LIGHT GUIDE PLATE, DISPLAY DEVICE, SLOT MACHINE AND IN-VEHICLE DISPLAY

Abstract

A highly transparent light guide plate is realized. The light guide plate (10A) comprises an incident surface (11a) through which light from a light source (20) enters, an exit surface (11c) from which the light exits, and light deflection elements (12) that cause the light entering and guided from the incident surface to exit the exit surface. The light deflection elements are arranged along an arrangement line (13), which is a linear arrangement region. At least one arrangement line includes a region that is not parallel to the incident surface.

Description

BACKGROUNDTechnical field

[0001] The disclosure relates to a light guide plate, a display device, a gaming machine, and an in-vehicle display that display stereoscopic images based on parallax. State of the art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lightguide plate that displays stereoscopic images based on parallax. Light from a light source enters the lightguide plate through an incident surface, which is a side surface. The lightguide plate includes a plurality of deflection members arranged in rows parallel to the incident surface. The deflection members each have an inclined surface that reflects the guided light while being totally reflected within the lightguide plate and causes the light to exit from an exit surface. An orientation of the inclined surfaces of each row changes depending on a distance from the incident surface. BibliographyPatent documents

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-139176 SUMMARY[Problem to be solved]

[0004] However, in the lightguide plate of Patent Document 1, in a region where a stereoscopic image is displayed nearly parallel to the incident surface, it is necessary to narrow the distance between the rows of deflection parts to display the stereoscopic image (details will be described later). In such a region, there is a problem that the transparency of the lightguide plate decreases due to the increasing density of deflection parts. Furthermore, in the case where a stereoscopic image with extremely high parallelism to the incident surface is to be displayed, there is a problem that it is difficult to display the stereoscopic image as a continuous line image.

[0005] An object of an embodiment of the disclosure is to realize a light guide plate and the like capable of clearly displaying a stereoscopic image nearly parallel to an incident surface and having high transparency. [Means of solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the above problem, a light guide plate according to one embodiment of the disclosure is a light guide plate that displays a stereoscopic image based on parallax. The light guide plate includes: an incident surface through which light from a light source enters; an exit surface from which the light exits; and a plurality of light deflection parts that cause the light entering and guided from the incident surface to exit the exit surface by deflecting the light. The plurality of light deflection parts are arranged on an array line, which is a linear array area.A point on the exit surface that emits a first exit light deflected by the light deflection part toward an angular range of irradiation toward one eye and its surroundings of an observer viewing the exit surface from an observation space of a predetermined range is defined as a first exit point. A point on the exit surface that emits a second exit light deflected by the light deflection part toward an angular range of irradiation toward the other eye and its surroundings of the observer is defined as a second exit point.The plurality of light deflecting parts arranged on the array line are provided such that a straight line passing through the first exit point and a center of one eye and a straight line passing through the second exit point and a center of the other eye intersect each other to form an intersection point. The array line is provided as a plurality of array lines, and at least one of the array lines includes a region that is not parallel to the incident surface.

[0007] According to the above configuration, the intersection point between the straight line passing through the first exit point and the center of one eye and the straight line passing through the second exit point and the center of the other eye is established for each array line. Since the plurality of array lines include a region that is not parallel to the incident surface, when displaying a stereoscopic image that is nearly parallel to the incident surface, the distance between the array lines for displaying the stereoscopic image can be increased, and the density of the light deflection parts can be reduced. In this way, a light guide plate with high transparency can be realized even when displaying a stereoscopic image nearly parallel to the incident surface.

[0008] Furthermore, in the light guide plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the intersection point may be located on a depth side of the exit surface as viewed from the observer.

[0009] According to the configuration described above, the stereoscopic image can be displayed on the depth side of the exit surface.

[0010] Further, in the light guide plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure, each of the plurality of arrangement lines may be a straight line, a curve, a combination of two or more straight lines, a combination of two or more curves, or a combination of one or more straight lines and one or more curves.

[0011] According to the configuration described above, the degree of freedom in the movement of the stereoscopic image is improved by changing the position of the light source that causes the light to enter the light guide plate or the position at which the viewer views the stereoscopic image.

[0012] Further, in the light guide plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure, each of the plurality of arrangement lines may include a branching point or a merging point of a plurality of lines.

[0013] According to the above configuration, it is possible to realize a display in which the stereoscopic image appears divided or merged along the arrangement lines by changing the position of the light source that causes light to enter the light guide plate or the position at which the viewer views the stereoscopic image.

[0014] Further, in the light guide plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure, each of the plurality of arrangement lines may include a straight line portion that is not parallel to each other.

[0015] According to the above configuration, it is possible to realize a display in which the stereoscopic image appears to expand or shrink along the array lines by changing the position of the light source that causes light to enter the light guide plate or the position at which the viewer views the stereoscopic image.

[0016] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the stereoscopic image in the light guide plate may include a first stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflection parts in a first partial area, which is a region of a part of the light guide plate, and a second stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflection parts in a second partial area, which is a region different from the first partial area. The light deflection parts may be provided so that the first stereoscopic image and the second stereoscopic image can be viewed from the same observation space.

[0017] According to the above configuration, the viewer can view the first stereoscopic image and the second stereoscopic image from the same observation space.

[0018] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the stereoscopic image in the light guide plate may include a first stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflection parts in a first partial area, which is a region of a part of the light guide plate, and a second stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflection parts in a second partial area, which is a region different from the first partial area. The light deflection parts may be provided such that the observation space in which the first stereoscopic image is observable and the observation space in which the second stereoscopic image is observable are arranged at mutually different positions.

[0019] According to the above configuration, in the case where the viewer observes one of the first and second stereoscopic images, the reflection of the other image can be reduced.

[0020] Further, in the light guide plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure, an angle between the incident surface and a portion of each of the plurality of array lines that is not parallel to the incident surface may be 2.5° or more.

[0021] The configuration described above improves the visibility of a stereoscopic image parallel to the incident surface.

[0022] Further, a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes: the above light guide plate; a plurality of light sources that cause light from the incident surface to enter the light guide plate; and a control part that controls the plurality of light sources.

[0023] According to the above configuration, by controlling the plurality of light sources, the control part can change the position of the light source that causes light to enter the light guide plate.

[0024] Furthermore, in the display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of light sources may be arranged in a linear pattern. The control part may control the plurality of light sources to turn them on and off sequentially from one end to the other end of a region of the linear pattern.

[0025] According to the above configuration, it is possible to realize control in which the position of the light source causing light to enter the light guide plate moves from one end to the other end of the area in which the plurality of light sources are arranged in a linear pattern.

[0026] Furthermore, in the display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of light sources may be arranged in a linear pattern. The control part may control the plurality of light sources to sequentially turn on and off from any point other than one end and the other end of a region of the linear pattern toward both the one end and the other end.

[0027] According to the above configuration, it is possible to realize control in which the position of the light source that causes light to enter the light guide plate moves from a point other than the two ends toward the two ends of the area where the plurality of light sources are arranged in a linear pattern.

[0028] Furthermore, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes the above-mentioned display device.

[0029] The above configuration achieves similar effects to the display device.

[0030] Furthermore, an in-vehicle display according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes the above-mentioned display device.

[0031] The above configuration achieves similar effects to the display device. [Effects]

[0032] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, it is possible to realize a light guide plate and the like capable of clearly displaying a stereoscopic image that is almost parallel to an incident surface and has high transparency. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a plan view showing a configuration of a display device in an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a light path guided through a light guide plate. Fig. 3 is a perspective view for describing the directivity of exit lights emanating from an exit surface of the light guide plate. Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing an intersection point where a straight line passing through a first exit point and a center of one eye of a viewer intersects with a straight line passing through a second exit point and a center of the other eye of the viewer to illustrate a principle of stereoscopic display based on parallax. Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a gaming machine having the display device of Embodiment 1. Fig. 6 is a view showing an example of a case where a stereoscopic image having a portion nearly parallel to an incident surface is displayed in a display device serving as a comparative example. Fig. 7 is a view showing examples of a relationship between an angle formed between arrangement lines and the incident surface and a display of the stereoscopic image in the display device of Embodiment 1. Fig. 8 is a view showing specific examples of an arrangement of light deflecting parts in the light guide plate. Fig. 9 is a view showing more specific examples of the arrangement of the light deflection parts in the light guide plate. Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an example of a display device according to Embodiment 2. Fig. 11 is a plan view showing an example of a display device according to Embodiment 3. Fig. 12 is a plan view showing another example of the display device according to Embodiment 3. Fig. 13 is a plan view showing another example of the display device according to Embodiment 3. Fig. 14 is a view showing a display device according to a first modification example of Embodiment 3. Fig. 15 is a view showing a display device according to a second modification example of Embodiment 3. Fig. 16 is a view showing a display device according to a third modification example of Embodiment 3. Fig. 17 is a view showing a display device according to a fourth modification example of Embodiment 3. Fig. 18 is a view showing display devices according to Embodiment 4. Fig. 19 is a view showing display devices according to a modification example of Embodiment 4. Fig. 20 is a view showing display devices according to another modification example of Embodiment 4, which is different from that shown in Fig. 19 shown. Fig. 21 is a view showing examples of the arrangement line according to Embodiment 5. Fig. 22 is a view showing examples of a light guide plate according to Embodiment 5. Fig. 23 is a view showing examples of the arrangement line according to Embodiment 6. Fig. 24 is a view showing examples of a light guide plate according to Embodiment 6. Fig. 25 is a view showing examples of the arrangement line according to Embodiment 7. Fig. 26 is a view showing an example of a light guide plate according to Embodiment 7. Fig. Fig. 27 is a view showing specific examples of control of a light source through a control part. DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS [Embodiment 1]

[0033] An embodiment of the disclosure is described in detail below. In the following description, unless otherwise stated, a numerical range designated "A to B" means "A or more and B or less." Furthermore, in each figure, where components appear multiple times, only some of the components may be provided with reference numerals. (Application example)

[0034] Fig. 1 is a plan view showing a configuration of a display device 1A in an embodiment of the disclosure. First, with reference to Fig. 1 describes an example of a scenario to which the disclosure applies. As in Fig. 1, the display device 1A in the disclosure includes a light guide plate 10A, a light source 20 and a control part 30. For the sake of simplicity, the illustration of the control part 30 is omitted except in Fig. 1 omitted.

[0035] The light guide plate 10A displays a stereoscopic image SI based on the parallax. In this application example, the light guide plate 10A has a rectangular plate shape in plan view. In other words, the light guide plate 10A has the shape of a rectangular cuboid. However, the shape of the light guide plate 10A is not limited to this. The material of the light guide plate 10A can be, for example, polycarbonate, acrylic, other resins with light-transmitting properties, or glass.

[0036] The stereoscopic image SI contains one or more line segments or curves. The stereoscopic image SI expresses a character, figure, pattern, or the like through a combination of line segments or curves.

[0037] The light guide plate 10A has an incident surface 11a. The incident surface 11a is a surface through which light from the light source 20 enters the light guide plate 10A. The incident surface 11a is one of the side surfaces of the light guide plate 10A, which has a rectangular cuboid shape. A side surface is a surface adjacent to a main surface, where the largest surface of the rectangular cuboid is referred to as the main surface.

[0038] Furthermore, the light guide plate 10A has another side surface 11b opposite the incident surface 11a. In the display device 1A, the light source 20 can also be arranged on the side surface 11b, and light can also enter the light guide plate 10A from the side surface 11b.

[0039] Furthermore, the light guide plate 10A has an exit surface 11c. The exit surface 11c is a surface from which the light guided within the light guide plate 10A exits the light guide plate 10A. The exit surface 11c is one of the main surfaces of the light guide plate 10A, which has a rectangular cuboid shape.

[0040] Furthermore, the light guide plate 10A includes a plurality of light deflecting parts 12. The light deflecting part 12 deflects the light entering from the incident surface 11a and guided within the light guide plate 10A to cause the light to exit at the exit surface 11c. The light deflecting part 12 in this embodiment is a V-groove structure extending in a direction corresponding to a position of an observation space with respect to the light guide plate 10A and a display position of the stereoscopic image SI, and a plurality of rows of the light deflecting parts 12 are formed side by side in the incident direction. In the figures, the number of the light deflecting parts 12 formed in the light guide plate 10A is reduced from the actual number for clarity.

[0041] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a light path guided through the light guide plate 10A. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the light deflection part 12 is provided on a rear surface 11d of the light guide plate. The rear surface 11d is another main surface of the light guide plate 10A, opposite the exit surface 11c, and has a rectangular cuboid shape.

[0042] The light deflecting part 12 has an inclined surface 12a as a reflection surface that reflects the light of the light source 20 entering from the incident surface 11a to the exit surface 11c. In this embodiment, the light deflecting part 12 has an inclined surface 12a corresponding to the incident surface 11a to reflect light L incident from the incident surface 11a. In the case where light also enters from the side surface 11b, the light guide plate 10A further includes a light deflecting part 12 having an inclined surface 12a formed corresponding to the light from the side surface 11b. Furthermore, the light deflecting part 12 may have a surface other than the inclined surface 12a to reflect the light incident on the light deflecting part 12 from a direction other than the intended direction to a direction that is not visible to an observer.

[0043] In the light guide plate 10A, the light L incident from the incident surface 11a is guided while being totally reflected between the exit surface 11c and the rear surface 11d. The light L incident on the light deflection part 12 is reflected by the inclined surface 12a and impinges on the exit surface 11c at an angle of incidence smaller than the angle of incidence at which the light L is totally reflected at the exit surface 11c. As a result, the light L exits from the exit surface 11c. However, the deflection of the light by the light deflection part 12 is not limited to reflection, but can also be achieved by refraction, for example.

[0044] The size of the light deflecting part 12 may be, for example, 30 µm to 300 µm in a direction perpendicular to the incident direction of the light from the light source 20. Furthermore, the angle of the inclined surface 12a with respect to the rear surface 11d may be, for example, 30° to 60°. The shape of the light deflecting part 12 in a plan view from a direction perpendicular to the rear surface 11d may be a quadrangular shape such as a rectangle or a spindle shape. Particularly in the latter case, the formability of the light deflecting part 12 is improved compared to the shape of the former or the like. However, the size and shape of the light deflecting part 12 are not limited thereto.

[0045] Fig. 3 is a perspective view for describing the directivity of exit lights exiting from the exit surface 11c of the light guide plate 10A. Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing an intersection point where a straight line passing through a first exit point P1 and a center of an eye E1 of a viewer intersects with a straight line passing through a second exit point P2 and a center of the other eye E2 of the viewer, to illustrate a principle of stereoscopic display based on parallax. For the sake of simplicity, Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 only one light source 20 is shown.

[0046] Fig. Figure 3 shows a state in which the observer observes the display device 1A from an observation space of a predetermined area. The observation space refers to a space in which at least a part of the stereoscopic image SI displayed by the display device 1A is observable.

[0047] A light emerging within an angular range in which it irradiates one eye E1 of the observer and its surroundings is referred to as a first exit light L1, and a point on the exit surface 11c at which the first exit light L1 emerges is referred to as a first exit point P1. Furthermore, a light emerging within an angular range of irradiation of the other eye E2 of the same observer and its surroundings is referred to as a second exit light L2, and a point on the exit surface 11c at which the second exit light L2 emerges is referred to as a second exit point P2.

[0048] The first exit light L1 emerging from the first exit point P1 is visually detected by one eye E1 of the observer. On the other hand, the first exit light L1 is not visually detected by the other eye E2, or the amount of light visually detected by the other eye E2 is very small compared to the amount of light visually detected by the one eye E1. As a result, the first exit light L1 exhibits a directivity.

[0049] Furthermore, the second exit light L2 from the second exit point P2 is visually detected by the observer's other eye E2. On the other hand, the second exit light L2 is not visually detected by one eye E1, or the amount of light visually detected by one eye E1 is very small compared to the amount of light visually detected by the other eye E2. As a result, the second exit light L2 exhibits a directivity.

[0050] As in Fig. 4, a straight line passing through the first exit point P1 and the center, i.e., the pupil / lens, of one eye E1, and a straight line passing through the second exit point P2 and the center of the other eye E2 intersect at an intersection point C. In other words, an optical axis of the first exit light L1 visually recognized by one eye E1 of the observer and an optical axis of the second exit light L2 visually recognized by the other eye E2 of the observer intersect at the intersection point C. In this way, the observer has the illusion that a light-emitting point appears to exist at the intersection point C.

[0051] If the intersection point C is located on the viewer's side relative to the exit surface 11c, the viewer perceives that the light exit point protrudes from the exit surface 11c. However, if the intersection point C is located on the opposite side of the exit surface 11c from the viewer, the viewer has the impression that the light exit point is located on a depth side of the exit surface 11c. In this embodiment, the intersection point C is located on the depth side of the exit surface 11c, as seen from the viewer. The viewer thus perceives a sense of depth.

[0052] In this way, in the case where the first exit light L1 exits in an angular range directed towards one eye E1 of the observer and its surroundings, the second exit light L2 exits in an angular range directed towards the other eye E2 of the same observer and its surroundings, and the optical axis of the first exit light L1 and the optical axis of the second exit light L2 form an intersection point C, the observer has the illusion that a light-emitting point appears to be present at the intersection point C. By forming such an intersection point C as a series of successive points forming a plurality of intersection points C1, C2, ..., the observer can perceive a three-dimensional stereoscopic image SI forming, for example, a straight line.

[0053] The light source 20 is a light-emitting element that causes light to enter the light guide plate 10A. The light source 20 may be a point light source. An example of the light source 20 is a light-emitting diode (LED). However, the light source 20 is not limited to this and may also be another light source, such as a fluorescent lamp. Fig. 1, the display device 1A includes two light sources 20. However, the display device 1A may also include three or more light sources 20. A plurality of light sources 20 may be arranged at a pitch of, for example, 10 mm, but the distance between the light sources 20 is not limited thereto.

[0054] As described above, the shape of the light guide plate 10A is not limited to the rectangular cuboid shape described above. For example, the light guide plate 10A may also have a shape in which the incident surface 11a is not flush and has a step by cutting out a portion of a rectangular shape in a plan view from a direction perpendicular to the exit surface 11c. In this case, the light source 20 may be arranged along each of the non-flush incident surfaces 11a.

[0055] The control part 30 controls the turning on and off of the light source 20. The details of the control by the control part 30 will be described later. (Configuration example)

[0056] Fig. Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a gaming machine 100 having the display device 1A according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, the display device 1A is provided, for example, in a pachinko machine or a pachislot machine serving as a gaming machine 100. The display device 1A is arranged near a central part of the gaming machine 100. The display device 1A is configured to perform image display for various representations, such as a presentation image indicating the cracking of a jackpot, a presentation image indicating an expectation level of a jackpot, or the like. In particular, the display device 1A is configured to stereoscopically display a stereoscopic image SI as an image display. The control part 30 performs controls such asa control of whether to display the stereoscopic image SI, a control to switch the light source 20 to be turned on at a predetermined timing, a control to change a plurality of light sources 20 that emit lights of different colors at a predetermined timing, or the like.

[0057] The gaming machine 100 is merely an application example of the display device 1A of this embodiment and does not limit the application scope of the display device 1A. The display device 1A of this embodiment can be applied to any device with an image display function. Another example of the device to which the display device 1A is applied is an in-vehicle display.

[0058] As in Fig. 1, in the display device 1A, the light deflection part 12 is arranged on an arrangement line 13. The arrangement line 13 is a linear arrangement area, a plurality of which are provided in the light guide plate 10A. In Fig. 1, the arrangement lines 13 are a plurality of straight lines running parallel to each other. However, the shape of the arrangement lines 13 is not limited to this. Other examples of the shape of the arrangement lines 13 will be described later.

[0059] Fig. 6 is a view showing an example of the case where a stereoscopic image SI having a portion nearly parallel to the incident surface 11a is displayed in a display device 1X serving as a comparative example. The display device 1X has the same configuration as the display device 1A, except that the display device 1X includes a light guide plate 10X instead of the light guide plate 10A. The light guide plate 10X differs from the light guide plate 10A in that the arrangement line 13 is parallel to the incident surface 11a.

[0060] In Fig. 6, the stereoscopic image SI is an image of a polygonal line having two bending points. A direction of a line segment between the two bending points of the stereoscopic image SI is a direction nearly parallel to the incident surface 11a. In a region of the light guide plate 10X having such a line segment, it is necessary to reduce the distance between the array lines 13. As a result, the density of the light deflection parts 12 in this region becomes high, and the transparency of the light guide plate 10X may decrease. Furthermore, as described later, in the display device 1X including the light guide plate 10X, it may become difficult to display the line segment nearly parallel to the incident surface 11a as a continuous line image.

[0061] In the light guide plate 10A, the array lines 13 are not parallel to the incident surface 11a. Therefore, in the light guide plate 10A, even in a region displaying a stereoscopic image that is almost parallel to the incident surface 11a, the distance between the array lines 13 can be increased and the density of the light deflection parts 12 can be reduced. Thus, a light guide plate 10A with high transparency can be realized compared to the case where the array lines 13 are parallel to the incident surface 11a.

[0062] In addition, since the arrangement lines 13 are not parallel to the incident surface 11a, the light guide plate 10A can improve the visibility of a portion of the stereoscopic image SI parallel to the incident surface 11a, which is displayed by the light deflecting parts 12 arranged corresponding to this portion.

[0063] Fig. Fig. 7 is a view showing examples of a relationship between an angle formed between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a and a display of the stereoscopic image SI in the display device 1A. In the examples of Fig. 7, an image of a character “A” is displayed as the stereoscopic image SI. In Fig. 7, reference numeral 701 indicates a case where the angle formed between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a is 0°. Reference numeral 702 indicates a case where the angle between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a is 1°. Reference numeral 703 indicates the case where the angle between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a is 2°. Reference numeral 704 indicates the case where the angle between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a is 3°. Reference numeral 705 indicates the case where the angle between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a is 4°. Reference numeral 706 indicates the case where the angle between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a is 5°. The reference numeral 707 indicates the case where the angle formed between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a is 10°.

[0064] The image of character "A" includes two oblique line images and one horizontal line image. The horizontal line image is an image parallel to the incident surface 11a. As indicated by reference numeral 701, the horizontal line image can hardly be visually recognized when the angle between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a is 0°. As indicated by reference numeral 702, the horizontal line image is weakly visually recognizable when the angle formed between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a is 1°. From reference numeral 703 onwards, the visibility of the horizontal line image improves as the angle between the arrangement lines 13 and the incident surface 11a increases.

[0065] In the light guide plate 10A, not all areas of all the array lines 13 need to be areas that are not parallel to the incident surface 11a. In the display device 1A, it is possible for at least one array line 13 to include an area that is not parallel to the incident surface 11a. In particular, an area involved in displaying a portion of the stereoscopic image SI that is almost parallel to the incident surface 11a or parallel to the incident surface 11a may be an area that is not parallel to the incident surface 11a. When the array line 13 includes an area that is not parallel to the incident surface 11a as described above, the transparency of the light guide plate 10A and the visibility of the part of the stereoscopic image SI parallel to the incident surface 11a can be improved.

[0066] Fig. Fig. 8 is a view showing specific examples of the arrangement of the light deflection parts 12 in the light guide plate 10A. In Fig. 8, reference numeral 801 and reference numeral 802 indicate specific, mutually different examples. In each of the specific examples, a matrix 14 is defined for an area in which the light deflecting parts 12 are arranged, and the light deflecting parts 12 are arranged within the matrix 14.

[0067] In the example designated by reference numeral 801, the matrix 14 is arranged along a direction parallel to the incident surface 11a and a direction perpendicular to the incident surface 11a. In this case, the light deflection parts 12 can be arranged along the arrangement lines 13 by arranging the light deflection parts 12 only in the matrix 14 located on the arrangement lines 13.

[0068] In the example designated by reference numeral 802, the matrix 14 is arranged in one direction along the arrangement lines 13. In this case, the light deflecting parts 12 can be arranged by arranging them in any matrix 14 along the arrangement lines 13.

[0069] Fig. 9 is a view showing more specific examples of the arrangement of the light deflection parts 12 in the light guide plate 10A. In Fig. 9, a reference numeral 901 and a reference numeral 902 indicate different examples.

[0070] Fig. Figure 9 shows examples for the case where an image of the character “A” is displayed. In Fig. 9, the stereoscopic image SI, which is an image of the character “A”, is divided into two oblique line images SI1 and SI2 and one horizontal line image SI3.

[0071] The example designated by reference numeral 901 shows, as light deflection part 12, light deflection part 121 for displaying the oblique line image SI1, light deflection part 122 for displaying the oblique line image SI2, and light deflection part 123 for displaying the horizontal line image SI3. The light deflection parts 121 and the light deflection parts 122 can each be arranged in different matrices 14 on the arrangement lines 13. Furthermore, the light deflection parts 123 can be arranged parallel to the arrangement lines 13 in another matrix 14.

[0072] Furthermore, the light deflection part 12 can display two or more of the oblique line images SI1 and SI2 and the horizontal line image SI3. The example of the light deflection parts 12 designated by reference numeral 902 shows light deflection parts 124 for displaying the oblique line images SI1 and SI2 and the horizontal line image SI3, and light deflection parts 125 for displaying the oblique line images SI1 and SI2. The light deflection parts 124 and the light deflection parts 125 can each be arranged in different matrices 14 on the arrangement lines 13.

[0073] When a plurality of images are displayed with the light-deflecting part 12, the light-deflecting part 12 includes sections corresponding to the respective images. In this case, the light-deflecting part 12 can be shaped such that the convex portions with respect to the light incidence direction are larger than the concave portions. In this case, stray light resulting from multiple reflections of light by the light-deflecting part 12 can be reduced compared to the case where the concave portions with respect to the light incidence direction are more than the convex portions.

[0074] In the display device 1A, the control part 30 can switch the position of the light source 20, which causes light from the plurality of light sources 20 to enter the light guide plate 10A. For example, the control part 30 can sequentially turn the plurality of light sources 20 on and off. Accordingly, it is possible to create a presentation in which the stereoscopic image SI appears to move. At this time, the stereoscopic image SI moves in a direction along the array lines 13.

[0075] In the example denoted by reference numeral 801, the pitch of the matrix 14 is equal in a direction parallel to the incident surface 11a and in a direction perpendicular to the incident surface 11a. In this case, an angle between each of the array lines 13 and the incident surface 11a may be 2.5° or more. Furthermore, the angle between each of the array lines 13 and the incident surface 11a may be 5° or more. Accordingly, the visibility of the portion of the stereoscopic image SI parallel to the incident surface 11a is sufficiently high.

[0076] Furthermore, the display device 1A may include a plurality of light guide plates 10A overlapped so that their main surfaces are parallel to each other. In this case, interference fringes may occur in a region where the array lines 13 are parallel to the incident surface 11a due to the light deflecting parts 12 arranged along the array lines 13. In the case where the display device 1A includes a plurality of light guide plates 10A, the occurrence of interference fringes can be reduced by configuring the inclinations of the array lines 13 in each of the light guide plates 10A to be different from each other.

[0077] Furthermore, the display device 1A can be used by superimposing it with a flat display, such as a liquid crystal display. In this case, a display system can be configured to simultaneously provide a display by the flat display and a stereoscopic image display by the display device 1A. In such a display system, the occurrence of interference fringes can be reduced by configuring an arrangement direction of the pixels of the flat display and the inclination of the arrangement lines 13 to be different from each other.

[0078] Furthermore, the spacing of the matrix 14 can be changed depending on the intended use. For example, to cause the stereoscopic image SI to move smoothly in a direction parallel to the incident surface 11a, the spacing of the matrix 14 in this direction can be reduced to increase the resolution. To improve the visibility of a portion of the stereoscopic image SI that is parallel to the incident surface 11a, the spacing of the matrix 14 in a direction perpendicular to the incident surface 11a can be reduced to increase the resolution.

[0079] Furthermore, the light source 20 can be a so-called RGB LED, which can adjust the light color. In this case, the control part 30 can control the color of the light emitted by the light source 20. The control part 30 can realize an effective presentation by, for example, configuring the colors of the lights of the light sources 20 next to each other so that they differ from each other.

[0080] Furthermore, the control part 30 can realize a more effective display based on color mixing by superimposing a plurality of stereoscopic images of different colors. For example, by superimposing a stereoscopic image of (R, G, B) = (255, 0, 0) and a stereoscopic image of (R, G, B) = (0, 255, 255), the overlapping portion can be configured to be (R, G, B) = (255, 255, 255), that is, white. Furthermore, the control part 30 can also superimpose three or more stereoscopic images.

[0081] In the light guide plate 10A, the number of light deflection parts 12 arranged on this arrangement line 13 varies depending on the position of the stereoscopic image SI to which an arrangement line 13 corresponds. For example, when an image of the character "A" is displayed as the stereoscopic image SI, the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the two oblique line images are arranged on the arrangement lines 13 corresponding to an upper and a lower part of the stereoscopic image SI. On the other hand, the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the two oblique line images and the horizontal line image are arranged on the arrangement lines 13 corresponding to the vicinity of the central part of the stereoscopic image SI.Since the number of light deflection parts 12 arranged on the arrangement lines 13 varies depending on the shape of the stereoscopic image SI, the density of the light deflection parts 12 varies depending on the position in the light guide plate 10A.

[0082] If the shape of the light deflection parts 12 is constant, fluctuations in the transparency of the light guide plate 10A may occur due to the density of the light deflection parts 12. To reduce such fluctuations, the shape or the like of the light deflection parts 12 may be changed accordingly. Alternatively, dummy light deflection parts 12 that have nothing to do with the display of the stereoscopic image SI may be arranged in areas where the density of the light deflection parts 12 is low. [Embodiment 2]

[0083] Other embodiments of the disclosure are described below. For convenience of description, elements having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0084] Fig. 10 is a plan view showing an example of a display device 1B according to Embodiment 2. The display device 1B differs from the display device 1A in that the display device 1B includes a light guide plate 10B instead of the light guide plate 10A. A light input part 15 is provided near the light source 20 in the incident surface 11a of the light guide plate 10B. The light input part 15 is a portion where the incident surface 11a is concavely shaped.

[0085] In the light guide plate 10A without the light input part 15, the dispersion of the light incident from the incident surface 11a is approximately 40° or less with respect to the optical axis, depending on the material of the light guide plate 10A. Therefore, it is difficult to display a stereoscopic image SI that is large in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis near the light source 20. For example, if the stereoscopic image SI has a size of 20 mm in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, it is necessary to distance the arrangement position of the light deflection parts 12 from the light source 20 by 10 mm or more in a direction along the optical axis. However, the position where the light deflection part 12 is actually arranged is also affected by conditions such as the shape of the stereoscopic image SI.

[0086] In the display device 1B, the light from the light source 20 enters the light guide plate 10B via the light input part 15. Thus, in the display device 1B, a dispersion of the light entering from the light input part 15 in a plane parallel to the main surface of the light guide plate 10B becomes larger than the dispersion of the light entering from the flat incident surface 11a into the light guide plate 10A in the display device 1A. That is, in the light guide plate 10B, an area that the light can reach near the incident surface 11a becomes wider than an area that the light can reach near the incident surface 11a of the light guide plate 10A. This improves a degree of freedom in the design of the light guide plate 10B.

[0087] In addition to the concave portion described above, the light incident part 15 may also be a slit, a lens array, a diffusion element, or the like arranged between the light source 20 and the incident surface 11a. An example of a diffusion element is frosted glass.

[0088] As in another embodiment to be described later, light may also enter the light guide plate 10B from another side surface of the display device 1B adjacent to the incident surface 11a. However, in this case, unintentional light emission (crosstalk) may occur because light from the other side surface is incident on the light deflection parts 12 located near the light input part 15 and having a large inclination with respect to the incident surface 11a. Therefore, the shape, size, etc. of the light deflection parts 12 located near the light input part 15 can be adjusted accordingly to reduce crosstalk. [Embodiment 3]

[0089] Fig. 11 is a plan view showing an example of a display device 1C according to Embodiment 3. In Fig. 11, reference numerals 1101, 1102 and 1103 denote different examples of the display device 1C. In the Fig. In the examples shown in Figure 11, the display device 1C differs from the display device 1A in that the display device 1C has a light guide plate 10C instead of the light guide plate 10A. The light guide plate 10C is capable of displaying a plurality of stereoscopic images SIA and SIB by the light incident from the light source 20. In Fig. 11, the stereoscopic image SIA is an image of the character “A”, and the stereoscopic image SIB is an image of a character “B”. In Fig. 11, the display device 1C displays the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB based on the light from the same light source 20.

[0090] As indicated by reference numeral 1101, the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB can be adjacent to each other in a direction along the light incidence direction. As indicated by reference numeral 1102, the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB can also be adjacent to each other in a direction perpendicular to the light incidence direction. As indicated by reference numeral 1103, the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB can also be adjacent to each other in a direction that differs from both the light incidence direction and a direction perpendicular thereto.

[0091] Fig. 12 is a plan view showing another example of the display device 1C. In Fig. 12, reference numerals 1201 and 1202 denote different examples of the display device 1C. In the Fig. In the examples shown in Figure 12, the display device 1C includes, as the light source 20, a light source 21 that causes light to enter from the incident surface 11a, and a light source 22 that causes light to enter from another side surface 11e adjacent to the incident surface 11a. In the display device 1C, the stereoscopic image SIA is displayed based on the light from the light source 21, and the stereoscopic image SIB is displayed based on the light from the light source 22.

[0092] As indicated by reference numeral 1201, the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIA and the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIB may be arranged in separate areas. As indicated by reference numeral 1202, the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIA and the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIB may be arranged in the same area. Specifically, in the example indicated by reference numeral 1202, it is possible to switch which of the stereoscopic image SIA and the stereoscopic image SIB is to be displayed by the display device 1C by switching which of the light source 21 and the light source 22 is to be turned on.

[0093] Fig. 13 is a plan view showing another example of the display device 1C. In the Fig. In the example shown in Fig. 13, the display device 1C displays a plurality of stereoscopic images SIA and SIB based on light entering from the incident surface 11a of the light guide plate 10C. In the example shown in Fig. In the example shown in Figure 13, a light source 20 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIA and a light source 20 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIB are provided separately from each other.

[0094] In the Fig. In the example shown in Fig. 13, the display device 1C has a structure that restricts the propagation of light entering the light guide plate 10C. For example, a convex lens (not shown) may be arranged between the light source 20 and the light guide plate 10C. Alternatively, the light source 20 may be a highly directional light source, such as a bullet LED. Alternatively, the incident surface 11a may have a shape that restricts the propagation of the incident light. Accordingly, when the display device 1C displays only one of the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB, the unintentional display of the other image is reduced.

[0095] Furthermore, in the display device 1C, the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB are displayed by the light deflection parts 12 in mutually different partial areas of the light guide plate 10C. In other words, the stereoscopic images displayed by the display device 1C include a stereoscopic image SIA (first stereoscopic image) displayed by the light deflection parts 12 in a first partial area that is a part of an area of ​​the light guide plate 10C, and a stereoscopic image SIB (second stereoscopic image) displayed by the light deflection parts 12 in a second partial area that is a different area from the first partial area of ​​the light guide plate 10C.

[0096] In such a display device 1C, the light deflection parts 12 can be provided so that the stereoscopic image SIA and the stereoscopic image SIB can be viewed from the same observation space. In this case, the viewer can view the first stereoscopic image SIA and the second stereoscopic image SIB from the same observation space.

[0097] By configuring the observation space in which the first stereoscopic image SIA and the second stereoscopic image SIB are observable in a relatively narrow, limited space, a display can be configured such that the first stereoscopic image SIA and the second stereoscopic image SIB are observable only from this limited space. On the other hand, by configuring the observation space in which the first stereoscopic image SIA and the second stereoscopic image SIB are observable, a display can be configured such that the first stereoscopic image SIA and the second stereoscopic image SIB are observable in a relatively large, expansive space. This expansive space may also include a position where the distance to the light guide plate 10C becomes infinite.

[0098] Furthermore, in the display device 1C, the light deflection parts 12 can also be provided such that an observation space in which the stereoscopic image SIA is viewed and an observation space in which the stereoscopic image SIB is viewed are arranged at different positions. In this case, when the viewer views either the stereoscopic image SIA or the stereoscopic image SIB, the reflection of the other image can be reduced. (Modification example 1)

[0099] Fig. 14 is a view showing a display device 1CA according to a first modification example of Embodiment 3. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 14, the distance between the light sources 20 is smaller than in other embodiments. Furthermore, the display device 1CA displays a plurality of stereoscopic images SIA1 and SIA2. The stereoscopic images SIA1 and SIA2 are images of the character "A" in shapes that can be considered identical to each other.

[0100] In this state, by adjusting the brightness of each of the light sources 20, it is possible to create a display in which one of the plurality of stereoscopic images SIA1 and SIA2 appears to be a shadow of the other. Accordingly, a sense of front-back perspective can be evoked in the viewer. (Modification example 2)

[0101] Fig. 15 is a view showing a display device 1CB according to a second modification example of Embodiment 3. In the figures designated by reference numerals 1501, 1502 and 1503 in Fig. In the examples marked in Figure 15, the display device 1CB performs a display referred to as cross-fading, in which a plurality of stereoscopic images SIA and SIB appear to alternate during movement. In other words, the control part 30 switches the position of the light source 20 to be switched on in order to move the display positions of the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB. For the sake of simplicity, Fig. 15 the representation of the non-activated light sources 20 is omitted. In Fig. 15, reference numeral 1501 indicates a display when the movement of the display position starts, reference numeral 1502 indicates a display during the movement of the display position, and reference numeral 1503 indicates a display when the movement of the display position ends.

[0102] However, the display positions of the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB during the movement of the display positions are not limited to the example indicated by reference numeral 1502. The display device 1CB may also display the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB at display positions other than those indicated by reference numeral 1502 during the movement of the display positions. Furthermore, the display device 1CB may not display the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB at the display positions indicated by reference numeral 1502 during the movement of the display positions.

[0103] As indicated by reference numeral 1501, only the stereoscopic image SIA is displayed when the display position begins to move. As indicated by reference numeral 1502, the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB are displayed in an overlapping manner during the movement of the display position. At this time, the size, inclination angle, density, etc., of the light deflection parts 12 are adjusted so that the image primarily recognized visually changes from the stereoscopic image SIA to the stereoscopic image SIB as the movement of the display position progresses. As indicated by reference numeral 1503, only the stereoscopic image SIB is displayed after the movement of the display position is completed. With the display device 1CB, it is possible to create an impressive presentation in which the display position of the stereoscopic image appears to gradually change from the stereoscopic image SIA to the stereoscopic image SIB during the movement.

[0104] Furthermore, in Fig. 15, reference numeral 1504 is a view showing another example of the display device 1CB according to the second modification example of Embodiment 3, which is different from reference numerals 1501 to 1503. In the example indicated by reference numeral 1504 in Fig. 15, the display device 1CB sequentially displays three types of stereoscopic images SIC, SID, and SIE, respectively, at mutually different positions. For simplicity, reference numeral 1504 shows the stereoscopic images SIC, SID, and SIE in one view.

[0105] In the embodiment indicated by reference numeral 1504 in Fig. In the example marked 15, the stereoscopic image SIC is an image of an elliptical pattern. The stereoscopic image SIE is an image of a rhombus pattern. The stereoscopic image SID is an image of a pattern that lies between an ellipse and a rhombus. In this example, the display device 1CB performs a display known as morphing, in which the stereoscopic image SIC appears to transform successively into the stereoscopic images SID and SIE during movement. (Modification example 3)

[0106] Fig. 16 is a view showing a display device 1CC according to a third modification example of Embodiment 3. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 16, the display device 1CC displays a stereoscopic image SIA and a planar image PI. In Fig. 16, reference numeral 1601 and reference numeral 1602 indicate the display device 1CC in states where the light sources 20 that are turned on are different from each other. For the sake of simplicity, Fig. 16 the representation of the non-switched light source 20 is omitted.

[0107] As indicated by reference numeral 1601 and reference numeral 1602 in Fig. 16, the display position of the stereoscopic image SIA moves by switching the position of the switched-on light source 20. On the other hand, the plane image PI is displayed at a constant position on the exit surface 11c or the rear surface 11d, regardless of the position of the switched-on light source 20. In the example of Fig. 16, a display content of the planar image PI is switched depending on the position of the switched-on light source 20. However, the display content of the planar image PI can also always be constant regardless of the position of the switched-on light source 20.

[0108] In this way, in the display device 1CC, it becomes possible to create a more impressive display by combining the stereoscopic image SIA and the planar image PI. When the viewer refers to the planar image PI displayed on the exit surface 11c or the rear surface 11d, the depth effect of the stereoscopic image SIA displayed on the depth side of the light guide plate 10C is more emphasized. (Modification example 4)

[0109] Fig. 17 is a view showing a display device 1CD according to a fourth modification example of Embodiment 3. In Fig. 17, a reference numeral 1701 and a reference numeral 1702 indicate the display device 1CD in states in which the switched-on light sources 20 are different from each other. For the sake of simplicity, Fig. 17 the representation of the non-switched light sources 20 is omitted.

[0110] The display device 1CD includes a light guide plate 10CD and light sources 21, 22, 23, and 24 as light source 20. The light guide plate 10CD displays stereoscopic images SIA and SIB. The light sources 21, 22, 23, and 24 are arranged sequentially along the incident surface 11a of the light guide plate 10CD. The light sources 21 and 22 cause light to enter the light guide plate 10CD for displaying the stereoscopic image SIA. The light sources 23 and 24 cause light to enter the light guide plate 10CD for displaying the stereoscopic image SIB. For the sake of simplicity, Fig. 17 the representation of the non-switched light sources 20 is omitted.

[0111] In the display device 1CD, the display position of the stereoscopic image SIA is shifted in a direction along the incident surface 11a to the light source 23 and 24 side of the optical axis of each of the light sources 21 and 22. Further, in the display device 1CD, the display position of the stereoscopic image SIB is shifted to the light source 21 and 22 side of the optical axis of each of the light sources 23 and 24. Specifically, the display positions of the stereoscopic image SIA displayed by the light source 22 and the stereoscopic image SIB displayed by the light source 23 can be considered to be substantially identical in a direction along the incident surface 11a. Furthermore, the display position of the stereoscopic image SIA is farther from the incident surface 11a in a direction perpendicular to the incident surface 11a than the display position of the stereoscopic image SIB in this direction.

[0112] In the display device 1CD, the control part 30 can first turn on the light sources 21 and 24 and then turn on the light sources 22 and 23. Accordingly, it becomes possible to create a display in which the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB appear to converge near the center of the light guide plate 10CD. Furthermore, at this time, the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB can be displayed in different colors by configuring the lights emitted by the light sources 22 and 23 to have different colors. [Embodiment 4]

[0113] Fig. 18 is a view showing the display devices 1DA, 1DB and 1DC according to Embodiment 4. In Fig. 18, reference numeral 1801 shows a perspective view showing an outline of the display device 1DA, reference numeral 1802 shows a perspective view showing an outline of the display device 1DB, and reference numeral 1803 shows a perspective view showing an outline of the display device 1DC.

[0114] As indicated by reference numeral 1801, the display device 1DA includes an auxiliary light guide body 16A in addition to the configuration of the display device 1A. The auxiliary light guide body 16A may have the same configuration as the light guide plate 10A, except that it does not include the light deflection part 12.

[0115] Furthermore, the display device 1DA includes a light source 41, which is a different light source from the light source 20. The light emitted from the light source 41 enters the light guide plate 10A via the auxiliary light guide body 16A and exits at the exit surface 11c. A distance of the light from the light source 41 to exiting the exit surface 11c becomes longer by an amount of the auxiliary light guide body 16A compared to the distance of the light from the light source 20 to exiting the exit surface 11c. Thus, in the display device 1DA, an intersection point CA1 for the light from the light source 20 and an intersection point CA2 for the light from the light source 41 are formed. An amount of depth with respect to the light guide plate 10A, that is, a distance viewed from the light guide plate 10A, is different between the intersection point CA1 and the intersection point CA2.

[0116] As indicated by reference numeral 1802, the display device 1DB differs from the display device 1A in that the display device 1DB includes a light guide plate 10DB instead of the light guide plate 10A. The light guide plate 10DB differs from the light guide plate 10A in that the light guide plate 10DB includes a recess 16B. The recess 16B is a recess formed on the rear surface 11d of the light guide plate 10DB.

[0117] In addition, the display device 1DB further includes a light source 42, which is different from the light source 20. Reference numeral 1802 does not depict the light source 20. The light source 42 is housed in the recess 16B. A distance of the light from the light source 42 to the exit from the exit surface 11c is shorter than a distance of the light from the light source 20 to the exit from the exit surface 11c by a distance between the incident surface 11a and the recess 16B. Thus, an intersection point CA1 (see reference numeral 1801) for the light from the light source 20 and an intersection point CA3 for the light from the light source 42 are formed in the display device 1DB. Between the intersection point CA1 and the intersection point CA3, a different amount of depth exists with respect to the light guide plate 10DB.

[0118] As indicated by reference numeral 1803, the display device 1DC differs from the display device 1A in that the display device 1DC includes a light guide plate 10DC instead of the light guide plate 10A. The light guide plate 10DC differs from the light guide plate 10A in that an intermediate light input part 16C is formed. The intermediate light input part 16C is a portion provided on the side surface 11e of the light guide plate 10DC adjacent to the incident surface 11a, and causes light to enter the light guide plate 10DC.

[0119] Furthermore, the display device 1DC includes a light source 43 different from the light source 20. The light source 43 causes light from the intermediate light input part 16C to enter the light guide plate 10DC. Furthermore, the light source 20 is arranged in the display device 1DC near the side surface 11e so that the optical axis of the light from the light source 20 passes through the light source 43. A distance of the light from the light source 43 to exiting the exit surface 11c becomes shorter than the distance of the light from the light source 20 to exiting the exit surface 11c by the distance between the incident surface 11a and the intermediate light input part 16C. Thus, in the display device 1DC, an intersection point CA1 (see reference numeral 1801) for the light from the light source 20 and an intersection point CA4 for the light from the light source 43 are formed.Between the intersection point CA1 and the intersection point CA4 there is a different amount of depth with respect to the light guide plate 10DC.

[0120] As described above, in each of the display devices 1DA, 1DB, and 1DC, a plurality of intersection points with mutually different depth values ​​are formed for each array line 13. Thus, each of the display devices 1DA, 1DB, and 1DC can collectively display a plurality of stereoscopic images with mutually different depth values. (Modification example)

[0121] Fig. 19 is a view showing the display devices 1DD, 1DE and 1DF according to a modification example of Embodiment 4. In Fig. 19, reference numeral 1901 shows a perspective view showing an outline of the display device 1DD, reference numeral 1902 shows a perspective view showing an outline of the display device 1DE, and reference numeral 1903 shows a perspective view showing an outline of the display device 1DF.

[0122] As indicated by reference numeral 1901, in addition to the configuration of the display device 1A, the display device 1DD includes a lens 16D and a light source 44 that causes light to enter the light guide plate 10A via the lens 16D. Furthermore, although not shown in reference numeral 1901, the display device 1DD also includes the light source 20. An intersection point CA1 (see reference numeral 1801) for the light from the light source 20 and an intersection point CA5 for the light from the light source 44 are formed in such a display device 1DD.

[0123] Between the intersection point CA1 and the intersection point CA5, a different depth value exists with respect to the light guide plate 10DC. Depending on the properties of the lens 16D, the intersection point CA5 can be formed on the viewer side of the light guide plate 10A, as indicated by reference numeral 1901. With such a display device 1DD, multiple stereoscopic images with differing depth values ​​can also be displayed.

[0124] As indicated by reference numeral 1902, the display device 1DE differs from the display device 1A in that the display device 1DE has a light guide plate 10DE instead of the light guide plate 10A. The light guide plate 10DE differs from the light guide plate 10A in that a recursive reflection structure 16E is formed on the side surface 11b, which is a side surface opposite the incident surface 11a.

[0125] The recursive reflection structure 16E reflects the light incident on the side surface 11b in a direction that can be considered substantially identical to the direction of incidence. However, instead of the light guide plate 10DE, the display device 1DE may also have a structure in which a separate recursive reflection element with the same function as the recursive reflection structure 16E is attached to the side surface 11b of the light guide plate 10A.

[0126] In the display device 1DE, the light reflected from the side surface 11b forms an intersection point CA6 different from the intersection point CA1. Depending on the shape of the light deflection parts 12, the intersection point CA6 can be located on the viewer side of the light guide plate 10DE, as indicated by reference numeral 1902. With such a display device 1DE, a plurality of stereoscopic images with differing depth values ​​can also be displayed.

[0127] As indicated by reference numeral 1903, the display device 1DF includes a recursive reflection plate 16F in addition to the configuration of the display device 1A. The recursive reflection plate 16F reflects incident light in a direction that can be considered substantially the same as the incident direction. The recursive reflection plate 16F is arranged on the exit surface 11c side of the light guide plate 10A. For visibility, in reference numeral 1903, the positional relationship between the exit surface 11c and the rear surface 11d is reversed compared to other figures.

[0128] In this modification example, the viewer observes the display device 1DF from the rear surface 11d. The light reflected by the recursive reflection plate 16F forms an intersection point CA7 on the viewer side of the light guide plate 10A. Thus, according to the display device 1DF using the light guide plate 10A, a stereoscopic image can be displayed at a position closer to the viewer side than the light guide plate 10A. That is, the viewer can observe a stereoscopic image projecting from the light guide plate 10A toward the viewer.

[0129] Fig. Fig. 20 is a view showing the display devices 1DG and 1DH according to another modification example of Embodiment 4, which is different from that shown in Fig. 19 shown. In Fig. 20, reference numeral 2001 is a perspective view showing an outline of the display device 1DG, and reference numeral 2002 is a perspective view showing an outline of the display device 1DH.

[0130] As indicated by reference numeral 2001, the display device 1DG includes a light source 45 different from the light source 20 in addition to the configuration of the display device 1A. The light source 45 causes light to enter the light guide plate 10A from the side surface 11b opposite the incident surface 11a. Such a display device 1DG also achieves similar effects to the display device 1A and the like.

[0131] As indicated by reference numeral 2002, the display device 1DH differs from the display device 1A in that the display device 1DH includes a light guide plate 10DH instead of the light guide plate 10A. The light guide plate 10DH differs from the light guide plate 10A in that the side surface 11b and positions other than the position where the light from the light source 20 enters the incident surface 11a form reflective surfaces that reflect the light.

[0132] In the display device 1DH, of the light entering the light guide plate 10DH from the light source 20, the light incident on the side surface 11b is reflected and transmitted within the light guide plate 10DH. The light reflected from the side surface 11b behaves like the light of a virtual light source 46 located on the opposite side of the light source 20 with respect to the side surface 11b, forming an intersection point CA8 that is different from the intersection point CA1. Such a display device 1DH also achieves effects similar to those of the display device 1A and the like. [Embodiment 5]

[0133] Fig. 21 is a view showing examples of the arrangement line 13 according to Embodiment 5. In the above embodiments, the arrangement line 13 consists of a plurality of straight lines running parallel to each other, but the arrangement line 13 is not limited to this. The arrangement line 13 may be a straight line, a curve, a combination of two or more straight lines, a combination of two or more curves, or a combination of one or more straight lines and one or more curves. Specific examples of such arrangement lines 13 are denoted by reference numerals 2101, 2102, and 2103 in Fig. 21 marked.

[0134] In the display device 1A and the like, when the array line 13 has such shapes, it becomes possible to create a display in which a stereoscopic image SI appears to move along the array lines 13 by changing the position of the light source 20 to be turned on or the position at which the viewer observes the stereoscopic image SI. This improves the degree of freedom in displaying the stereoscopic image SI.

[0135] Fig. Fig. 22 is a view showing examples of a light guide plate 10E according to Embodiment 5. The light guide plate 10E differs from the light guide plate 10A in that the light guide plate 10E has arrangement lines 13 that are not in a straight line shape. Fig. 22, reference numerals 2201 and 2202 denote different examples of the light guide plate 10E. In Fig. 22 shows the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB, which appear at a variety of positions during the movement process. Furthermore, Fig. 22 the arrangement lines 13 are shown as arrows indicating the directions of movement of the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB.

[0136] In the light guide plate 10E designated by reference numeral 2201, the arrangement line 13 on which the light deflecting parts 12 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIA are arranged has a shape combining a curve convex in a direction away from the incident surface 11a and a curve convex in a direction toward the incident surface 11a. In this light guide plate 10E designated by reference numeral 2201, the stereoscopic image SIA pans in a direction perpendicular to the incident surface 11a while moving in a direction along the incident surface 11a. By reducing the width and cycle of the panning in the direction perpendicular to the incident surface 11a, it is also possible to create a display in which the stereoscopic image SIA appears to move in a straight line in the direction along the incident surface 11a.

[0137] In the light guide plate 10E designated by reference numeral 2202, the arrangement line 13 on which the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIA are arranged has a curved shape that is convex in a direction toward the incident surface 11a. On the other hand, the arrangement line 13 on which the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIB are arranged has a curved shape that is convex in a direction away from the incident surface 11a. The arrangement line 13 on which the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIA are arranged and the arrangement line 13 on which the light deflection parts 12 for displaying the stereoscopic image SIB are arranged intersect each other.In this light guide plate 10E, designated by reference numeral 2202, the stereoscopic images SIA and SIB temporarily exchange their positions in a direction perpendicular to the incident surface 11a while moving in a direction along the incident surface 11a. [Embodiment 6]

[0138] Fig. 23 is a view showing examples of the arrangement line 13 according to Embodiment 6. In the above embodiments, the arrangement line 13 is a line each having a start point and an end point, but the arrangement line 13 is not limited thereto. The arrangement line 13 may include a branch point or a junction point of a plurality of lines. Specific examples of such an arrangement line 13 are denoted by reference numerals 2301, 2302, and 2303 in Fig. 23 marked.

[0139] In the display device 1A and the like, when the array line 13 has such shapes, it becomes possible to create a display in which the stereoscopic image SI appears divided or merged along the array lines 13 by changing the position of the light source 20 to be turned on or by moving the position where the viewer observes the stereoscopic image SI. This improves the degree of freedom in displaying the stereoscopic image SI.

[0140] Fig. Fig. 24 is a view showing examples of a light guide plate 10F according to Embodiment 6. The light guide plate 10F differs from the light guide plate 10A in that the arrangement line 13 has a branching point or a merging point of a plurality of lines. Fig. 24, reference numerals 2401 and 2402 indicate different examples of the light guide plate 10F. In Fig. Figure 24 shows the stereoscopic image SIA, which appears at a variety of positions during the movement process, in one view. Furthermore, Fig. 24 the arrangement lines 13 are shown as arrows indicating the directions of movement of the stereoscopic image SIA.

[0141] The light guide plate 10F, which is in Fig. 24, designated by reference numeral 2401, the arrangement line 13 has a shape that branches in two directions from one end. In this case, the stereoscopic image SIA, although a single image at the starting point of the movement, is split into two images and moved.

[0142] The light guide plate 10F, which is in Fig. 24, designated by reference numeral 2402, the arrangement line 13 has a shape that branches in four directions from one end. In this case, the stereoscopic image SIA, although a single image at the starting point of the movement, is divided into four images and moved.

[0143] In the Fig. In the examples shown in Figure 24, a stereoscopic image SIA is divided into a plurality of images. However, as described above, a plurality of stereoscopic images can also be combined according to arrangement line 13 of Embodiment 6. In the examples shown in Fig. In the examples shown in Figure 24, for example, by reversing one end and the other end, two or four stereoscopic images SIA can be combined. [Embodiment 7]

[0144] Fig. 25 is a view showing examples of the arrangement line 13 according to Embodiment 7. In Fig. 25, reference numerals 2501 and 2502 denote different examples of the arrangement line 13 according to Embodiment 7.

[0145] As indicated for example by the reference numeral 2501 in Fig. As indicated in Figure 25, the array line 13 may include rectilinear portions that are not parallel to each other. In the display device 1A and the like, when the array line 13 has such a shape, it becomes possible to create a display in which the stereoscopic image SI appears to expand or shrink along the array lines 13 by switching the position of the light source 20 to be turned on or moving the position at which the viewer observes the stereoscopic image SI. This improves the degree of freedom in displaying the stereoscopic image SI.

[0146] If there is an area where the distance between the arrangement lines 13 becomes excessively large because the arrangement lines 13 are not parallel to each other, as shown, for example, by reference numeral 2502 in Fig. 25, an additional arrangement line 17 can also be added to this area. In this case, deterioration of the image quality of the stereoscopic image SI can be suppressed while maintaining the degree of freedom in displaying the stereoscopic image SI.

[0147] Fig. Fig. 26 is a view showing an example of a light guide plate 10G according to Embodiment 7. The light guide plate 10G differs from the light guide plate 10A in that the arrangement lines 13 are not parallel to each other. Fig. Figure 26 shows the stereoscopic image SIA, which appears at a variety of positions during the movement process, in one view. Furthermore, Fig. 26 the arrangement lines 13 are shown as arrows indicating the direction of movement of the stereoscopic image SIA.

[0148] At the Fig. 26, the distance between the plurality of arrangement lines 13 increases as it extends from the starting point to the end point of the movement of the stereoscopic image SIA. In this case, the stereoscopic image SIA is expanded as it moves along the arrangement lines 13. Furthermore, in the light guide plate 10G, in contrast to, for example, Fig. 26, the distance between the plurality of array lines 13 may also decrease in the course of the movement of the stereoscopic image SIA from the starting point to the end point. In this case, the stereoscopic image SIA shrinks as it moves along the array lines 13. [Embodiment 8]

[0149] Fig. 27 is a view showing specific examples of controlling the light source 20 by the control part 30. In Fig. 27, the reference numerals 2701 and 2702 denote various examples of the control of the light source 20, passed through the control part 30. In Fig. Figure 27 shows the stereoscopic image SIA, which appears at a variety of positions during the movement process, in one view. Furthermore, Fig. 27 the arrangement lines 13 are shown as arrows indicating the directions of movement of the stereoscopic image SIA.

[0150] In the Fig. In the examples shown in Fig. 27, the control part 30 controls the switching on and off of five light sources 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25 as the light source 20. The light sources 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25 are arranged sequentially in a linear pattern.

[0151] The control part 30 can control the light sources 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 to be switched on and off sequentially from one end to the other end of the line pattern area. As indicated, for example, by reference numeral 2701 in Fig. As indicated in Figure 27, the control part 30 initially turns on only the light source 21. Subsequently, the control part 30 turns off the light source 21 and on the light source 22. Thereafter, the control part 30 sequentially turns off the light source 22 and on the light source 23, turns off the light source 23 and on the light source 24, and turns off the light source 24 and on the light source 25. With such control, it is possible to realize control in which the position of the light source 20, which causes light to enter the light guide plate 10A, moves from one end to the other end of the area in which the light sources 20 are arranged in a linear pattern.

[0152] Furthermore, the control part 30 can control the light sources 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25 so as to be sequentially turned on and off from any point other than one end and the other end of the range of the linear pattern toward one end and the other end.

[0153] As indicated for example by reference numeral 2702 in Fig. As indicated in Figure 27, the control part 30 initially turns on only the light source 23. Then, the control part 30 turns off the light source 23 and on the light sources 22 and 24. Furthermore, the control part 30 turns off the light sources 22 and 24 and on the light sources 21 and 25. With such control, it is possible to realize control in which the position of the light source 20 that causes light to enter the light guide plate 10A moves from a point other than the two ends to the two ends of the area in which the light sources 20 are arranged in a linear pattern.

[0154] The number of light sources 20 controlled by the control part 30 is not limited to those described above. Furthermore, the control part 30 can also cause the light sources 20 to emit light individually or cause multiple light sources 20 to emit light simultaneously. Furthermore, the control part 30 can also gradually increase or decrease the number of light sources 20 emitting light simultaneously.

[0155] The disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included within the technical scope of the disclosure. [Summary]

[0156] The revelation is also expressed as follows.

[0157] A light guide plate according to Embodiment 1 of the disclosure is a light guide plate that displays a stereoscopic image based on parallax. The light guide plate includes: an incident surface through which light from a light source enters; an exit surface from which the light exits; and a plurality of light deflecting parts that cause the light entering and guided from the incident surface to exit from the exit surface by deflecting the light. The plurality of light deflecting parts are arranged on an array line, which is a linear array area. A point on the exit surface that emits a first exit light deflected by the light deflecting part toward an angular range of irradiation of an eye and a vicinity thereof of an observer who observes the exit surface from an observation space of a predetermined range is defined as a first exit point.A point on the exit surface that emits a second exit light deflected by the light deflecting part toward an angular range irradiating the other eye and the surrounding area of ​​the observer is defined as a second exit point. The plurality of light deflecting parts arranged on the array line are provided such that a straight line passing through the first exit point and a center of one eye and a straight line passing through the second exit point and a center of the other eye intersect each other to form an intersection point. The array line is provided as a plurality of array lines, and at least one of the array lines includes a region that is not parallel to the incident surface.

[0158] In the light guide plate according to Embodiment 2 of the disclosure, the intersection point in Embodiment 1 is located on a depth side of the exit surface as viewed from the viewer.

[0159] In the light guide plate according to Embodiment 3 of the disclosure, in Embodiment 1 or 2, each of the plurality of arrangement lines is a straight line, a curve, a combination of two or more straight lines, a combination of two or more curves, or a combination of one or more straight lines and one or more curves.

[0160] In the light guide plate according to Embodiment 4 of the disclosure, according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, each of the plurality of arrangement lines includes a branching point or a merging point of a plurality of lines.

[0161] In the light guide plate according to Embodiment 5 of the disclosure of any one of Embodiments 1 to 4, each of the plurality of arrangement lines includes a straight line portion that is not parallel to each other.

[0162] In the light guide plate according to Embodiment 6 of the disclosure in any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, the stereoscopic image includes a first stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflection parts in a first partial area, which is a portion of a portion of the light guide plate, and a second stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflection parts in a second partial area, which is a different area from the first partial area. The light deflection parts are provided so that the first stereoscopic image and the second stereoscopic image can be viewed from the same observation space.

[0163] In the light guide plate according to Embodiment 7 of the disclosure in any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, the stereoscopic image includes a first stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflection parts in a first partial area, which is a region of a part of the light guide plate, and a second stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflection parts in a second partial area, which is a region different from the first partial area. The light deflection parts are provided so that the observation space in which the first stereoscopic image is observable and the observation space in which the second stereoscopic image is observable are arranged at mutually different positions.

[0164] In the light guide plate according to Embodiment 8 of the disclosure in any one of Embodiments 1 to 7, an angle formed between the incident surface and a portion of each of the plurality of arrangement lines that is not parallel to the incident surface is 2.5° or more.

[0165] A display device according to Embodiment 9 of the disclosure includes: the light guide plate according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 8; a plurality of light sources that cause light from the incident surface to enter the light guide plate; and a control part that controls the plurality of light sources.

[0166] In the display device according to Embodiment 10 of the disclosure in Embodiment 9, the plurality of light sources are arranged in a linear pattern. The control part controls the plurality of light sources to be sequentially turned on and off from one end to the other end of a region of the linear pattern.

[0167] In the display device according to Embodiment 11 of the disclosure, in Embodiment 9, the plurality of light sources are arranged in a linear pattern. The control part controls the plurality of light sources to turn on and off sequentially from any point other than the one end and the other end of a region of the linear pattern, both toward the one end and the other end.

[0168] A gaming machine according to Embodiment 12 of the disclosure includes the display device according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 11.

[0169] An in-vehicle display according to Embodiment 13 of the disclosure includes the display device according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 11. [List of reference symbols] 1A, 1B, 1C, 1CA, 1CB, 1CC, 1CD, 1DA, 1DB, 1DC, 1DD, 1DE, 1DF, 1DG, 1DH Display device 10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G light guide plate 11a Incident surface 11c Exit surface 12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125 Light deflection part 13, 17 arrangement line 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46 light source 30 Control unit 100 slot machine QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] JP 2019-139176

[0003]

Claims

[1] A light guide plate (10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G) displaying a stereoscopic image based on parallax, the light guide plate comprising: an incident surface (11a) through which a light from a light source (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 41, 44) enters; an exit surface (11c) from which the light exits; and a plurality of light deflecting parts (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) which cause the light entering from the incident surface (11a) and being guided to exit from the exit surface (11c) by deflecting the light, wherein the plurality of light deflection parts (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) are arranged on an arrangement line (13) which is a linear arrangement area, a point on the exit surface (11c) emitting a first exit light deflected by the light deflecting part (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) in the direction of an angular range of irradiation to one eye and its surroundings of an observer who views the exit surface (11c) from within an observation space of a predetermined range is defined as a first exit point, a point on the exit surface (11c) emitting a second exit light deflected by the light deflecting part (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) in the direction of an angular range of irradiation to the other eye and its surroundings of the observer is defined as a second exit point, and the plurality of light deflecting parts (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) arranged on the arrangement line (13) are provided so that a straight line passing through the first exit point and a center of one eye,and a straight line passing through the second exit point and a center of the other eye intersect each other to form an intersection point, and, the arrangement line (13) is provided as a plurality of arrangement lines (13), and at least one of the arrangement lines (13) includes a region which is not parallel to the entrance surface (11a). [2] The light guide plate (10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G) according to claim 1, wherein the intersection point is located on a depth side of the exit surface (11c) as viewed from the observer. [3] The light guide plate (10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G) according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of arrangement lines (13) is a straight line, a curve, a combination of two or more straight lines, a combination of two or more curves, or a combination of one or more straight lines and one or more curves. [4] The light guide plate (10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G) according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of arrangement lines (13) includes a branching point or a merging point of a plurality of lines. [5] The light guide plate (10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G) according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of arrangement lines (13) includes a straight line portion that is not parallel to each other. [6] The light guide plate (10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G) according to claim 1, wherein the stereoscopic image comprises a first stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflecting parts (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) in a first partial area, which is an area of ​​a part of the light guide plate, and a second stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflecting parts (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) in a second partial area, which is the area different from the first partial area, and the light deflecting parts (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) are provided so that the first stereoscopic image and the second stereoscopic image can be viewed from within the same observation space. [7] The light guide plate (10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G) according to claim 1, wherein the stereoscopic image comprises a first stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflecting parts (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) in a first partial area which is an area of ​​a part of the light guide plate, and a second stereoscopic image displayed by the light deflecting parts (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) in a second partial area which is an area different from the first partial area, and the light deflecting parts (12, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125) are provided such that the observation space in which the first stereoscopic image is observable and the observation space in which the second stereoscopic image is observable are arranged at mutually different positions. [8] The light guide plate (10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G) according to claim 1, wherein an angle formed between the incident surface (11a) and a portion of each of the plurality of arrangement lines (13) that is not parallel to the incident surface (11a) is 2.5° or more. [9] Display device (1A, 1B, 1C, 1CA, 1CB, 1CC, 1CD, 1DA, 1DB, 1DC, 1DD, 1DE, 1DF, 1DG, 1DH), comprising: the light guide plate (10A, 10B, 10C, 10CD, 10DB, 10DC, 10DE, 10DH, 10E, 10F, 10G) according to claim 1; a plurality of light sources (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 41, 44) which cause light from the incident surface (11a) to enter the light guide plate; and a control part (30) which controls the plurality of light sources (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 41, 44). [10] The display device (1A, 1B, 1C, 1CA, 1CB, 1CC, 1CD, 1DA, 1DB, 1DC, 1DD, 1DE, 1DF, 1DG, 1DH) according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of light sources (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are arranged in a linear pattern, and the control part (30) controls the plurality of light sources (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25) to be turned on and off sequentially from one end to the other end of the line pattern. [11] The display device (1A, 1B, 1C, 1CA, 1CB, 1CC, 1CD, 1DA, 1DB, 1DC, 1DD, 1DE, 1DF, 1DG, 1DH) according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of light sources (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are arranged in a linear pattern, and the control part (30) controls the plurality of light sources (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25) to be sequentially turned on and off from any point other than one end and the other end of the linear pattern in both the one end and the other end directions. [12] A gaming machine (100) comprising the display device (1A, 1B, 1C, 1CA, 1CB, 1CC, 1CD, 1DA, 1DB, 1DC, 1DD, 1DE, 1DF, 1DG, 1DH) according to any one of claims 9 to 11. [13] An in-vehicle display comprising the display device (1A, 1B, 1C, 1CA, 1CB, 1CC, 1CD, 1DA, 1DB, 1DC, 1DD, 1DE, 1DF, 1DG, 1DH) according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

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