Display device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a display device capable of enabling one of two images different from each other to be visually recognized as a virtual image and improving visibility of the virtual image. A display device (1) is provided with: a first light source device (10) that emits first emission light (SL1) along a first direction (W1); a second light source device (20) that emits second emission light (SL2) in a second direction (W2) different from the first direction (W1); and a liquid crystal panel (30) on which the first emitted light (SL1) and the second emitted light (SL2) are incident. The liquid crystal panel (30) modulates the first emitted light (SL1) and emits the modulated first emitted light (SL1) as third emitted light (SL3) corresponding to the first image (G1) in the first direction (W1) toward the translucent body (2), and modulates the second emitted light (SL2) and displays the second image (G2) on the display surface (30a). The brightness of the first emitted light (SL1) is higher than the brightness of the second emitted light (SL2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to display devices. Background Technology

[0002] As an example of a display device, Patent Document 1 discloses an information display device having a display capable of displaying two pieces of information on a single screen. The display device in Patent Document 1 is characterized in that one piece of information is obtained by direct viewing of the display, and the other piece of information is obtained via a projection surface located above the display surface of the screen.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-259043

[0004] In the display device of Patent Document 1, information obtained through the projection surface is visually recognized as a virtual image. This virtual image is difficult to visually recognize, for example, in bright ambient light such as during the day. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to improve the visual recognizability of a virtual image in a display device that enables one of two different images to be visually recognized as a virtual image.

[0006] The display device disclosed herein includes: a first light source device that emits a first emitted light along a first direction; a second light source device that emits a second emitted light along a second direction different from the first direction; and a liquid crystal panel, wherein the first emitted light and the second emitted light are incident on the liquid crystal panel, the liquid crystal panel modulates the first emitted light to emit it as a third emitted light corresponding to a first image toward a light-transmitting body in the first direction, and modulates the second emitted light to display a second image on a display surface, wherein the brightness of the first emitted light is higher than the brightness of the second emitted light. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a display device according to the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of the first light source device shown.

[0009] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the first light source device along line III-III.

[0010] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the second light source device shown.

[0011] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4The cross-sectional views of the first and second prisms of the VV line shown.

[0012] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 The diagram shown is a conceptual representation of an LCD panel.

[0013] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 The image shows a top view of the LCD panel.

[0014] Figure 8 It means Figure 7 The diagram shows the configuration of the first and second sub-pixels.

[0015] Figure 9 It means Figure 7 The diagram shows the circuit configuration of the liquid crystal panel.

[0016] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the LCD panel.

[0017] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The top view of the parallax barrier shown.

[0018] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing the brightness distribution of the first and second emitted light beams.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a display device according to the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the second light source device shown.

[0021] Figure 15 This diagram illustrates the arrangement of the first sub-pixel and the second sub-pixel in a liquid crystal panel of a display device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 16 This is a top view of the parallax barrier in the liquid crystal panel of a display device according to various modifications of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0024] 1: Display device; 2: Light-transmitting body; 10: First light source device; 12: First light-emitting body; 14: Second lens; 20: Second light source device; 21: Second light-emitting body; 22: Light guide; 22a: Side panel; 22b: First panel; 24: Diffuser; 25: First prism sheet; 26: Second prism sheet; 30: Liquid crystal panel; 30a: Display surface; 37: Parallax barrier; L1: First light; L2: Second light; SL1: First emitted light; SL2: Second emitted light; SL3: Third emitted light; SP1: First sub-pixel; SP2: Second sub-pixel; W1: First direction; W2: Second direction. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. This disclosure is not limited to the contents described in the following embodiments. Furthermore, the constituent elements described below include elements readily conceived by those skilled in the art, and substantially the same elements. Moreover, the constituent elements described below can be appropriately combined.

[0026] It should be noted that the disclosed example is merely an illustration, and appropriate modifications that can be readily conceived by those skilled in the art while maintaining the spirit of this disclosure are naturally included within its scope. Furthermore, to make the illustration clearer, the accompanying drawings sometimes schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc., of various parts compared to the actual form, but this is merely an example and does not limit the interpretation of this disclosure. Additionally, in this specification and the various figures, for elements that are the same as those described in previously presented figures, the same reference numerals are sometimes used, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0027] The X, Y, and Z directions shown in the accompanying drawings represent the front-back, left-right, and up-down directions of the display device 1, respectively. The X, Y, and Z directions are orthogonal to each other. In the X direction, the side indicated by the arrow is the +X side, and the opposite side is the -X side. In the Y direction, the side indicated by the arrow is the +Y side, and the opposite side is the -Y side. In the Z direction, the side indicated by the arrow is the +Z side (upper side), and the opposite side is the -Z side (lower side). It should be noted that the X, Y, and Z directions are merely examples, and this disclosure is not limited to these directions.

[0028] <First Implementation>

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the display device 1 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0030] Display device 1 projects a first image onto a light-transmitting body 2, enabling observer M to visually identify a virtual image VG corresponding to the first image. The light-transmitting body 2 is plate-shaped and translucent. The light-transmitting body 2 can be, for example, a vehicle's windshield and assembly, but is not limited to windshields and assemblies; it can be any structure that allows the display device 1 to project an image.

[0031] Furthermore, the display device 1 displays a second image on the display surface 30a of the liquid crystal panel 30, which will be described later. The observer M can visually recognize the second image by viewing the display surface 30a.

[0032] The display device 1 includes a first light source device 10, a second light source device 20, and a liquid crystal panel 30.

[0033] The first light source device 10 is disposed on the -Z side relative to the liquid crystal panel 30. The first light source device 10 emits a first emitted light SL1. The optical axis of the first emitted light SL1 is along a first direction W1. The first direction W1 is parallel to the Z direction. It should be noted that the first direction W1 may also be tilted relative to the Z direction.

[0034] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The top view of the first light source device 10 shown. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the first light source device 10 along line III-III shown.

[0035] The first light source device 10 is a so-called direct-lit backlight. The first light source device 10 includes a housing 11, a plurality of first light-emitting elements 12, a first lens 13, and a plate-shaped second lens 14 (equivalent to a "lens").

[0036] A plurality of first light emitters 12 are disposed on a substrate 15 located at the bottom of the housing 11. The plurality of first light emitters 12 are arranged in a row along a direction orthogonal to the first direction W1 (the Y direction in this first embodiment). The first light emitters 12 are, for example, LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). The first light emitters 12 emit a first light L1 toward the first lens 13.

[0037] Multiple first lenses 13 are housed within the housing 11. The number of first lenses 13 is equal to the number of first light emitters 12. The first lenses 13 are arranged to overlap with the first light emitters 12 in the Z direction. The first lenses 13 are diffuser lenses. The first lenses 13 diffuse the first light L1 emitted from the first light emitters 12 in both the X and Y directions and direct it toward the second lens 14. At the first lenses 13, the diffusion degree of the first light L1 in the X direction is greater than that in the Y direction. As a result, a uniform distribution of the first light L1 incident on the second lens 14 can be achieved.

[0038] The second lens 14 refracts the first light L1 emitted from the first lens 13 into parallel light along the first direction W1 (Z direction). The second lens 14 is, for example, a Fresnel lens composed of multiple convex lenses. The parallel light emitted from the second lens 14 corresponds to the first emitted light SL1 of the first light source device 10. That is, the second lens 14 refracts the first light L1 emitted from the first light source 12 in a manner along the first direction W1 and emits it as the first emitted light SL1. The first emitted light SL1 travels along the first direction W1.

[0039] Thus, when the first light source device 10 has the second lens 14, compared to when the first light source device 10 does not have the second lens 14, the diffusion degree of the first emitted light SL1 can be reduced, and the brightness of the first emitted light SL1 can be increased. It should be noted that the first light source device 10 may also not have the first lens 13.

[0040] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the second light source device 20. The first light source direction DL1, the second light source direction DL2, and the third light source direction DL3 shown in the figure are orthogonal to each other, corresponding to the width direction, depth direction, and vertical direction of the second light source device 20, respectively. Furthermore, in the first light source direction DL1, the side indicated by the arrow corresponds to the +DL1 side of the second light source device 20, and the opposite side corresponds to the -DL1 side. In the second light source direction DL2, the side indicated by the arrow corresponds to the +DL2 side of the second light source device 20, and the opposite side corresponds to the -DL2 side. In the third light source direction DL3, the side indicated by the arrow corresponds to the +DL3 side (upper side) of the second light source device 20, and the opposite side corresponds to the -DL3 side (lower side). It should be noted that the first light source direction DL1, the second light source direction DL2, and the third light source direction DL3 are examples, and this disclosure is not limited to these directions.

[0041] The second light source device 20 is a so-called side-lit backlight. The second light source device 20 includes a second light-emitting element 21, a light guide 22, a reflector 23, a diffuser 24, a first prism sheet 25, and a second prism sheet 26. The first prism sheet 25 and the second prism sheet 26 are equivalent to "prism sheets".

[0042] There are multiple second light emitters 21, arranged along the direction DL2 of the second light source. The second light emitters 21 are, for example, LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). The second light emitters 21 emit a second light L2 toward the light guide 22.

[0043] The light guide 22 is plate-shaped, having a side plate surface 22a, a first plate surface 22b (equivalent to "plate surface"), and a second plate surface 22c opposite to the first plate surface 22b. The side plate surface 22a is the surface of the light guide 22 facing the -DL1 side. The first plate surface 22b is the surface of the light guide 22 facing the +DL3 side. The second plate surface 22c is the surface of the light guide 22 facing the -DL3 side. The first plate surface 22b and the second plate surface 22c are orthogonal to the third light source direction DL3. The light guide 22 has multiple protrusions 22d on the second plate surface 22c.

[0044] The light guide 22 is transparent. A second light L2 emitted from the second light emitter 21 enters the light guide 22 from the side plate surface 22a. The second light L2, entering the light guide 22, is reflected on the inner surface of the light guide 22. The second light L2 is reflected from the first plate surface 22b by the protrusion 22d. That is, the shape and position of the protrusion 22d are determined by the manner in which the second light L2 exits from the first plate surface 22b. The protrusion 22d has a semi-circular cross-section, but it can also be a triangular cross-section.

[0045] A reflective sheet 23 is disposed on the second plate surface 22c side of the light guide 22. It may be a metal film with high reflectivity, such as aluminum or silver. The reflective sheet 23 reflects the second light L2 emitted from the second plate surface 22c toward the light guide 22. The reflective sheet 23 suppresses the reduction in brightness of the second light L2 emitted from the first plate surface 22b.

[0046] A diffuser 24 is disposed on the first plate surface 22b side of the light guide 22. The diffuser 24 diffuses the second light L2 emitted from the first plate surface 22b. The diffuser 24 can achieve uniform brightness of the second light L2 emitted from the first plate surface 22b.

[0047] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 Cross-sectional views of the first prism sheet 25 and the second prism sheet 26 of the VV line shown.

[0048] Figure 4 , 5 The first prism 25 and the second prism 26 shown refract the second light L2 emitted from the first plate surface 22b along the second direction W2 and emit it as the second outgoing light SL2. The optical axis of the second outgoing light SL2 is along the second direction W2. In this first embodiment, the second direction W2 is parallel to the third light source direction DL3.

[0049] The first prism sheet 25 is disposed on the +DL3 side relative to the light guide 22 and the diffuser 24. The first prism sheet 25 has a plate-shaped first base 25a and a plurality of first prism portions 25b.

[0050] A plurality of first prism portions 25b are disposed on the +DL3 side surface of the first base portion 25a. The plurality of first prism portions 25b are triangular in cross-section, extending along the second light source direction DL2, and are arranged so that their bases B1 are adjacent to each other along the first light source direction DL1. The cross-sectional shape of the first prism portion 25b is an isosceles triangle. That is, in the cross-sectional shape of the first prism portion 25b, the first base angle θ1 and the second base angle θ2 are equal. Furthermore, the first base angle θ1 and the second base angle θ2 are determined such that the second light L2 is refracted in the second direction W2 at the first prism portion 25b along the first light source direction DL1.

[0051] In other words, the first prism 25 refracts the second light L2 in the direction DL1 of the first light source toward the second direction W2. In other words, when viewed along the direction DL2 of the second light source, the first prism 25 refracts the second light L2 toward the second direction W2.

[0052] The second prism sheet 26 is disposed on the +DL3 side relative to the first prism sheet 25. The second prism sheet 26 has a plate-shaped second base 26a and a plurality of second prism portions 26b.

[0053] A plurality of second prism portions 26b are disposed on the +DL3 side surface of the second base portion 26a. The plurality of second prism portions 26b are triangular in cross-section, extending along the first light source direction DL1 and arranged adjacent to each other with their bases B2 along the second light source direction DL2. The cross-sectional shape of the second prism portions 26b is an isosceles triangle. That is, in the cross-sectional shape of the second prism portions 26b, the third base angle θ3 and the fourth base angle θ4 are equal. Furthermore, the third base angle θ3 and the fourth base angle θ4 are determined such that the second light L2 is refracted in the second direction W2 along the second light source direction DL2 at the second prism portion 26b.

[0054] In other words, the second prism 26 refracts the second light L2 in the second light source direction DL2 toward the second direction W2. In other words, when viewed along the first light source direction DL1, the second prism 26 refracts the second light L2 toward the second direction W2. The second light L2 emitted from the second prism 26 is equivalent to the second outgoing light SL2.

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, the second light source device 20 is located in a position that does not overlap with the first light source device 10 and the liquid crystal panel 30 in the Z direction, and is located on the -X side closer to the liquid crystal panel 30. The second light source device 20 is configured in a manner where the first direction W1 and the second direction W2 are different from each other. Specifically, the second light source device 20 is configured such that the second light source direction DL2 is parallel to the Y direction, and the third light source direction DL3 is inclined relative to the Z direction. In this way, the second light source device 20 emits a second emitted light SL2 along the second direction W2, which is different from the first direction W1.

[0056] As described above, the first light source device 10 is a direct-lit backlight, and the second light source device 20 is a side-lit backlight. Therefore, the brightness of the first emitted light SL1 of the first light source device 10 is higher than the brightness of the second emitted light SL2 of the second light source device 20.

[0057] Specifically, the brightness and number of the first light emitter 12, the brightness and number of the second light emitter 21, and the specifications of the light guide 22, reflector 23, diffuser 24, first prism sheet 25, and second prism sheet 26 are determined in such a way that the brightness of the first emitted light SL1 is higher than the brightness of the second emitted light SL2. Furthermore, the high brightness of the first emitted light SL1 can be achieved through the second lens 14 of the first light source device 10.

[0058] Furthermore, the diffusion degree of the second emitted light SL2 is greater than that of the first emitted light SL1. Specifically, the characteristics of the second lens 14, the light guide 22, the diffuser 24, the first prism sheet 25, and the specifications of the second prism sheet 26 are determined in such a way that the diffusion degree of the second emitted light SL2 is greater than that of the first emitted light SL1.

[0059] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a concept image of the liquid crystal panel 30. In the display area DA of the liquid crystal panel 30, the first image G1 and the second image G2 are simultaneously displayed on the entire display area DA from different viewing angles.

[0060] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 The figure shows a top view of the liquid crystal panel 30. The first panel direction DP1, the second panel direction DP2, and the third panel direction DP3 shown in the figure are orthogonal to each other, corresponding to the width direction, depth direction, and vertical direction of the liquid crystal panel 30, respectively. Furthermore, in the first panel direction DP1, the side indicated by the arrow corresponds to the +DP1 side of the liquid crystal panel 30, and the opposite side corresponds to the -DP1 side. In the second panel direction DP2, the side indicated by the arrow corresponds to the +DP2 side of the liquid crystal panel 30, and the opposite side corresponds to the -DP2 side. In the third panel direction DP3, the side indicated by the arrow corresponds to the +DP3 side (upper side) of the liquid crystal panel 30, and the opposite side corresponds to the -DP3 side (lower side). It should be noted that the first panel direction DP1, the second panel direction DP2, and the third panel direction DP3 are examples, and this disclosure is not limited to these directions.

[0061] The LCD panel 30 is configured such that the second panel direction DP2 is parallel to the Y direction, and the third panel direction DP3 is inclined to the first direction W1 (see reference). Figure 1Furthermore, the LCD panel 30 is configured with the third panel direction DP3 tilted relative to the second direction W2. It should be noted that the LCD panel 30 can also be configured with the third panel direction DP3 parallel to the second direction W2.

[0062] The liquid crystal panel 30 displays images based on image signals output from an external device (such as a car navigation system) electrically connected via a flexible wiring substrate (not shown).

[0063] The liquid crystal panel 30 is a transmissive liquid crystal display. It should be noted that the liquid crystal panel 30 can also be, for example, an organic EL display or an inorganic EL display. Figure 7 As shown, the liquid crystal panel 30 has a display area DA for displaying images on the display surface 30a. The display surface 30a is flat and planar. The display surface 30a is orthogonal to the third panel direction DP3.

[0064] The liquid crystal panel 30 has a plurality of pixels P arranged in a matrix when viewed from above. The row direction is parallel to the first panel direction DP1. The column direction is parallel to the second panel direction DP2. When viewed from above, the plurality of pixels P overlap with the display area DA. Pixel P includes a plurality of first pixels P1 and a plurality of second pixels P2.

[0065] The first pixel P1 is the pixel corresponding to the first image G1. The first pixel P1 has a first sub-pixel SP1a, a second sub-pixel SP1b, and a third sub-pixel SP1c. The first sub-pixel SP1a is a red sub-pixel. The second sub-pixel SP1b is a green sub-pixel. The third sub-pixel SP1c is a blue sub-pixel. Hereinafter, without distinguishing between the first sub-pixel SP1a, the second sub-pixel SP1b, and the third sub-pixel SP1c, they will be simply referred to as "first sub-pixel SP1".

[0066] The second pixel P2 is the pixel corresponding to the second image G2. The second pixel P2 has a first second sub-pixel SP2a, a second second sub-pixel SP2b, and a third second sub-pixel SP2c. The first second sub-pixel SP2a is a red sub-pixel. The second second sub-pixel SP2b is a green sub-pixel. The third second sub-pixel SP2c is a blue sub-pixel. Hereinafter, without distinguishing between the first second sub-pixel SP2a, the second second sub-pixel SP2b, and the third second sub-pixel SP2c, they will be simply referred to as "second sub-pixel SP2".

[0067] Thus, the first pixel P1 has three first sub-pixels SP1, and the second pixel P2 has three second sub-pixels SP2. Of course, the number and color of the first sub-pixels SP1 and the number and color of the second sub-pixels SP2 are not limited to those mentioned above.

[0068] Figure 8 It means Figure 7 The diagram shows the configuration of the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2. It should be noted that... Figure 8 In the diagram, the first sub-pixel SP1 is marked with a rectangle shape indicated by a dashed line, and the second sub-pixel SP2 is marked with a rectangle shape indicated by a single-dot dashed line.

[0069] The first pixel P1 and the second pixel P2 are configured along the row direction (first panel direction DP1). In addition, the first pixel P1 and the second pixel P2 are configured in a zigzag pattern along the column direction (second panel direction DP2).

[0070] In the row direction, focusing on the first pixel P1, the first first sub-pixel SP1a, the third first sub-pixel SP1c, and the second first sub-pixel SP1b are arranged in a repeating sequence. Similarly, in the row direction, focusing on the second pixel P2, the second second sub-pixel SP2b, the first second sub-pixel SP2a, and the third second sub-pixel SP2c are arranged in a repeating sequence.

[0071] Furthermore, the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are arranged alternately along the row direction. That is, in the row direction, the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are adjacent to each other. Specifically, in the row direction, the first sub-pixel SP1a is adjacent to at least one of the second sub-pixel SP2b and the third sub-pixel SP2c. Additionally, in the row direction, the second sub-pixel SP1b is adjacent to at least one of the third sub-pixel SP2c and the first sub-pixel SP2a. Furthermore, in the row direction, the third sub-pixel SP1c is adjacent to at least one of the first sub-pixel SP2a and the second sub-pixel SP2b.

[0072] Furthermore, in the row direction, the first second sub-pixel SP2a is adjacent to at least one of the second first sub-pixel SP1b and the third first sub-pixel SP1c. Additionally, in the row direction, the second second sub-pixel SP2b is adjacent to at least one of the third first sub-pixel SP1c and the first first sub-pixel SP1a. Moreover, in the row direction, the third second sub-pixel SP2c is adjacent to at least one of the first first sub-pixel SP1a and the second first sub-pixel SP1b.

[0073] Furthermore, the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are arranged alternately along the column direction. That is, in the column direction, the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are adjacent to each other. Specifically, the first sub-pixel SP1a and the first second sub-pixel SP2a are arranged alternately along the column direction. The second sub-pixel SP1b and the second second sub-pixel SP2b are arranged alternately along the column direction. The third sub-pixel SP1c and the third second sub-pixel SP2c are arranged alternately along the column direction.

[0074] Figure 9 It means Figure 7 The diagram shows the circuit structure of the liquid crystal panel 30. The liquid crystal panel 30 includes a driving circuit 31, and switching elements SW, sub-pixel electrodes PE, common electrodes CE, liquid crystal capacitors LC, and holding capacitors CS, respectively, for the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2. The first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are similarly configured.

[0075] The driving circuit 31 drives the liquid crystal panel 30. The driving circuit 31 includes a signal processing circuit 31a, a signal output circuit 31b, and a scanning circuit 31c.

[0076] Based on the image signal sent from the external device, the signal processing circuit 31a outputs a first sub-pixel signal representing the grayscale of the first sub-pixel SP1 and a second sub-pixel signal representing the grayscale of the second sub-pixel SP2 to the signal output circuit 31b. Additionally, the signal processing circuit 31a outputs a clock signal to synchronize the operation of the signal output circuit 31b with the operation of the scanning circuit 31c to both the signal output circuit 31b and the scanning circuit 31c.

[0077] The signal output circuit 31b outputs the first sub-pixel signal to the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel signal to the second sub-pixel SP2. The signal output circuit 31b is electrically connected to the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 via multiple signal lines Lb extending along the second panel direction DP2.

[0078] The scanning circuit 31c and the signal output circuit 31b synchronously scan the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 by outputting the first sub-pixel signal and the second sub-pixel signal. The scanning circuit 31c is electrically connected to the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 via multiple scan lines Lc extending along the first panel direction DP1.

[0079] When viewed from above on the display surface 30a, the area divided by the two adjacent signal lines Lb on the first panel direction DP1 and the two adjacent scan lines Lc on the second panel direction DP2 corresponds to one of the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2.

[0080] The switching element SW is, for example, composed of a thin-film transistor (TFT). In the switching element SW, the source electrode is electrically connected to the signal line Lb, and the gate electrode is electrically connected to the scan line Lc.

[0081] The sub-pixel electrode PE is connected to the drain electrode of the switching element SW. Multiple common electrodes CE are configured corresponding to multiple scan lines Lc. Both the sub-pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE are transparent.

[0082] The liquid crystal capacitor LC is the capacitive component of the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 33 (described later) located between the sub-pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. The holding capacitor CS is located between an electrode at the same potential as the common electrode CE and an electrode at the same potential as the sub-pixel electrode PE.

[0083] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the liquid crystal panel 30. The liquid crystal panel 30 also includes a first substrate 32, a liquid crystal layer 33, and a second substrate 34. The first substrate 32, the liquid crystal layer 33, and the second substrate 34 are all transparent and are arranged sequentially from the -DP3 side to the +DP3 side along the third panel direction DP3. The first substrate 32 and the second substrate 34 are rectangular when viewed from above. It should be noted that the top-view shape of the first substrate 32 and the second substrate 34 can also be, for example, a circle, a trapezoid, or other shapes other than rectangles.

[0084] A common electrode CE is disposed on the main surface 32a of the first substrate 32 on the +DP3 side. In addition, an insulating layer IL is disposed on the +DP3 side of the common electrode CE, and furthermore, a sub-pixel electrode PE and an alignment film AL are disposed thereon.

[0085] The sub-pixel electrode PE is disposed between the insulating layer IL and the alignment film AL. Thus, the common electrode CE and the sub-pixel electrode PE are disposed on the first substrate 32. In other words, the liquid crystal panel 30 is a liquid crystal display using a lateral electric field.

[0086] The second substrate 34 is located on the +DP3 side of the first substrate 32. An outer coating OC, a first color filter CF1, a second color filter CF2, a light-shielding film SM, and an alignment film AL are disposed on the lower surface 34b side of the second substrate 34. The light-shielding film SM, the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the outer coating OC are disposed between the second substrate 34 and the alignment film AL.

[0087] The outer coating OC is formed from a light-transmitting material.

[0088] A first color filter CF1 and a second color filter CF2 are disposed between the second substrate 34 and the liquid crystal layer 33. The first color filter CF1 is a color filter included in the first sub-pixel SP1. The second color filter CF2 is a color filter included in the second sub-pixel SP2.

[0089] The first color filter CF1 and the second color filter CF2 are rectangular when viewed from above. The first color filter CF1 and the second color filter CF2 are translucent, and the peak values ​​of the transmitted light spectrum are predetermined. These peak values ​​correspond to the colors of the first color filter CF1 and the second color filter CF2. In other words, the light transmitted through the first color filter CF1 and the second color filter CF2 is colored. It should be noted that the top-view shape of the first color filter CF1 and the second color filter CF2 can also be changed according to the shapes of the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2.

[0090] The color of the first color filter CF1 is the same as the color of the first sub-pixel SP1. The color of the second color filter CF2 is the same as the color of the second sub-pixel SP2. That is, the red first sub-pixel SP1a has the red first color filter CF1, the green second sub-pixel SP1b has the green first color filter CF1, and the blue third sub-pixel SP1c has the blue first color filter CF1. Furthermore, the red first second sub-pixel SP2a has the red second color filter CF2, the green second second sub-pixel SP2b has the green second color filter CF2, and the blue third second sub-pixel SP2c has the blue second color filter CF2.

[0091] The light-shielding film SM has light-shielding properties. When viewed from above on the display surface 30a, it overlaps with the boundaries of the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 that are adjacent to each other in the first panel direction DP1 and the second panel direction DP2. That is, when viewed from above on the display surface 30a, the light-shielding film SM overlaps with the signal line Lb and the scan line Lc. It should be noted that in Figure 9 The diagram of signal line Lb and scan line Lc is omitted. Signal line Lb and scan line Lc are disposed on the main surface 32a of the first substrate 32. Additionally, in... Figure 8 In the image, the solid line dividing the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 corresponds to the light-shielding film SM. Furthermore, when viewed from above on the display surface 30a, the periphery of the first color filter CF1 and the periphery of the second color filter CF2 overlap with the light-shielding film SM.

[0092] like Figure 10As shown, the liquid crystal layer 33 is located between the first substrate 32 and the second substrate 34. The liquid crystal layer 33 contains a plurality of liquid crystal molecules LM. When viewed from above the display surface 30a, the liquid crystal layer 33 overlaps with the display area DA. Specifically, the liquid crystal layer 33 is located between two opposing alignment films AL. The initial orientation of the liquid crystal molecules LM is determined by the two opposing alignment films AL.

[0093] In addition, the liquid crystal panel 30 also includes a first polarizing plate 35, a second polarizing plate 36, and a parallax barrier 37.

[0094] A first polarizer 35 is disposed on the lower surface 32b of the first substrate 32. The -D3 side of the first polarizer 35 corresponds to the lower surface of the liquid crystal panel 30. Figure 1 As shown, the lower surface of the liquid crystal panel 30 faces the first light source device 10. A first emitted light SL1 is incident on the liquid crystal panel 30 from the lower surface along a first direction W1, and a second emitted light SL2 is incident on the liquid crystal panel 30 from the lower surface along a second direction W2.

[0095] like Figure 10 As shown, the second polarizer 36 is disposed on the upper surface 34a of the second substrate 34. The transmission axis of the second polarizer 36 is orthogonal to the transmission axis of the first polarizer 35. The +DP3 side of the second polarizer 36 corresponds to the display surface 30a.

[0096] A parallax barrier 37 is disposed between the second substrate 34 and the second polarizing plate 36. The parallax barrier 37 is plate-shaped. The parallax barrier 37 is disposed on the side (upper surface 34a) of the second substrate 34 opposite to the surface (lower surface 34b) opposite to the surface (lower surface 34b) of the first color filter CF1 and the second color filter CF2. The parallax barrier 37 has a plurality of openings 37a and light-blocking portions 37b.

[0097] The opening 37a allows light traveling along the first direction W1 in the light passing through the first color filter CF1 of the first sub-pixel SP1 to pass through. The first direction W1 is... Figure 10 The image is shown in solid lines. Additionally, the opening 37a allows light traveling along the second direction W2 in the second color filter CF2 that has passed through the second sub-pixel SP2 to pass through. The second direction W2... Figure 10 It is shown in dashed lines.

[0098] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A top view of the parallax barrier 37 shown. Figure 11 In the image, the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are shown with dashed lines. For example... Figure 10 , 11As shown, when viewed from above on the display surface 30a, multiple openings 37a overlap with the first color filter CF1 of the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second color filter CF2 of the second pixel P2, which are adjacent to each other in the row direction. Figure 11 When viewed from above, the multiple openings 37a overlap with the -DP1 side of the first color filter CF1 and the +DP1 side of the second color filter CF2, respectively.

[0099] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown, the plurality of openings 37a are arranged along the row direction when viewed from above the display surface 30a. Furthermore, the plurality of openings 37a are arranged in a serrated pattern along the column direction when viewed from above.

[0100] Figure 10 , 11 The light-shielding portion 37b shown is formed of a material with high light absorption (e.g., metallic chromium (Cr), chromium oxide (CrO2), resin, etc.). The light-shielding portion 37b blocks light traveling along the second direction W2 from the light passing through the first color filter CF1 of the first sub-pixel SP1. Furthermore, the light-shielding portion 37b blocks light traveling along the first direction W1 from the light passing through the second color filter CF2 of the second sub-pixel SP2.

[0101] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first substrate 32 has an exposed portion E that protrudes from the second substrate 34 when viewed from above. The exposed portion E is located on the -DP2 side relative to the second substrate 34 when viewed from above. Furthermore, an IC chip Ti containing a driving circuit 31 is disposed on the upper surface of the exposed portion E. The +DP3 side of the exposed portion E is part of the main surface 32a of the first substrate 32.

[0102] Next, the operation of display device 1 will be explained.

[0103] like Figure 1 As shown, the first light source device 10 emits a first emitted light SL1 towards the liquid crystal panel 30 along the first direction W1. Additionally, the second light source device 20 emits a second emitted light SL2 towards the liquid crystal panel 30 along the second direction W2.

[0104] Figure 10 When the liquid crystal panel 30 receives an image signal sent from an external device, it displays the first image G1 and the second image G2 in the display area DA as described below.

[0105] The image signal includes the grayscale of the first subpixel SP1 corresponding to the first image G1 and the grayscale of the second subpixel SP2 corresponding to the second image G2. As described above, the first subpixel signal representing the grayscale of the first subpixel SP1 is output to the first subpixel SP1, and the second subpixel signal representing the grayscale of the second subpixel SP2 is output to the second subpixel SP2.

[0106] A voltage corresponding to the grayscale indicated by the first sub-pixel signal is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33 corresponding to the first sub-pixel SP1, causing the liquid crystal molecules LM to tilt. The degree of tilt of the liquid crystal molecules LM varies according to the grayscale indicated by the first sub-pixel signal. The first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2 transmitted through the liquid crystal layer 33 corresponding to the first sub-pixel SP1 are modulated to the grayscale indicated by the first sub-pixel signal. Furthermore, the first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2 transmitted through the liquid crystal layer 33 corresponding to the first sub-pixel SP1 are colored by the first color filter CF1. The first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2 transmitted through the liquid crystal panel 30 via the first color filter CF1 correspond to the first image G1.

[0107] The second emitted light SL2, which passes through the first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2 of the first color filter CF1, travels along the second direction W2 and is blocked by the light-shielding part 37b. Therefore, the second emitted light SL2 that passes through the first color filter CF1 cannot be visually distinguished.

[0108] On the other hand, the first emitted light SL1, which has passed through the first color filter CF1 and the second emitted light SL2, travels along the first direction W1 and is emitted from the display surface 30a to the outside through the opening 37a of the parallax barrier 37. Hereinafter, the first emitted light SL1 emitted from the display surface 30a will be referred to as the third emitted light SL3.

[0109] The third emitted light SL3 corresponds to the first image G1. The third emitted light SL3 travels along the first direction W1 toward the light-transmitting body 2 (see reference). Figure 1 In this way, the liquid crystal panel 30 modulates the first emitted light SL1 and emits it as the third emitted light SL3 corresponding to the first image G1 towards the light-transmitting body 2 in the first direction W1.

[0110] Furthermore, a voltage corresponding to the grayscale indicated by the second sub-pixel signal is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33 corresponding to the second sub-pixel SP2, causing the liquid crystal molecules LM to tilt. The degree of tilt of the liquid crystal molecules LM varies according to the grayscale indicated by the second sub-pixel signal. The first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2 transmitted through the liquid crystal layer 33 corresponding to the second sub-pixel SP2 are modulated to the grayscale indicated by the second sub-pixel signal. Furthermore, the first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2 transmitted through the liquid crystal layer 33 corresponding to the second sub-pixel SP2 are colored by the second color filter CF2. The first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2 transmitted through the liquid crystal panel 30 via the second color filter CF2 correspond to the second image G2.

[0111] The first emitted light SL1, which passes through the second color filter CF2 and the second emitted light SL2, travels along the first direction W1 and is blocked by the light-shielding part 37b. Therefore, the first emitted light SL1, which passes through the second color filter CF2 and travels along the first direction W1, cannot be visually identified.

[0112] On the other hand, the second emitted light SL2, which has passed through the first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2 of the second color filter CF2, travels along the second direction W2 and is emitted from the display surface 30a to the outside through the opening 37a of the parallax barrier 37. In other words, the second emitted light SL2 can be visually recognized as the second image G2. That is, the liquid crystal panel 30 modulates the second emitted light SL2 to display the second image G2 on the display surface 30a.

[0113] Thus, the parallax barrier 37 allows the first emitted light SL1 passing through the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second emitted light SL2 passing through the second sub-pixel SP2 to pass through, while blocking the second emitted light SL2 passing through the first sub-pixel SP1 and the first emitted light SL1 passing through the second sub-pixel SP2. Through the parallax barrier 37, the viewing angles of the first image G1 and the second image G2 are different from each other.

[0114] Figure 1 The observer M can directly visually identify the second image G2 on the display surface 30a. However, the observer M cannot directly visually identify the first image G1 on the display surface 30a.

[0115] The third emitted light SL3, emitted from the display surface 30a, travels along the first direction W1 toward the light-transmitting body 2 and is projected onto the light-transmitting body 2. An observer M, whose line of sight Lv is directed toward the third emitted light SL3 projected onto the light-transmitting body 2, visually recognizes the first image G1 as a virtual image VG.

[0116] Figure 12This is a diagram showing the brightness distribution of the first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2. Figure 12 The vertical axis shown represents brightness. Figure 12 The horizontal axis shown represents the viewing angle along the first panel direction DP1. A viewing angle of 0° means viewing the display surface 30a of the LCD panel 30 along the third panel direction DP3.

[0117] Angle θt is the angle between the third panel direction DP3 and the first direction W1, and angle θa is the angle between the third panel direction DP3 and the second direction W2 (refer to...). Figure 1 Furthermore, the brightness and diffusion of the first emitted light SL1 are equal to those of the third emitted light SL3.

[0118] As described above, the brightness of the first emitted light SL1 (the third emitted light SL3) is higher than that of the second emitted light SL2. Therefore, in the display device 1, the visual recognizability of the virtual image VG corresponding to the first emitted light SL1 (the third emitted light SL3) can be further improved. In addition, the observer M can visually recognize the second image G2 with appropriate brightness.

[0119] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the diffusion degree of the second emitted light SL2 is greater than that of the first emitted light SL1 (and the third emitted light SL3). Therefore, the viewing angle of the second image G2 corresponding to the second emitted light SL2 is larger than the viewing angle of the virtual image VG corresponding to the first emitted light SL1. Thus, the observer M can appropriately visually recognize the second image G2.

[0120] Furthermore, by adjusting the diffusion degree of the first emitted light SL1 and the second emitted light SL2, the viewing angle of the first image G1 corresponding to the first emitted light SL1 and the viewing angle of the second image G2 corresponding to the second emitted light SL2 can be made to not overlap. Thus, visual recognition (so-called crosstalk) can be suppressed when the first image G1 and the second image G2 overlap when the observer M views the display surface 30a from between the first panel direction DP1 and the second panel direction DP2.

[0121] It should be noted that, in this first embodiment, the second light source device 20 may not include either the first prism sheet 25 or the second prism sheet 26.

[0122] <Second Implementation>

[0123] Next, regarding the display device 1 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure, the differences between it and the display device 1 of the first embodiment described above will be explained.

[0124] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the display device 1 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the second light source device 20 shown.

[0125] In this second embodiment, the first plate surface 22b is inclined relative to the second direction W2. That is, the second direction W2 is inclined relative to the third light source direction DL3. In this second embodiment, the second light source device 20 is configured such that the first plate surface 22b is parallel to the first direction W1. Specifically, the second light source device 20 is configured such that the third light source direction DL3 is orthogonal to the Z direction (while the first light source direction DL1 is parallel to the Z direction). This enables miniaturization of the display device 1.

[0126] The second light source device 20 of this second embodiment differs from the second light source device 20 of the first embodiment in that the shape of the first prism sheet 125 is different. The first prism sheet 125 has a plate-shaped first base 125a and a plurality of first prism portions 125b.

[0127] In the cross-sectional shape of the first prism portion 125b, the first base angle θ1 is determined to be smaller than the second base angle θ2. As a result, the first prism portion 125 causes the second light L2 to be refracted in the first light source direction DL1 toward the second direction W2.

[0128] It should be noted that, like the second prism 26 in the first embodiment described above, the second prism 26 refracts the second light L2 in the direction of the second light source DL2 toward the direction of the third light source DL3. In other words, when viewed along the direction of the first light source DL1, the second prism 26 refracts the second light L2 toward the direction of the third light source DL3.

[0129] It should be noted that in this second embodiment, the second light source device 20 may not have the second prism sheet 26.

[0130] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, but this disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. The content disclosed in the embodiments is merely an example, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. Appropriate modifications made without departing from the spirit of this disclosure are of course also within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0131] For example, the first light source device 10 can also be a side-lit backlight. In this case, the first light source device 10 can also be configured in the same way as the second light source device 20.

[0132] Alternatively, the second light source device 20 can also be a direct-lit backlight. In this case, the second light source device 20 can also be configured in the same way as the first light source device 10.

[0133] Alternatively, the second light source device 20 may not have a diffuser plate 24.

[0134] In addition, the diffusion degree of the second emitted light SL2 can be equal to or less than that of the first emitted light SL1.

[0135] Figure 15 This diagram illustrates the arrangement of the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 in the liquid crystal panel 30 of the display device 1 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0136] In this modified example, the first pixel P1 and the second pixel P2 are arranged along the row direction (first panel direction DP1) and the column direction (second panel direction DP2), respectively. In the row direction, focusing on the first pixel P1, the first first sub-pixel SP1a, the third first sub-pixel SP1c, and the second first sub-pixel SP1b are arranged sequentially and repeatedly. Similarly, in the row direction, focusing on the second pixel P2, the second second sub-pixel SP2b, the first second sub-pixel SP2a, and the third second sub-pixel SP2c are arranged sequentially and repeatedly.

[0137] Furthermore, the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are arranged alternately along the row direction. That is, in the row direction, the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are adjacent to each other. Specifically, in the row direction, the first sub-pixel SP1a is adjacent to at least one of the second sub-pixel SP2b and the third sub-pixel SP2c. Additionally, in the row direction, the second sub-pixel SP1b is adjacent to at least one of the third sub-pixel SP2c and the first sub-pixel SP2a. Furthermore, in the row direction, the third sub-pixel SP1c is adjacent to at least one of the first sub-pixel SP2a and the second sub-pixel SP2b.

[0138] Furthermore, in the row direction, the first second sub-pixel SP2a is adjacent to at least one of the second first sub-pixel SP1b and the third first sub-pixel SP1c. Additionally, in the row direction, the second second sub-pixel SP2b is adjacent to at least one of the third first sub-pixel SP1c and the first first sub-pixel SP1a. Moreover, in the row direction, the third second sub-pixel SP2c is adjacent to at least one of the first first sub-pixel SP1a and the second first sub-pixel SP1b.

[0139] Furthermore, multiple first sub-pixels SP1 are arranged along the column direction. Specifically, multiple first sub-pixels SP1a are arranged in a state where they are adjacent to each other along the column direction. Multiple second sub-pixels SP1b are arranged in a state where they are adjacent to each other along the column direction. Multiple third sub-pixels SP1c are arranged in a state where they are adjacent to each other along the column direction.

[0140] Furthermore, multiple second sub-pixels SP2 are arranged along the column direction. Specifically, multiple first and second sub-pixels SP2a are arranged adjacent to each other along the column direction. Multiple second sub-pixels SP2b are arranged adjacent to each other along the column direction. Multiple third sub-pixels SP2c are arranged adjacent to each other along the column direction.

[0141] Figure 16 This is a top view of the parallax barrier 237 in the liquid crystal panel 30 of the display device 1 according to various modifications of the embodiments of this disclosure. The parallax barrier 237 of this modification is... Figure 15 The configurations of the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 shown correspond. The parallax barrier 237 has an opening 237a and a light-shielding portion 237b.

[0142] exist Figure 16 In the diagram, the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are shown with dashed lines. In this modified example, the plurality of openings 237a overlap with a first color filter CF1 and a second color filter CF2 that are adjacent to each other in the row direction when viewed from above. Figure 16 When viewed from above, as in the above embodiment, the plurality of openings 237a overlap with the -DP1 side of the first color filter CF1 and the +DP1 side of the second color filter CF2, respectively.

[0143] The opening 237a has a shape that extends along the column direction (second panel direction DP2). When viewed from above, the multiple openings 237a overlap with the multiple first sub-pixels SP1 arranged along the column direction and the multiple second sub-pixels SP2 arranged along the column direction, respectively. Multiple openings 237a are arranged along the row direction (first panel direction DP1).

[0144] Through such Figure 15 , 16 The configuration shown includes the first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, and the opening 237a. Similar to the embodiment described above, the viewing angles of the first image G1 and the second image G2 are different from each other. Furthermore, in this modified example, the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are also configured to cover the entire display area DA. Therefore, the first image G1 and the second image G2 are simultaneously displayed in the entire display area DA.

[0145] It should be noted that, in Figure 16 In the parallax barrier 37 shown, the opening 237a can also be formed to overlap with a first sub-pixel SP1 and a second sub-pixel SP2 in the column direction when viewed from above. In this case, multiple openings 237a are arranged along both the row direction (first panel direction DP1) and the column direction (second panel direction DP2).

[0146] Furthermore, regarding other effects resulting from the manner described in this embodiment, effects that are clear from the description in this specification, or effects that can be reasonably conceived by those skilled in the art, shall of course be understood as effects resulting from this disclosure.

Claims

1. A display device comprising: The first light source device emits a first emitted light along a first direction; The second light source device emits a second emitted light along a second direction different from the first direction; and The liquid crystal panel, the first emitted light and the second emitted light are incident on the liquid crystal panel. The liquid crystal panel modulates the first emitted light to produce a third emitted light corresponding to the first image, which is emitted towards the light-transmitting body in the first direction. It also modulates the second emitted light to display the second image on the display surface. The brightness of the first emitted light is higher than that of the second emitted light.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The diffusion degree of the second emitted light is greater than that of the first emitted light.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first light source device includes: Multiple first light emitters, emitting the first light; and A lens that refracts the first light in a manner that follows the first direction and emits it as the first outgoing light.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second light source device includes: Multiple secondary light emitters emit secondary light; A light guide has a side plate and a plate, wherein the second light is incident on the side plate and the plate emits the second light incident on the side plate; as well as A prism sheet that refracts the second light emitted from the plate surface in a manner that follows the second direction and emits it as the second outgoing light.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, The plate surface is inclined relative to the second direction. The second light source device is configured such that the plate surface is parallel to the first direction.

6. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, The second light source device also includes a diffuser sheet disposed on one side of the plate surface.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The liquid crystal panel includes a plurality of first sub-pixels corresponding to the first image and a plurality of second sub-pixels corresponding to the second image, arranged in a matrix when viewed from above, and also includes a parallax barrier that allows the first emitted light passing through the first sub-pixels to pass through and allows the second emitted light passing through the second sub-pixels to pass through, while blocking the second emitted light passing through the first sub-pixels and the first emitted light passing through the second sub-pixels.

Images