DISPLAY DEVICE

Abstract

Display device (1) comprising: a multitude of light sources (4, 5); and a light guide plate (2) configured to guide incident light from each of the light sources (4, 5) such that part of the light exits from a light-emitting surface, wherein the light guide plate (2) comprises a first output structure area (A) comprising a plurality of first output structures (6, 8), each having a maximum direction of incidence that maximizes the intensity of the light emerging in a given direction, which lies within a first angular range centered on a direction from a first light source (4), a second output structure area (B) comprising a plurality of second output structures (9, 10), each with the maximum direction of incidence within a second angular range centered on a direction from a second light source (5) located next to the first light source (4), and a third output structure area comprising a plurality of third output structures (11, 12, 13) in each of which the maximum direction of incidence coincides with a direction from a position between the first light source (4) and the second light source (5), wherein the third output structure area is located between the first output structure area (A) and the second output structure area B. wherein the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of first output structures (6, 8) are distributed over the first angular range, and wherein the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of second output structures (9, 10) are distributed over the second angular range.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device or display unit which uses light to display a specific pattern. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a display device by which a displayed pattern appears to a viewer as a continuously moving pattern. The display device comprises a plurality of light sources and a light guide plate. The light guide plate comprises a first output structure region, a second output structure region, and a third output structure region. The first output structure region comprises a plurality of first output structures with an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light emitted in a predetermined direction most closely corresponds to a direction from the first light source. The second output structure region comprises a plurality of second output structures with an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light emitted in the predetermined direction most closely corresponds to the direction of a second light source located adjacent to the first light source.The third output structure area comprises a plurality of third output structures with an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light exiting in the predetermined direction most closely corresponds to a direction from a position between the first and second light sources. The third output structure area is located between the first and second output structure areas. Further prior art is defined by US 2020 / 0041714 A1. State of the art document Patent document

[0003] Patent document 1: Japanese unexamined patent application with publication number JP 2018151569 A OVERVIEW OF THE INVENTION PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0004] However, the display device disclosed in patent specification 1 has no option regarding the width of the individual lines that form an image to be displayed and has only one thin line.

[0005] It is therefore an object of one aspect of the present invention to provide a display device which has options regarding the width of each line forming an image. MEANS OF SOLVING THE TASK

[0006] The problems described above are solved by the subject matter of independent claims 1 and 4. Preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims. The invention is defined by the claims, with aspects of the invention being explained below: A display device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a plurality of light sources and a light guide plate configured to guide light incident from each of the light sources such that a portion of the light exits from a light-emitting surface.The light guide plate comprises a first output structure area with a plurality of first output structures, each having a maximum incidence direction that maximizes the intensity of the light exiting in a predetermined direction, which lies within a first angular range centered on a direction from a first light source; a second output structure area with a plurality of second output structures, each having a maximum incidence direction that lies within a second angular range centered on a direction from a second light source located adjacent to the first light source; and a third output structure area with a plurality of third output structures, each having a maximum incidence direction that coincides with a direction from a position located between the first light source and the second light source.The third output structure area is located between the first output structure area and the second output structure area; the maximum incidence directions of the multitude of first output structures are distributed over the first angular area, and the maximum incidence directions of the multitude of second output structures are distributed over the second angular area.

[0007] Furthermore, a display device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a plurality of light sources and a light guide plate configured to guide light incident from each of the light sources such that a portion of the light exits from a light-emitting surface. The light guide plate comprises a first output structure region with a plurality of first output structures, each having an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light exiting in a predetermined direction most closely corresponds to a direction from a first light source, and a second output structure region with a plurality of second output structures, each having an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light exiting in the predetermined direction most closely corresponds to a direction from a second light source located adjacent to the first light source.and a third output structure region with a plurality of third output structures, each exhibiting an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light emerging in the predetermined direction most closely coincides with a direction from a position located between the first and second light sources. The third output structure region is located between the first and second output structure regions, and, wherein the plurality of first output structures, the plurality of second output structures and the plurality of third output structures each have a reflective surface with a curved surface. IMPACT OF THE INVENTION

[0008] According to the aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a display device that has options regarding the width of each line forming an image. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Fig. Figure 1 is a figure showing a configuration of a display device according to a first configuration example of an embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a configuration of the display device according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic illustration showing the shape of the display device according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective view of a multitude of output structures, schematically showing a configuration of the multitude of output structures. Fig. Figure 5 is a diagram describing a first angular range. Fig. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the intensity distribution of the light, in relation to an emission angle or output angle, of a line displayed by the display device according to the first configuration example. Fig. Figure 7 is an illustration showing a configuration of a display device according to a second configuration example of the embodiment. Fig. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the intensity distribution of the light, in relation to an emission angle or output angle, of a line displayed by the display device according to the second configuration example. Fig. Figure 9 is a figure to describe a light guide plate according to a modification of the display device according to the first configuration example. Fig. 10(a) is an illustration showing a pattern called a “diamond”, Fig. Figure 10(b) is an illustration showing a pattern called a “cube”, and Fig. 10(c) is an illustration showing a pattern called an “Ice Crash”. METHODS OF IMPLEMENTATION

[0009] In the following, an embodiment according to one aspect of the present invention (hereinafter also referred to as "embodiment") is described with reference to the drawings. 1. Application example

[0010] Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a configuration of a display device 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic illustration showing the shape of the display device 1. It should be noted that Fig. Figure 2 does not show the entire light guide plate 2, but only a part of the light guide plate 2, which is visible in Fig. 3 corresponds to the area R shown.

[0011] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the display device 1 comprises the light guide plate 2, a first light source 4 and a second light source 5 (a plurality of light sources) arranged in a line along an end face of the light guide plate 2 parallel to the horizontal direction (X-axis of Fig. 2) are arranged, and a light source control device or light source controller 3.

[0012] The first light source 4 and the second light source 5 belong to a group of light sources 15, which includes a variety of in Fig. The light source 14 shown comprises three light sources, each emitting light from the end face of the light guide plate 2 into the interior of the light guide plate 2. Examples of the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and the like. Furthermore, the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 can each be capable of adjusting the intensity or color of the emitted light. The distance between the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 is preferably equal to or greater than 5 mm.

[0013] The light guide plate 2 is made from a light transmission housing and includes output structures 6 to 13 inside the housing. The light guide plate 2 causes the output structures 6 to 13 to guide the light incident from the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 in such a way that part of the light exits from a light exit surface (a surface parallel to the XY plane in the positive direction of the Z-axis). Fig. 2) Examples of the initial structures 6 to 13 are a prism and a mirror. Details of the initial structures 6 to 13 will be described later.

[0014] The light source control unit or light source controller 3 (light intensity adjustment unit, color adjustment unit) switches the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 on or off to cause a pattern displayed on the light-emitting surface by the light emerging from the output structures 6 to 13 to appear to a viewer as a moving pattern. If the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are capable of adjusting the intensity of the light to be emitted, the light source control unit 3 can be configured to adjust the intensity of the light to be emitted by the first light source 4 or the intensity of the light to be emitted by the second light source 5.If the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are able to adjust the color of the light to be emitted, the light source control device 3 can be configured to adjust the color of the light emitted by the first light source 4 or the color of the light emitted by the second light source 5. (Configuration of the initial structure)

[0015] The function or task of output structures 6 to 13 is described below with reference to Fig. 4 described in detail. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a multitude of initial structures 16 (which lead to a in Fig. 2 shown first output structure area A), which have the same structure as output structures 6 to 13, and schematically shows a structure of the multitude of output structures 16. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, each of the multiple output structures 16 has a shape that protrudes towards the light-emitting surface of the optical fiber plate 2. The multiple output structures 16 are configured such that the direction of the light with the greatest intensity of the emitted light coincides with the direction of arrow β. This causes the light incident on the multiple output structures 16 (arrow α) to change direction so that the direction of the light with the greatest intensity of the emitted light coincides with the direction of arrow β. This, in turn, causes the light with the greatest intensity to exit the multiple output structures 16 in the direction of arrow β. The multiple output structures 16 are arranged in a band shape, so that streaked light corresponding to the band shape exits the multiple output structures 16.

[0016] The following are the in Fig. The initial structures shown in section 2 are described in detail in sections 6 to 13. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, output structure 6 and output structure 8 (first output structures) are arranged along the first output structure region A. Furthermore, output structure 6 and output structure 8 each have a maximum incidence direction, which determines the intensity of the radiation in the positive direction of the Z-axis (predetermined or predetermined direction). Fig. 2. The amount of light emerging from the first light source 4 is greatest within a first angular range centered on the direction from the first light source 4. In Fig. 2 are a correspondence relationship or a correspondence relation between the output structure 6 and the first light source 4 and a correspondence relationship or correspondence relation between the output structure 8 and the first light source 4 by an arrow extending from the output structure 6 to a position Xn, or an arrow extending from the output structure 8 to the position X n The position X extends, as shown. n corresponds to the position of the first light source 4. Light exiting from output structure 6 and output structure 8 and belonging to the first output structure region A generates a first emission region A' on the in Fig. 3 light emission surface shown.

[0017] On the other hand, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, output structure 9 and output structure 10 (second output structure) are arranged along a second output structure region B. Furthermore, output structure 9 and output structure 10 each have a maximum incidence direction, which determines the intensity of the wave in the positive direction of the Z-axis (predetermined or predetermined direction). Fig. The 2 emerging light is greatest within a second angular range centered on the direction from the second light source 5. In Fig. 2 are a correspondence relationship or equivalence relation between the initial structure 9 and the second light source 5 and a correspondence relationship or equivalence relation between the initial structure 10 and the second light source 5 by an arrow that extends from the initial structure 9 to a position X n+1 extends, or an arrow extending from the starting structure 10 to position X n+1The position X extends, as shown. n+1 corresponds to the position of the second light source 5. Light exiting from output structure 9 and output structure 10, which belong to the second output structure area B, creates a second emission area B' on the in Fig. 3 light emission surface shown.

[0018] It should be noted that (i) the arrangement of output structures 6 and 8, belonging to the first output structure area A, (ii) the arrangement of output structures 9 and 10, belonging to the second output structure area B, and (iii) the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are adjusted such that the first emission area A' and the second emission area B' exhibit ring patterns on the light-emitting surface that are similar in shape but differ in radius. When the light sources are controlled so that the first emission area A' and the second emission area B' become visible sequentially, the pattern displayed on the light-emitting surface appears to the observer as a moving or changing-size pattern.

[0019] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, output structure 11, output structure 12, and output structure 13 (third output structures) are arranged in a region (third output structure region) located between the first output structure region A and the second output structure region B. Furthermore, output structure 11, output structure 12, and output structure 13 each have a maximum incidence direction, which determines the intensity of the radiation in the positive direction of the Z-axis (predetermined or predetermined direction). Fig. 2 most strongly coincides with a direction from a position located between the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 (a direction of an arrow extending from the output structure 11 to a position X4, a direction of an arrow extending from the output structure 12 to a position X2, and a direction of an arrow extending from the output structure 13 to a position X3, as in Fig. 2 shown).

[0020] It should be noted that, as with output structure 11, output structure 12, and output structure 13, output structure 7 is also located in a region situated between the first output structure region A and another output structure region (not shown). Furthermore, output structure 7 has a maximum incidence direction, which determines the intensity of the current in the positive direction of the Z-axis (predetermined or predetermined direction). Fig. 2. The direction of the outgoing light most strongly corresponds to a direction from a position located between the first light source 4 and another light source (not shown) (a direction of an arrow pointing from the output structure 7 to a position located between the first light source 4 and another light source (not shown)). Fig. 2 (position X1 shown).

[0021] The output structures 6 to 13, configured as described above, cause the light emerging from output structures 11 to 13, which belong to the third output structure area, to appear to the observer as if the light passes through a boundary between the first emission area A' and the second emission area B' on the Fig. The light emission area shown in Figure 3 is filled. If, for example, the control is such that the first light source 4 is switched on and then the second light source 5 is switched on at the same time as the first light source 4 is switched off, it is possible to provide a display in which the light moves smoothly from the first emission area A' to the second emission area B'. Even if the viewer's viewing angle moves while the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are switched on, it is possible to design the display so that the light transitions smoothly from the first emission area A' to the second emission area B'.

[0022] Furthermore, as described above, the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are in a line along one of the end faces of the light guide plate 2 parallel to the horizontal direction (X-axis of Fig. 2) arranged. This makes it possible, for example, when the viewer's viewing angle is moved in a horizontal direction with the first light source 4 and second light source 5 switched on, to provide a representation in which a pattern displayed on the light-emitting surface changes its state.

[0023] Furthermore, the display device 1 according to the embodiment also includes a structure in which a plurality of light sources having the same structure as the first light source 4 and the second light source 5, and a plurality of output structures having the same structure as output structures 6 to 13, are used. In this structure as well, each light source and each output structure is configured to display a specific pattern using the light emitted from each output structure area, and when each light source is switched on and off to move the pattern, the displayed pattern appears to the viewer as a continuously moving pattern.

[0024] Furthermore, even if the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are able to adjust the intensity of the light to be emitted, the light source controller 3 is configured to adjust the intensity of the light to be emitted by the first light source 4 or the intensity of the light to be emitted by the second light source 5, the same effect as the effect produced by the third output structure area described above can be generated.This means that since the light emerging from the third output structure area fills the boundary between the first emission area A' and the second emission area B', it is possible to provide a display representation in which the light moves more uniformly from the first emission area A' to the second emission area B' when the light source controller 3 performs a control to gradually increase the light intensity of the second light source 5 after the gradual increase of the light intensity of the first light source 4.

[0025] Furthermore, even if the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are able to adjust the color of the light to be emitted, the light source controller 3 is configured to adjust the color of the light to be emitted by the first light source 4 or the color of the light to be emitted by the second light source 5, the same effect as the effect produced by the third output structure area described above can be generated.This means that since the light emerging from the third output structure area fills the boundary between the first emission area A' and the second emission area B', it is possible to provide a display representation where the color smoothly transitions from the first emission area A' to the second emission area B' when the light source controller 3 performs a control to gradually change the color of the first light source 4 to a specific color and then gradually change the color of the second light source 5 to the specific color.

[0026] The following section describes in more detail the output structure 11, output structure 12, and output structure 13, which belong to the third output structure area. Output structure 11, output structure 12, and output structure 13 each have an incidence direction that corresponds to the intensity of the signal in the positive direction of the Z-axis. Fig. 2 outgoing light most strongly corresponds to a direction from a position that is closer to the second light source 5, away from the first light source 4, since the position where the output structure 11, output structure 12 and output structure 13 are each located is closer to the second output structure area B, away from the first output structure area A.

[0027] Therefore, of the output structures 11, 12, and 13, output structure 12, which is furthest from the second output structure area B, has the direction of incidence that most strongly coincides the intensity of the emitted light with a direction from a position furthest from the second light source 5 (the direction of the arrow pointing from output structure 12 to the one in Fig. 2 extends to position X2 shown). Furthermore, under output structure 11, output structure 12, and output structure 13, output structure 11, which is closest to the second output structure area B, has the direction of incidence that most strongly coincides the intensity of the emerging light with a direction from a position closest to the second light source 5 (the direction of the arrow pointing from output structure 11 to the one shown in Fig. (extends to position X4 shown in Figure 2). If the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are identical in their light intensity, the intensity of the emitted light is greater the closer the position is to where the output structure 11, the output structure 12 and the output structure 13 are each located on the second output structure area B.

[0028] Output structures 11, 12, and 13, configured as described above, cause the light intensity in a third emission region on the light-emitting surface, generated by the light emitted from output structures 11, 12, and 13, to increase continuously from the first emission region A' to the second emission region B'. Accordingly, for example, if the control is such that the first light source 4 is switched on and then the second light source 5 is switched on, it is possible to produce a display in which the light moves more uniformly from the first emission region A' to the second emission region B'.Even if the viewer's viewing angle moves when the first light source 4 and second light source 5 are switched on, it is possible to design the display so that the light transitions or moves even more smoothly or gently from the first emission area A' to the second emission area B'.

[0029] The following section describes in more detail the structures or configurations of the initial structure 11, the initial structure 12 and the initial structure 13, which belong to the third initial structure area.The output structure 11, output structure 12, and output structure 13 are configured such that when the position in which output structure 11, output structure 12, and output structure 13 are each arranged is closer to the second output structure area B and away from the first output structure area A, the direction that maximizes the intensity of the emitted light based on the light emitted by the first light source 4 continuously changes from the direction that maximizes the intensity of the light emitted from the first output structure area A to the direction that maximizes the intensity of the light emitted from the second output structure area B based on the light emitted by the first light source 4.

[0030] Therefore, among output structure 11, output structure 12 and output structure 13, output structure 12, which is furthest from the second output structure area B, has the direction that makes the intensity of the emitted light greatest based on the light emitted by the first light source 4 and coincides with a direction that is closest to the direction that makes the intensity of the light emitted from the first output structure area A greatest (for example, the positive direction of the Z-axis).Furthermore, among output structures 11, 12, and 13, output structure 11, which is located closest to the second output structure region B, has the direction that maximizes the intensity of the emitted light based on the light emitted by the first light source 4 and coincides with a direction that is closest to the direction that maximizes the intensity of the light emitted from the second output structure region B based on the light emitted by the first light source 4 (for example, the positive direction of the Z-axis). The remaining output structure 13 has the direction that maximizes the intensity of the emitted light based on the light emitted by the first light source 4 and coincides with a direction that is closest to the direction that maximizes the intensity of the light emitted from the second output structure region B based on the light emitted by the first light source 4.coincides, which lies between the direction that makes the intensity of the light emerging from the output structure 11 greatest based on the light emitted by the first light source 4, and the direction that makes the intensity of the light emerging from the output structure 12 greatest based on the light emitted by the first light source 4.

[0031] Output structures 11, 12, and 13, configured as described above, cause the third emission area on the light-emitting surface, generated by the light emitted from output structures 11, 12, and 13, to fill the space between the first emission area A' and the second emission area B' without any void or gap. Accordingly, for example, if the control is such that the first light source 4 is switched on and then the second light source 5 is switched on, it is possible to produce a display in which the light moves more smoothly from the first emission area A' to the second emission area B'. Even if the viewer's viewing angle changes while both the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 are switched on, it is possible to design the display so that the light appears even more fluid.transitions or moves even more smoothly from the first emission range A' to the second emission range B'.

[0032] Furthermore, the output structure 11, output structure 12 and output structure 13 each have the direction of incidence that makes the intensity of the emitted light strongest and corresponds to a direction from a corresponding position where the output structure is installed to a position expressed by the following expression (I) in accordance with the emission intensity on the light-emitting surface. (Xn+k*(Xn+1−Xn)*(1−α),0)

[0033] (In the in Fig. In expression (I) shown in Figure 2, Xn denotes an X-coordinate of the position where the first light source 4 is installed, and Xn + 1 denotes an X-coordinate of the position where the second light source 5 is installed. Furthermore, α denotes the emission intensity (relative value) on the light-emitting surface when only the first light source 4 is switched on at position Xn, and satisfies the condition 0 ≤ α ≤ 1. k denotes any coefficient greater than zero, or f(α), a function of α, can be used instead of k.

[0034] The installation of the output structure 11, output structure 12 and output structure 13 according to the expression (I) described above enables a continuous change in the emission intensity of the third emission area on the light-emitting surface from the first emission area A' to the second emission area B'. 2. Example of a configuration (First configuration example)

[0035] Fig. Figure 1 is a figure showing a configuration of the display device or display unit 1 according to a first configuration example of the embodiment. For the sake of simplicity, it shows Fig. 1. Three output structures A1, A2, A3 (a plurality of first output structures) that belong to the first output structure area A. Output structures A1 to A3 are structured identically to output structures 6 and 8 described above.

[0036] A dashed line extending from each of the source structures A1 to A3 represents a maximum direction of incidence, which is the intensity of the radiation in the positive direction of the Z-axis. Fig. 2 outgoing light makes it greatest. In the Fig. In the example shown, the maximum direction of incidence of the output structure A1 corresponds to the direction of the first light source 4. On the other hand, the maximum directions of incidence of the output structures A2, A3 differ from the direction of the first light source 4.

[0037] Fig. Figure 5 is a diagram describing a first angle range θ1. Fig. 5 shows only the initial structure A2 among the ones in Fig. The initial structures A1 to A3 shown in 1. Fig. 5 is the direction of the first light source 4 as seen from the output structure A2, represented by a solid line. The first angular range θ1 is a predetermined angular range centered on the direction from the first light source 4 as seen from the output structure A2. The maximum angle of incidence of the output structure A2, which is in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 5, represented by a dashed line, falls within the first angular range θ1. The specific first angular range θ1 is determined depending on the desired line width of an image displayed by the display device 1, the size of the light guide plate 2, the distances between the plurality of light sources 14, and the like.

[0038] The maximum directions of incidence of the output structures A1 and A3 fall within the first angular region θ1, which is centered on the direction from the first light source 4 as seen from each of the output structures A1 and A3, as is the case for the maximum direction of incidence of output structure A2. That is, the maximum direction of incidence of the first output structure is scattered over the first angular region θ1. Furthermore, the maximum direction of incidence of the second output structure is scattered over a second angular region centered on the direction from the second light source 5. The second angular region can be the same size or different from the first angular region θ1.

[0039] Since the maximum incidence direction of the first output structure is scattered over the first angular range θ1, the width of each line of the image formed when the first light source 4 is switched on is greater than if the maximum incidence direction of the first output structure were not scattered. Since the maximum incidence direction of the second output structure is scattered over the second angular range, the width of each line of the image formed when the second light source 5 is switched on is greater than if the maximum incidence direction of the second output structure were not scattered. Therefore, by appropriately determining the first angular range θ1 and the second angular range, the width of each line forming the image displayed by the display device 1 can be determined as desired.

[0040] In the Fig. In the example shown, the maximum directions of incidence of the output structures A1 to A3 are random directions. In the example shown... Fig. In the example shown, the maximum directions of incidence of output structures 6, 8, 9, 10, and 11 to 13 are also random directions. Therefore, the image displayed by the display device 1 exhibits a difference in light intensity for each very small area corresponding to the respective output structure. In this way, the image displayed by the display device 1 can produce a visual effect as if the image were blinking for each small area.

[0041] Fig. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the intensity distribution of the light, with respect to an output angle, of a line displayed by the display device 1. Fig. In 6, the horizontal axis represents the output angle and the vertical axis represents the light intensity. The direction in which the output angle is 0° corresponds to the positive direction of the Z-axis. Fig. 2.

[0042] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the intensity distribution of the light, with respect to the output direction, of a line displayed by the output structures belonging to the first output structure area A, is the sum of the distributions with peaks corresponding to the multitude of output structures. The angular width between the peaks at both ends corresponds to the output angular width of the displayed line. Therefore, in the display device 1, the thickness of the displayed line can be determined as desired by adjusting the number and angle of the output structures belonging to the first output structure area A. (Second configuration example)

[0043] The following describes a display device or display unit 1A which differs from the display device or display unit 1 according to the embodiment.

[0044] Fig. Figure 7 is a figure showing a configuration of the display device 1A according to a second configuration example of the embodiment. For simplicity, it shows Fig. 7. Two output structures A4, A5 (a plurality of first output structures) that belong to the first output structure area A. The output structures A4, A5 belong to the first output structure area A, just like the output structures 6, 8 described above.

[0045] A dashed line extending from each of the output structures A4, A5 represents a maximum direction of incidence, which is the intensity of the radiation in the positive direction of the Z-axis. Fig. 2 outgoing light makes it greatest. In the Fig. In the example shown, the maximum direction of incidence of each of the initial structures A4, A5 corresponds to a direction from the first light source 4.

[0046] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, in the display device 1A, the output structures A4 and A5 each have a reflective surface with a curved surface. This causes the direction of reflection to change depending on the position at which the light strikes the reflective surface. Therefore, the light incident on output structure A4 or A5 from the first light source 4 is reflected over a large area, compared to a structure where the reflective surface of each output structure A4 or A5 does not have a curved surface.

[0047] As with display device 1, display device 1A also comprises output structures 9, 10 and output structures 11 to 13. In display device 1A, output structures 9, 10 and output structures 11 to 13 each have a reflective surface with a curved surface.

[0048] Specifically, in display device 1A, output structures A4, A5, output structures 9, 10, and output structures 11 to 13 each have a reflective surface with a curved surface. This results in each line forming an image displayed by output structures A4, A5, output structures 9, 10, and output structures 11 to 13 having a width determined by the shape of the curved surface of the reflective surface. Therefore, by appropriately adjusting the shape of the curved surface of the reflective surface, the width of each line forming the image displayed by display device 1A can be determined as desired.

[0049] In the display device 1A, the curved surface of the reflective surface of each of the output structures A4, A5, output structures 9, 10, and output structures 11 to 13 has a predetermined curvature. This predetermined curvature varies depending on the distance from a predetermined reference position of each of the output structures A4, A5, output structures 9, 10, and output structures 11 to 13. The reference position of output structures 6, 8 is, for example, the position of the first light source 4. The reference position of output structures 9, 10 is, for example, the position of the second light source 5. The reference positions of output structures 11 to 13 are, for example, any position between the first light source 4 and the second light source 5 (e.g., the position of an intermediate point).

[0050] If a curved surface of a reflective surface has a certain curvature, the width of the line displayed by an output structure increases with the distance between the output structure with the reflective surface and the light source. Making the curvature of the curved surface of the reflective surface variable in a manner that depends on the distance from the light source, or varying the distance in a manner that depends on the distance from the light source, makes it possible to suppress variations in the width of each line that forms the image displayed by the display device 1A.

[0051] In the Fig. In the example shown, the distance between the initial structure A5 and the first light source 4 is shorter than the distance between the initial structure A4 and the first light source 4. Therefore, the curvature of the reflecting surface of the initial structure A5 is greater than the curvature of the reflecting surface of the initial structure A4.

[0052] Fig. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the intensity distribution of the light, with respect to an output angle, of a line displayed by the indicator device 1A. Fig. In figure 8, the horizontal axis represents the output angle and the vertical axis represents the light intensity. The direction in which the output angle is 0° corresponds to the positive direction of the Z-axis. Fig. 2.

[0053] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the intensity distribution of the light, with respect to the output direction, of the line displayed by the display device 1A has a single, broad peak that corresponds to the shape of the output structure. Therefore, the width of the line displayed by the display device 1A can be determined as desired by adjusting the shape of the output structure.

[0054] What's next in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the intensity distribution of the light, with respect to the output angle, of the line displayed by the display device 1A has a single and broad peak. This allows the display of an image where the light intensity is approximately constant with respect to the output angle along the line of the image displayed by the display device 1A.

[0055] It should be noted that in the display device 1A, the shape or form of the curved surface of the reflective surface of each output structure, such as output structure A4, A5, is not necessarily limited to a curved surface with the predetermined curvature and can be designed as desired. 3. Modification<3.1>

[0056] Fig. Figure 9 is a figure illustrating a light guide plate 30 according to a modification of the display device 1. The light guide plate 30 is a modification of the light guide plate 2 contained in the display device 1. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the optical fiber plate comprises 30 sub-areas 32, 33, 34, each of which has a plurality of output structures 35. Each of the sub-areas 32 to 34 is an area belonging to the first output structure area A (see Figure 9). Fig. 2).

[0057] In Fig. Figure 9 shows the maximum angles of incidence of the output structures 35 belonging to sub-regions 32 to 34, represented by a dotted arrow, a dashed arrow, and a long dashed arrow, respectively. The maximum angles of incidence of the output structures 35 belonging to sub-regions 32 to 34 are identical in each of these sub-regions, but are randomly determined within them. The second output structure region B and the third output structure region also have sub-regions similar to those in sub-regions 32 to 34. This means that in the optical fiber plate 30, the maximum angles of incidence of the plurality of second output structures in each sub-region of the second output structure region B are identical to each other, but are randomly determined among the plurality of sub-regions.Furthermore, the maximum directions of incidence of the multitude of third output structures are identical in each sub-area of ​​the third output structure area, but are randomly determined among the multitude of sub-areas.

[0058] In the light guide plate 30, the maximum incidence direction is randomly determined among the sub-areas. Therefore, in the image displayed by the display device 1 with the light guide plate 30, the light intensity is approximately constant in a region of the image corresponding to each sub-area, and the light intensity differs among the regions of the image corresponding to the sub-areas. This allows the image displayed by the display device 1 to produce a visual effect as if the image is flickering for each region larger than the smaller region.

[0059] Fig. 10(a) is a figure showing a pattern commonly referred to as a "diamond". Fig. Figure 10(b) is a diagram showing a pattern commonly referred to as a "cube". Fig. Figure 10(c) is an illustration showing a pattern commonly referred to as the “Ice Crash”.

[0060] The in the Fig. The patterns shown in Figures 10(a) to 10(c) each consist of a combination of a large number of small patterns. The display device 1 with the light guide plate 30 is able to produce a visual effect as if the pattern were flashing for each small pattern. < 3.2>

[0061] The following describes a modification of the display device 1A.

[0062] For the display device 1A, in the example described above, the curvature of the curved surface of the reflective surface of each of the output structures 6, 8, 9, 10, and 11 to 13 varies in a manner that depends on the distance from the predetermined reference position of the corresponding output structures 6, 8, 9, 10, and 11 to 13. In a configuration where the curvature varies continuously depending on the distance to the reference position, the fabrication of the light guide plate 2 becomes more complex. It is therefore conceivable to subdivide the first output structure area A, the second output structure area B, and the third output structure area into a multitude of sub-areas according to their distance from the reference position in order to customize the curvature for each sub-area.

[0063] However, the configuration in which the curvatures are made uniformly different under the sub-areas results in a difference in the width of the lines of the image displayed by the display device 1A being visually perceived by the user due to the difference in curvature.

[0064] According to the modification, the predetermined curvatures applied to the first output structures are therefore identical in each sub-region resulting from the subdivision of the first output structure region A according to the distance from the first light source 4. Furthermore, the predetermined curvatures applied to the plurality of second output structures are identical in each sub-region resulting from the subdivision of the second output structure region B according to the distance from the second light source 5. Likewise, the predetermined curvatures applied to the plurality of third output structures are identical in each sub-region resulting from the subdivision of the third output structure region according to the distance from the first light source 4 or the second light source 5.Furthermore, output structures, each having a reflective surface with a curvature applied to an adjacent sub-area, are randomly arranged near a boundary between a multitude of sub-areas. In particular, output structures with two different curvatures are randomly arranged near the boundary between the sub-areas. This renders the variations in the width of individual lines of the image displayed by the display device 1A, caused by the curvature, imperceptible to the user.

[0065] The present invention is not limited to any of the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and embodiments obtained by suitable combination of technical means disclosed in various embodiments also fall within the technical scope of the present invention. [Summary]

[0066] As described above, a display device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a plurality of light sources and a light guide plate configured to direct light incident from each of the light sources such that part of the light exits from a light-emitting surface.The light guide plate comprises a first output structure area with a plurality of first output structures, each having a maximum incidence direction that maximizes the intensity of the light exiting in a predetermined direction, which lies within a first angular range centered on a direction from a first light source; a second output structure area with a plurality of second output structures, each having a maximum incidence direction that lies within a second angular range centered on a direction from a second light source located adjacent to the first light source; and a third output structure area with a plurality of third output structures, each having a maximum incidence direction that coincides with a direction from a position located between the first light source and the second light source.The third output structure area is located between the first output structure area and the second output structure area; the maximum incidence directions of the multitude of first output structures are scattered over the first angular area, and the maximum incidence directions of the multitude of second output structures are scattered over the second angular area.

[0067] The configuration described above causes light emanating from the multitude of third output structures belonging to the third output structure area to appear to an observer as filling a boundary between a first emission area, generated by the light emanating from the first output structure area, and a second emission area, generated by the light emanating from the second output structure area on the light-emitting surface. In particular, for example, if the control is such that the first light source is switched on and then the second light source is switched on, it is possible to produce a display representation in which the light moves more uniformly from the first emission area to the second emission area.Even if the viewer's viewing angle moves when the first and second light sources are switched on, it is possible to design the display so that the light transitions smoothly or gently from the first emission area to the second emission area.

[0068] At this point, the light emitted by the multitude of first output structures, when the first light source is switched on, has a width corresponding to the first angular range. Likewise, the light emitted by the multitude of second output structures, when the second light source is switched on, has a width corresponding to the second angular range. Therefore, by appropriately adjusting the first and second angular ranges, the width of each line that forms the image displayed by the display device can be determined as desired.

[0069] Furthermore, in the display device according to the aspect of the present invention, the maximum direction of incidence of each of the plurality of first output structures, the maximum direction of incidence of each of the plurality of second output structures and the maximum direction of incidence of each of the plurality of third output structures can be random directions.

[0070] Due to the configuration described above, the maximum directions of incidence of the first, second, and third output structures are random. This makes the intensity of the light reaching the viewer's point of view uneven for each small area of ​​the image corresponding to such output structures, creating a visual effect as if the image is flickering for each small area.

[0071] Furthermore, in the display device according to the aspect of the present invention, the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of first output structures within a sub-area of ​​the first output structure area can be set identically to each other and randomly set among several sub-areas, the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of second output structures can be set identically to each other within a sub-area of ​​the second output structure area and randomly set among a plurality of the sub-areas, and the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of third output structures can be set identically to each other within a sub-area of ​​the third output structure area and randomly set among a plurality of the sub-areas.

[0072] In the configuration described above, the maximum incidence directions are randomly set to the sub-areas of the first output structure area, the sub-areas of the second output structure area, and the sub-areas of the third output structure area. In this way, the image displayed by the display device can produce a visual effect as if the image were blinking for each area corresponding to the output structures belonging to the sub-areas.

[0073] Furthermore, a display device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a plurality of light sources and a light guide plate configured to guide light incident from each of the light sources such that a portion of the light exits from a light-emitting surface. The light guide plate comprises a first output structure region with a plurality of first output structures, each having an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light exiting in a predetermined direction most closely corresponds to a direction from a first light source, and a second output structure region with a plurality of second output structures, each having an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light exiting in the predetermined direction most closely corresponds to a direction from a second light source located adjacent to the first light source.and a third output structure region with a plurality of third output structures, each exhibiting an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light emerging in the predetermined direction most closely coincides with a direction from a position located between the first and second light sources. The third output structure region is located between the first and second output structure regions, and, wherein the plurality of first output structures, the plurality of second output structures and the plurality of third output structures each have a reflective surface with a curved surface.

[0074] The configuration described above causes light emanating from the multitude of third output structures belonging to the third output structure area to appear to an observer as filling a boundary between a first emission area, generated by the light emanating from the first output structure area, and a second emission area, generated by the light emanating from the second output structure area on the light-emitting surface. In particular, for example, if the control is such that the first light source is switched on and then the second light source is switched on, it is possible to produce a display representation in which the light moves more uniformly from the first emission area to the second emission area.Even if the viewer's viewing angle moves when the first and second light sources are switched on, it is possible to design the display so that the light transitions smoothly or gently from the first emission area to the second emission area.

[0075] Since the plurality of first output structures, the plurality of second output structures, and the plurality of third output structures each have a reflective surface with a curved surface, the direction of reflection varies depending on the position at which the light strikes the reflective surface. This results in each line forming the image displayed by the first output structures, the second output structures, and the third output structures having a width determined by the shape of the curved surface of the reflective surface. Therefore, by appropriately adjusting the shape of the curved surface of each reflective surface of the first output structures, the second output structures, and the third output structures, the width of each line forming the image displayed by the display device can be determined as desired.

[0076] Furthermore, the curved surface in the display device according to the aspect of the present invention has a predetermined curvature, and the predetermined curvature varies in a manner that depends on the distance from a predetermined reference position of each of the plurality of first output structures, the plurality of second output structures, and the plurality of third output structures.

[0077] The configuration described above allows for the suppression of variations in the width of each line that forms the image displayed by the display device, in a manner that depends on the distance from the predetermined reference position to the first output structure, the second output structure, or the third output structure.

[0078] Furthermore, in the display device according to the aspect of the present invention, the predetermined curvatures applied to the plurality of first output structures are identical to each other within a sub-region of the first output structure region, wherein the sub-region is defined as a function of a distance from the first light source; the predetermined curvatures applied to the plurality of second output structures are identical to each other within a sub-region of the second output structure region, wherein the sub-region is defined according to a distance from the second light source; the predetermined curvatures applied to the plurality of third output structures are identical to each other within a sub-region of the third output structure region, wherein the sub-region is defined according to a distance from the first light source or the second light source; and output structures,each having a reflective surface with a curvature applied to an adjacent sub-area, randomly arranged near a boundary between a multitude of the sub-areas.

[0079] If the curvatures of the reflective surfaces of the first output structures, the second output structures, or the third output structures are made variable for each sub-area in a manner that depends on the distance from the first light source or the second light source, the configuration described above makes variations in the width of each line of the image due to variations in curvature imperceptible to the user. REFERENCE MARK LIST 1, 1A Display device or display apparatus 2.30 Light guide plate 4 first light source 5 second light source 6, 8, A1, A2, A3, A4, A5 Initial structure (first initial structure) 9, 10 Initial structure (second initial structure) 11, 12, 13 Initial structure (third initial structure) 14 Light source A first initial structural area B second initial structure area

Claims

[1] Display device (1) comprising: a multitude of light sources (4, 5); and a light guide plate (2) configured to guide incident light from each of the light sources (4, 5) such that part of the light exits from a light-emitting surface, wherein the light guide plate (2) comprises a first output structure area (A) comprising a plurality of first output structures (6, 8), each having a maximum direction of incidence that maximizes the intensity of the light emerging in a given direction, which lies within a first angular range centered on a direction from a first light source (4), a second output structure area (B) comprising a plurality of second output structures (9, 10), each with the maximum direction of incidence within a second angular range centered on a direction from a second light source (5) located next to the first light source (4), and a third output structure area comprising a plurality of third output structures (11, 12, 13) in each of which the maximum direction of incidence coincides with a direction from a position between the first light source (4) and the second light source (5), wherein the third output structure area is located between the first output structure area (A) and the second output structure area B. wherein the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of first output structures (6, 8) are distributed over the first angular range, and wherein the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of second output structures (9, 10) are distributed over the second angular range. [2] Display device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the maximum direction of incidence of each of the plurality of first output structures (6, 8), the maximum direction of incidence of each of the plurality of second output structures (9, 10) and the maximum direction of incidence of each of the plurality of third output structures (11, 12, 13) are random directions, so that differences in light intensity arise and thus an optical effect is produced as if the image were blinking for each small area. [3] Display device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of first output structures (6, 8) within a sub-area of ​​the first output structure area (A) are identical to each other and randomly determined among a plurality of the sub-areas, wherein the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of second output structures (9, 10) within a sub-area of ​​the second output structure area (B) are identical to each other and randomly determined among a plurality of the sub-areas, and wherein the maximum directions of incidence of the plurality of third output structures (11, 12, 13) within a sub-area of ​​the third output structure area are identical to each other and randomly determined among a plurality of the sub-areas. [4] Display device (1) comprising: a multitude of light sources (4, 5); and a light guide plate (2) configured to guide incident light from each of the light sources (4, 5) such that part of the light exits from a light-emitting surface, wherein the light guide plate (2) comprises a first output structure area (A) comprising a plurality of first output structures (6, 8), each having an incidence direction such that the intensity of the light emerging in a predetermined direction most closely matches a direction from a first light source (4), a second output structure area (B) comprising a plurality of second output structures (9, 10), each having an incidence direction that allows the intensity of the light emerging in the predetermined direction to most closely match the direction of a second light source (5) located next to the first light source (4), and a third output structure area comprising a plurality of third output structures (11, 12, 13), each having an incidence direction which allows the intensity of the light emerging in the predetermined direction to most closely correspond to a direction from a position located between the first light source (4) and the second light source (5), wherein the third output structure area is located between the first output structure area (A) and the second output structure area (B). the multitude of first output structures (6, 8), the multitude of second output structures (9, 10) and the multitude of third output structures (11, 12, 13) each have a reflective surface with a curved surface. [5] Display device according to claim 4, wherein the curved surface has a predetermined curvature and the predetermined curvature varies in a manner that depends on a distance from a predetermined reference position of each of the plurality of first output structures (6, 8), the plurality of second output structures (9, 10) and the plurality of third output structures (11, 12, 13). [6] Display device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined curvatures applied to the plurality of first output structures (6, 8) are identical within a sub-area of ​​the first output structure area (A), the sub-area being defined as a function of a distance from the first light source (4), wherein the predetermined curvatures applied to the plurality of second output structures (9, 10) are identical within a sub-area of ​​the second output structure area (B), the sub-area being defined as a function of a distance from the second light source (5), wherein the predetermined curvatures applied to the plurality of third output structures (11, 12, 13) are identical within a sub-region of the third output structure area, the sub-region being defined as a function of a distance from the first light source (4) or the second light source (5), and wherein initial structures, each having a reflective surface with a curvature applied to an adjacent sub-area, are randomly arranged near a boundary between a plurality of sub-areas.

Images