LIQUID CRYSTAL DEVICE

Abstract

Liquid crystal device, provided with: a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell adhered to the first liquid crystal cell, wherein each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell is provided with: a first substrate having a plurality of first electrodes formed in a band shape, a second substrate having a plurality of second electrodes formed in a band shape, a liquid crystal layer held in a gap of 10 µm or more between the first substrate and the second substrate, a seal that bonds the first substrate and the second substrate, one or more first spacers arranged inside the seal and maintaining the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate, and at least six second spacers arranged in an inner valid area surrounded by the seal and maintaining the distance, wherein: six of the second spacers are each arranged at the corners of a hexagon.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority based on Japanese Application No. 2020-204916 filed on December 10, 2020, and cites the entire stated contents of the Japanese application. Area

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a liquid crystal device. background

[0003] In recent years, light control devices using liquid crystal cells have been proposed. Such light control devices are primarily used to focus or diverge a single polarization component. One example proposes a liquid crystal lens with multiple annular ribbon electrodes. Another example proposes a liquid crystal lens with transparent electrodes arranged in fan-shaped, multiple-divided regions.

[0004] Patent US 2018 / 096318 A1 describes liquid crystal light beam control devices and their fabrication. Aspects of beam broadening devices used for lighting and architectural purposes are described, including beam divergence control, beam broadening dynamic range control, beam divergence preconditioning, and projected beam intensity distribution.

[0005] Patent document JP 2013 - 174 688 A describes two protrusions on a first substrate. A gap between the two protrusions is filled with a sealant. A second substrate faces the first substrate to be in contact via the sealant. A liquid crystal material is injected between the first and second substrates. A liquid crystal lens panel containing the liquid crystal material is formed. By laminating the liquid crystal lens panel to a display part that displays images, the controller can display three-dimensional images. Brief explanation of the drawings Fig. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a liquid crystal device 1 according to the present embodiment; Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the Fig. 1 shown liquid crystal device 1; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of an example of a first liquid crystal cell 10, a second liquid crystal cell 20, a third liquid crystal cell 30, and a fourth liquid crystal cell 40; Fig. 4 is a perspective view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40; Fig. 5 is a sectional view of a formation example of the first liquid crystal cell 10; Fig. Fig. 6 schematically shows the first liquid crystal cell 10 in the off state (OFF), in which no electric field is formed in the liquid crystal layer LC1; Fig. Fig. 7 schematically shows the first liquid crystal cell 10 in the switched-on state (ON), in which an electric field is formed in the liquid crystal layer LC1; Fig. 8 is a plan view of an example of the first liquid crystal cell 10; Fig. 9 is a plan view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10; Fig. 10 is a plan view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10; Fig. 11 is a schematic sectional view of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having a first spacer SP1 and a second spacer SP2; Fig. 12 is a plan view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10; Fig. 13 is a plan view of an example of a first electrode E11 and the second spacer SP2 of the first liquid crystal cell 10; Fig. 14 is a plan view of another example of the first electrode E11 and the second spacer SP2 of the first liquid crystal cell 10; Fig. 15 is a schematic sectional view of the first liquid crystal cell 10 with the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 16 is a sectional view of an example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 17 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 18 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 19 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 20 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 including the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 21A is a plan view of the Fig. 20 shown first spacer SP1; Fig. 21B is a plan view of the Fig. 20 shown first spacer SP1; Fig. 22 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 23 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 24 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 showing the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 25 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 26 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Fig. 27 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2; Detailed description

[0006] A liquid crystal device according to an embodiment is provided with: a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell adhered to the first liquid crystal cell, each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell being provided with: a first substrate having a plurality of first electrodes formed in a band shape, a second substrate having a plurality of second electrodes formed in a band shape, a liquid crystal layer held in a gap of 10 µm or more between the first substrate and the second substrate, a gasket that adheres the first substrate and the second substrate, one or more first spacers arranged inside the gasket and maintaining the gap between the first substrate and the second substrate, and a plurality of second spacers arranged in an inner valid area surrounded by the gasket and maintaining the gap.

[0007] At least the present embodiment has the addition that the plurality of second spacers are at least six second spacers, wherein six of the second spacers are each arranged at the corner points of a hexagon.

[0008] At least one further embodiment alternatively or additionally has the addition that one of the second spacers is arranged over the plurality of first electrodes.

[0009] At least one further embodiment alternatively or additionally has the addition that with respect to the height to width ratio (H / W), assuming that the width of a lower part in sectional view is W and the height is H, the height to width ratio of the second spacer is 0.5 or more, the height to width ratio of the first spacer is smaller than the height to width ratio of the second spacer, the second spacer has a constricted part between the lower part and a middle part, the position of which is 1 / 2 the height, the width of the constricted part being smaller than the width of the lower part and the width of the middle part.

[0010] At least one further embodiment alternatively or additionally has the addition that the gap is 50 µm or more, the first spacer has a first lower spacer arranged on the first substrate and a first upper spacer which lies directly above the first lower spacer and is arranged on the second substrate, wherein the second spacer has a second lower spacer arranged on the first substrate and a second upper spacer which lies directly above the second lower spacer and is arranged on the second substrate, the first lower spacer and the first upper spacer each have opposite surfaces which lie opposite one another, wherein the opposite surfaces are each uneven surfaces.

[0011] At least one further embodiment alternatively or additionally has the addition that the gap is 50 µm or more, the first spacer comprises a first lower spacer arranged on the first substrate and a first upper spacer which lies directly above the first lower spacer and is arranged on the second substrate, wherein the second spacer comprises a second lower spacer arranged on the first substrate and a second upper spacer which lies directly above the second lower spacer and is arranged on the second substrate, with respect to the length of the first direction traversing the seal, the length of the first lower spacer is smaller than the length of the first upper spacer with respect to the length in the second direction which is orthogonal to the first direction,the length of the first lower spacer is greater than the length of the first upper spacer.,

[0012] At least one further embodiment alternatively or additionally has the addition that the first spacer has a first part having a first upper side and a second part which is formed integrally with the first part and has a second upper side between the first upper side and the second substrate.

[0013] According to one embodiment, it is possible to provide a liquid crystal device that can suppress a reduction in reliability.

[0014] In the following, embodiments of the present invention will be explained with reference to the drawings.

[0015] The disclosure is merely an example, and the subject matter that is readily apparent to those skilled in the art as a suitable modification while maintaining the essence of the invention is naturally included within the scope of the present invention. To further clarify the explanation, the drawings may also schematically show the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each section in comparison to the actual shape. However, this is merely an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present invention.

[0016] In the present description and the respective drawings, the components having the same or similar functions as those shown in the drawings already mentioned are designated by the same reference numerals, and overlapping detailed explanations may be omitted according to the circumstances.

[0017] To facilitate understanding, the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis, which are orthogonal to each other, are shown in the drawings as needed.

[0018] The direction along the X-axis is called the X-direction or first direction, the direction along the Y-axis is called the Y-direction or second direction, and the direction along the Z-axis is called the Z-direction or third direction. The plane defined by the X-axis and Y-axis is called the XY plane, and the view of the XY plane is called a plan view.

[0019] Fig. 1 is a view showing a liquid crystal device 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0020] The liquid crystal device 1 is provided with a first liquid crystal cell 10, a second liquid crystal cell 20, a third liquid crystal cell 30, a fourth liquid crystal cell 40, a first flexible wiring board F1, a second flexible wiring board F2, a third flexible wiring board F3, a fourth flexible wiring board F4, and a circuit board 50. The liquid crystal device 1 of the present embodiment is provided with two or more liquid crystal cells and is not limited to a configuration with four liquid crystal cells as in the example in Fig. 1 shown.

[0021] The first liquid crystal cell 10, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 are stacked in this order.

[0022] The first flexible wiring board F1 electrically connects the first liquid crystal cell 10 to the circuit board 50. The second flexible wiring board F2 electrically connects the second liquid crystal cell 20 to the circuit board 50. The third flexible wiring board F3 electrically connects the third liquid crystal cell 30 to the circuit board 50. The fourth flexible wiring board F4 electrically connects the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 to the circuit board 50.

[0023] The first flexible wiring board F1, the second flexible wiring board F2, the third flexible wiring board F3, and the fourth flexible wiring board F4 are each bent along the edges of the first liquid crystal cell 10, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40, and further bent along the edge of the circuit board 50. The circuit board 50 is arranged to oppose the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 at a distance.

[0024] A region for arranging a light source part LS, indicated by the dashed line, is secured between the circuit board 50 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40. The light source part LS is provided with at least one light source and, if necessary, with an optical element such as a lens, etc., between the light source and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40.

[0025] For example, the light emerging from the light source part LS is unpolarized. The light emerging from the light source part LS passes through the fourth liquid crystal cell 40, the third liquid crystal cell 30, the second liquid crystal cell 20, and the first liquid crystal cell 10 in sequence. As described below, the fourth liquid crystal cell 40, the third liquid crystal cell 30, the second liquid crystal cell 20, and the first liquid crystal cell 10 are configured to diverge some polarization components of the incoming light. By combining the liquid crystal device 1 with a light source part LS in this way, it is possible to provide an illumination device with a variable degree of light divergence.

[0026] Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the Fig. 1 shown liquid crystal device 1. In Fig. 2, the illustration of the first flexible wiring board F1, the second flexible wiring board F2, the third flexible wiring board F3, the fourth flexible wiring board F4 and the circuit board 50 is omitted.

[0027] The first liquid crystal cell 10 is provided with a first substrate S11, a second substrate S21, a liquid crystal layer LC1, and a gasket SE1. The first substrate S11 and the second substrate S21 are adhered to each other by the gasket SE1. The liquid crystal layer LC1 is held between the first substrate S11 and the second substrate S21 and sealed by the gasket SE1. The valid area AA1, which can diverge incoming light, is formed within the area surrounded by the gasket SE1.

[0028] For example, the first direction X is parallel to an edge SX of the first substrate S11, and the second direction Y is a side parallel to another edge SY of the first substrate S11. The third direction Z is the thickness direction of the first substrate S11. This correspondence relationship between each direction and the first substrate S11 can also be applied to the second substrate S21 and, furthermore, to the other liquid crystal cells 20 to 40.

[0029] The first substrate S11 has an extension part EX1 extending outward of the second substrate S21 along the first direction X and an extension part EY1 extending outward of the second substrate S21 along the second direction Y.

[0030] The second liquid crystal cell 20 is provided with a first substrate S12, a second substrate S22, a liquid crystal layer LC2, and a gasket SE2. The first substrate S12 and the second substrate S22 are adhered to each other by the gasket SE2. The liquid crystal layer LC2 is held between the first substrate S12 and the second substrate S22 and sealed by the gasket SE2. The valid area AA2 is formed within the area surrounded by the gasket SE2.

[0031] The first substrate S12 has an extension part EX2 extending outward from the second substrate S22 along the first direction X, and an extension part EY2 extending outward from the second substrate S22 along the second direction Y. In the third direction Z, the extension part EX2 overlaps the extension part EX1, and the extension part EY2 overlaps the extension part EY1.

[0032] The third liquid crystal cell 30 is provided with a first substrate S13, a second substrate S23, a liquid crystal layer LC3, and a gasket SE3. The first substrate S13 and the second substrate S23 are adhered to each other by the gasket SE3. The liquid crystal layer LC3 is held between the first substrate S13 and the second substrate S23 and is sealed by the gasket SE3. The valid area AA3 is formed within the area surrounded by the gasket SE3.

[0033] The first substrate S13 has an extension part EX3 that extends outward from the second substrate S23 along the first direction X, and an extension part EY3 that extends outward from the second substrate S23 along the second direction Y. In the third direction Z, the extension part EY3 overlaps the extension part EY2. The extension part EX3 does not overlap the extension part EX2 and lies on the opposite side of the extension part EX2.

[0034] The fourth liquid crystal cell 40 is provided with a first substrate S14, a second substrate S24, a liquid crystal layer LC4, and a gasket SE4. The first substrate S14 and the second substrate S24 are adhered to each other by the gasket SE4. The liquid crystal layer LC4 is held between the first substrate S14 and the second substrate S24 and is sealed by the gasket SE4. The valid area AA4 is formed within the area surrounded by the gasket SE4.

[0035] The first substrate S14 has an extension part EX4 extending outward from the second substrate S24 along the first direction X, and an extension part EY4 extending outward from the second substrate S24 along the second direction Y. In the third direction Z, the extension part EX4 overlaps the extension part EX3, and the extension part EY4 overlaps the extension part EY3.

[0036] A transparent adhesive layer AD12 is arranged between the first liquid crystal cell 10 and the second liquid crystal cell 20. The transparent adhesive layer AD12 adheres the first substrate S11 and the second substrate S22.

[0037] A transparent adhesive layer AD23 is arranged between the second liquid crystal cell 20 and the third liquid crystal cell 30. The transparent adhesive layer AD23 adheres the first substrate S12 and the second substrate S23.

[0038] A transparent adhesive layer AD34 is arranged between the third liquid crystal cell 30 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40. The transparent adhesive layer AD34 adheres the first substrate S13 and the second substrate S24.

[0039] Next, the first liquid crystal cell 10, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 will be explained.

[0040] Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the first liquid crystal cell 10, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40.

[0041] In the first liquid crystal cell 10, the first substrate S11 is provided with a plurality of first electrodes E11 formed in a band shape. The plurality of first electrodes E11 extend along the first direction X and are lined up at intervals along the second direction Y. The second substrate S21 is provided with a plurality of second electrodes E21 formed in a band shape. The plurality of second electrodes E21 extend along the second direction Y and are lined up at intervals along the first direction X. That is, the plurality of first electrodes E11 and the plurality of second electrodes E21 overlap with each other. As described later, the intersection angle between the first electrode E11 and the second electrode E21 is approximately 90° in plan view.

[0042] Also in the second liquid crystal cell 20, as in the first liquid crystal cell 10, the plurality of first electrodes E12 of the first substrate S12 extend along the first direction X and are arrayed at intervals along the second direction Y. The plurality of second electrodes E22 of the second substrate S22 extend along the second direction Y and are arrayed at intervals along the first direction X.

[0043] In the third liquid crystal cell 30, the plurality of first electrodes E13 of the first substrate S13 extend along the second direction Y and are arrayed at intervals along the first direction X. The plurality of second electrodes E23 of the second substrate S23 extend along the first direction X and are arrayed at intervals along the second direction Y.

[0044] In the fourth liquid crystal cell 40, as in the third liquid crystal cell, the plurality of first electrodes E14 of the first substrate S14 extend along the second direction Y and are arrayed at intervals along the first direction X. The plurality of second electrodes E24 of the second substrate S24 extend along the first direction X and are arrayed at intervals along the second direction Y.

[0045] For example, the first liquid crystal cell 10 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 have a 90° rotational symmetry relationship in the XY plane. The first electrode E11 and the first electrode E14 are orthogonal to each other, and the second electrode E21 and the second electrode E24 are orthogonal to each other. That is, the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 has the same configuration as the first liquid crystal cell 10, and the arrangement of the first electrode E11 corresponds to the arrangement of the first electrode E14 when the first liquid crystal cell 10 is rotated 90° in the XY plane, and the arrangement of the second electrode E21 corresponds to the arrangement of the second electrode E24.

[0046] Likewise, the second and third liquid crystal cells 20 and 30 have a 90° rotational symmetry relationship in the XY plane. The first electrode E12 and the first electrode E13 are orthogonal to each other, and the second electrode E22 and the second electrode E23 are orthogonal to each other.

[0047] The first electrode E11 of the first liquid crystal cell 10 and the first electrode E12 of the second liquid crystal cell 20 intersect in the XY plane at an angle of less than 90°. The first electrode E13 of the third liquid crystal cell 30 and the first electrode E14 of the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 intersect in the XY plane at an angle of less than 90°.

[0048] The first substrates S11 to S14 are each square-shaped and have the same size. That is, each of the first substrates S11 to S14 has the same length LX along the first direction X and the same length LY along the second direction Y. Furthermore, the length LX is equal to the length LY (LX = LY).

[0049] Therefore, when the first liquid crystal cell 10, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 are connected to each other as shown in Fig. 1, the edges along the first direction X are superimposed, and furthermore the edges along the second direction Y are also superimposed.

[0050] Since the first liquid crystal cell 10, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 have essentially the same configurations, the first liquid crystal cell 10 will be explained specifically below.

[0051] The plurality of first electrodes E11 includes a plurality of first strip electrodes E11A and a plurality of second strip electrodes E11B. The plurality of first strip electrodes E11A are electrically connected to one another and configured to be applied with the same voltage. The plurality of second strip electrodes E11B are electrically connected to one another and configured to be applied with the same voltage. However, the voltage applied to the second strip electrodes E11B is controlled to be different from the voltage applied to the first strip electrodes E11A. These first strip electrodes E11A and second strip electrodes E11B are alternately arrayed along the second direction Y.

[0052] The plurality of second electrodes E21 include a plurality of third band electrodes E21A and a plurality of fourth band electrodes E21B. The plurality of third band electrodes E21A are electrically connected to one another and configured to be applied with the same voltage. The plurality of fourth band electrodes E21B are electrically connected to one another and configured to be applied with the same voltage. However, the voltage applied to the fourth band electrodes E21B is controlled so that it is different from the voltage applied to the third band electrodes E21A. These third band electrodes E21A and fourth band electrodes E21B are alternately arranged along the first direction X.

[0053] Fig. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40. Compared to the Fig. The example shown in Figure 3 differs in Fig. 4 in that the plurality of first electrodes of each liquid crystal cell are circularly formed and arranged in concentric circles, and the plurality of second electrodes are circularly formed and arranged in concentric circles.

[0054] Fig. 5 is a sectional view of a configuration example of the first liquid crystal cell 10. Although the first liquid crystal cell 10 is explained here, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 also have the same sectional structure as the first liquid crystal cell 10, and their explanations are omitted. The first spacer disposed inside the gasket SE1 and the second spacer disposed in the valid area AA1 are not shown in the drawing and will be explained in detail later.

[0055] The first substrate S11 is provided with an insulating substrate 11, the first electrodes E11 with the first strip electrodes E11A and the second strip electrodes E11B, supply lines PL11 to PL14, and an orientation film AL1. The first electrodes E11 and the supply lines PL11 to PL14 are arranged on the insulating substrate 11 and covered by the orientation film AL1. Additional thin films may be provided between the first electrode E11 and the insulating substrate 11, and between the supply lines PL11 to PL14 and the insulating substrate 11. The first strip electrodes E11A are electrically connected to the supply line PL12. The second strip electrodes E11B are electrically connected to the supply line PL13.

[0056] The PT11 supply terminal, which is electrically connected to the PL11 supply line, is routed to the outside of the SE1 seal. The PT14 supply terminal, which is electrically connected to the PL14 supply line, is routed to the outside of the SE1 seal. The PT11 and PT14 supply terminals are exposed by the AL1 orientation film.

[0057] The second substrate S21 is provided with an insulating substrate 21, the second electrodes E21, supply lines PL21 and PL24, and an orientation film AL2. The second electrodes E21 and the supply lines PL21 and PL24 are arranged on the insulating substrate 21 and covered by the orientation film AL2. Although only one second electrode E21 is shown here, the Fig. 3 are arranged between the insulating substrate 21 and the orientation layer AL2. Among the plurality of second electrodes E21, the third band electrodes E21A are electrically connected to the supply line PL21, and the fourth band electrodes E21B are electrically connected to the supply line PL24. Additional thin layers may be provided between the second electrode E21 and the insulating substrate 21, and between the supply lines PL21 and PL24 and the insulating substrate 21.

[0058] The PT21 supply connection, which is electrically connected to the PL21 supply line, is led outwards from the SE1 seal. The PT21 supply connection is located directly above the PT11 supply connection. The PT24 supply connection, which is electrically connected to the PL24 supply line, is led outwards from the SE1 seal. The PT24 supply connection is located directly above the PT14 supply connection. The PT21 and PT24 supply connections are exposed by the AL2 orientation film.

[0059] An electrically conductive material CD1 is arranged between the supply terminal PT11 and the supply terminal PT21, electrically connecting the two. An electrically conductive material CD4 is arranged between the supply terminal PT14 and the supply terminal PT24, electrically connecting the two.

[0060] The insulating substrates 11 and 21 are transparent substrates, such as a glass substrate or a resin substrate. The first electrode E11 and the second electrode E21 are transparent electrodes made of a transparent electrically conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO). The supply lines PL11 to PL14 and the supply lines PL21 and PL24 are made of metallic materials such as aluminum, titanium, molybdenum, and tungsten. The supply lines PL11 to PL14 and the supply lines PL21 and PL24 can be made of the same material as the transparent electrodes. The orientation films AL1 and AL2 are horizontal orientation films with an orientation regulating force substantially parallel to the XY plane.

[0061] Next, the optical effect in the first liquid crystal cell 10 is described with reference to the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. In the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 only shows the components necessary for explanation.

[0062] Fig. 6 schematically shows the first liquid crystal cell 10 in the off state (OFF), in which no electric field is formed in the liquid crystal layer LC1.

[0063] In the liquid crystal layer LC1 in the off-state, the liquid crystal molecules LM1 are initially oriented. In such an off-state, the liquid crystal layer LC1 has a substantially uniform refractive index distribution. Therefore, the first polarization component POL1, which represents light incident on the first liquid crystal cell 10, penetrates the liquid crystal layer LC1 with little refraction (or divergence). The first polarization component POL1 corresponds, for example, to the P-polarized light of natural light. In the present description, the S-polarized light, which is orthogonal to the P-polarized light, is referred to as the second polarization component POL2.

[0064] Fig. Figure 7 schematically shows the first liquid crystal cell 10 in the switched-on state (ON), in which an electric field is formed in the liquid crystal layer LC1.

[0065] For example, if the liquid crystal layer LC1 has a positive dielectric constant anisotropy, the liquid crystal molecules LM1 are oriented in the switched-on state in which an electric field is formed in the liquid crystal layer LC1 such that the longitudinal axis of the liquid crystal molecules LM1 runs along the electric field. The electric field acting on the region of the liquid crystal layer LC1 near the first substrate S11 is, for example, Fig. 5 is formed between the first and second strip electrodes E11A and E11B. By applying such an electric field to the liquid crystal layer LC1, a region in which the liquid crystal molecules LM1 are substantially perpendicular to the substrate, a region in which the liquid crystal molecules LM1 are maintained in the initial orientation state, and a region in which the liquid crystal molecules LM1 are oblique to the substrate are formed in the liquid crystal layer LC1.

[0066] The liquid crystal molecule LM1 exhibits a refractive index anisotropy Δn. Therefore, in the on-state, the liquid crystal layer LC1 exhibits a refractive index distribution or a retardation distribution corresponding to the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules LM1. The retardation is expressed here by Δn•d when the thickness of the liquid crystal layer LC1 (or the distance between the first substrate S11 and the second substrate S21) is d.

[0067] In such an on state, the first polarization component POL1 diverges when passing through the liquid crystal layer LC1 under the influence of the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer LC1.

[0068] Likewise, the second polarization component POL2 diverges when passing through the liquid crystal layer LC2 in the switched-on state under the influence of the refractive index distribution of the liquid crystal layer LC2.

[0069] As described herein, the liquid crystal device 1 in which at least the first liquid crystal cell 10 capable of diverging the first polarization component POL1 and the second liquid crystal cell 20 capable of diverging the second polarization component POL2 are stacked enables the divergence of the light emerging from the light source part LS.

[0070] When white light enters the liquid crystal layer where the refractive index distribution is formed, the degree of divergence is different for each wavelength. Therefore, there is a risk that part of the diverged white light will be colored.

[0071] Therefore, the present embodiment provides a liquid crystal device 1 in which the first liquid crystal cell 10, the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 are stacked. In the liquid crystal device 1 with such a configuration, for example, the first liquid crystal cell 10 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 mainly diverge the first polarization component (P polarization) POL1 of the light emerging from the light source part LS, and the second liquid crystal cell 20 and the third liquid crystal cell 30 mainly diverge the second polarization component (S polarization) POL2.

[0072] However, the refractive index distributions formed in the liquid crystal layer LC1 of the first liquid crystal cell 10 and the liquid crystal layer LC4 of the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 are configured to be different from each other. As a result, the degree of divergence of the first polarization component POL1 in the first liquid crystal cell 10 differs from the degree of divergence of the first polarization component POL1 in the fourth liquid crystal cell 40, and the coloration of the first polarization component POL1 is suppressed.

[0073] Likewise, the refractive index distributions formed in the liquid crystal layer LC2 of the second liquid crystal cell 20 and the liquid crystal layer LC3 of the third liquid crystal cell 30 are configured to be different from each other. As a result, the degree of divergence of the second polarization component POL2 in the second liquid crystal cell 20 differs from the degree of divergence of the second polarization component POL2 in the third liquid crystal cell 30, and the coloration of the second polarization component POL2 is suppressed.

[0074] The degree of divergence of the polarization components in each liquid crystal cell also depends on the magnitude of the refractive index distribution. That is, the greater the thickness of the liquid crystal layer or the greater the distance between the first and second substrates, the greater the divergence effect that can be achieved. For example, a gap of 10 µm or more, 15 µm or more, or even 50 µm or more is required. However, simply attempting to create a gap of 10 µm or more increases the amount of sealing material used, and this may also cause problems such as uneven sealing height or sealing disruption.

[0075] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the first spacer SP1 is arranged inside the gasket. Of the liquid crystal cells constituting the liquid crystal device 1, the first liquid crystal cell 10 is explained here, but the second liquid crystal cell 20, the third liquid crystal cell 30, and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 are also configured in the same manner as the first liquid crystal cell 10.

[0076] Fig. 8 is a plan view of an example of the first liquid crystal cell 10.

[0077] The seal SE1 is formed in the form of a successive frame. A first spacer SP1 is arranged inside the seal SE1 and maintains a distance between the first substrate S11 and the second substrate S21. Fig. In the example shown in Figure 8, the first spacer SP1 is linear in the first and second directions X and Y and is formed in a successive frame, just like the seal SE1.

[0078] In the inner valid area AA1, which is surrounded by the seal SE1, several second spacers SP2 are arranged. Fig. In the example shown in Figure 8, the four second spacers SP2 are arranged such that they lie at the corners of a quadrilateral (rectangle, square, or rhombus). The second spacers SP2 maintain the distance between the first substrate S11 and the second substrate S21, just like the first spacer SP1.

[0079] Fig. 9 is a plan view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10.

[0080] The Fig. The example shown in Figure 9 differs from the one in Fig. 8 in that the first spacers SP1 are formed in a plurality of line shapes. Here, the first spacers SP1 are formed in the shape of three spaced-apart lines, and the number of lines is not limited to the example shown in the drawing.

[0081] Fig. 10 is a plan view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10.

[0082] The Fig. The example shown in Figure 10 differs from the one in Fig. 8 in that the first spacers SP1 are formed in the form of several points.

[0083] Fig. Figure 11 is a schematic sectional view of the first liquid crystal cell 10 with the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2. Only the components necessary for explanation are shown here.

[0084] The first spacer SP1 is arranged inside the seal SE1 and is surrounded by the seal SE1. This means that the entire side surface of the first spacer SP1 is in contact with the seal SE1. The second spacer SP2 is surrounded by the liquid crystal layer LC1. In one example, the side surface of the second spacer SP2 is in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC1, but some of the side surfaces of the second spacer SP2 are surrounded by the Fig. 5 orientation films AL1 and AL2.

[0085] In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 11, both the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2 are arranged on the first substrate S11, but they can also be arranged on the second substrate S21. The first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2 are made of the same material.

[0086] In one example, the height H1 of the first spacer SP1 along the third direction Z is equal to the height H2 of the second spacer SP2 along the third direction Z. However, the heights H1 and H2 are not necessarily equal. Although both the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2 have the function of maintaining the distance d of 10 μm or more, the thickness of the element superimposed on the first spacer SP1 and the thickness of the element superimposed on the second spacer SP2 are taken into account to determine each height. That is, the height of the first spacer SP1 may be equal to the height of the second spacer SP2, the height of the first spacer SP1 may be smaller than the height of the second spacer SP2, or the height of the first spacer SP1 may be larger than the height of the second spacer SP2. Spacers with different heights may, for example,formed by a photolithographic process using halftone or grayscale masks.

[0087] As described herein, in an embodiment where the liquid crystal layer LC1 is held at a distance d of 10 µm or more, the first spacer SP1 is disposed inside the sealant SE1, thereby suppressing an increase in the amount of the sealant material used. Since the distance at the periphery of the first liquid crystal cell 10 is held by the first spacer SP1, the variation in the distance at the periphery is suppressed compared to the case where only the sealant SE1 is present. In addition, the first spacer SP1 is contained in the sealant SE1, thereby improving the strength of the sealant SE1, suppressing breakage of the sealant, and suppressing leakage of the liquid crystal material through the interface between the sealant SE1 and the first substrate S11 and the interface between the sealant SE1 and the second substrate S21. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in reliability.

[0088] Fig. 12 is a plan view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10.

[0089] The Fig. The example shown in Figure 12 differs from the Fig. 8 to 10 in that six second spacers SP2 are arranged such that they lie at the corners of a hexagon. The first spacer SP1 can be in the form of a single line, as in Fig. 8, or in the form of several lines, as in Fig. 9, or in the form of several points, as in Fig. 10 shown, be formed.

[0090] In a positional relationship where multiple liquid crystal cells are stacked and the second spacer SP2 located in each valid area is superimposed, there is a risk of moiré occurring due to a slight positional misalignment of the liquid crystal cells. In contrast, the individual arrangement of the second spacer SP2 in each liquid crystal cell may result in a reduction in production yield.

[0091] After the Fig. In the example shown in FIG. 12, when the first liquid crystal cell 10 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40 are stacked with a 90° rotational symmetry relationship, the second spacer SP2 of the first liquid crystal cell 10 does not overlap the second spacer SP2 of the fourth liquid crystal cell 40. Therefore, moiré is suppressed. In addition, two liquid crystal cells with the same layout of the second spacer SP2 can be used as the first liquid crystal cell 10 and the fourth liquid crystal cell 40, and a reduction in production yield is suppressed.

[0092] Fig. 13 is a plan view of an example of the first electrode E11 and the second spacer SP2 of the first liquid crystal cell 10.

[0093] The plurality of first electrodes E11 shown here each extend in a straight line, as in Fig. 3. The second spacer SP2 is arranged above the plurality of first electrodes E11. Among the second spacers SP2 arranged on the first substrate S11, the width W2 of the lower part in contact with the first substrate S11 is greater than the sum of the width W11 of the first electrodes E11 and the width W12 of the distance between the first electrodes E11.

[0094] Fig. 14 is a plan view of another example of the first electrode E11 and the second spacer SP2 of the first liquid crystal cell 10.

[0095] The plurality of first electrodes E11 shown here each extend in an arc shape, as in Fig. 4. In such an example, the second spacer SP2 is also arranged over the plurality of first electrodes E11.

[0096] Fig. Figure 15 is a schematic sectional view of the first liquid crystal cell 10 with the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2. Only the components necessary for explanation are shown here.

[0097] The lower part B2 of the second spacer SP2 is in contact with the plurality of first electrodes E11 and is in contact with the insulating substrate 11 in the gap between the first electrodes E11. If another thin layer is provided between the insulating substrate 11 and the first electrodes E11, the second spacer SP2 is in contact with this thin layer in the gap between the first electrodes E11.

[0098] For example, when the adhesive strength of the second spacer SP2 and the first electrode E11 is low and the adhesive strength of the second spacer SP2 and the insulating substrate 11 is high, the second spacer SP2 contacting only the first electrode E11 is easily peeled off compared to the second spacer SP2 contacting only the insulating substrate 11. Therefore, peeling off of the second spacer SP2 is suppressed by contacting the second spacer SP2 with multiple members made of different materials as described above.

[0099] The orientation film AL1, which covers a plurality of first electrodes E11, covers the side surface SS2 of the second spacer SP2, which is located near the bottom part B2. When the position of 1 / 2 of the height H2 of the second spacer SP2 is considered as the middle part M2, the side surface SS2 above the middle part M2 is exposed by the orientation film AL1. The total area of ​​the side surface SS2 exposed by the orientation film AL1 (or the total area of ​​the side surface SS2 in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC1) is larger than the total area of ​​the side surface SS2 covered by the orientation film AL1.

[0100] The lower part B1 of the first spacer SP1 is in contact with the insulating substrate 11. However, the first spacer SP1, like the second spacer SP2, can be in contact with multiple elements made of different materials. For example, the first spacer SP1 can be in contact not only with the insulating substrate 11, but also with a dummy electrode made of the same material as the first electrode E11.

[0101] The orientation film AL1 covers the side surface SS1 of the first spacer SP1, which is located near the bottom part B1. When the position of 1 / 2 of the height H1 of the first spacer SP1 is considered as the middle part M1, the side surface SS1 above the middle part M1 is exposed by the orientation film AL1. The total area of ​​the side surface SS1 exposed by the orientation film AL1 is larger than the total area of ​​the side surface SS1 covered by the orientation film AL1.

[0102] The side surface SS1 exposed from the orientation film AL1 is in contact with the seal SE1. That is, the total area of ​​the side surface SS1 covered by the seal SE1 is larger than the total area of ​​the side surface SS1 covered by the orientation film AL1.

[0103] Although the top surface T1 of the first spacer SP1 and the top surface T2 of the second spacer SP2 may be covered by the orientation film AL1, the illustration is omitted.

[0104] Some variants of the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2 are explained below with reference to a sectional view of the XZ plane defined by the first X direction and the third Z direction. The XZ plane view is referred to as a sectional view. Each sectional view shows only the components necessary for explanation. The multiple variants can be combined as needed.

[0105] Fig. 16 is a sectional view of an example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0106] With respect to the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2, the length and aspect ratio (H / W) is considered, assuming that the width of the lower part in sectional view is W and the height is H.

[0107] The length and aspect ratio (H2 / W2) of the second spacer SP2 is 0.5 or more. The length and aspect ratio (H1 / W1) of the first spacer SP1 is smaller than the length and aspect ratio (H2 / W2) of the second spacer SP2.

[0108] In one example, the width W2 is 50 µm, the height H2 is 30 µm, and the aspect ratio (H2 / W2) is 0.6. Furthermore, the width W1 is 100 µm, the height H1 is 30 µm, and the aspect ratio (H1 / W1) is 0.3.

[0109] Regarding the second spacer SP2, it is desirable that the width W2 (or the diameter of the bottom part B2) be small because it is required to maintain the spacing function and reduce the area occupied within the valid range. When the width W2 is less than 30 µm, the aspect ratio (H2 / W2) can be greater than 1. The smaller the width W2, the more perpendicular the side surface SS2 is to the first substrate S11.

[0110] The first spacer SP1 is required to maintain the spacing function and increase the contact area with the seal SE1. Therefore, one method is Fig. In the example shown in Figure 16, the width W1 of the lower part B1 is increased to 100 µm or more. The first spacer SP1 is formed in a forward-tapered shape in which the width of the lower part B1 gradually decreases toward the upper surface T1. The side surface SS1 is inclined toward the first substrate S11.

[0111] In this example, the respective requirements for the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2 can be met.

[0112] Fig. 17 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0113] The second spacer SP2 has a constricted portion C2 between the lower portion B2 and the middle portion M2. The width W21 of the constricted portion C2 is smaller than the width W2 of the lower portion B2 and the width W22 of the middle portion M2. Fig. In the example shown in Figure 17, the second spacer SP2 is formed in a reverse-tapered shape in which the width gradually decreases from the top surface T2 to the constricted portion C2, and in a forward-tapered shape in which the width gradually decreases from the bottom surface B2 to the constricted portion C2. Therefore, the width W22 is also smaller than the width W2. In one example, W2 is about 10 µm.

[0114] Fig. 18 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0115] Here it is assumed that the distance d is 50 µm or more.

[0116] The first spacer SP1 includes a first lower spacer SP11 disposed on the first substrate S11, and a first upper spacer SP12 directly above the first lower spacer SP11 and disposed on the second substrate S21. The first lower spacer SP11 and the first upper spacer SP12 each have opposing surfaces L11 and U12 that face each other. The opposing surfaces L11 and U12 are, for example, flat surfaces. The opposing surfaces L11 and U12 may be in contact with each other or spaced apart.

[0117] The second spacer SP2 includes a second lower spacer SP21 disposed on the first substrate S11, and a second upper spacer SP22 directly above the second lower spacer SP21 and disposed on the second substrate S21. The second lower spacer SP21 and the second upper spacer SP22 each have opposing surfaces L21 and U22 that face each other. The opposing surfaces L21 and U22 are, for example, flat surfaces. The opposing surfaces L21 and U22 may be in contact with each other or spaced apart.

[0118] Orientation films AL1 and AL2 or the seal SE1 may be provided between the opposing surfaces L11 and U12 and the opposing surfaces L21 and U22.

[0119] The height H11 of the first lower spacer SP11 and the height H12 of the first upper spacer SP12 can be the same or different. The sum of the heights H11 and H12 can correspond to the required height H1 of the first spacer SP1.

[0120] The height H21 of the second lower spacer SP21 and the height H22 of the second upper spacer SP22 can be the same or different. The sum of the heights H21 and H22 can equal the required height H2 of the second spacer SP2.

[0121] In one example, the heights H11 and H12 and the heights H21 and H22 are each equal to or greater than 20 µm.

[0122] According to such an example, by forming the first lower spacer SP11 and the first upper spacer SP12 with a height of 20 µm or more, a large distance d is formed, and a liquid crystal device with a higher degree of divergence can be provided.

[0123] Fig. 19 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0124] The opposing surface L11 of the first lower spacer SP11 and the opposing surface U12 of the first upper spacer SP12 are uneven surfaces. The seal SE1 is provided between the opposing surface L11 and the opposing surface U12. That is, the contact surface between the first lower spacer SP11 and the seal SE1 and the contact surface between the first upper spacer SP12 and the seal SE1 can be reduced compared to the Fig. 18 can be enlarged.

[0125] In the second spacer SP2, the opposite surfaces L21 and U22 are each flat surfaces.

[0126] Fig. 20 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0127] Relative to the length of the first direction X traversing the seal SE1, the length LX11 of the first lower spacer SP11 is smaller than the length LX12 of the first upper spacer SP12. The length LX11 of the first lower spacer SP11 may be greater than the length LX12 of the first upper spacer SP12. The opposing surfaces L11 and U12 are each flat, but may also be uneven.

[0128] Fig. 21A and Fig. 21B are plan views of the Fig. 20 shown first spacer SP1.

[0129] In the Fig. In the example shown in FIG. 21A, the first lower spacer SP11 is linearly formed along the second direction Y. A plurality of first upper spacers SP12 are arranged at intervals along the second direction Y and each intersect the first lower spacer SP11. In terms of length in the second direction Y, the length LY11 of the first lower spacer SP11 is greater than the length LY12 of the first upper spacer SP12.

[0130] In the Fig. In the example shown in FIG. 21B, the first spacers SP1 are formed in the shape of dots. The plurality of first lower spacers SP11 and the plurality of first upper spacers SP12 are lined up at intervals along the second direction Y. The first lower spacer SP11 intersects the first upper spacer SP12. In terms of length in the second direction Y, the length LY11 of the first lower spacer SP11 is greater than the length LY12 of the first upper spacer SP12.

[0131] In the Fig. 20, Fig. 21A and Fig. 21B. In the examples shown, the contact area between the first lower spacer SP11 and the seal SE1 and the contact area between the first upper spacer SP12 and the seal SE1 can be increased.

[0132] Fig. 22 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0133] With respect to the length in the first direction X, the length LX11 of the first lower spacer SP11 is smaller than the length LX12 of the first upper spacer SP12. The first upper spacer SP12 has a projection P1 at each end along the first direction X. The opposing surface L11 of the first lower spacer SP11 is located between the pair of projections P1. That is, the upper end of the first lower spacer SP11 is between the pair of projections P1.

[0134] The shape of the first lower spacer SP11 may be linear, as shown in Fig. 21A, or point-shaped, as in Fig. 21B shown.

[0135] In such an example, the same effect as described above can be achieved.

[0136] Fig. 23 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0137] The height H1 of the first spacer SP1 is smaller than the height H2 of the second spacer SP2. Furthermore, the seal SE1 is provided between the first spacer SP1 and the second substrate S21. Fig. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the gasket SE1 includes a filler FL such as a bead, a fiber, or the like, and the filler FL is provided between the top surface T1 of the first spacer SP1 and the second substrate S21. That is, when the gasket SE1 includes the filler FL, the height H1 is set assuming that the filler FL engages the gap between the first spacer SP1 and the second substrate S21. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the fluctuation of the gap.

[0138] Fig. 24 is a sectional view showing another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 including the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0139] The Fig. The example shown in Figure 24 differs from the one in Fig. 23 in that the first spacer SP1 is formed in a plurality of line shapes or a plurality of dot shapes. A filler FL is provided between the first spacer SP1 and the second substrate S21. The space between the adjacent first spacers SP1 is also filled with the seal SE1.

[0140] After the Fig. 24, the same effect can be achieved as in Fig. 23 can be achieved. In addition, the contact area between the first spacer SP1 and the seal SE1 can be increased. Furthermore, by increasing the volume of the first spacer SP1 contained in the seal SE1, the amount of sealing material used can be suppressed.

[0141] Fig. 25 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0142] The Fig. The example shown in Figure 25 differs from the one in Fig. 23 in that the top surface T1 of the first spacer SP1 is an uneven surface. A filler FL is provided between the first spacer SP1 and the second substrate S21.

[0143] In the Fig. The example shown in Figure 25 achieves the same effect as described above.

[0144] Fig. 26 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0145] The first spacer SP1 has a first part SP111 on a side near the first substrate S11 and a second part SP112 on a side near the second substrate S21. The first part SP111 has a first top surface T11. The second part SP112 is formed integrally with the first part SP111 and has a second top surface T12 between the first top surface T11 and the second substrate S21; thus, the second part SP112 corresponds to a part of the first part SP111 that protrudes from the first top surface T11 toward the second substrate S21. The first and second top surfaces T11 and T12 are each flat surfaces that are substantially parallel to the XY plane.

[0146] The thickness of the seal SE1 overlying the first top surface T11 is greater than the thickness of the seal SE1 overlying the second top surface T12. It is also possible that the seal SE1 barely overlies the second top surface T12.

[0147] The first spacer SP1 may have three or more top surfaces with different heights along the third direction Z.

[0148] The same effect as described above can also be seen in Fig. 26 shown example.

[0149] Fig. 27 is a sectional view of another example of the first liquid crystal cell 10 having the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2.

[0150] The height H1 of the first spacer SP1 is greater than the height H2 of the second spacer SP2. Although detailed illustration is omitted from the drawing, when the thickness of the member provided between the first spacer SP1 and the second substrate S21 is smaller than the thickness of the member provided between the second spacer SP2 and the second substrate S21, the distance fluctuation can be suppressed by setting the height H1 greater than the height H2. Alternatively, each periphery of the first substrate S11 and the second substrate S21 may be pressurized when the gasket SE1 is cured, and from the viewpoint of suppressing the distance fluctuation after the gasket SE1 is cured, the height H1 may be set greater than the height H2.

[0151] According to the present embodiment described above, it is possible to provide a liquid crystal device that can suppress a reduction in reliability.

[0152] Starting from the liquid crystal device explained as an embodiment of the present invention, all liquid crystal devices that a person skilled in the art can change in design and implement according to the circumstances also belong to the scope of the present invention as long as the gist of the present invention is included.

[0153] Within the scope of the present invention, a person skilled in the art can derive various modifications, and these modifications are also understood to be within the scope of the present invention. Subjects in which a person skilled in the art adds, deletes, or changes the design of components to the above-mentioned embodiments, or adds, omits, or changes the process, are also included within the scope of the present invention, as long as the essence of the invention is retained.

[0154] It is also understood that other effects brought about by the aspects explained in the above-mentioned embodiments are of course brought about by the present invention if they are apparent from the information in the present description or can be derived by the person skilled in the art according to the circumstances.

Claims

[1] Liquid crystal device, provided with: a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell adhered to the first liquid crystal cell, wherein each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell is provided with: a first substrate having a plurality of first electrodes formed in a band shape, a second substrate having a plurality of second electrodes formed in a band shape, a liquid crystal layer held in a gap of 10 µm or more between the first substrate and the second substrate, a seal that bonds the first substrate and the second substrate, one or more first spacers arranged inside the seal and maintaining the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate, and at least six second spacers arranged in an inner valid area surrounded by the seal and maintaining the distance, wherein: six of the second spacers are each arranged at the corners of a hexagon. [2] Liquid crystal device provided with: a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell adhered to the first liquid crystal cell, wherein each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell is provided with: a first substrate having a plurality of first electrodes formed in a band shape, a second substrate having a plurality of second electrodes formed in a band shape, a liquid crystal layer held in a gap of 10 µm or more between the first substrate and the second substrate, a seal that bonds the first substrate and the second substrate, one or more first spacers arranged inside the seal and maintaining the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate, and a plurality of second spacers arranged in an inner valid area surrounded by the seal and maintaining the distance, wherein: one of the second spacers is arranged over the plurality of first electrodes. [3] Liquid crystal device provided with: a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell adhered to the first liquid crystal cell, wherein each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell is provided with: a first substrate having a plurality of first electrodes formed in a band shape, a second substrate having a plurality of second electrodes formed in a band shape, a liquid crystal layer held in a gap of 10 µm or more between the first substrate and the second substrate, a seal that bonds the first substrate and the second substrate, one or more first spacers arranged inside the seal and maintaining the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate, and a plurality of second spacers arranged in an inner valid area surrounded by the seal and maintaining the distance, wherein: in terms of the height to width ratio (H / W) assuming that the width of a lower part in sectional view is W and the height is H, the height to width ratio of the second spacer is 0.5 or more, the height-to-width ratio of the first spacer is smaller than the height-to-width ratio of the second spacer, the second spacer has a constricted part between the lower part and a middle part, the position of which is 1 / 2 the height, where the width of the constricted part is smaller than the width of the lower part and the width of the middle part. [4] A liquid crystal device according to claim 3, wherein the first substrate is further provided with an orientation film covering the plurality of first electrodes, wherein the orientation film covers the side of the lower part under the side surfaces of the second spacer, and the side surface above the middle part is exposed by the orientation film. [5] Liquid crystal device provided with: a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell adhered to the first liquid crystal cell, wherein each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell is provided with: a first substrate having a plurality of first electrodes formed in a band shape, a second substrate having a plurality of second electrodes formed in a band shape, a liquid crystal layer held in a gap of 10 µm or more between the first substrate and the second substrate, a seal that bonds the first substrate and the second substrate, one or more first spacers arranged inside the seal and maintaining the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate, and a plurality of second spacers arranged in an inner valid area surrounded by the seal and maintaining the distance, wherein: the gap is 50 µm or more, the first spacer comprises a first lower spacer disposed on the first substrate and a first upper spacer directly above the first lower spacer and disposed on the second substrate, wherein each second spacer comprises a second lower spacer disposed on the first substrate and a second upper spacer directly above the second lower spacer and disposed on the second substrate, the first lower spacer and the first upper spacer each have opposing surfaces that are opposite to each other, the opposing surfaces each being uneven surfaces. [6] Liquid crystal device provided with: a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell adhered to the first liquid crystal cell, wherein each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell is provided with: a first substrate having a plurality of first electrodes formed in a band shape, a second substrate having a plurality of second electrodes formed in a band shape, a liquid crystal layer held in a gap of 10 µm or more between the first substrate and the second substrate, a seal that bonds the first substrate and the second substrate, one or more first spacers arranged inside the seal and maintaining the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate, and a plurality of second spacers arranged in an inner valid area surrounded by the seal and maintaining the distance, wherein: the gap is 50 µm or more, the first spacer comprises a first lower spacer disposed on the first substrate and a first upper spacer directly above the first lower spacer and disposed on the second substrate, wherein each second spacer comprises a second lower spacer disposed on the first substrate and a second upper spacer directly above the second lower spacer and disposed on the second substrate, relative to the length of a first direction passing through the seal, the length of the first lower spacer is smaller than the length of the first upper spacer, with respect to the length in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, the length of the first lower spacer is greater than the length of the first upper spacer. [7] A liquid crystal device according to claim 6, wherein the first upper spacer has a projection at each of both ends along the first direction, the first lower spacer being located between the projections. [8] Liquid crystal device provided with: a first liquid crystal cell and a second liquid crystal cell adhered to the first liquid crystal cell, wherein each of the first liquid crystal cell and the second liquid crystal cell is provided with: a first substrate having a plurality of first electrodes formed in a band shape, a second substrate having a plurality of second electrodes formed in a band shape, a liquid crystal layer held in a gap of 10 µm or more between the first substrate and the second substrate, a seal that bonds the first substrate and the second substrate, one or more first spacers arranged inside the seal and maintaining the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate, and a plurality of second spacers arranged in an inner valid area surrounded by the seal and maintaining the distance, wherein the first spacer a first part having a first upper side, and a second part formed integrally with the first part and having a second top surface between the first top surface and the second substrate. [9] All device according to at least one of claims 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8, wherein the first spacer is formed linearly. [10] The liquid crystal device according to at least one of claims 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8, wherein the plurality of first spacers are formed in a dot shape.

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