Display device, information display device, display device for a slot machine, and switch

Abstract

A display switching device for switching display images by switching the irradiation of lights from a plurality of light source positions, wherein the display switching device comprises: a lens arrangement comprising an arrangement of a plurality of lenses; and a display unit, wherein the light from each of the plurality of light source positions passes through a different position on the display unit and is focused by a corresponding lens in the lens arrangement, the transmittance of the light through the display unit differs depending on a position on the display unit which is to be assigned to at least one predetermined stationary pattern, and the transmittance at a position of a plurality of positions on the display unit is a transmittance of one of three or more types, wherein the display unit comprises a plurality of pixel sections, each comprising a section.which allows the passage of light from a light source position of the plurality of light source positions that are focused by the corresponding lens in the lens arrangement, and a pixel edge section that is arranged at an edge of each of the plurality of pixel sections, and the transmittance in each of the plurality of pixel sections is set in accordance with the at least one predetermined stationary pattern, wherein a transmittance of a material contained in the plurality of pixel sections is a transmittance of one of three or more types.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATION

[0001] This application claims priority over Japanese patent application number 2021-158433, filed on September 28, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL AREA OF INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a display switching device for switching between images to be displayed, an information display device with the display switching device, a display device for a slot machine and a switch. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] Patent Publication 1 describes a backlit display device for the automatic viewing of lenticular image cards, comprising a light source designed to selectively illuminate individual images produced on lenticular media. In the backlit display device, the light source directs light through a portion of the lenticular image card, which includes the lenses, in accordance with the viewing distance of the card and the selected viewing angle, to illuminate each image sequentially. LIST OF QUOTES, PATENT LITERATURE

[0004] Patent Publication 1: Japanese unexamined patent application with publication number 2003-195216 SUMMARY OF THE TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0005] However, the device described in patent publication 1 uses binary images to be illuminated and may therefore have an inadequate design.

[0006] One or more aspects of the present invention are directed towards a display switching device with improved expressiveness. SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM

[0007] In response to the problem described above, a display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention is a device for switching display images by switching the illumination from a plurality of light source positions. The device comprises a lens arrangement with an arrangement of a plurality of lenses and a display unit. The light from each of the plurality of light source positions is transmitted through a different position on the display unit and focused by a corresponding lens in the lens arrangement. The transmittance of the light through the display unit depends on the position on the display unit that corresponds to at least one predetermined stationary pattern. The transmittance at a position among the plurality of positions on the display unit is a transmittance of one of three or more types.

[0008] The above structure allows the display switching device to transmit light components from multiple light source positions through various positions on the display unit to display the stationary pattern. The transmittance at these multiple positions on the display unit is one of three or more types. Thus, the stationary pattern is represented by ternary values ​​or more. This improves the expressiveness of the display switching device.

[0009] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the at least one predetermined stationary pattern can comprise a plurality of predetermined stationary patterns to be assigned to the plurality of light source positions, and the transmittance can be a transmittance of one of three or more types at the position of the light on the display unit in accordance with at least one of the plurality of predetermined stationary patterns.

[0010] The above structure allows at least one of the many stationary patterns that can be displayed by the display switching device to be represented by ternary values ​​or more. This improves the expressiveness of the display switching device.

[0011] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the display unit can comprise a plurality of pixel sections, each comprising a section to allow the passage of light from one of the plurality of light source positions focused by the corresponding lens in the lens arrangement, and a pixel edge section located at an edge of each of the plurality of pixel sections. The transmittance in each of the plurality of pixel sections can be set in accordance with at least one predetermined stationary pattern.

[0012] The above structure can adjust the transmittance in the pixel section to determine the transmittance of the light that passes through a section including the pixel section.

[0013] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the transmittance in the pixel edge section can be constant regardless of a position on the display unit.

[0014] The above structure eliminates the limitation on the position of the pixel edge section, which affects the transmission through the pixel edge section. This simplifies the design of the display unit.

[0015] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a total area of ​​the plurality of pixel sections in the display unit can occupy 60% or less of the total area of ​​the plurality of pixel sections and the pixel edge section of each of the plurality of pixel sections.

[0016] The above structure can reduce the probability that stray light emanating from the pixel sections, which is associated with patterns other than the pattern displayed by the display switching device, will cause the other patterns to appear brighter.

[0017] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, an area ratio of an area of ​​a pixel section from the plurality of pixel sections to an area of ​​a unit image section can be an area ratio of one of three or more types, wherein the unit image section comprises the pixel section from the plurality of pixel sections which includes a section to allow the passage of light from a single light source position from the plurality of light source positions which are focused by a corresponding lens in the lens arrangement, and comprises the pixel edge section which is arranged at the edge of the pixel section, and the unit image section can include a pixel of the at least one predetermined stationary pattern.

[0018] The above structure results in a transmittance of one of three or more types in the unit image section, corresponding to the area ratio of the pixel section to the unit image section. This improves the expressiveness of stationary patterns.

[0019] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a mean area ratio, which differs from a maximum and a minimum of the types of area ratios, can deviate from the maximum and the minimum by 10% or more from a difference between the maximum and the minimum.

[0020] The above structure causes the transmittance in the unit image section, which is a mean value different from the maximum and minimum, to deviate from the maximum and minimum by 10% or more than the difference between the maximum and minimum. This illustrates the difference between the pixels in the stationary pattern due to the varying transmittance in the unit image section.

[0021] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the area ratio can vary when a length of the pixel section changes in a predetermined first direction which is parallel to a surface of the display unit.

[0022] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the pixel section in the unit image section can have a shape that is longest in a predetermined second direction, which is parallel to a surface of the display unit, and shortest in a predetermined third direction, which is parallel to the surface of the display unit and orthogonal to the second direction.

[0023] The above structure increases the changed length by changing the size in the second direction when the same area for the pixel section is changed. This simplifies the manufacturing of the display unit.

[0024] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of light emitters contained in a light source can be arranged in a line in a predetermined direction at the position of the individual light source, and the predetermined direction in which the plurality of light emitters are arranged can coincide with the second direction.

[0025] The above structure reduces the variation in the transmittance in the unit image section for each light source compared to the case where the direction in which the multitude of light sources are arranged does not match the second direction.

[0026] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the unit image section can extend in a predetermined fourth direction and a predetermined fifth direction, and the fourth and fifth directions can be parallel to the surface of the display section and orthogonal to each other. The second direction can differ from the fourth and fifth directions. The third direction can differ from the fourth and fifth directions.

[0027] The above structure increases the size of the pixel segment and the distance between the pixel segments on the display unit.

[0028] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the pixel section can comprise a plurality of partial pixel sections that are spaced apart from each other in the unit image section.

[0029] The above structure can change the area ratio of the pixel segment to the unit image segment by varying the number of partial pixel segments between the unit image segments. This simplifies the design of the display unit.

[0030] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a predetermined reference distance can be set with respect to a distance between a center of the display unit and a center of the unit image section. A maximum area ratio in the unit image section where the distance is greater than the reference distance can be greater than a maximum area ratio in the unit image section where the distance is less than the reference distance.

[0031] The above structure reduces fluctuations in the transmittance due to the position of the unit image section on the display unit.

[0032] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a position of a pixel section from the plurality of pixel sections in a unit image section can be a position of one of three or more types, wherein the unit image section comprises the pixel section from the plurality of pixel sections which includes a section to allow the passage of light from a single light source position from the plurality of light source positions, which is focused by a corresponding lens in the lens arrangement, and comprises the pixel edge section which is arranged at the edge of the pixel section, and the unit image section can comprise a pixel of the at least one predetermined stationary pattern.

[0033] The above structure causes the area ratio of the pixel segment to correspond to one of three or more types of light entering the unit image segment. This results in the transmittance in the unit image segment corresponding to one of three or more types of transmittance. This improves the expressiveness of stationary patterns.

[0034] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a difference between a maximum and a minimum distance between centroids of two of the pixel sections that are adjacent to each other and contained in the unit image section may be 10% or more of the maximum.

[0035] The structure above illustrates the difference between the pixels of the stationary pattern, which is due to the difference in transmittance.

[0036] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a combination of a position of the pixel section and an area ratio of the pixel section in the unit image section can be a combination of one of three or more types.

[0037] The structure described above also improves the expressiveness of stationary patterns.

[0038] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the amount of change in the position of the pixel section can be less than or equal to half the amount of change in the size of the pixel section in a direction in which the position of the pixel section changes.

[0039] The above structure reduces crosstalk.

[0040] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the distance between at least one lens of the plurality of lenses and the display unit can deviate from the focal length of the at least one lens.

[0041] The above structure increases the size of the light spot focused on the display unit compared to the case where the distance between each lens and the display unit is equal to the focal length. The area ratio of the pixel segment within the spot is thus varied to change the transmittance.

[0042] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a distance between at least one lens of the plurality of lenses and the display unit can be shorter than a focal length of the at least one lens.

[0043] The above structure reduces the probability that the light spot focused on the display unit is too large.

[0044] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the lens arrangement may comprise a section in which an average value of a radius of curvature of lenses of the plurality of lenses differs in accordance with a distance from a predetermined lens reference position on a lens arrangement surface in which the plurality of lenses is arranged.

[0045] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the lens arrangement can comprise a section in which the average value of the radius of curvature of the lenses of the plurality of lenses increases with increasing distance from the lens reference position on the lens arrangement surface.

[0046] The above structure reduces the difference in the spot size of the light on the display unit that is focused by the lenses in the lens arrangement.

[0047] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a light spot focused by the plurality of lenses can have a shape in which a length in a predetermined sixth direction, which is parallel to a surface of the display unit, is longer than a length in a predetermined seventh direction, which is parallel to the surface of the display unit and perpendicular to the sixth direction.

[0048] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the lens arrangement can comprise an anisotropic lens with a focal length in the predetermined sixth direction, which is parallel to the surface of the display unit, which is longer than a focal length in the predetermined seventh direction, which is parallel to the surface of the display unit and perpendicular to the sixth direction.

[0049] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of light emitters contained in a light source can be arranged linearly in a predetermined direction at each of the plurality of light source positions. The plurality of light emitters can be arranged in a sixth direction.

[0050] The above structure reduces the variation in the transmittance in the unit image section for each light source compared to the case where the multitude of light sources are not arranged in the sixth direction.

[0051] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of lenses can comprise a plurality of sub-lenses.

[0052] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of sub-lenses can be arranged in a planar section corresponding to the plurality of lenses.

[0053] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of sub-lenses can be arranged corresponding to the plurality of lenses on a lens surface.

[0054] The above structure allows the light point in the display unit to have a specific shape.

[0055] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, an optical component can be arranged in a path in which the light from one of the plurality of light source positions enters the lens arrangement.

[0056] The above structure allows the shape of the dot on the display unit to be changed by the light focused by each lens.

[0057] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the optical component can comprise a diffuser for scattering the light.

[0058] The above structure can increase the size of the dot on the display unit by the light focused by each lens.

[0059] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the optical component may have a slit through which part of the light passes.

[0060] The above structure reduces the size of the spot on the display unit due to the light focused by each lens.

[0061] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the transmittance of a material contained in the plurality of pixel sections can be a transmittance of one of three or more types.

[0062] The structure described above allows the transmission coefficient in the pixel section to be one of three or more types, depending on the materials. This improves the expressiveness of patterns.

[0063] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of pixel sections can comprise materials that each have a different wavelength distribution for the transmittance.

[0064] The structure described above allows the color of each pixel in the pattern to differ, thereby improving the expressiveness of the pattern.

[0065] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the transmitted light, which is transmitted through each of the plurality of pixel sections to be assigned to the plurality of light source positions, can have a different directional effect depending on a position on the display unit.

[0066] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the transmitted light in each of the plurality of pixel sections to be assigned to the plurality of light source positions can have a different diffusivity depending on a position on the display unit.

[0067] In the display switching device according to one aspect of the present invention, the transmitted light in each of the plurality of pixel sections to be assigned to the plurality of light source positions can have an intensity that shows a peak in a direction that is different depending on a position on the display unit.

[0068] The structure described above causes the transmittance of the light passing through the pixel section to appear different depending on its position on the display unit. This can improve the expressiveness of the patterns.

[0069] An information display device according to a further aspect of the present invention comprises the display switching device according to one of the above aspects, a plurality of light sources at the plurality of light source positions and a light emission control that controls the light emission from the plurality of light sources.

[0070] The above structure can improve the expression of patterns displayed on the information display device.

[0071] A display device for a slot machine according to another aspect of the present invention comprises the information display device and a display controller which controls the display in the information display device in accordance with the progress of a game.

[0072] The above structure can improve the expressiveness of patterns displayed on the display device for a slot machine.

[0073] A switch according to a further aspect of the present invention comprises the indicator switching device. The switch can detect user operation at the indicator switching device.

[0074] The above structure can improve the expressiveness of patterns that change in response to user operation detected by the switch. ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS

[0075] The display switching device according to the above aspects of the present invention can improve the expressiveness of the images to be displayed. List of characters Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a switch comprising a display switching device according to a first embodiment and showing its basic structure. Fig. Figure 2 is a representation of the display switching device according to the first embodiment, showing its detailed structure. Fig. 3 is a representation of another display switching device, which differs from the one in Fig. The two shown differ and their detailed structure is shown. Fig. 4 is a representation of another display switching device, which differs from those in Fig. 2 and Fig. The 3 shown differ and their detailed structure is shown. Fig. 5 is a representation that describes the display of a predefined pattern by a display unit. Fig. Figure 6 is a representation of part of an image displayed by the display switching device. Fig. Figure 7 is a top view of unit image sections in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 8 is a top view of unit image sections in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 9 is a top view of another unit image section. Fig. Figure 10 shows a top view of further unit image sections. Fig. Figure 11 is a representation showing the exemplary arrangement of unit image sections on display units. Fig. Figure 12 is a representation showing the arrangement of light-emitting diode (LED) chips when the light sources are RGB LEDs. Fig. Figure 13 is a representation that describes the difference in the maximum area ratio of a pixel section in the unit image section at each position on the display unit. Fig. Figure 14 is a top view of a unit image section in the second embodiment. Fig. Figure 15 is a representation that describes the distance between the centers of gravity. Fig. Figure 16 is a top view of another unit image section in the second embodiment. Fig. Figure 17 is a representation that describes an exemplary positional relationship between each lens and the display unit in the display switching device. Fig. Figure 18 is a representation that describes the positional relationship between the lens and the display unit with the focal point of the lens. Fig. Figure 19 is a representation of exemplary lenses. Fig. Figure 20 shows another example lens. Fig. Figure 21 is a representation showing the arrangement of the LED chips when the light sources are RGB LEDs. Fig. Figure 22 shows another example lens. Fig. Figure 23 shows another example lens. Fig. Figure 24 is a representation of an exemplary display switching device according to a seventh embodiment. Fig. Figure 25 is a representation of another exemplary display switching device according to the seventh embodiment. Fig. Figure 26 is a representation of an exemplary display unit in an eighth embodiment. Fig. Figure 27 shows a representation of another exemplary display unit in the eighth embodiment. Fig. Figure 28 shows an example of a display unit where the directionality of the transmitted light varies depending on the position. Fig. Figure 29 is a schematic perspective view of a display device for a slot machine according to a tenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 30 is a schematic top view of a stop button unit. Fig. Figure 31 is a representation showing exemplary arrangements of lenses in a lens array. DETAILED DESCRIPTION First embodiment

[0076] One embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail. Basic structure of the display switching device 10

[0077] Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a switch comprising a 10 indicator switching device according to a first embodiment and showing its basic structure. Fig. Figure 2 is a representation of the display switching device 10, showing its detailed structure. As shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, a display switching device 10 comprises a diffusion layer 2, a display unit 3, a lens arrangement 4, a plurality of light sources 7 and a circuit board 8, these being shown in the figures in order from top to bottom.

[0078] The circuit board 8 is a component on which the multiple light sources 7 are mounted. These light sources 7 can be RGB light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The light sources 7 are each located at a predetermined position. The distance D between adjacent light sources 7 is, for example, 8 mm. However, the display switching device 10 can also function without the light sources 7. In this case, the user provides the light sources.

[0079] The lens arrangement 4 focuses the light emitted by the plurality of light sources 7 on the circuit board 8. The lens arrangement 4 has a thickness of, for example, 0.5 mm. The lens arrangement 4 is an arrangement of a plurality of lenses 41. The lenses 41 are spaced apart from each other, for example, 0.25 mm. The distance H between each light source 7 and the corresponding lens 41 is, for example, 20 mm.

[0080] The display unit 3 transmits the light focused by the lens arrangement 4 to display a predefined stationary pattern. The display of patterns by the display unit 3 is described later. The display unit 3 can have a thickness of less than 0.1 mm.

[0081] Diffusion layer 2 scatters the light transmitted by the display unit 3. Diffusion layer 2 can have a thickness of less than 0.1 mm. Diffusion layer 2 can have a turbidity value of 90%.

[0082] The display switching device 10 further comprises a housing 9 that holds the diffusion layer 2, the display unit 3, and the lens assembly 4. The housing 9 accommodates the circuit board 8 on which the plurality of light sources 7 are mounted and forms the basic structure of the display switching device 10. The housing 9 is, for example, square in plan view, but is not limited to this shape. The housing 9 has a side length W of, for example, 12 mm.

[0083] Fig. Figure 31 is a representation showing exemplary arrangements of the lenses 41 in the lens arrangement 4. Fig. Figure 31 shows various exemplary arrangements of the lenses 41, which are designated with reference numerals 3101, 3102 and 3103. For the sake of simplicity, only some lenses in arrangements 3102 and 3103 are designated with reference numeral 41.

[0084] The lenses 41 can be arranged in one dimension, as in arrangement 3101. In this case, the lenses 41 are cylindrical lenses. The lenses 41 can also be arranged in two dimensions, as in arrangements 3102 and 3103. More precisely, the lenses 41 can be arranged in a honeycomb, as in arrangement 3102, or in a matrix, as in arrangement 3103.

[0085] Fig. Figure 3 is a representation of a display switching device 10A, which differs from the display switching device 10 and shows its detailed structure. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the display switching device 10A differs in that the diffusion layer 2 is arranged between the display unit 3 and the lens arrangement 4, and not above the display unit 3. The display switching device 10A is also included in the present embodiment.

[0086] Fig. Figure 4 is a diagram of a display switching device 10B, which differs from the display switching device 10 and shows its detailed structure. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the display switching device 10B differs from the display switching device 10 in that it does not include a diffusion layer 2 and, instead of the lens arrangement 4, includes a lens arrangement 4A. The lens arrangement 4A includes a light-diffusing structure 42, which is arranged on the side facing the display unit 3. The lens arrangement 4A thus functions both as a lens arrangement 4 and as a diffusion layer 2. The display switching device 10B is also included in the present embodiment.

[0087] The in Fig. The switch shown detects a user actuation at the display switching device 10. For example, if the user applies pressure to the display switching device 10, the switch can detect the actuation and toggle the illumination of the light sources 7 to change the pattern displayed by the display switching device 10. Pattern display by display unit 3

[0088] Fig. Figure 5 is a representation that describes the display of a predefined pattern by the display unit 3. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the display switching device comprises 10 light sources 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d as light sources 7. The light emitted by the light sources 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d is focused by the lenses 41 in the lens arrangement 4 to penetrate various locations of the display unit 3. Specifically, the display unit 3 comprises a plurality of unit image sections 35. The unit image sections 35 comprise a plurality of pixel sections 31, including the sections through which the light is focused by the lenses 41, as well as pixel edge sections 32, each arranged around the corresponding pixel section 31. The transmittance of the light penetrating the display unit 3 varies depending on the location on the display unit 3 according to a predetermined pattern. In particular, the transmittance in each of the pixel sections 31 is set according to the first to fourth patterns.The light sources 7 are switched to emit light in order to display one of the first to fourth patterns. In other words, a multitude of predefined stationary patterns correspond to the positions of the light sources 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d. The display switching device 10 thus enables the display image to be switched from the first to the fourth stationary pattern by switching the illumination of the light sources 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d. The transmittance at a multitude of positions of the display unit 3 can be one of three or more types. This improves the expressiveness of patterns compared to a transmittance of one of two types. Fig. However, the display unit 3 shown is only an example and does not necessarily have to include the unit image sections 35.

[0089] In the display switching device 10, different light sources corresponding to different images can simultaneously emit light of different colors to superimpose images of different colors. If each unit image section is small enough, or if the user views the image from a sufficient distance from the display switching device 10, the adjacent unit image sections of different colors will mix. The resulting image displayed by the display switching device 10 will be shown in the number (n^2-1) of colors for the number n of light sources of different colors. Furthermore, if the transmittance of the unit image section can be one of three or more types, the number of color mixing combinations increases, thus further increasing the number of visible colors. This further enhances the expressiveness. For example,Red, green, and blue light is emitted from three light sources, where the transmittance is a transmittance of one or more types in the images corresponding to the respective light sources; the images can be superimposed to allow a representation similar to a full-color image.

[0090] Fig. 6 is a representation of part of an image displayed by the display switching device 10. Fig. Figure 6 shows some pixels in four different images: PIC1, PIC2, ​​PIC3, and PIC4. Fig. Figure 6 shows the different colors of the pixels in white, black and grey resulting from the different transmission levels of the display unit 3.

[0091] In Fig. 6. White, black, and gray are contained in the pixels of image PIC3. In other words, the transmittance on the display unit 3 can be one of these three types at the point where the light is transmitted according to image PIC3. Therefore, in the display switching device 10, the transmittance of the display unit 3 can be one of three or more types at its multiple locations where light is transmitted according to at least one of the first four patterns described above. Thus, the expressiveness of the pattern is enhanced by the transmittance being one of three or more types at the corresponding location on the display unit 3.

[0092] The transmittance in the pixel border sections 32 is constant at every point on the display unit 3. This eliminates the restriction on the position of the pixel border section 32, which affects the transmittance of light through the pixel border section 32 relative to the transmittance through the display unit 3. This simplifies the design of the display unit 3.

[0093] In the display unit 3 in the display switching device 10, the total area of ​​the pixel sections 31 is 60% or less of the total area of ​​the pixel edge sections 32 and the pixel sections 31. In this way, the probability that stray light emanating from the pixel sections 31, which are to be assigned to patterns other than the pattern displayed by the display switching device 10, causes the other patterns to appear brighter can be reduced.

[0094] Fig. Figure 7 is a top view of the unit image sections 35a, 35b, and 35c in the first embodiment. The unit image sections 35a, 35b, and 35c are examples of the unit image sections 35, each having a different transmittance. The unit image section 35a comprises a pixel section 31a and a pixel edge section 32a. The unit image section 35b comprises a pixel section 31b and a pixel edge section 32b. The unit image section 35c comprises a pixel edge section 32c. The unit image section 35c includes the pixel section 31 with an area of ​​zero, although this is in Fig. 7 is not shown.

[0095] The area ratios of pixel section 31a to unit image section 35a, pixel section 31b to unit image section 35b, and pixel section 31 to unit image section 35c are different. More precisely, the area ratio between pixel section 31a and unit image section 35a is the largest. Pixel section 31b to unit image section 35b is smaller than pixel section 31a to unit image section 35a. Pixel section 31 to unit image section 35c is zero.In the example described below, the area ratio between the area of ​​pixel section 31 and the area of ​​unit image section 35 can be simplified to the area ratio of pixel section 31.

[0096] In addition to the unit image sections 35a, 35b, and 35c, the display unit 3 can have another unit image section with a different area ratio of pixel section 31 than unit image section 35. In other words, the area ratio of pixel section 31 to the area of ​​unit image section 35 can be one of three or more types. In this way, the expressiveness of patterns is improved by the display switching device 10.

[0097] The shape of pixel section 31 is not limited to the preceding and following examples. Pixel section 31 can be point-symmetrical about a given point in the unit image section 35. A pixel section 31 with such a shape enables a uniform intensity of the light passing through pixel section 31 and thus simplifies the design of pixel section 31.

[0098] Regarding the type of area ratio in the unit image section 35 of the display unit 3, the intermediate area ratio, which is not the maximum and the minimum, can deviate from the maximum and the minimum by 10% or more of the difference between the maximum and the minimum. For example, if the maximum area ratio is 60% and the minimum area ratio is 0%, the difference between the maximum and the minimum area ratio is 60%. In this case, the intermediate area ratio can be between 6% and 54%. In this way, the different transmittance of the unit image sections 35 becomes clearly visible. If the intermediate area ratio deviates by 20% or more, 30% or more, or 40% or more of the difference between the maximum and the minimum area ratio, the difference in the transmittance of the unit image sections 35 can be more clearly visible. The smallest area ratio should be greater than 0%.In other words, all unit image sections 35 can include the pixel section 31 with an area greater than zero in the display unit 3.

[0099] Fig. Figure 8 is a top view of unit image sections 35d, 35e, 35f, 35g and 35h of the first embodiment. The unit image sections 35d, 35e, 35f, 35g and 35h are examples of unit image sections 35 with different area ratios of the pixel sections 31, similar to the unit image sections 35a, 35b and 35c.

[0100] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the unit image section 35d comprises partial pixel sections or subpixel sections 33 and a pixel edge section 32d. The unit image section 35e comprises partial pixel sections 33 and a pixel edge section 32e. The unit image section 35f comprises partial pixel sections 33 and a pixel edge section 32f. The unit image section 35g comprises partial pixel sections 33 and a pixel edge section 32g. The unit image section 35h comprises a partial pixel section 33 and a pixel edge section 32h.

[0101] The number of partial pixel sections 33 differs in each of the unit image sections 35d, 35e, 35f, 35g, and 35h. In unit image sections 35d, 35e, 35f, 35g, and 35h, the total number of partial pixel sections 33 corresponds to pixel section 31. Therefore, in unit image section 35, pixel section 31 can comprise a multitude of spaced partial pixel sections 33. This allows the area ratio of pixel section 31 to the entire unit image section 35 to be varied by changing the number of partial pixel sections 33. This simplifies the design of the display unit 3 compared to designing the shape of pixel section 31 specifically for each type of area ratio of pixel section 31.

[0102] Fig. Figure 9 is a top view of a unit image section 35i as a further example of unit image section 35. For comparison, in Fig. 9 also the one in Fig. Unit image section 35a is shown in Figure 7. Unit image section 35i comprises a pixel section 31i and a pixel border section 32i. The area ratio of pixel section 31a in unit image section 35a and the area ratio of pixel section 31i in unit image section 35i change when the lengths of pixel sections 31a and 31i change in a predetermined first direction parallel to the surface of the display unit 3. Fig. 9 is the first direction, the horizontal direction in the figure.

[0103] Fig. Figure 10 is a top view of unit image sections 35j and 35k as further examples of unit image section 35. Unit image section 35j comprises a pixel section 31j and a pixel border section 32j. Unit image section 35k comprises a pixel section 31k and a pixel border section 32k. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, each of the unit image sections 35j and 35k has the longest length in a predetermined second direction parallel to the surface of the display unit 3 and the shortest length in a predetermined third direction parallel to the surface of the display unit 3 and orthogonal to the second direction. The area ratio of pixel sections 31j in unit image section 35j and the area ratio of pixel section 31k in unit image section 35k change when the lengths of pixel sections 31j and 31k change in the second direction, in which their lengths are greatest. In other words, the Fig. The first direction described in 9 corresponds to the one in Fig. 10, second direction shown. In Fig. In the figure, the second direction is the vertical direction, and the third direction is the horizontal direction. In this case, the length in the second direction is changed to increase the length when the same area is modified for pixel sections 31j and 31k. This simplifies the manufacturing of the display unit.

[0104] Fig. Figure 11 is a representation showing the arrangements of unit image sections 35m and 35n on display units 3M and 3N as an example for display unit 3. In display unit 3M, unit image section 35m comprises pixel sections 31m and pixel edge sections 32m. In display unit 3N, unit image section 35n comprises pixel sections 31n and pixel edge sections 32n. Each of the pixel sections 31m and 31n has substantially the same shape as the one in Fig. 10 pixel sections shown 31j.

[0105] The unit image sections 35m are arranged in a predetermined fourth direction, and the unit image sections 35n are arranged in a predetermined fifth direction. The fourth and fifth directions are parallel to the surface of the display unit 3 and orthogonal to each other. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the second direction in pixel sections 31m and 31n can differ from the fourth and fifth directions. Similarly, the third direction in pixel sections 31m and 31n can differ from the fourth and fifth directions. For example, if the unit image section 35 is rectangular, the direction parallel to the diagonal of the rectangle can be the second direction. This structure increases the size of pixel section 31 in the first direction and the distance between pixel sections 31 across the display unit 3.

[0106] Fig. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the arrangement of light-emitting diode (LED) chips (light sources) when the light sources are 7 RGB LEDs. When the light sources are RGB LEDs, the light sources comprise a plurality of LED chips 7r, 7g, and 7b. When the display switching device 10 includes the display unit 3M, the direction in which the LED chips 7r, 7g, and 7b are arranged can be the same as the second direction described above. In this case, the positional displacement of the point on the display unit 3 caused by the light emitted by the light sources is less due to the positional difference of the plurality of light sources than when the direction in which the plurality of light sources is arranged does not match the first direction. This structure can reduce the variation in transmittance in the unit image section for each light source.

[0107] Fig. Figure 13 is a representation that describes the difference in the maximum area ratio of pixel segment 31 in unit image segment 35 at each position on the display unit 3. The size of the dot in unit image segment 35 increases as unit image segment 35 is further from the center of display unit 3. In other words, the intensity per unit area of ​​the light entering unit image segment 35 is lower the further unit image segment 35 is from the center of display unit 3. Therefore, the transmittance is lower the further unit image segment 35 is from the center of display unit 3 for pixel segment 31 with a constant area ratio.

[0108] To reduce the decrease in transmittance, the maximum area ratio of pixel section 31 in unit image section 35 can vary depending on the position of unit image section 35 on the display unit 3. For example, a predetermined reference distance is set for the mean distance between the center of the display unit 3 and the center of unit image section 35. The maximum area ratio of pixel section 31 in unit image section 35 where the mean distance is greater than or equal to the reference distance is greater than the maximum area ratio of pixel section 31 in unit image section 35 where the mean distance is less than the reference distance.

[0109] In Fig. Unit 35o is an example of a unit 35 where the area ratio of pixel section 31 is at its maximum when the mean distance is less than the reference distance. Unit 35o comprises a pixel section 31o and a pixel edge section 32o. Unit 35p is an example of a unit 35 where the area ratio of pixel section 31 is at its maximum when the mean distance is greater than or equal to the reference distance. Unit 35p comprises a pixel section 31p and a pixel edge section 32p.

[0110] The area ratio of pixel section 31p in unit image section 35p is greater than the area ratio of pixel section 31o in unit image section 35o. In this way, the area ratio between pixel section 31 and unit image section 35 is determined. This reduces the fluctuations in transmittance due to the position of image section 35 on the display unit 3. Second embodiment

[0111] Further embodiments of the present invention are described below. For the sake of simplicity, the components will have the same functions as the components described in the embodiments above, will be provided with the same reference numerals, and will not be described again.

[0112] Fig. Figure 14 is a top view of a unit image section 35q in a second embodiment. For comparison, the one in Fig. Unit image section 35a is shown in addition to unit image section 35q. Unit image section 35q comprises a pixel section 31q and a pixel border section 32q. The position of pixel section 31q in unit image section 35q differs from the position of pixel section 31a in unit image section 35a.

[0113] The display unit 3 in the second embodiment further comprises the Fig. Unit image section 35c shown in Figure 7. Unit image section 35c does not include a pixel section 31. The position of pixel section 31 in unit image section 35c can therefore differ from the position of pixel section 31q in unit image section 35q or the position of pixel section 31a in unit image section 35a. In other words, the position of pixel section 31 in unit image section 35 can be one of three or more types in the display unit 3 according to the second embodiment.

[0114] Fig. Figure 14 shows another light point SP, which is focused by lens 41. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the entire pixel section 31a is located within point SP in unit image section 35a. In contrast, pixel section 31q lies partially outside point SP in unit image section 35q. This results in different transmittances in unit image sections 35a and 35q. The transmittance in unit image section 35c differs from the transmittance in unit image sections 35a and 35q. This structure can improve the expressiveness of patterns when the display switching device 10 includes the display unit 3 according to the second embodiment. This further reduces manufacturing costs compared to cases where the size or shape of pixel section 31 is varied.

[0115] Fig. Figure 15 is a representation illustrating the distance between the centers of gravity. Fig. Figure 15 shows a multitude of adjacent pixel sections 31. Each of the pixel sections 31 is modified from a predetermined reference position in only one direction when its position in the unit image section 35 is changed. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the distance between the centroids of the two adjacent pixel segments 31 is sequentially defined as Lk (k=1, 2, ..., n). The difference between the largest and smallest distances between the centroids Lk must be at least 10% or more of the maximum. This distance between the centroids Lk makes the difference in the transmittance of the individual image segments 35 due to the different position of the pixel segment 31 clearly visible. The difference between the maximum and minimum distances between the centroids Lk can be 20% or more, 30% or more, or 40% or more of the maximum. This makes the difference in the transmittance of the unit image segment 35 more clearly visible.

[0116] Fig. Figure 16 is a top view of a unit image section 35r in the second embodiment, which differs from the unit image section 35q. The unit image section 35r comprises a pixel section 31r and a pixel border section 32r. In the unit image section 35r, the position of the pixel section 31r differs from the position of the pixel section 31a in the unit image section 35a. Furthermore, the area ratio of the pixel section 31r in the unit image section 35r differs from the area ratio of the pixel section 31a in the unit image section 35a. In the display unit 3, the combination of the area ratio and the position of the pixel section 31 in the unit image section 35 can be a combination of one of three or more types.

[0117] If both the area ratio and the position of pixel segment 31 are different for each position of the unit image segment 35, the amount of change in the position of pixel segment 31 can be less than or equal to half the amount of change in the size of pixel segment 31 in the direction in which the position of pixel segment 31 changes. This causes the pixel segment 31 that has changed its position to fall within the area of ​​pixel segment 31 when the area ratio of pixel segment 31 is at its maximum. This reduces crosstalk, which causes unintended patterns to become visible due to stray light focused on neighboring pixel segments 31. In the Fig. 15. The distance between the centers of gravity Lk shown in the diagram can be at least 10% or more of the maximum, in the same way as if only the position of pixel segment 31 were changed. Third embodiment

[0118] Fig. Figure 17 is a representation that describes an exemplary positional relationship between the 41 lens and the display unit 3 in the display switching device 10. Fig. 17 comprises a section designated 1701 for the distance between the lens 41 and the display unit 3, which is equal to the focal length of the lens 41, and a section designated 1702 for the distance between the lens 41 and the display unit 3, which differs from the focal length of the lens 41.

[0119] As in section 1701, a focal point FP is located on the display unit 3 when the distance between the lens 41 and the display unit 3 is equal to the focal length of the lens 41. In this case, the size of the spot on the display unit 3 is small. Therefore, it is unlikely that the transmittance is of one of three or more types, even though the area ratio or position of the pixel section 31 in the unit image section 35 is different.

[0120] In the display switching device 10, the distance between the lens 41 and the display unit 3 can deviate from the focal length of the lens 41, as illustrated in section 1702. In this way, the transmittance can be adjusted in one of three or more ways by varying the area ratio or the position of the pixel sections 31 in the unit image section 35.

[0121] The distance between lens 41 and focal point FP in the direction parallel to the optical axis is not constant with the direction of the light and becomes shorter than the focal length when lens 41 is further away from the optical axis. If the distance between lens 41 and display unit 3 is greater than the focal length of lens 41, point SP may be magnified, since the distance between display unit 3 and focal point FP increases further in the direction away from the optical axis of lens 41.

[0122] As in section 1702, at least one of the lenses 41 can therefore be arranged at a distance from the display unit 3 that is shorter than the focal length of the lens 41. The lens 41 arranged in this way reduces the probability that the light spot SP becomes too large when the distance between the lens 41 and the display unit 3 is greater than the focal length of the lens 41. Fourth embodiment

[0123] Fig. Figure 18 is a representation that describes the positional relationship between the lens 41 and the display unit 3 with the focal point FP of the lens 41. Fig. 18 comprises a part designated 1801, which indicates the position of the focal point FP in the direction of the optical axis of the lens 41. As also described in the third embodiment, the distance between the lens 41 and the display unit 3 is shorter than the focal length of the lens 41. The point SP on the display unit 3 thus has a predetermined size in the direction of the optical axis of the lens 41.

[0124] Fig. Section 18 further comprises a section designated by 1802, which indicates the position of the focal point FP in a direction different from the direction of the optical axis of the lens 41. Although the lens 41 in section 1802 is not identical to the lens 41 in section 1801, the same reference numeral is used for simplicity. As also described in the third embodiment, the distance between the lens 41 and the focal point FP in the direction parallel to the optical axis of the lens 41 becomes shorter than the focal length the further the focal point is from the optical axis of the lens 41. If the radius of curvature of the lens 41 is constant at every position in the lens arrangement 4, the focal point FP on the display unit 3 is located as in section 1802, depending on the position of the lens 41 or the direction in which light enters the lens 41. In this case, the size of the point SP becomes smaller.This leads to difficulties in varying the transmittance depending on the size or position of the pixel section 31. The lens arrangement 4 can therefore include a section in which the average value of the radius of curvature of the lens 41 differs according to the distance from the predetermined lens reference position on the lens arrangement surface on which the lens 41 is arranged. The reference position is, for example, the centroid of the lens arrangement 4.

[0125] Fig. Section 18 comprises a part labeled 1803 which indicates the position of the focal point FP in a direction different from the direction of the optical axis of the lens 41 when the lens arrangement 4 includes a section in which the average value of the radius of curvature of the lens 41 differs. In this case, as in part 1803, the focal point FP is located at a position that is also in a direction different from the direction of the optical axis of the lens 41 when viewed from the display unit 3. The point SP on the display unit 3 thus has a predetermined size.

[0126] Fig. Figure 19 shows a diagram of lens 4S and lens 4L as examples of lens 41. Lens 4S is an example of lens 41 in lens arrangement 4 located near the optical axis of lens 41. Lens 4L is an example of lens 41 at a position in lens arrangement 4 located away from the optical axis of lens 41. The radius of curvature R1 of lens 4S is smaller than the radius of curvature R2 of lens 4L. Therefore, lens arrangement 4 includes a region where the average value of the radius of curvature of the lenses 41 increases with increasing distance from the reference position of the lenses on the surface of the lens arrangement.

[0127] Lens 41 has such a radius of curvature. This reduces the difference in the size of the spot SP of the light focused by lens 41 onto the display unit 3. Such a difference reduces the fluctuations in the transmittance. Fifth embodiment

[0128] Fig. Figure 20 is a representation of lens 43 as a further example of lens 41. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, lens 43 is an anisotropic lens. The anisotropic lens has different focal lengths in two mutually orthogonal directions that run perpendicular to the optical axis. Fig. 20 includes a part labelled 2001, which shows a top view of lens 43. Fig. 20 comprises the part labeled 2001, which shows the spot SP of the light focused by lens 43 onto display unit 3. The spot SP has a shape such that its length in the direction along a dashed line LN12 (sixth direction) is longer than its length in the direction along a dashed line LN11 (seventh direction).

[0129] Fig. 20 includes a part marked 2002, which shows the focal point FP in the direction along the dashed line LN11 (seventh direction) in part 2001. Fig. Part 20 includes a section labeled 2003, which shows the focal point FP in the direction along the dashed line LN12 (sixth direction) in part 2001. As illustrated in parts 2002 and 2003, the focal length in the direction along the dashed line LN12 is longer than the focal length in the direction along the dashed line LN11. In other words, if the lens arrangement includes 4 anisotropic lenses, the anisotropic lenses are arranged such that the focal length in the specified sixth direction parallel to the surface of the display unit 3 is longer than the focal length in the specified seventh direction parallel to the surface of the display unit 3 and orthogonal to the sixth direction.

[0130] Fig. Figure 21 is a representation showing the arrangement of the LED chips when the light sources are 7 RGB LEDs. When the light sources are 7 RGB LEDs, the LED chips 7r, 7g, and 7b are arranged in a predetermined direction in a row at the positions of the light sources, as shown in the figure referenced in Figure 21. Fig. Example 12 describes the following. The LED chips 7r, 7g, and 7b are arranged in the sixth direction mentioned above, or in the direction in which the focal length of the anisotropic lens increases. In this case, the variation in transmittance in unit image section 35 for each of the LED chips 7r, 7g, and 7b can be smaller than if the direction in which the LED chips 7r, 7g, and 7b are arranged does not coincide with the sixth direction. Sixth embodiment

[0131] Fig. Figure 22 is a representation of lens 44 as a further example of lens 41. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 22, the lens 44 comprises a plurality of sub-lenses 44a, 44b and 44c. The sub-lenses 44a to 44c are formed in a planar section corresponding to the lens 44.

[0132] Fig. 22 comprises a part designated 2201, which shows a top view of the lens 44. Part 2201 also shows the light spot SP, which is focused by the lens 44 onto the display unit 3. As illustrated in part 2201, in a sixth embodiment each of the sub-lenses 44a to 44c has the corresponding spot SP in the lens 44.

[0133] Fig. 22 includes a part marked 2202, which shows the focal point FP in the direction along a dashed line LN21 in part 2201. Fig. Section 22 comprises a part labeled 2203, which points the focal points FP in the direction of a dashed line LN22 in part 2201. The sublenses 44a to 44c are arranged in the direction of the dashed line LN22. As shown in section 2202, the focal point FP is thus a common point in the direction of the dashed line LN21. In contrast, each of the sublenses 44a to 44c, as shown in part 2203, has the corresponding focal point FP in the direction along the dashed line LN22.

[0134] Fig. Figure 23 is a representation of lens 45 as a further example of lens 41. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 23, the lens 45 comprises a plurality of sublenses 45b. The plurality of sublenses 45b are formed on a lens surface 45a corresponding to the lens 45. The lens surface 45a has the shape of a section of a circular lens, e.g., a spherical lens. Each sublens 45b comprises a cylindrical, concave lens along the lens surface 45a.

[0135] Fig. 23 includes a part marked 2302, which shows the focal point FP in the direction along a dashed line LN31 in part 2301. Fig. Section 23 comprises a part labeled 2303, which points the focal point FP in the direction of a dashed line LN32 in section 2301. As shown in part 2302, the light entering the lens 45 is focused by the lens surface 45a in the direction of the dashed line LN31. As shown in part 2303, the light entering the lens 45 is focused by each of the plurality of sub-lenses 45b in the direction along the dashed line LN32. This allows the lens 45 to be anisotropic. Seventh embodiment

[0136] Fig. Figure 24 is a representation of another exemplary display switching device according to the seventh embodiment. Fig. Figure 25 is a representation of another exemplary display switching device according to the seventh embodiment. As in the Fig. 24 and Fig. As shown in Figure 25, the display switching device according to the seventh embodiment comprises, in addition to the structure of the display switching device 10, a diffuser 71 or a slit 72, which constitute an optical component. The optical component is located on the path along which the light enters the lens arrangement 4 from the position of the light source 7. The optical component changes the shape of the point SP on the display unit 3.

[0137] In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 24, the optical component is the diffuser 71, which scatters the light. Fig. 24 includes a part marked 2401 which shows the shape of the point SP formed by the lens 41. Fig. 24 includes a part marked 2402, which points to point SP in the direction along a dashed line LN41 in part 2401. Fig. 24 includes a part marked 2403 which points to point SP in the direction along a dashed line LN42 in part 2401.

[0138] As illustrated in parts 2402 and 2403, diffuser 71 has a shape where the length in the direction along the dashed line LN41 is shorter than the length in the direction along the dashed line LN42. As illustrated in part 2401, point SP also has a shape where the length in the direction of the dashed line LN41 is shorter than the length in the direction of the dashed line LN42. This allows the shape of the light point SP to be changed according to the shape of diffuser 71.

[0139] In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 25, the optical component is, for example, the slit 72, which transmits part of the light. Fig. 25 includes a part marked 2501 which shows the shape of the point SP formed by the lens 41. Fig. 25 includes a part marked 2502, which points to point SP in the direction along a dashed line LN51 in part 2501. Fig. 25 includes a part marked 2503 which points to point SP in the direction along a dashed line LN52 in part 2501.

[0140] As illustrated in parts 2502 and 2503, an opening 72a of slit 72 has a shape such that its length in the direction along the dashed line LN51 is shorter than its length in the direction along the dashed line LN52. As in part 2501, the spot SP also has a shape such that its length in the direction of the dashed line LN51 is shorter than its length in the direction of the dashed line LN52. This allows the shape of spot SP to be modified according to the opening 72a of slit 72. Eighth embodiment

[0141] Fig. Figure 26 is a representation of an exemplary display unit 3 (see e.g. Fig. 1) in an eighth embodiment. For the sake of simplicity, in Fig. Figure 26 shows only pixel sections 34a, 34b, 34c and 34d of display unit 3. Lens 41 is also shown.

[0142] In Fig. 26. Pixel sections 34a to 34d are formed from materials with different transmittances. In display unit 3, the transmittance of the materials forming pixel sections 34a to 34d can be one of three or more types, as shown in Fig. Figure 26 illustrates this. For example, the transmittance of each of the pixel sections 34a to 34d can be one of three or more types by combining a light-absorbing material, such as a smoke film, a polarizing material, such as a polarizing plate, or a reflective material, such as a half-mirror, depending on the desired transmittance. The display switching device 10, in which the display unit 3 comprises these pixel sections 34a to 34d, can also improve the expressiveness.

[0143] Fig. Figure 27 is a representation of another example of a display unit 3 (see e.g. Fig. 1) in the eighth embodiment. For the sake of simplicity, in Fig. Figure 27 shows only pixel sections 34e, 34f, 34g and 34h of display unit 3. Lens 41 is also shown.

[0144] In Fig. 27. Pixel sections 34e to 34h are formed from materials that each have a different wavelength distribution for light transmittance. In the display unit 3, the transmittance of each of the materials from which pixel sections 34e to 34h are formed can have a different wavelength distribution, as shown in Fig. Figure 27 illustrates this. In particular, the transmittance of the red wavelength can be high in pixel section 34e, the transmittance of the green wavelength can be high in pixel section 34f, and the transmittance of the blue wavelength can be high in pixel section 34g. The transmittance of all wavelengths can be high in pixel section 34h. For example, each of the pixel sections 34e to 34h can have a different wavelength distribution by combining the colors of the resin or the colors of the ink according to the specified wavelength distribution. In the display switching device 10, in which the display unit 3 comprises these pixel sections 34e to 34h, the color of the light transmitted through pixel section 31 differs depending on the material from which pixel section 31 is formed. This allows the color of each pixel in the pattern to differ in order to enhance expressiveness. Ninth embodiment

[0145] In each of the embodiments mentioned above, the directionality of the light transmitted through the pixel section 31 is the same at every position of the pixel section on the display unit 3. However, in the display switching device 10, the directionality of the light transmitted through the pixel section 31 can differ depending on its position on the display unit 3.

[0146] Fig. Figure 28 shows an example of a display unit 3, in which the directionality of the transmitted light varies depending on the position. Fig. Figure 28 shows the directional effect of the transmitted light, represented by circles and arrows. In the figure shown in Fig. In the example designated 2801, a diffuser 3a is located on a section of the display unit 3 on the side through which the light is transmitted. In the example shown in Fig. In the example designated 2802, a diffusion section 3b is formed on a section of the display unit 3 on the side through which light is transmitted.

[0147] The diffuser 3a and the diffusion section 3b modify the scattering of the light transmitted by the display unit 3. In the Fig. In example 28, designated 2801, the intensity of the transmitted light decreases in the direction perpendicular to the display unit 3, and the intensity of the transmitted light in other directions increases in the section where the diffuser 3a is located, compared to a section where the diffuser 3a is not located. The same applies to example 2802. The scattering of the light transmitted through the pixel section 31 can therefore differ depending on its position on the display unit 3.

[0148] In the Fig. In the example designated 2803, a direction-changing section 3c is formed on a section of the display unit 3 on the side through which light is transmitted. The direction-changing section 3c changes the directionality of the light transmitted through the display unit 3. In the example designated 2803 in Fig. In the example described in Figure 28, the direction in which the intensity of the transmitted light shows a peak differs in the section where the direction-change section 3c is formed compared to the section where the direction-change section 3c is not formed. Therefore, the direction in which the intensity of the transmitted light shows a peak value can vary depending on its position on the display unit 3.

[0149] As described above, the directionality of the light transmitted through pixel section 31 is varied in the display switching device 10 so that the transmittance of the light transmitted through pixel section 31 appears different when the display switching device 10 is viewed in a particular direction. This display switching device 10 can also improve the expressiveness of patterns. Tenth embodiment

[0150] Fig. Figure 29 is a schematic perspective view of a display device 100 for a slot machine according to a tenth embodiment. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 29, the display device 100 for a slot machine comprises a front door 101a facing a player and a box-shaped housing 101b to which the front door 101a is attached for opening or closing. The display device 100 for a slot machine also includes a reel unit 102, a bet button 103, a token slot 104, a start lever 105, a stop button unit 106, and a token outlet 107. The position of the front door 101a in a display device 100 for a slot machine is referred to as the front, the opposite side as the back, the left side relative to the front as the left, and the right side as the right.

[0151] The reel unit 102 is located in a display window in the center, vertically aligned with the front door 101a, within the housing 101b. The reel unit 102 comprises three cylindrical reels 121 to 123 (a left reel 121, a middle reel 122, and a right reel 123) arranged laterally. The reels 121 to 123 spin or stop in response to an action performed by the player. The player receives a prize according to the symbol pattern when all reels 121 to 123 stop spinning.

[0152] The bet button 103 is located essentially in the center of the flat panel of a console below the display window in the front door 101a. The token slot 104 is located on the right side of the flat panel of the console in the front door 101a. The bet button 103 is a switch used to determine the number of tokens to be placed per game on the display 100 for a slot machine from the tokens inserted by the player into the token slot 104 (the number of bets). For example, the player presses the bet button 103 repeatedly until the number of bets displayed corresponds to the number of presses.

[0153] The start lever 105 is located on the left side of the front of the console in the front door 101a. When the start lever 105 is activated, the rollers 121 to 123 begin to rotate.

[0154] The stop button unit 106 is located essentially in the center of the front surface of the console inside the front door 101a. The stop button unit 106 is attached to the front of the console by a decorative plate (front panel) 160. The stop button unit 106 comprises three stop buttons 161 to 163 (one stop button for the left roller 161, one stop button for the middle roller 162, and one stop button for the right roller 163) arranged laterally. When one of the stop buttons 161 to 163 is pressed, the corresponding roller 161 to 163 stops its rotation. The construction of the stop button unit 106 will be described later with reference to Fig. 30 described in detail.

[0155] The token outlet 107 is located in a lower part of the front door 101a. The display unit 100 for a slot machine dispenses tokens through the token outlet 107.

[0156] Stop buttons 161 to 163 each encompass a variety of light sources.

[0157] In response to the actuation of the start lever 105, a roller rotation control receives an instruction to begin rotating rollers 121 to 123. The roller rotation control transmits drive impulses to a roller drive control to rotate rollers 121 to 123 at a predetermined speed. The roller drive control rotates rollers 121 to 123 based on the received drive impulses.

[0158] The roller rotation control receives signals from the photomicroswitches of stop buttons 161 to 163, indicating that these buttons have been pressed. The roller rotation control then transmits drive pulses to the roller drive control to stop rollers 121 to 123. The roller drive control stops rollers 121 to 123 based on the received drive pulses.

[0159] Additionally, a lighting control system controls the switching on and off of each of the light sources of the stop buttons 161 to 163. Overview of the stop button unit 106

[0160] Fig. Figure 30 is a schematic top view of the stop button unit 106. The following describes the schematic structure of the stop button unit 106, which is installed in the display device 100 for a slot machine.

[0161] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 30, the stop button unit 106 comprises the decorative plate 160 and three push-button devices 200 as stop buttons 161 to 163. In other words, the stop buttons 161 to 163 are the three push-button devices 200 contained in the stop button unit 106. The push-button devices 200 are described below, and the same applies to all stop buttons 161 to 163.

[0162] As in the Fig. 29 and Fig. As shown in Figure 30, the decorative plate has 160 holes at the respective positions of the three push-button assemblies 200. Each push-button assembly 200 comprises a key body (a key top) 201, the surface of which is pressed by the player's finger. Each push-button assembly 200 comprises a display unit (a display button) 202, which displays a predefined image on the back of the key body 201.

[0163] Fig. 30 includes a part marked 103A which shows the display units 202 that do not display any display images. Fig. 30 includes a section designated 103B, which displays the display units 202. These units show, as an example of a display image, the sequence in which the stop buttons 161 to 163 are to be pressed. The display units 202 can thus display predetermined images for the player through the holes in the decorative plate 160.

[0164] The stop button unit 106 is an information display device that includes, for example, the display switching device 10 described above, the light sources 7, and a light emission control unit that controls the light emission from the light sources 7. The display device 100 for a slot machine includes the stop button unit 106 and a display control unit that controls the display in the stop button unit 106 depending on the course of the game. The stop button unit 106 and the display device 100 for a slot machine can present information to the user with expressive patterns.

[0165] The embodiments described here are not to be interpreted as limiting, but may be modified within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention. The technical features described in different embodiments may be combined in other embodiments within the scope of the invention's technical possibilities. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2003195216

[0004]

Claims

[1] Display switching device for switching display images by switching irradiation of lights from a plurality of light source positions, the display switching device comprising: a lens arrangement comprising an arrangement of a plurality of lenses; and a display unit wherein the light from each of the multiple light source positions passes through a different position on the display unit and is focused by a corresponding lens in the lens arrangement, a transmittance of light through the display unit varies depending on a position on the display unit, which can be assigned to at least one predetermined stationary pattern, and The transmittance at one position out of a multitude of positions on the display unit is a transmittance of one of three or more types. [2] Display switching device according to claim 1, wherein that at least one predetermined stationary pattern comprises a multitude of predetermined stationary patterns corresponding to the multitude of light source positions, and The transmittance is a transmittance of one of three or more types at the position of the light on the display unit, corresponding to at least one of the multitude of predetermined stationary patterns. [3] Display switching device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the display unit includes a multitude of pixel sections, each comprising a section that allows the passage of light from one of the multitudes of light source positions, which are focused by the corresponding lens in the lens arrangement, and a pixel border section that is located at one edge of each of the multitude of pixel sections, and The transmission level in each of the multitude of pixel sections is set in accordance with at least one predetermined stationary pattern. [4] Display switching device according to claim 3, wherein the transmittance in the pixel edge section is constant regardless of a position on the display unit. [5] Display switching device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein a total area of ​​the plurality of pixel sections in the display unit occupies 60% or less of a total area of ​​the plurality of pixel sections and the pixel edge section of each of the plurality of pixel sections. [6] Display switching device according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein an area ratio of an area of ​​a pixel section from the plurality of pixel sections to an area of ​​a unit image section is an area ratio of one of three or more types, wherein the unit image section comprises the pixel section from the plurality of pixel sections which includes a section to allow the passage of light from a single light source position from the plurality of light source positions which are focused by a corresponding lens in the lens arrangement, and comprises the pixel edge section which is arranged at the edge of the pixel section, and the unit image section includes a pixel of the at least one predetermined stationary pattern. [7] Display switching device according to claim 6, wherein a mean area ratio, which is different from a maximum and a minimum of the types of area ratios, differs from the maximum and the minimum by 10% or more from a difference between the maximum and the minimum. [8] Display switching device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the area ratio changes when a length of the pixel segment changes in a predetermined first direction parallel to a surface of the display unit. [9] Display switching device according to one of claims 6 to 8, wherein in the unit image section the pixel section has a shape which is longest in a predetermined second direction which is parallel to a surface of the display unit and shortest in a predetermined third direction which is parallel to the surface of the display unit and orthogonal to the second direction. [10] Display switching device according to claim 9, wherein a multitude of light sources, arranged in a single light source, are arranged linearly in a predetermined direction at the position of the single light source, and the predetermined direction in which the multitude of light sources are arranged coincides with the second direction. [11] Display switching device according to claim 10, wherein the unit image section extends in a predetermined fourth direction and a predetermined fifth direction, and the fourth direction and the fifth direction are parallel to the surface of the display section and orthogonal to each other, The second direction differs from the fourth and fifth directions. and the third direction is different from the fourth and fifth directions. [12] Display switching device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein in the unit image section the pixel section comprises a plurality of partial pixel sections which are spaced apart from each other. [13] Display switching device according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein a predetermined reference distance is defined in relation to a distance between the center of the display unit and the center of the unit image section, and a maximum of the area ratio in the unit image section where the distance is greater than the reference distance is greater than a maximum of the area ratio in the unit image section where the distance is less than the reference distance. [14] Display switching device according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein a position of a pixel section from the plurality of pixel sections in a unit image section is a position of one of three or more types, wherein the unit image section comprises the pixel section from the plurality of pixel sections which includes a section to allow the passage of light from a single light source position from the plurality of light source positions, which is focused by a corresponding lens in the lens arrangement, and comprises the pixel edge section which is arranged at the edge of the pixel section, and the unit image section comprises a pixel of the at least one predetermined stationary pattern. [15] Display switching device according to claim 14, wherein a difference between a maximum and a minimum of a distance between centroids of two of the pixel sections that are adjacent to each other and contained in the unit image section is 10% or more of the maximum. [16] Display switching device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein a combination of a position of the pixel section and an area ratio of the pixel section in the unit image section is a combination of one of three or more types. [17] Display switching device according to claim 16, wherein a change in the position of the pixel section is less than or equal to half a change in the size of the pixel section in a direction in which the position of the pixel section changes. [18] Display switching device according to one of claims 1 to 16, wherein a distance between at least one lens of the plurality of lenses and the display unit is different from a focal length of the at least one lens. [19] Display switching device according to claim 18, wherein a distance between at least one lens of the plurality of lenses and the display unit is shorter than a focal length of the at least one lens. [20] Display switching device according to one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the lens arrangement comprises a section in which an average value of a radius of curvature of lenses of the plurality of lenses differs in accordance with a distance from a predetermined lens reference position on a lens arrangement surface in which the plurality of lenses is arranged. [21] Display switching device according to claim 20, wherein the lens arrangement comprises a section in which the average value of the radius of curvature of the lenses of the plurality of lenses increases with increasing distance from the lens reference position on the lens arrangement surface. [22] Display switching device according to one of claims 1 to 21, wherein a light spot which is focused by the plurality of lenses has a shape in which a length in a predetermined sixth direction, which is parallel to a surface of the display unit, is longer than a length in a predetermined seventh direction, which is parallel to the surface of the display unit and perpendicular to the sixth direction. [23] Display switching device according to claim 22, wherein the lens arrangement comprises an anisotropic lens whose focal length in the sixth direction is longer than its focal length in the seventh direction. [24] Display switching device according to claim 23, wherein a plurality of light emitters contained in a single light source are arranged linearly in a predetermined direction at each of the plurality of light source positions, and the plurality of light emitters are arranged in the sixth direction. [25] Display switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the plurality of lenses comprises a plurality of sub-lenses. [26] Display switching device according to claim 25, wherein the plurality of sub-lenses is arranged in a planar section corresponding to the plurality of lenses. [27] Display switching device according to claim 25, wherein the plurality of sub-lenses is arranged corresponding to the plurality of lenses on a lens surface [28] Display switching device according to one of claims 1 to 27, wherein an optical component is arranged on a path on which the light enters the lens arrangement from one light source position of the plurality of light source positions. [29] Display switching device according to claim 28, wherein the optical component comprises a diffuser for scattering the light. [30] Display switching device according to claim 28, wherein the optical component comprises a slit through which part of the light passes. [31] Display switching device according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein a transmittance of a material contained in the plurality of pixel sections is a transmittance of one of three or more types. [32] Display switching device according to claim 31, wherein the plurality of pixel sections contain materials with different wavelength distributions for transmittance. [33] Display switching device according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein transmitted light, which is transmitted through each of the plurality of pixel sections to be assigned to the plurality of light source positions, has a different directional effect depending on a position on the display unit. [34] Display switching device according to claim 33, wherein the transmitted light in each of the plurality of pixel sections to be assigned to the plurality of light source positions has a different diffusivity depending on a position on the display unit. [35] Display switching device according to claim 33, wherein the transmitted light in each of the plurality of pixel sections to be assigned to the plurality of light source positions has an intensity that shows a peak in a direction which differs depending on a position on the display unit. [36] An information display device comprising: the display switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 35; a multitude of light sources at a multitude of light source positions; and A light emission control system that is set up to control the light emission from the multitude of light sources. [37] A display device for a slot machine, the display device comprising: the information display device according to claim 36; and A display control that is set up to control the display in the information display device in accordance with the progress of a game. [38] Switches, including: the display switching device according to one of claims 1 to 35, the switch detects user operation at the display switching device.

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