the second substrate 221b, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, the plurality of third electrodes 283, the fourth transparent electrode 284, the first alignment film 214b, the second alignment film 224b, and the liquid crystal layer 260b each have the same structure and function as the first substrate 211a, the second substrate 221a, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, the plurality of third electrodes 283, the fourth transparent electrode 284, the first alignment film 214a, the second alignment film 224a, and the liquid crystal layer 260a. Therefore, the description of the second liquid crystal unit 210b is omitted here.

[0169] When viewed from above, the first transparent electrodes 281 disposed on the first liquid crystal cell 210a and the second liquid crystal cell 210b overlap in their extending directions (y-axis direction). Similarly, the transparent electrodes with the same name disposed on the first liquid crystal cell 210a and the second liquid crystal cell 210b also overlap in their extending directions (y-axis direction). That is, the illumination device 200 includes a configuration of overlapping liquid crystal cells (first liquid crystal cell 210a and second liquid crystal cell 210b) of the same structure. It should be noted that, as... Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the lower substrate (the substrate on the light source side) of the pair of upper and lower substrates constituting the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b is the first substrate 211a and the first substrate 211b.

[0170] As described in “1-1. Configuration of Lighting Device 200”, the first liquid crystal cell 210a and the second liquid crystal cell 210b have the same basic configuration and function. Therefore, the first substrate 211a and 211b, the second substrate 221a and 221b, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, the plurality of third electrodes 283, the fourth transparent electrode 284, the first alignment film 214a and 214b, the second alignment film 224a and 224b, and the liquid crystal layer 260a and 260b are each described using their respective names when they are distinguished. When the constituent elements of the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b are not distinguished, each constituent element of the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b shall be described as a first substrate 211, a second substrate 221, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, a plurality of third electrodes 283, a plurality of fourth transparent electrodes 284, a first alignment film 214, a second alignment film 224, and a liquid crystal layer 260.

[0171] <2-3. Configuration of transparent electrodes>

[0172] Reference Figure 16 , Figures 19-21 The general outline of each electrode of the liquid crystal optical element 20 will be described. Figure 19 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of a plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 and a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 on the first substrate 211 of the liquid crystal optical element 20. Figure 20 This is a schematic top view showing the arrangement of a plurality of third electrodes 283 and fourth transparent electrodes 284 on the second substrate 221 of the liquid crystal optical element 20. Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element 20. It should be noted that... Figure 21 Corresponding to along Figure 16 The cross-sectional structure of the first liquid crystal cell 210a along line C1-C2 is shown. Further adjustments can be made as needed. Figures 16-18 Explain the same or similar composition.

[0173] The cross-sectional structure of the first liquid crystal unit 210a is the same as that of the second liquid crystal unit 210b. The cross-sectional structure of the first liquid crystal unit 210a will be described here, and the cross-sectional structure of the second liquid crystal unit 210b will be described as needed.

[0174] First, refer to Figure 16 , Figure 19 as well as Figure 20 A summary of the electrodes of the liquid crystal optical element 20 as viewed from above is provided. Figure 19As shown, when viewed from above, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, a first terminal 219-1, and a second terminal 219-2 are disposed on the first substrate 211. In addition, a fifth wiring 216-5, a sixth wiring 216-6, a plurality of first power supply terminals 218-1, a plurality of second power supply terminals 218-2, and a third terminal 219-3 are disposed on the first substrate 211.

[0175] Multiple first transparent electrodes 281 and multiple second transparent electrodes 282 are supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40, and have the functions of allowing light emitted from the light source 30 to pass through, making it difficult to pass through, diffusing it, and refracting it.

[0176] The plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 include a first transparent electrode 281-1. The plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 include a second transparent electrode 282-1 and a second transparent electrode 282-2. The long axis of each of the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 extends in the y-axis direction, and the first transparent electrodes 281 and the second transparent electrodes 282 are alternately arranged in the x-axis direction.

[0177] The width of the first transparent electrode 281 and the width (width in the x-axis direction) of the second transparent electrode 282 are a third width w3. The distance between the first transparent electrode 281 and the second transparent electrode 282 in the x-axis direction (electrode spacing) is a third electrode distance p3. In the lighting device 200, the third width w3 is different from the third electrode distance p3. The width of the first transparent electrode 281 and the width of the second transparent electrode 282 may also be different.

[0178] Furthermore, the cell gap d is smaller (narrower) than the distance p3 between the third electrodes. For example, the cell gap d of the illumination device 200 has the same configuration as that of the illumination device 100. For example, the cell gap d of the illumination device 200 is 30 μm. Because the cell gap d is smaller than the distance p3 between the third electrodes, the transverse electric field generated on the side of the first substrate 211a and the side of the second substrate 112a affects the liquid crystal molecules located near the center between the first substrate 211a and the second substrate 112a, and the illumination device 200 can bend the incident light 180.

[0179] Multiple first transparent electrodes 281 are electrically connected to a first wiring 216-1, which is electrically connected to a first terminal 219-1. The first wiring 216-1 can be formed under or on top of the multiple first transparent electrodes 281. Alternatively, the first wiring 216-1 can be formed on the same layer as the multiple first transparent electrodes 281. Multiple second transparent electrodes 282 are electrically connected to a second wiring 216-2, which is electrically connected to a second terminal 219-2. The second wiring 216-2 can be formed under or on top of the multiple second transparent electrodes 282. Alternatively, the second wiring 216-2 can be formed on the same layer as the multiple second transparent electrodes 282. For example, the multiple first transparent electrodes 281 and multiple second transparent electrodes 282 of the lighting device 200 are formed on the same layer as the first wiring 216-1 and the second wiring 216-2.

[0180] The fifth wiring 216-5 is electrically connected to multiple first power supply terminals 218-1, the sixth wiring 216-6, multiple second power supply terminals 218-2, and the third terminal 219-3.

[0181] The first alignment film 214 disposed on the first substrate 211 in the x-axis direction (in) Figure 19 The alignment process is performed in the direction indicated by the hollow arrow. In this case, the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules on the first substrate 211 side of the liquid crystal molecules constituting the liquid crystal layer 260 is aligned along the x-axis direction. That is, the alignment direction (x-axis direction) of the first alignment film 214 is orthogonal to the extension direction (y-axis direction) of the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282.

[0182] like Figure 20As shown, when viewed from above, a plurality of third electrodes 283, a fourth transparent electrode 284, a plurality of third power supply terminals 218-3, and a plurality of fourth power supply terminals 218-4 are disposed on the second substrate 221. The plurality of third electrodes 283, the plurality of third power supply terminals 218-3, and the plurality of fourth power supply terminals 218-4 can be formed between the second substrate 221 and the fourth transparent electrode 284, or they can be formed on the fourth transparent electrode 284 formed on the second substrate 221. For example, the plurality of third electrodes 283, the fourth transparent electrode 284, the plurality of third power supply terminals 218-3, and the plurality of fourth power supply terminals 218-4 are formed on the second substrate 221, between the second substrate 221 and the fourth transparent electrode 284. Furthermore, the plurality of third electrodes 283, the fourth transparent electrode 284, the plurality of third power supply terminals 218-3, and the plurality of fourth power supply terminals 218-4 are covered by the fourth transparent electrode 284 and are in contact with the fourth transparent electrode 284. Multiple third electrodes 283 and multiple third power supply terminals 218-3 are electrically connected to a fourth transparent electrode 284.

[0183] The multiple third electrodes 283 and fourth transparent electrodes 284, like the multiple first transparent electrodes 281 and multiple second transparent electrodes 282, are supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40, and have the functions of allowing light emitted from the light source 30 to pass through, making it difficult to pass through, diffusing it, and refracting it.

[0184] The plurality of third electrodes 283 include third electrode 283-1, third electrode 283-2, and third electrode 283-3. The major axis of each of the plurality of third electrodes 283 extends in the y-axis direction, and the third electrodes 283 are spaced apart along the x-axis direction. The width of each third electrode 283 is a fourth width w4. The distance between adjacent third electrodes 283 in the x-axis direction (electrode spacing) is a fourth electrode spacing p4. In the lighting device 200, the fourth width w4 is wider (thicker) than the third width w3, and the distance between the third electrodes p3 is narrower (thinner) than the distance between the fourth electrodes p4. The unit gap d is narrower than the fourth width w4.

[0185] In the liquid crystal cell 210, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 and a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 are positioned opposite to a plurality of third electrodes 283 and a fourth transparent electrode 284 across the liquid crystal layer 260a. Furthermore, the extending directions (y-axis direction) of the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 and the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 are parallel to the extending directions (y-axis direction) of the plurality of third electrodes 283.

[0186] When the first substrate 211 and the second substrate 221 are bonded, each of the plurality of first power supply terminals 218-1 is electrically connected to its corresponding third power supply terminal 218-3, and each of the plurality of second power supply terminals 218-2 is electrically connected to its corresponding fourth power supply terminal 218-4. As a result, the first wiring 216-1 and the sixth wiring 216-6 are electrically connected to the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284. For example, the first power supply terminals 218-1 and the third power supply terminals 218-3, and the second power supply terminals 218-2 and the fourth power supply terminals 218-4, can be electrically connected using silver paste or conductive particles. It should be noted that the conductive particles include particles coated with metal.

[0187] For example, such as Figure 16 , Figure 19 as well as Figure 20 As shown, the length of the second substrate 221 along the x-axis is shorter than the length of the first substrate 211 along the x-axis. The first terminal 219-1, the second terminal 219-2, and the third terminal 219-3 are disposed on the terminal portion 22 of the first substrate 211. As a result, when the first substrate 211 and the second substrate 221 are attached, the first terminal 219-1, the second terminal 219-2, and the third terminal 219-3 are exposed and not covered by the second substrate 221.

[0188] Therefore, in the first liquid crystal cell 210a, the terminal portion 22a can be easily attached to the first flexible wiring substrate 11a, and can be easily electrically connected. As a result, a plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 are connected from the control device 40 (see reference 1) via the first flexible wiring substrate 11a, the terminal portion 22a, the first terminal 219-1, and the first wiring 216-1. Figure 16 A control signal (potential) is supplied to the first liquid crystal cell 210a. Multiple second transparent electrodes 282 are supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40 via the first flexible wiring substrate 11a, terminal portion 22a, second terminal 219-2, and second wiring 216-2. Multiple third electrodes 283 and fourth transparent electrodes 284 are supplied with control signals (potentials) from the control device 40 via the first flexible wiring substrate 11a, terminal portion 22a, third terminal 219-3, fifth wiring 216-5, multiple first power supply terminals 218-1, sixth wiring 216-6, multiple second power supply terminals 218-2, multiple third power supply terminals 218-3, and multiple fourth power supply terminals 218-4. Similar to the first liquid crystal cell 210a, the terminal portion 22b of the second liquid crystal cell 210b can also be easily attached to the second flexible wiring substrate 11b, enabling easy electrical connection. Furthermore, similar to the first liquid crystal cell 210a, each electrode within the second liquid crystal cell 210b is also supplied with a control signal (potential) from the control device 40.

[0189] The materials used to form the first wiring 216-1, the second wiring 216-2, the fifth wiring 216-5, the sixth wiring 216-6, the plurality of first power supply terminals 218-1, the plurality of third power supply terminals 218-3, the plurality of second power supply terminals 218-2, the plurality of fourth power supply terminals 218-4, the first terminal 219-1, the second terminal 219-2, the third terminal 219-3, and the plurality of third electrodes 283 can be metallic materials. Examples of metallic materials include aluminum and molybdenum.

[0190] Next, refer to Figure 21 The cross-sectional structure of a portion of the liquid crystal optical element 20 will be described.

[0191] The first transparent electrode 281-1a is sandwiched between two adjacent second transparent electrodes 282-1a and 282-2a. Along the z-axis, the first transparent electrode 281-1a overlaps with the end of the third electrode 283-1a in the third electrode 283-2a, and the space between the third electrode 283-1a and the third electrode 283-2a.

[0192] Along the z-axis, the space between the first transparent electrode 281-1a and the second transparent electrode 282-1a overlaps with the space between the third electrode 283-1a and the third electrode 283-2a.

[0193] Along the z-axis, the ends of the second transparent electrode 282-1a and the third electrode 283-1a on the side of the third electrode 283-2a, as well as the space between the third electrode 283-1a and the third electrode 283-2a, overlap.

[0194] The first transparent electrode 281-2a is constructed in the same manner as the first transparent electrode 281-1a. The second transparent electrode 282-2a and the second transparent electrode 282-3a are constructed in the same manner as the second transparent electrode 282-1a.

[0195] The third electrode 283-2a is sandwiched between two adjacent third electrodes 283-1a and the third transparent electrode 183-3a. A fourth transparent electrode 284 is disposed between the third electrodes 283-1a and 283-2a, between the third electrodes 283-2a and 283-3a, on the upper surface of the third electrode 283-1a, on the upper surface of the third electrode 283-2a, and on the upper surface of the third electrode 283-3a.

[0196] The first liquid crystal unit 210a includes a plurality of first regions ZN1 and a plurality of second regions ZN2. The plurality of first regions ZN1 and the plurality of second regions ZN2 are arranged alternately along the x-axis direction.

[0197] The first region ZN1 is adjacent to the second region ZN2. Furthermore, the first region ZN1 includes, along the z-axis direction, a region where the space between the first transparent electrode 281-1a and the second transparent electrode 282-1a overlaps with the space between the third electrode 283-1a and the third electrode 283-2a; a region where the space between the third electrode 283-1a and the third electrode 283-2a overlaps with the end of the first transparent electrode 281-1a on the side of the second transparent electrode 282-1a; and a region where the space between the third electrode 283-1a and the third electrode 283-2a overlaps with the end of the second transparent electrode 282-1a on the side of the first transparent electrode 281-1a. That is, the first region ZN1 includes, along the z-axis direction, a region where the space between the first transparent electrode 281 and the second transparent electrode 282 overlaps with the space between adjacent third electrodes 283; a region where the space between adjacent third electrodes 283 overlaps with the end of the first transparent electrode 281; and a region where the space between adjacent third electrodes 283 overlaps with the end of the second transparent electrode 282.

[0198] The second region ZN2 includes the following regions along the z-axis: the region where the space between the first transparent electrode 281-1a and the second transparent electrode 282-2a overlaps with the opposing third electrode 283-2a; the region where the end of the first transparent electrode 281-1a on the second transparent electrode 282-2a side overlaps with the end of the opposing third electrode 283-2a on the third electrode 283-1a side; and the region where the end of the second transparent electrode 282-2a on the first transparent electrode 281-1a side overlaps with the end of the opposing third electrode 283-1a side. That is, the second region ZN2 includes the following regions along the z-axis: the region where the space between the first transparent electrode 281 and the second transparent electrode 282 overlaps with the opposing third electrode 283; the region where the end of the first transparent electrode 281 overlaps with the opposing third electrode 283; and the region where the end of the second transparent electrode 282 overlaps with the opposing third electrode 283.

[0199] The width OV5 is the width along the z-axis where the ends of the first transparent electrode 281-1a on the side of the second transparent electrode 282-2a overlap with the ends of the third electrode 283-2a on the side of the third electrode 283-1a. Additionally, the width OV5 is also the width along the z-axis where the ends of the first transparent electrode 281-2a on the side of the second transparent electrode 282-3a overlap with the ends of the third electrode 283-3a on the side of the third electrode 283-2a. In other words, the width OV5 is the width along the z-axis where the ends of the first transparent electrode 281 and the third electrode 283 overlap.

[0200] The width OV6 is the width along the z-axis where the ends of the second transparent electrode 282-2a on the side of the first transparent electrode 281-1a overlap with the ends of the third electrode 283-3a in the third electrode 283-2a. Additionally, the width OV6 is also the width along the z-axis where the ends of the second transparent electrode 282-3a overlap with the ends of the third electrode 283-3a. In other words, the width OV6 is the width where the ends of the second transparent electrode 282 and the third electrode 283 overlap.

[0201] The cell gap d can be the distance between the surfaces of the liquid crystal layer 260a and the first alignment film 214a, or it can be the distance between the first substrate 211a and the second substrate 221a. For example, the cell gap d of the lighting device 200 is the distance between the surfaces of the liquid crystal layer 260a and the first alignment film 214a.

[0202] <2-4. Control of light distribution by liquid crystal optical element 20>

[0203] Reference Figures 22-25 The light distribution using the liquid crystal optical element 20 will be explained. Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the light distribution using the liquid crystal optical element 20. Figure 23 It is a diagram showing the relationship between each region and the phase difference in the first liquid crystal cell 210a. Figure 24 and Figure 25 This is a timing diagram showing the voltage supplied to each terminal included in the liquid crystal optical element 20. Adjustments can be made as needed. Figures 1 to 21 Explain the same or similar composition.

[0204] Next, refer to Figures 22-25 The liquid crystal optical element 20, which supplies potential to each transparent electrode of the first liquid crystal cell 210a, will be described. It should be noted that the structure and function of the second liquid crystal cell 210b are the same as those of the first liquid crystal cell 210a, and therefore will be described as needed.

[0205] When different control signals (potentials) are supplied from the control device 40 to adjacent first transparent electrodes 281 and second transparent electrodes 282, a potential difference is generated between adjacent first transparent electrodes 281 and second transparent electrodes 282. As a result, an electric field (first electric field) is generated between adjacent first transparent electrodes 281 and second transparent electrodes 282. Multiple third electrodes 283 and fourth transparent electrodes 284 are supplied from the control device 40 with the same control signal (potential) as any one of the multiple first transparent electrodes 281 and multiple second transparent electrodes 282. For example, the first electric field is referred to as a transverse electric field.

[0206] At this time, a potential difference is generated between any one of the first transparent electrode 281 and the second transparent electrode 282, which is supplied with a control signal different from that of the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284, and the opposing plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284. As a result, an electric field (third electric field) is generated between any one of the first transparent electrode 281 and the second transparent electrode 282, which is supplied with a control signal different from that of the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284, and the opposing plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284. It should be noted that when any one of the first transparent electrode 281 and the second transparent electrode 282 is supplied with the same control signal as that of the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284, no potential difference is generated between them and the opposing plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284, since the same control signal (potential) is supplied.

[0207] For example, such as Figure 22 and Figure 24 As shown, a high potential VH (+) is supplied to a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 (second transparent electrode 282-1a, second transparent electrode 282-2a and second transparent electrode 282-3a), and a low potential VL (-) is supplied to a plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 (first transparent electrode 281-1a, first transparent electrode 281-2a), a plurality of third electrodes 283 (third electrode 283-1a to third electrode 283-3a) and a fourth transparent electrode 284.

[0208] As a result, a potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between the second transparent electrode 282 and the first transparent electrode 281, creating a transverse electric field. Additionally, a potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between the second transparent electrode 282 and the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284, creating an electric field. It should be noted that no potential difference is generated between the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 and the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284, and therefore no electric field is generated. When an electric field is generated, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules within the liquid crystal layer 260a, affected by the electric field, changes.

[0209] and Figure 22 The relationship between the corresponding regions and the phase difference in the sectional view shown is as follows: Figure 23 As shown. For example, Figure 22 and Figure 23 The control angle θ is smaller than 90 degrees.

[0210] like Figure 23 As shown, the phase difference of light incident on the first region ZN1 gradually increases as it moves from the first substrate 211a side towards the second substrate 221a side. That is, the light incident on the first region ZN1 bends as it moves from the first substrate 211a side towards the second substrate 221a side, undergoing optical rotation in the spaces between the third electrodes 283-1a and 283-2a, between the third electrodes 283-2a and 283-3a, and between the third electrode 283-3a and the adjacent third electrode, before exiting from the second substrate 221a. For example, based on... Figure 23 Light incident between the second transparent electrode 282-1a and the first transparent electrode 281-1a is bent (e.g., bent to the right) from the second transparent electrode 282-1a toward the third electrode 283-2a, and optical rotation occurs. Furthermore, the phase difference of light incident on the second region ZN2 gradually decreases as it moves from the first substrate 211a side toward the second substrate 221a side. The second region ZN2 includes a third electrode 283 on the second substrate 221a side. The third electrode 283 has a light-shielding function, therefore light incident on the second region ZN2 does not escape from the second substrate 221a.

[0211] like Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, by supplying a high potential VH or a low potential VL to each electrode of the illumination device 200, the illumination device 200 can make the light incident on the incident surface 63 of the first liquid crystal cell 210a (for example, incident light 180 (refer to...)) so that the light is... Figure 16 The light is bent at a control angle θ smaller than 90 degrees, and after optical rotation, it is emitted from the first liquid crystal cell 210a. The bent light emitted from the first liquid crystal cell 210a passes through the second liquid crystal cell 210b and is emitted from the second liquid crystal cell 210b. For example, the first polarized light 61 incident on the incident surface 63 of the first liquid crystal cell 210a is bent and optical rotation occurs, further optical rotation occurs in the second liquid crystal cell 210b, and it passes through and is emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 20. The second polarized light 62 is rotated 90 degrees relative to the first polarized light 61, therefore optical rotation occurs in the first liquid crystal cell 210a and it passes through, and in the second liquid crystal cell 210b, it is bent and optical rotation occurs in the same way as the first polarized light 61 and is emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 20.

[0212] Additionally, for example, such as Figure 25As shown, a low potential VL is supplied to a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 (second transparent electrode 282-1a, second transparent electrode 282-2a and second transparent electrode 282-3a), and a high potential VH is supplied to a plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 (first transparent electrode 281-1a, first transparent electrode 281-2a), a plurality of third electrodes 283 (third electrode 283-1a to third electrode 283-3a) and a fourth transparent electrode 284.

[0213] That is, a high potential VH is supplied to the second transparent electrode 282-1a, the second transparent electrode 282-2a, the third electrode 283-1a to the third electrode 283-3a and the fourth transparent electrode 284, and a low potential VL is supplied to the first transparent electrode 281-1a and the first transparent electrode 281-1b.

[0214] As a result, a potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between the second transparent electrode 282 and the first transparent electrode 281, creating a transverse electric field. Additionally, a potential difference (VH-VL) is generated between the second transparent electrode 282 and the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284, creating an electric field. It should be noted that no potential difference is generated between the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281 and the plurality of third electrodes 283 and the fourth transparent electrode 284, and therefore no electric field is generated. When an electric field is generated, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules within the liquid crystal layer 260a, affected by the electric field, changes.

[0215] use Figure 25 The timing diagram shown ensures that the control angle θ when the lighting device 200 operates is greater than 90 degrees. That is, the light incident on the first region ZN1 is as follows: Figure 23 As shown in the second region ZN2, the phase difference changes. That is, the light incident on the first region ZN1 bends from the first substrate 211a side toward the second substrate 221a side, and light rotation occurs in the space between the third electrode 283-1a and the third electrode 283-2a, the space between the third electrode 283-2a and the third electrode 283-3a, and the space between the third electrode 283-3a and the adjacent third electrode, and then exits from the second substrate 221a. For example, the light incident between the second transparent electrode 282-1a and the first transparent electrode 281-1a bends from the first transparent electrode 281-1a toward the third electrode 283-1a (e.g., bends to the left), and light rotation occurs. In addition, the light incident on the second region ZN2 is blocked by the third electrode 283, so the light incident on the second region ZN2 does not exit from the second substrate 221a.

[0216] By using Figure 25The timing diagram shown supplies a high potential VH or a low potential VL to each electrode of the illumination device 200, enabling the illumination device 200 to supply light incident on the incident surface 63 of the first liquid crystal cell 210a (e.g., incident light 180 (refer to...)). Figure 16 The light is bent at a control angle θ greater than 90 degrees and then emitted from the first liquid crystal cell 210a after undergoing light rotation. The bent light emitted from the first liquid crystal cell 210a passes through the second liquid crystal cell 210b and is emitted from the second liquid crystal cell 210b.

[0217] As explained above, similar to the lighting device 100, the lighting device 200 can emit light bent at a control angle θ corresponding to the supplied potential by supplying potential to each electrode included in the liquid crystal optical element 20. Therefore, the lighting device 200 can use the liquid crystal optical element 20 to adjust the light distribution direction and the light distribution angle, and can illuminate light with various adjusted light distribution directions and angles.

[0218] <Third Implementation Method>

[0219] Reference Figures 26-27 The general structure of the lighting device 200A according to the third embodiment will be described. Figure 26 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the lighting device 200A. Compared to the lighting device 200, the lighting device 200A has the same alignment treatment of the second alignment film 224a on the second substrate 221 as the lighting device 100. Furthermore, since the alignment treatment of the second alignment film 224a on the second substrate 221 of the lighting device 200A is the same as that of the lighting device 100, the lighting device 200A includes a wavelength plate 240 between the first liquid crystal cell 210e and the second liquid crystal cell 210f, similar to the lighting device 100. Other configurations of the lighting device 200A are the same as those of the lighting device 100 or the lighting device 200. Therefore, configurations identical to those of the lighting device 100 or the lighting device 200 will be described as needed. Additionally, configurations similar to those of the lighting device 100 or the lighting device 200 will be described as needed. Figures 1 to 25 Explain the same or similar composition.

[0220] Reference Figure 26 The general structure of the lighting device 200A will be described. Figure 26 This is a schematic three-dimensional diagram showing the configuration of the lighting device 200A.

[0221] like Figure 26As shown, the lighting device 200A includes a liquid crystal optical element 20A, a light source 30, and a control device 40. The liquid crystal optical element 20A includes a first liquid crystal cell 210e, an adhesive layer 230-1p, a wavelength plate 240, an adhesive layer 230-2p, and a second liquid crystal cell 210f. The adhesive layer 230-1p is disposed between the first liquid crystal cell 210e and the wavelength plate 240, and the adhesive layer 230-2p is disposed between the wavelength plate 240 and the second liquid crystal cell 210f. The first liquid crystal cell 210e, the adhesive layer 230-1p, the wavelength plate 240, the adhesive layer 230-2p, and the second liquid crystal cell 210f are stacked along the z-axis in a manner that sequentially positions them starting from the side closest to the light source.

[0222] The structure and function of wavelength plate 240 are the same as those of wavelength plate 140. The structure and function of adhesive layer 230-1p and adhesive layer 230-2p are the same as those of adhesive layer 130a. The structure and function of light source 30 and control device 40 are the same as those of lighting device 100 or lighting device 200.

[0223] The configuration and function of the first liquid crystal cell 230e and the second liquid crystal cell 230f are different from those of the first liquid crystal cell 210a and the second liquid crystal cell 210b, except that the orientation of the second alignment film 224 on the second substrate 221 is different. The orientation process of the second alignment film 224 on the second substrate 221 is the same as that of the second alignment film 224 on the second substrate 221 in the lighting device 100. Specifically, as... Figure 27 As shown, the second alignment film 224 is aligned in the x-axis direction and in the direction close to the terminal portion 22. The configuration and function of the second alignment film 224 in the first liquid crystal cell 230e and the second liquid crystal cell 230f, except for the orientation direction, are the same as those in the first liquid crystal cell 210a and the second liquid crystal cell 210b.

[0224] Therefore, by using the lighting device 200 Figure 24 and Figure 25 The timing diagram supplies a high potential VH or a low potential VL to each electrode of the lighting device 200A, enabling the lighting device 200A to allow light to enter the incident surface 63 (refer to) of the first liquid crystal cell 210e. Figure 22Light 61, which is incident on the incident surface 63 of the first liquid crystal cell 210e, bends and passes through the first liquid crystal cell 210e. After the wavelength plate 240 is rotated 90 degrees, it passes through the second liquid crystal cell 110f and exits from the liquid crystal optical element 20A (second liquid crystal cell 210f). For example, the first polarized light 61, which is incident on the incident surface 63 of the first liquid crystal cell 210e, bends and passes through the first liquid crystal cell 210e. After the wavelength plate 240 is rotated 90 degrees, it passes through the second liquid crystal cell 210f and exits from the liquid crystal optical element 20A. The second polarized light 62, which is rotated 90 degrees relative to the first polarized light 61, passes through the first liquid crystal cell 210e. After the wavelength plate 240 is rotated 90 degrees, it bends and passes through the second liquid crystal cell 210f in the same way as the first polarized light 61 and exits from the liquid crystal optical element 20A.

[0225] As explained above, the illumination device 200A, like the illumination device 100 and the illumination device 200, allows light to bend at a control angle θ corresponding to the supplied potential from the liquid crystal optical element 20A by supplying a potential to each electrode included in the liquid crystal optical element 20A. Therefore, the illumination device 200A can use the liquid crystal optical element 20A to adjust the light distribution direction and the light distribution angle, and can illuminate light with various adjusted light distribution directions and angles.

[0226] <Fourth Implementation>

[0227] Reference Figure 28 and Figure 29 The general structure of the lighting device 200B according to the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 28 This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the lighting device 200B. Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquid crystal optical element 20B. Compared to the illumination device 200, the illumination device 200B includes a configuration in which a liquid crystal optical element having the same structure and function as the liquid crystal optical element 20 is rotated 90 degrees along the z-axis and overlapped with the liquid crystal optical element 20. Other configurations of the illumination device 200B are the same as those of the illumination device 200. Therefore, configurations identical to those of the illumination device 200 will be described as needed. Furthermore, configurations identical to those of the illumination device 200 will be described as needed. Figures 1 to 27 Explain the same or similar composition.

[0228] First, refer to Figure 28 The general structure of the lighting device 200B will be described below.

[0229] like Figure 28As shown, the lighting device 200B includes a liquid crystal optical element 20B, a light source 30, and a control device 40. The liquid crystal optical element 20B includes a first liquid crystal unit 210a, an adhesive layer 230a, a second liquid crystal unit 210b, an adhesive layer 230b, a third liquid crystal unit 210c, an adhesive layer 230c, and a fourth liquid crystal unit 210d. The adhesive layer 230a is disposed between the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b, the adhesive layer 230b is disposed between the second liquid crystal unit 210b and the third liquid crystal unit 210c, and the adhesive layer 230c is disposed between the third liquid crystal unit 210c and the fourth liquid crystal unit 210d. The first liquid crystal unit 210a, the adhesive layer 230a, the second liquid crystal unit 210b, the adhesive layer 230b, the third liquid crystal unit 210c, the adhesive layer 230c, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 210d are stacked along the z-axis in a manner that sequentially positions them starting from the side closest to the light source.

[0230] The first liquid crystal unit 210a, the second liquid crystal unit 210b, the third liquid crystal unit 210c, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 210d have the same basic structure and function. The structure and function of the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b are the same as those of the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b of the lighting device 200, and therefore will be described as needed.

[0231] Adhesive layers 230a to 230c can use the same material as adhesive layer 130a.

[0232] The light source 30 and the control device 40 have the same configuration as the illumination device 100. The control device 40 controls the liquid crystal optical element 20B and the light source 30. Specifically, the control device 40 can supply control signals (potentials) to the first liquid crystal cell 210a to the fourth liquid crystal cell 210d of the liquid crystal optical element 20B to control the light distribution direction and orientation angle, and can supply control signals (potentials) to control the lighting and brightness of the light source 30.

[0233] The liquid crystal optical element 20B and the light source 30 are electrically connected to the control device 40. For example, the control device 40 is electrically connected via a third flexible wiring substrate 11c electrically connected to the terminal portion 22c of the first liquid crystal cell 210a, a second flexible wiring substrate 11b electrically connected to the terminal portion 22b of the second liquid crystal cell 210b, a third flexible wiring substrate 11c electrically connected to the terminal portion 22c of the third liquid crystal cell 210c, and a fourth flexible wiring substrate 11d electrically connected to the terminal portion 22d of the fourth liquid crystal cell 210d.

[0234] Light emitted from the light source 30 to the liquid crystal optical element 20B is emitted from the first liquid crystal cell 210a, the adhesive layer 230a, the second liquid crystal cell 210b, the adhesive layer 230b, the third liquid crystal cell 210c, the adhesive layer 230c, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 210d. For example, the light passing through the liquid crystal optical element 20B is refracted in the x-axis or y-axis direction based on the configuration of each electrode included in the liquid crystal cell 210 and the voltage supplied to each electrode from the control device 40. That is, the illumination device 200B can use the liquid crystal optical element 20B to adjust the light distribution direction and the light distribution angle, and can illuminate light with various adjusted light distribution directions and angles.

[0235] Next, refer to Figure 29 A general overview of the structure of the liquid crystal optical element 20B will be provided. Specifically, Figure 29 It is along Figure 28 A schematic cross-sectional view of the zx plane after being cut along line E1-E2.

[0236] The third liquid crystal unit 210c has the same structure and function as the first liquid crystal unit 210a, and the fourth liquid crystal unit 210d has the same structure and function as the second liquid crystal unit 210b. The illumination device 200B has a configuration in which liquid crystal optical elements (the third liquid crystal unit 210c and the fourth liquid crystal unit 210d, which have the same structure as the liquid crystal optical element 10) are rotated 90 degrees and stacked on top of the liquid crystal optical element 10 (the first liquid crystal unit 210a and the second liquid crystal unit 210b, which have the same structure) described in the illumination device 200.

[0237] The third liquid crystal unit 210c includes a first substrate 211c, a second substrate 221c, a plurality of first transparent electrodes (not shown), a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 (e.g., second transparent electrodes 282-1c), a plurality of third electrodes 283 (e.g., third electrodes 283-1c), a fourth transparent electrode 284c, a first alignment film 214c, a second alignment film 224c, and a liquid crystal layer 260c.

[0238] The fourth liquid crystal cell 210d includes a first substrate 211d, a second substrate 221d, a plurality of first transparent electrodes (not shown), a plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 (e.g., second transparent electrode 282-1d), a plurality of third electrodes 283 (e.g., third electrode 283-1d), a fourth transparent electrode 284d, a first alignment film 214d, a second alignment film 224d, and a liquid crystal layer 260d. The constituent elements of the fourth liquid crystal cell 210d are the same as those of the third liquid crystal cell 210c.

[0239] The structures of the first substrate 211c, the second substrate 221c, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 281, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282, the first alignment film 214c, the second alignment film 224c, and the liquid crystal layer 260c are the same as those of the first substrate 111a, the second substrate 121a, the plurality of first transparent electrodes 181, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 182, the first alignment film 114a, the second alignment film 124a, and the liquid crystal layer 160a. Therefore, detailed descriptions of the third liquid crystal cell 210c and the fourth liquid crystal cell 210d are omitted.

[0240] The extension directions of the plurality of first transparent electrodes, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 and the plurality of third electrodes 283 included in the third liquid crystal cell 210c and the fourth liquid crystal cell 210d are orthogonal to the extension directions of the plurality of first transparent electrodes, the plurality of second transparent electrodes 282 and the plurality of third electrodes 283 included in the first liquid crystal cell 210a and the second liquid crystal cell 210b.

[0241] Furthermore, the orientation direction (x-axis direction) of the first substrate 211 of the first liquid crystal cell 210a and the second liquid crystal cell 210b is orthogonal to the orientation direction (y-axis direction) of the first substrate 211 of the third liquid crystal cell 210c and the fourth liquid crystal cell 210d. Similarly, the orientation direction (y-axis direction) of the second substrate 221 of the first liquid crystal cell 210a and the second liquid crystal cell 210b is orthogonal to the orientation direction (x-axis direction) of the second substrate 221 of the third liquid crystal cell 210c and the fourth liquid crystal cell 210d.

[0242] As a result, for example, the first liquid crystal cell 210a can bend the first polarized light 61 parallel to the y-axis direction towards the x-axis direction and cause optical rotation; the second liquid crystal cell 210b can bend the second polarized light 62 parallel to the x-axis direction towards the x-axis direction and cause optical rotation; the third liquid crystal cell 210c can bend the first polarized light 61 parallel to the y-axis direction towards the y-axis direction and cause optical rotation; and the fourth liquid crystal cell 210d can bend the second polarized light 62 parallel to the x-axis direction towards the y-axis direction and cause optical rotation.

[0243] Therefore, the lighting device 200B is able to bend light along both the x-axis and y-axis.

[0244] Furthermore, similar to the lighting device 200, the lighting device 200B, by supplying a potential to each electrode included in the liquid crystal optical element 20B, enables light bent at a control angle θ corresponding to the supplied potential to be emitted from the liquid crystal optical element 20B. Therefore, the lighting device 200B can use the liquid crystal optical element 20B to adjust the light distribution direction and the light distribution angle, and can illuminate light with various adjusted light distribution directions and angles.

[0245] Various configurations of the liquid crystal optical element and illumination device illustrated as embodiments of the present invention can be appropriately combined as long as they do not contradict each other. Furthermore, various configurations of the liquid crystal optical element and illumination device illustrated as embodiments of the present invention can be appropriately substituted as long as they do not contradict each other. Solutions obtained by those skilled in the art based on the liquid crystal optical element and illumination device disclosed in this specification and drawings by appropriately adding, deleting, or modifying constituent elements, or by adding, omitting, or changing processes or conditions, are also included within the scope of the present invention, as long as they possess the spirit of the present invention.

[0246] Even if other effects are different from those of the technical solutions disclosed in this specification, as long as they are clearly defined according to the description in this specification or can be easily predicted by those skilled in the art, they can of course be understood as effects brought about by the present invention.

[0247] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0248] 10: Liquid crystal optical element, 11a: First flexible wiring substrate, 11b: Second flexible wiring substrate, 11c: Third flexible wiring substrate, 11d: Fourth flexible wiring substrate, 12: Terminal portion, 12a: Terminal portion, 12b: Terminal portion, 20: Liquid crystal optical element, 20A: Liquid crystal optical element, 20B: Liquid crystal optical element, 22: Terminal portion, 22a: Terminal portion, 22b: Terminal portion, 22c: Terminal portion, 22d: Terminal portion, 30: Light source, 31: Light-emitting element, 32: Reflector, 33: Convex lens, 40: Control device, 61: First polarized light, 62: Second polarized light, 63: Incident surface, 100: Illumination device, 110: Liquid crystal unit, 110a: First liquid crystal unit, 1 10b: Second liquid crystal cell, 110f: Second liquid crystal cell, 111: First substrate, 111a: First substrate, 111b: First substrate, 112a: Second substrate, 114: First alignment film, 114a: First alignment film, 114b: First alignment film, 116-1: First wiring, 116-2: Second wiring, 116-3: Third wiring, 116-4: Fourth wiring, 116-5: Fifth wiring, 116-6: Sixth wiring, 118-1: First power supply terminal, 118-2: Second power supply terminal, 118-3: Third power supply terminal, 118-4: Fourth power supply terminal, 119-1: First terminal, 119-2: Second terminal, 119-3: Third terminal, 119 -4: Fourth terminal, 121: Second substrate, 121a: Second substrate, 121b: Second substrate, 124: Second alignment film, 124a: Second alignment film, 124b: Second alignment film, 130a: Adhesive layer, 130b: Adhesive layer, 140: Wavelength plate, 160: Liquid crystal layer, 160a: Liquid crystal layer, 160b: Liquid crystal layer, 180: Incident light, 181: First transparent electrode, 181-1: First transparent electrode, 181-1a: First transparent electrode, 181-1b: First transparent electrode, 182: Second transparent electrode, 182-1: Second transparent electrode, 182-1a: Second transparent electrode, 182-1b: Second transparent electrode, 182-2: Second transparent electrode, 18 2-2a: Second transparent electrode; 182-2b: Second transparent electrode; 182-3a: Second transparent electrode; 183: Third transparent electrode; 183-1: Third transparent electrode; 183-1a: Third transparent electrode; 183-1b: Third transparent electrode; 183-2: Third transparent electrode; 183-2a: Third transparent electrode; 183-2b: Third transparent electrode; 183-3a: Third transparent electrode; 184: Fourth transparent electrode; 184-1: Fourth transparent electrode; 184-1a: Fourth transparent electrode; 184-1b: Fourth transparent electrode; 184-2: Fourth transparent electrode; 184-2a: Fourth transparent electrode; 184-2b: Fourth transparent electrode; 200: Lighting device;200A: Lighting device, 200B: Lighting device, 210: Liquid crystal cell, 210a: First liquid crystal cell, 210b: Second liquid crystal cell, 210c: Third liquid crystal cell, 210d: Fourth liquid crystal cell, 210e: First liquid crystal cell, 210f: Second liquid crystal cell, 211: First substrate, 211a: First substrate, 211b: First substrate, 211c: First substrate, 211d: First substrate, 214: First alignment film, 214a: First alignment film, 214b: First alignment film, 214c: First alignment film, 214d: First alignment film, 216-1: First wiring, 216-2: Second wiring, 216-5: Fifth wiring, 216 -6: Sixth wiring, 218-1: First power supply terminal, 218-2: Second power supply terminal, 218-3: Third power supply terminal, 218-4: Fourth power supply terminal, 219-1: First terminal, 219-2: Second terminal, 219-3: Third terminal, 221: Second substrate, 221a: Second substrate, 221b: Second substrate, 221c: Second substrate, 221d: Second substrate, 224: Second alignment film, 224a: Second alignment film, 224b: Second alignment film, 224c: Second alignment film, 224d: Second alignment film, 230-1p: Adhesive layer, 230-2p: Adhesive layer, 230a: Adhesive layer, 230b: Adhesive layer, 230c: Adhesive layer, 230e: first liquid crystal unit, 230f: second liquid crystal unit, 240: wavelength plate, 260: liquid crystal layer, 260a: liquid crystal layer, 260b: liquid crystal layer, 260c: liquid crystal layer, 260d: liquid crystal layer, 281: first transparent electrode, 281-1: first transparent electrode, 281-1a: first transparent electrode, 281-1b: first transparent electrode, 281-2a: first transparent electrode, 281-2b: first transparent electrode, 282: second transparent electrode, 282-1: second transparent electrode, 282-1a: second transparent electrode, 282-1b: second transparent electrode, 282-1c: second transparent electrode, 282-1d: second transparent electrode, 2 82-2: Second transparent electrode; 282-2a: Second transparent electrode; 282-2b: Second transparent electrode; 282-3a: Second transparent electrode; 282-3b: Second transparent electrode; 283: Third electrode; 283-1: Third electrode; 283-1a: Third electrode; 283-1b: Third electrode; 283-1c: Third electrode; 283-1d: Third electrode; 283-2: Third electrode; 283-2a: Third electrode; 283-2b: Third electrode; 283-3: Third electrode; 283-3a: Third electrode; 283-3b: Third electrode; 284: Fourth transparent electrode; 284c: Fourth transparent electrode; 284d: Fourth transparent electrode.

Claims

1. A liquid crystal optical element comprising a first liquid crystal unit and a second liquid crystal unit stacked on the first liquid crystal unit, The first liquid crystal unit and the second liquid crystal unit each have a first substrate, a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the first substrate, a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate, a third electrode and a fourth electrode disposed on the second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first electrode and the second electrode are alternately arranged parallel to the first direction and extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The third and fourth electrodes are alternately arranged parallel to the first direction and extend in the second direction. In a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, the first end of the first electrode and the third electrode, the space between the third electrode and the fourth electrode, and the first end of the fourth electrode overlap. In the third direction, the fourth electrode overlaps with the space between the first electrode and the second electrode, and with the first end of the second electrode.

2. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 1, wherein, The first liquid crystal unit and the second liquid crystal unit each further have: A first alignment film is disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode; and A second alignment film is disposed on the third electrode and the fourth electrode, and is opposite to the first alignment film.

3. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 2, wherein, The orientation treatment direction of the first orientation film and the orientation treatment direction of the second orientation film are parallel to the first direction.

4. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 1, wherein, The liquid crystal optical element further includes a wavelength plate disposed between the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell.

5. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 1, wherein, The width of the first electrode is the same as the width of the second electrode, but narrower than the width of the third electrode.

6. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 1, wherein, The space between the first electrode and the second electrode is wider than the space between the third electrode and the fourth electrode.

7. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 2, wherein, The cell gap between the first alignment film and the second alignment film along the third direction is narrower than the width of the first electrode.

8. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 1, wherein, The first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode are made of a transparent material.

9. A lighting device, including a control device, The control device is electrically connected to the liquid crystal optical element of claim 1 and supplies control signals to the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode and the fourth electrode.

10. The lighting device according to claim 9, wherein, The control device supplies a first control signal to the first electrode and the fourth electrode, and supplies a second control signal of a different polarity than the first control signal to the second electrode and the third electrode.

11. A liquid crystal optical element comprising a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell stacked on the first liquid crystal cell. The first liquid crystal unit and the second liquid crystal unit each have a first substrate, a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the first substrate, a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate, a third electrode and a fourth electrode disposed on the second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first electrode and the second electrode are alternately arranged parallel to the first direction and extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The third electrode is arranged parallel to the first direction and extends in the second direction. The fourth electrode is disposed on the second substrate in a manner that covers the third electrode. In a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, the space between the first electrode and the first end of the third electrode, and between the third electrode, overlaps. In the third direction, the third electrode overlaps with the space between the first and second electrodes and the first end of the second electrode. The space between the third electrodes overlaps with the space between the first electrode and the second electrode, which is different from the second electrode.

12. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 11, wherein, The first liquid crystal unit and the second liquid crystal unit each further have: A first alignment film is disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode; and A second alignment film is disposed on the third electrode and the fourth electrode, and is opposite to the first alignment film.

13. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 12, wherein, The orientation treatment of the first orientation film is performed in a direction parallel to the first direction. The orientation treatment of the second orientation film is performed in a direction parallel to the second direction.

14. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 12, wherein, The space between the third electrodes is wider than the space between the first and second electrodes. The cell gap between the first and second orientation films along the third direction is narrower than the width of the third electrode.

15. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 11, wherein, The third electrode contains a metallic material and blocks light that passes through the first substrate.

16. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 12, wherein, The orientation treatment direction of the first orientation film and the orientation treatment direction of the second orientation film are parallel to the first direction.

17. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 16, wherein, The liquid crystal optical element further includes a wavelength plate disposed between the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell.

18. The liquid crystal optical element according to claim 11, wherein, The liquid crystal optical element further includes a third liquid crystal unit stacked on the second liquid crystal unit and a fourth liquid crystal unit stacked on the third liquid crystal unit. The third liquid crystal unit and the fourth liquid crystal unit are rotated 90 degrees relative to an axis parallel to the third direction and stacked on top of the second liquid crystal unit. The third liquid crystal unit and the fourth liquid crystal unit each have the first substrate, the first electrode, the second electrode, the second substrate, the third electrode, the fourth electrode, and the liquid crystal layer.

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