Electronic device

Abstract

Electronic device equipped with: a liquid crystal panel and a camera, wherein the liquid crystal panel is provided with a display area and an incident light control area, the camera overlaps the incident light control area, the incident light control region comprises an annular line and a control electrode connected to the annular line and arranged within the annular line, and the annular line and the control electrode are formed on different layers over an insulating film.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to an electronic device. [Technical background]

[0002] In recent years, electronic devices such as smartphones, which feature a display and a light-receiving part on the same surface, have been widely used. Such electronic devices feature a liquid crystal panel and a camera positioned on the outside of the liquid crystal panel. These electronic devices require the ability to capture clear images.

[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses an aperture control device for a camera constructed in such a way that a diaphragm liquid crystal part and a display liquid crystal part are each formed of a liquid crystal panel, each of which is integrally formed. The amount of transmitted light is changed by controlling the diaphragm liquid crystal part as an aperture device of a camera. For this control of the amount of transmitted light, aperture control is performed by changing the amount of transmitted light by controlling the illumination pattern of the liquid crystal panel or by controlling the twist angle of the liquid crystal material of the liquid crystal panel. [Identified document][Patent document] [Patent document 1] JP 2017 - 40 908 A [Patent Document 2] JP H09 - 80 581 A [Overview of the invention][Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present embodiments provide an electronic device that enables good recording. [Means of solving the problem]

[0005] The object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred technical developments are described in the dependent claims. An electronic device according to one embodiment is provided with a liquid crystal panel and a camera, wherein the liquid crystal panel is provided with a display region and an incident light control region, the camera overlaps the incident light control region, the incident light control region has an annular line and a control electrode connected to the annular line and arranged within the annular line, and the annular line and the control electrode are formed on different layers via an insulating film.

[0006] Furthermore, an electronic device according to an embodiment is provided with a liquid crystal panel including a first substrate, a second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer held between the first substrate and the second substrate, and a camera, wherein the liquid crystal panel is provided with a display region for displaying an image and an incident light control region, light from the outside passes through the incident light control region and is incident on the camera, the incident light control region has an annular line and a control electrode connected to the annular line, the annular line includes a first annular line and a second annular line arranged adjacent to the inside of the first annular line, and the annular line and the control electrode are formed on different layers via an insulating film.

[0007] Furthermore, an electronic device according to an embodiment is provided with a liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal panel and an illuminator, and a camera arranged in an opening formed in the illuminator, wherein the liquid crystal panel is provided with a display region for displaying an image and an incident light control region, light from the outside passes through the incident light control region and is incident on the camera, the incident light control region has an annular line and a control electrode connected to the annular line, the control electrode is arranged inside the annular line, and the annular line and the control electrode are formed on different layers via an insulating film. [Brief explanation of the drawings] Fig. 1 shows an exploded oblique view of a configuration example of an electronic device according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 shows a sectional view of the surroundings of a camera of the above-mentioned electronic device. Fig. 3 shows a plan view of a training example of a Fig. 2 together with the equivalent circuit of a pixel. Fig. Figure 4 shows a plan view of the pixel matrix of the above-mentioned liquid crystal panel. Fig. Fig. 5 is a plan view of a unit pixel of the above-mentioned liquid crystal panel, showing scanning lines, signal lines, pixel electrodes, and light-shielding parts. Fig. 6 is a plan view of a main pixel different from the first embodiment, showing scanning lines, signal lines, pixel electrodes, and light-shielding parts. Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of the liquid crystal panel showing the Fig. 5 pixels shown. Fig. 8 is a plan view of a light-shielding layer in an incident light control region of the above-mentioned liquid crystal panel. Fig. 9 shows a plan view of several control electrode structures and several laid lines of the above-mentioned liquid crystal panel. Fig. 10 shows a sectional view of the incident light control portion of the above-mentioned liquid crystal panel. Fig. 11 shows a part of the liquid crystal panel and the camera of the electronic device according to the second embodiment, together with a plan view showing the liquid crystal panel and the camera and a sectional view showing the liquid crystal panel and the camera. Fig. 12 is a sectional view of a part of the liquid crystal panel, a part of an illumination device, and the camera according to the above-mentioned second embodiment. Fig. 13 is another sectional view of a part of the liquid crystal panel, a part of the illumination device, and the camera according to the above-mentioned second embodiment. Fig. 14 is a sectional view of a part of the liquid crystal panel and the camera according to the above-mentioned second embodiment. Fig. 15 shows another sectional view of a part of the liquid crystal panel and the camera according to the above-mentioned second embodiment. Fig. 16 is a sectional view showing the position of a part of the liquid crystal panel and the camera according to the above-mentioned second embodiment. Fig. 17 is another sectional view showing the position of a part of the liquid crystal panel and the camera according to the above-mentioned second embodiment. Fig. 18 is a plan view of the incident light control portion of the liquid crystal panel and the camera according to the above-mentioned second embodiment. Fig. 19 is a sectional view of a part of the liquid crystal panel, a part of the illumination device, and the camera according to the above-mentioned second embodiment. Fig. 20 is a sectional view of a part of the liquid crystal panel of the electronic device according to the third embodiment. Fig. 21 is a plan view of the light-shielding layer in the incident light control region of the liquid crystal panel according to the above-mentioned third embodiment. Fig. 22 shows a plan view of the plurality of control electrode structures and the plurality of laid lines of a first substrate according to the above-mentioned third embodiment. Fig. 23 shows a plan view of a counter electrode and the laid line of the second substrate according to the above-mentioned third embodiment. Fig. 24 shows a plan view of the plurality of first control electrodes, the plurality of second control electrodes, and the plurality of linear counter electrodes according to the above-mentioned third embodiment. Fig. 25 shows a sectional view of the liquid crystal panel along the line XXV-XXV in Fig. 24, wherein insulating substrates, the plurality of first control electrodes, the plurality of second control electrodes, the plurality of linear counter electrodes, and a first control liquid crystal layer are shown. Fig. 26 shows a plan view of a third control electrode structure and a fourth control electrode structure according to the above-mentioned third embodiment. Fig. Figure 27 shows a sectional view of the liquid crystal panel along the line XXVII-XXVII in Fig. 26, wherein the insulating substrates, the third control electrode structure, the fourth control electrode structure, the linear counter electrodes and a second control liquid crystal layer are shown. Fig. 28 shows a plan view of a fifth control electrode structure and a sixth control electrode structure according to the above-mentioned third embodiment. Fig. 29 shows a sectional view of the liquid crystal panel along the line XXIX-XXIX in Fig. 28, wherein the insulating substrates, the plurality of fifth control electrodes, the plurality of sixth control electrodes, the plurality of linear counter electrodes, and a third control liquid crystal layer are shown. Fig. 30 shows a plan view of the first control electrode structure and the second control electrode structure of the liquid crystal panel of the electronic device according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 31 shows a plan view of the third control electrode structure, the fourth control electrode structure, the fifth control electrode, the sixth control electrode, a third laid line, and a fourth laid line according to the above-mentioned fourth embodiment. Fig. 32 shows a plan view of the first control electrode structure and the second control electrode structure of the liquid crystal panel of the electronic device according to the fifth embodiment. Fig. 33 shows a plan view of the third control electrode structure, the fourth control electrode structure, the fifth control electrode structure, the sixth control electrode structure, the third laid line, and the fourth laid line according to the above-mentioned fifth embodiment. Fig. 34 shows a plan view of the liquid crystal panel of the electronic device according to the sixth embodiment. Fig. 35 is a plan view showing the scanning lines and signal lines in the incident light control region of the liquid crystal panel of the electronic device according to the seventh embodiment. Fig. 36 is a view showing the change in light transmittance with respect to the gap of the liquid crystal layer and the change in response speed of the liquid crystal with respect to the above-mentioned gap in the liquid crystal panel of the electronic device according to the eighth embodiment in the diagram. Fig. 37 is a view showing the change in the response speed of the liquid crystal with respect to the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer in the above-mentioned eighth embodiment in the diagram. [Embodiments of the invention]

[0008] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to the drawings. The disclosure is merely an example, and any changes that are readily apparent to those skilled in the art while maintaining the gist of the invention are of course included within the scope of the invention. For the purpose of clarity of explanation, the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part may be schematically shown in the drawings in comparison with the actual shape, but this is merely an example and does not limit the interpretation of the invention. In the present description and in each drawing, the same elements as those described in connection with existing drawings are designated by the same symbols, and detailed explanations may be omitted according to the circumstances. (First embodiment)

[0009] First, the present first embodiment will be explained. Fig. 1 shows an exploded oblique view of a configuration example of an electronic device 100 according to the present first embodiment.

[0010] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the directions X, Y and Z are orthogonal to each other, but can intersect at an angle other than 90 degrees.

[0011] The electronic device 100 is provided with a liquid crystal display device DSP and a camera (camera unit) 1. The liquid crystal display device DSP is provided with a liquid crystal panel PNL and an illumination device (backlight) IL.

[0012] The illumination device IL is provided with a light guide LG1, a light source EM1 and a housing CS. Such illumination device IL illuminates, for example, the liquid crystal panel PNL, which is Fig. 1 is shown simplified by the dashed line.

[0013] The light guide LG1 is formed in the shape of a plate that is parallel to the XY plane defined by the X and Y directions. The light guide LG1 faces the liquid crystal panel PNL. The light guide LG1 has a side SA, a side SB facing away from the SA side, and a through-hole h1 surrounding the camera 1. The sides SA and SB each extend along the X direction. For example, the sides SA and SB are the surfaces parallel to the XZ plane defined by the X and Z directions. The through-hole h1 penetrates the light guide LG1 along the Z direction. The through-hole h1 is positioned between the sides SA and SB in the Y direction and is closer to the SB side than to the SA side.

[0014] The multiple light sources EM1 are arranged in a row spaced apart from each other in the X direction. Each light source EM1 is mounted on a circuit board F1 and electrically connected to the circuit board F1. The light source EM1 is a light-emitting diode (LED), for example, and emits white illumination light. The illumination light emitted by the light source EM1 enters the light guide LG1 from the SA side and travels through the interior of the light guide LG1 from the SA side to the SB side.

[0015] The housing CS houses the light guide LG1 and the light source EM1. The housing CS has side walls W1 to W4, a bottom plate BP, a through hole h2, and a projection PP. The side walls W1 and W2 extend in the X direction and are opposite each other in the Y direction. The side walls W3 and W4 extend in the Y direction and are opposite each other in the X direction. The through hole h2 overlaps the through hole h1 in the Z direction. The projection PP is fixed to the bottom plate BP. The projection PP protrudes from the bottom plate BP along the Z direction toward the liquid crystal panel PNL and surrounds the through hole h2.

[0016] The light guide LG1 overlaps the liquid crystal panel PNL.

[0017] The camera 1 is mounted on a circuit board F2 and electrically connected to the circuit board F2. The camera 1 is guided through the through-hole h2, the interior of the projection PP, and the through-hole h1, and faces the liquid crystal panel PNL.

[0018] Fig. 2 shows a sectional view of the surroundings of the camera 1 of the electronic device 100.

[0019] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the illumination device IL is further provided with a light-reflecting plate RS, a light-diffusing plate SS and prism plates PS1, PS2.

[0020] The light-reflecting plate RS, the light guide LG1, the light-diffusing plate SS, the prism plate PS1, and the prism plate PS2 are arranged sequentially in the Z direction and housed in the casing CS. The casing CS is provided with a metal housing CS1 and a resin light-shielding wall CS2 as peripheral elements. The light-shielding wall CS2 is adjacent to the camera 1 and, together with the housing CS1, forms the projection PP. In the present first embodiment, the light-shielding wall CS2 is positioned between the camera 1 and the light guide LG1 and has a cylindrical shape. The light-shielding wall CS2 is formed of a resin that absorbs light, such as black resin. The light-diffusing plate SS, the prism plate PS1, and the prism plate PS2 each have a through-hole superimposed on the through-hole h1. The projection PP is positioned within the through-hole h1.

[0021] The liquid crystal panel PNL further includes a polarizing plate PL1 and a polarizing plate PL2. The liquid crystal panel PNL and the cover glass CG as a cover member are arranged in the Z direction and form a liquid crystal element LCD with an optical switching function for light traveling in the Z direction. The liquid crystal element LCD is attached to the illumination device IL with an adhesive tape TP1. In the present first embodiment, the adhesive tape TP1 is adhered to the projection PP, the prism plate PS2, and the polarizing plate PL1.

[0022] The liquid crystal panel PNL can be configured to one of the following modes: a display mode using a transverse electric field along the main surface of the substrate, a display mode using a longitudinal electric field along the normal of the main surface of the substrate, a display mode using an inclined electric field diagonally inclined to the main surface of the substrate, and a display mode using a combination of the above-mentioned transverse electric field, longitudinal electric field, and inclined electric field as appropriate. The main surface of the substrate is the surface parallel to the XY plane.

[0023] The liquid crystal panel PNL is provided with a display area DA for displaying an image, a non-display area NDA outside the display area DA, and an incident light control area PCA surrounded by the display area DA and having a circular shape. The liquid crystal panel PNL is provided with a first substrate SUB1, a second substrate SUB2, a liquid crystal layer LC, and a sealing material SE. The sealing material SE is positioned in the non-display area NDA and connects the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. The liquid crystal layer LC is positioned in the display area DA and the incident light control area PCA and is held between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. The liquid crystal layer LC is formed in a space surrounded by the first substrate SUB1, the second substrate SUB2, and the sealing material SE.

[0024] By controlling the amount of light emitted by the illumination device IL through the liquid crystal panel PNL, an image is displayed in the display area DA. The user of the electronic device 100 is positioned on the Z-direction side (the top side in the drawing) of the cover glass CG and observes the light emitted by the liquid crystal panel PNL as an image.

[0025] In contrast, the amount of light transmitted in the incident light control area PCA is also controlled by the liquid crystal panel PNL, but the light enters the camera 1 from the Z-direction side of the cover glass CG through the liquid crystal panel PNL.

[0026] In the present specification, the light passing from the irradiation device IL to the cover glass CG side via the liquid crystal panel PNL is referred to as emitted light, and the light passing from the cover glass CG side to the camera 1 via the liquid crystal panel PNL is referred to as incident light.

[0027] The essential part of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 will now be explained.

[0028] The first substrate SUB1 is provided with an insulating substrate 10 and an alignment film AL1. The second substrate SUB2 is provided with an insulating substrate 20, a color filter CF, a light-shielding layer BM, a transparent layer OC, and an alignment film AL2.

[0029] The insulating substrate 10 and the insulating substrate 20 are transparent substrates such as glass substrates or flexible resin substrates. The alignment films AL1, AL2 are in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC.

[0030] The color filter CF, the light-shielding layer BM, and the transparent layer OC are positioned between the insulating substrate 20 and the liquid crystal layer LC. In the example shown in the drawing, the color filter CF is provided on the second substrate SUB2, but the color filter CF can also be provided on the first substrate SUB1. The color filter CF is positioned in the display area DA.

[0031] The incident light control region PCA includes at least a first light-shielding region LSA1 positioned at the outermost periphery and having a circular ring shape, and a first incident light control region TA1 surrounded by the first light-shielding region LSA1 and in contact with the first light-shielding region LSA1.

[0032] The light-shielding layer BM includes a light-shielding part positioned in the display area DA and dividing the pixels, and a frame-shaped light-shielding part BMB positioned in the non-display area NDA. In the incident light control area PCA, the light-shielding layer BM includes at least a first light-shielding part BM1 positioned in the first light-shielding area LSA1 and having a circular ring shape, and a first opening OP1 positioned in the first incident light control area TA1.

[0033] The boundary between the display area DA and the non-display area NDA is defined, for example, by the inner edge of the light-shielding part BMB (the end on the display area DA side). The sealing material SE overlaps the light-shielding part BMB.

[0034] The transparent layer OC is in contact with the color filter CF in the display area DA, with the light-shielding part BMB in the non-display area NDA, with the first light-shielding part BM1 in the first light-shielding area LSA1, and with the insulating substrate 20 in the first incident light control area TA1. The alignment film AL1 and the alignment film AL2 are provided over the display area DA, the incident light control area PCA, and the non-display area NDA.

[0035] The details of the color filter CF are omitted here, but the color filter CF, for example, has a red colored layer arranged in red pixels, a green colored layer arranged in green pixels, and a blue colored layer arranged in blue pixels. The color filter CF can also be provided with a transparent resin layer arranged in white pixels. The transparent layer OC covers the color filter CF and the light-shielding layer BM. The transparent layer OC is, for example, a transparent organic insulating layer.

[0036] The camera 1 is positioned in the through-hole h2 of the housing CS. In the Z direction, the camera 1 overlaps the cover glass CG and the liquid crystal panel PNL. The liquid crystal panel PNL may be further provided with optical plates other than the polarizing plate PL1 and the polarizing plate PL2 in the incident light control area PCA. A phase difference plate, a light diffusion layer, an anti-reflection layer, etc. are cited as the above-mentioned optical plates. In the electronic device 100 including the liquid crystal panel PNL, the camera 1, etc., the camera 1 is provided at the rear of the liquid crystal panel PNL as viewed from the user of the electronic device 100.

[0037] The camera 1 is provided, for example, with an optical system 2 with at least one lens, an image sensor 3, and a housing 4. The image sensor 3 comprises an image recording surface 3a oriented toward the liquid crystal panel PNL. The optical system 2 is positioned between the image recording surface 3a and the liquid crystal panel PNL and comprises a light entry surface 2a oriented toward the liquid crystal panel PNL. The optical system 2 is arranged at a distance from the liquid crystal panel PNL. The optical system 2 and the image sensor 3 are housed in the housing 4.

[0038] The image sensor 3 receives light via the cover glass CG, the liquid crystal panel PNL, and the optical system 2. The camera 1 receives, for example, visible light (e.g., light in the wavelength range from 400 nm to 700 nm) that penetrates the cover glass CG and the liquid crystal panel PNL.

[0039] The polarizing plate PL1 is bonded to the insulating substrate 10. The polarizing plate PL2 is bonded to the insulating substrate 20. The cover glass CG is attached to the polarizing plate PL2 by a transparent adhesive layer AD.

[0040] To prevent the liquid crystal layer LC from being affected by an external electric field, etc., a transparent conductive layer may be provided between the polarizing plate PL2 and the insulating substrate 20. The transparent conductive layer is made of a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO), etc.

[0041] In addition, it is also possible to incorporate a super birefringence film into the polarizing plate PL1 or the polarizing plate PL2. The super birefringence film is known to convert transmitted light into unpolarized light (natural light) when linearly polarized light is incident, thus enabling shooting without discomfort even when the subject contains something that emits polarized light. For example, if an electronic device 100, etc., in the subject of the camera 1 causes glare, since the electronic device 100 emits linearly polarized light, the brightness of the electronic device 100 as the subject incident on the camera 1 changes depending on the angle between the polarizing plates PL1 and PL2 and the polarizing plate of the electronic device 100 as the subject, which may result in a discomfort when shooting.However, by providing the polarizing plate PL1 and the polarizing plate PL2 with the super birefringence film, it is possible to suppress the brightness change that causes an unpleasant feeling.

[0042] A suitable film with super birefringence is Cosmo Shine (registered trademark) from TOYOBO CO., LTD. In this case, super birefringence means that the retardation in the in-plane direction is for light in the visible range, e.g., 500 nm, 800 nm, or more.

[0043] Based on the above-mentioned situation, the light from outside is incident on the camera 1 through the incident light control area PCA.

[0044] Fig. 3 shows a top view of a training example of the Fig. 2 together with the equivalent circuit of a pixel PX. In Fig. 3, the liquid crystal layer LC and the sealing material SE are shown with different oblique lines.

[0045] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the display area DA is substantially quadrangular, but the four corners may be rounded, and the area may also take a polygonal or circular shape other than a quadrangle. The display area DA is surrounded by the sealing material SE.

[0046] The liquid crystal panel PNL has a pair of short sides E11 and E12 extending along the X direction, and a pair of long sides E13 and E14 extending along the Y direction. The short side E11 can be referred to as the first side, the short side E12 as the second side, the long side E14 as the third side, and the long side E13 as the fourth side, respectively. The liquid crystal panel PNL is provided with a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a matrix in the X direction and the Y direction in the display area DA. Each pixel PX in the display area DA has the same circuit arrangement. As shown in Fig. 3, each pixel PX is provided with a switching element SW, a pixel electrode PE, a common electrode CE, a liquid crystal layer LC, etc.

[0047] The switching element SW consists, for example, of a thin-film transistor (TFT). The switching element SW is electrically connected to a corresponding one of a plurality of scanning lines G, a corresponding one of a plurality of signal lines S, and a pixel electrode PE. A control signal for controlling the switching element SW is supplied to the scanning line G. An image signal, e.g., a video signal, is supplied to the signal line S as a signal different from the control signal. The common electrode CE is supplied with the common voltage. The liquid crystal layer LC is driven by the voltage (electric field) generated between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. The capacitance CP is formed, for example, between the electrode with the same potential as the common electrode CE and the electrode with the same potential as the pixel electrode PE.

[0048] The electronic device 100 is further provided with a circuit board 5 and an IC chip 6.

[0049] The printed circuit board 5 is mounted on an extension section Ex of the first substrate SUB1 and connected to the extension section Ex. The IC chip 6 is mounted on the printed circuit board 5 and electrically connected to the printed circuit board 5. The IC chip 6 can also be mounted on the extension section Ex and electrically connected to the extension section Ex. The IC chip 6 contains, for example, a display driver that outputs the signals required for image display. The printed circuit board 5 can be a flexible flex circuit board.

[0050] Fig. Figure 4 shows a plan view of the matrix of pixels PX in the liquid crystal panel PNL.

[0051] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, each main pixel MPX consists of multiple pixels PX. The multiple main pixels MPX are divided into two types of main pixels MPXa, MPXb. The two main pixels MPXa, MPXb adjacent to each other in the Y direction constitute the unit pixel UPX. Each of the main pixels MPXa, MPXb corresponds to the smallest unit for displaying a color image. The main pixel MPXa includes pixels PX1a, PX2a, and PX3a. The main pixel MPXb includes pixels PX1b, PX2b, and PX3b. The shape of the above-mentioned pixels PX is essentially a parallelogram, as shown in the drawing.

[0052] The main pixel MPXa and the main pixel MPXb each contain pixels PX with multiple colors aligned in the X direction. Pixels PX1a and PX1b are pixels of a first color and provided with a colored layer CF1 of the first color. Pixels PX2a and PX2b are pixels of a second color, different from the first color, and provided with a colored layer CF2 of the second color. Pixels PX3a and PX3b are pixels of a third color, different from the first and second colors, and provided with a colored layer CF3 of the third color.

[0053] The main pixel MPXa and the main pixel MPXb are each repeatedly arranged in the X direction. The row of main pixels MPXa lined up in the X direction and the row of main pixels MPXb lined up in the X direction are alternately and repeatedly arranged in the Y direction. Each pixel PX of the main pixel MPXa extends in a first extension direction d1, and each pixel PX of the main pixel MPXb extends in a second extension direction d2. The first extension direction d1 is a direction different from the X and Y directions. The second extension direction d2 is a direction different from the X and Y directions and the first extension direction d1. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 5, the first extension direction d1 is the right diagonal downward direction and the second extension direction d2 is the left diagonal downward direction.

[0054] If the shape of the pixel PX is essentially a parallelogram, as shown in the figure, multiple domains with different director rotation directions can be configured in the unit pixel UPX. That is, by combining the two main pixels MPXa and MPXb, it is possible to form a large number of domains for each color pixel and compensate for the viewing angle characteristics. Therefore, considering the viewing angle characteristics, a single unit pixel UPX, formed by combining the main pixels MPXa and MPXb, corresponds to the smallest unit for displaying a color image.

[0055] Fig. Figure 5 shows a plan view of the single unit pixel UPX of the liquid crystal panel PNL, showing the scanning lines G, the signal lines S, the pixel electrodes PE, and the light-shielding parts BMA. Fig. 5 only the configurations necessary for explanation are shown and the illustration of the switching element SW, the common electrode CE, the color filter CF, etc. is omitted.

[0056] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the plurality of pixels PX have a configuration corresponding to the FFS (Fringe Field Switching) mode, which is a display mode using a transverse electric field. The scanning line G and the signal line S are arranged on the above-mentioned first substrate SUB1, while the light-shielding part BMA (light-shielding layer BM) is arranged on the above-mentioned second substrate SUB2. The scanning line G and the signal line S intersect and extend through the display area (DA). The light-shielding part BMA is a lattice-shaped light-shielding part positioned in the display area DA and dividing the pixels PX, and is shown in the drawing with a two-dot chain line.

[0057] The light-shielding part BMA has the function of shielding at least the light emitted from the above-described illumination device (IL). The light-shielding part BMA is made of a material with a high light absorption coefficient, such as a black resin. The light-shielding part BMA is formed in a lattice shape. The light-shielding part BMA is integrally formed by the plurality of light-shielding parts BMA1 extending in the X direction and the plurality of light-shielding parts BMA2 extending while bending along the first extension direction d1 and the second extension direction d2.

[0058] Each of the scanning lines G extends in the X direction. Each scanning line G faces a corresponding light-shielding part BMA1 and extends along the corresponding light-shielding part BMA1. The light-shielding part BMA1 faces the scanning line G, the end of the pixel electrode PE, etc. Each signal line S extends with bending along the Y direction, the first extension direction d1, and the second extension direction d2. Each signal line S faces a corresponding light-shielding part BMA2 and extends along the corresponding light-shielding part BMA2.

[0059] The light-shielding layer BM has several aperture areas AP. The aperture area AP is divided by the light-shielding parts BMA1 and BMA2. The aperture area AP of the main pixel MPXa extends in the first extension direction d1. The aperture area AP of the main pixel MPXb extends in the second extension direction d2.

[0060] The pixel electrode PE of the main pixel MPXa includes a plurality of linear pixel electrodes PA positioned in the aperture region AP. The plurality of linear pixel electrodes PA extend linearly in the first extension direction d1 and are lined up at a distance from each other in the orthogonal direction dc1 orthogonal to the first extension direction d1. The pixel electrode PE of the main pixel MPXb includes a plurality of linear pixel electrodes PB positioned in the aperture region AP. The plurality of linear pixel electrodes PB extend linearly in the second extension direction d2 and are lined up at a distance from each other in the orthogonal direction dc2 orthogonal to the second extension direction d2.

[0061] In the display area DA, the alignment films AL1, AL2 described above have an alignment axis AA parallel to the Y direction. The alignment direction AD1 of the alignment film AL1 is parallel to the Y direction, and the alignment direction AD2 of the alignment film AL2 is parallel to the alignment direction AD1.

[0062] When the voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer (LC) described above, the rotation state (alignment state) of the liquid crystal molecules in the aperture region AP of the main pixel MPXa and the rotation state (alignment state) of the liquid crystal molecules in the aperture region AP of the main pixel MPXb differ from each other.

[0063] As described above, in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 explains a configuration for compensating the viewing angle characteristics using the single unit pixel UPX. However, unlike the present first embodiment, it is also possible to compensate the viewing angle characteristics using the single main pixel MPX. Fig. 6 is a plan view of the main pixel MPX different from the first embodiment, showing the scanning lines G, the signal lines S, the pixel electrodes PE, and the light-shielding parts BMA.

[0064] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, each aperture region AP has the shape of a < symbol and includes a first aperture region AP1 and a second aperture region AP2. The first aperture region AP1 extends in the first extension direction d1, and the second aperture region AP2 extends in the second extension direction d2.

[0065] The pixel electrode PE is provided with a plurality of linear pixel electrodes PA and a plurality of linear pixel electrodes PB. The plurality of linear pixel electrodes PA are positioned in the first aperture region AP1, extend linearly in the first extension direction d1, and are lined up at a distance from each other in the orthogonal direction dc1. The plurality of linear pixel electrodes PB are positioned in the second aperture region AP2, extend linearly in the second extension direction d2, and are lined up at a distance from each other in the orthogonal direction dc2. One of the consecutive linear pixel electrodes PA and linear pixel electrodes PB has the shape of the < symbol.

[0066] In a plan view in which the pixel PX1 is positioned on the left side and the pixel PX3 is positioned on the right side, one of the consecutive linear pixel electrodes PA and linear pixel electrodes PB may have the shape of the > symbol and the aperture area AP may have the shape of the > symbol.

[0067] When a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer (LC) described above, the rotational state of the liquid crystal molecules in the first aperture region AP1 and the rotational state of the liquid crystal molecules in the second aperture region AP2 differ from each other. Each aperture region AP has four different domains, each with a different direction of rotation of the director. Therefore, the liquid crystal panel PNL can achieve good viewing angle properties.

[0068] In the present first embodiment, the pixel electrode PE serves as a display electrode, and the linear pixel electrode PA and the linear pixel electrode PB serve as linear display electrodes.

[0069] Fig. Figure 7 shows a sectional view of the liquid crystal panel PNL showing the Fig. 5. The liquid crystal panel PNL of the present first embodiment corresponds to a display mode using a transverse electric field.

[0070] As in Fig. 7, the first substrate SUB1 is provided with an insulating layer 11, signal lines S, an insulating layer 12, a common electrode CE, a metal layer ML, an insulating layer 13, pixel electrodes PE, etc., between the insulating substrate 10 and the alignment film AL1.

[0071] The insulating layer 11 is provided on the insulating substrate 10. Between the insulating substrate 10 and the insulating layer 11, the above-described scanning lines (G), a gate electrode, and the semiconductor layer of the switching element SW, as well as other insulating layers, are arranged, which, however, will not be explained in detail. The signal line S is formed on the insulating layer 11. The insulating layer 12 is provided on the insulating layer 11 and the signal line S.

[0072] The common electrode CE is provided on the insulating layer 12. The metal layer ML is provided on the common electrode CE and is in contact with the common electrode CE. The metal layer ML is positioned directly above the signal line S. In the example shown in the drawing, the first substrate SUB1 is provided with the metal layer ML, but the metal layer ML can also be omitted. The insulating layer 13 is provided on the common electrode CE and the metal layer ML.

[0073] The pixel electrodes PE are formed on the insulating layer 13. Each pixel electrode PE is positioned between the adjacent signal lines S and faces the common electrode CE. Furthermore, each pixel electrode PE has a slit at a position opposite the common electrode CE. The common electrode CE and the pixel electrode PE are made of transparent conductive materials such as ITO and IZO. The insulating layer 13 is sandwiched between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. The alignment film AL1 is provided on the insulating layer 13 and the pixel electrode PE, covering the pixel electrode PE, etc.

[0074] In contrast, the second substrate SUB2, on the side of the insulating substrate 20 opposite to the first substrate SUB1, is provided with the light-shielding layer BM including the light-shielding portion BMA2, the color filter CF including colored layers CF1, CF2, and CF3, the transparent layer OC, the alignment film AL2, and so on. The light-shielding portion BMA2 is formed on the inside of the insulating substrate 20. The light-shielding portion BMA2 is positioned directly above the signal line S and the metal layer ML. The colored layers CF1 and CF2 are each formed on the inside of the insulating substrate 20, and a portion of them overlaps the light-shielding portion BMA2. The transparent layer OC covers the color filter CF. The alignment film AL2 covers the transparent layer OC.

[0075] In contrast to the first embodiment, the liquid crystal panel PNL can be constructed without the light-shielding parts BMA2 and BMA1 ( Fig. 6) in the display area DA. In such a case, the metal layer ML may be formed in a lattice pattern in the display area DA, and the metal layer ML may have a light-shielding function instead of the light-shielding parts BMA1 and BMA2.

[0076] The liquid crystal layer LC includes a display liquid crystal layer LCI positioned in the display area DA. For example, in pixel PX1a, when no voltage (electric field) is generated between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE, and in the off state without applying a voltage to the display liquid crystal layer LCI, the liquid crystal molecules contained in the display liquid crystal layer LCI undergo initial alignment in a predetermined direction between the alignment film AL1 and the alignment film AL2. This means that the pixel PX1a has minimal transmittance and displays black. This means that the liquid crystal panel PNL performs a light-shielding function in the pixel PX1a.

[0077] In contrast, in the pixel PX1a, when the voltage (electric field) generated between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE is applied to the display liquid crystal layer LCI in the on-state, the liquid crystal molecules are aligned in a direction different from the initial alignment direction, and this alignment direction is controlled by the electric field. This means that the liquid crystal panel PNL exhibits a light-transmitting function in the pixel PX1a. Therefore, in the on-state, the pixel PX1a displays a color corresponding to the colored layer CF1.

[0078] The PNL liquid crystal panel method is a so-called Normally Black mode, in which black is displayed when the display is off, but a so-called Normally White mode is also possible, in which black is displayed when the display is on (white is displayed when the display is off).

[0079] In the present first embodiment, among the pixel electrodes PE and the common electrode CE, the electrode closer to the display liquid crystal layer LCI (liquid crystal layer LC) constitutes the pixel electrode PE, and the pixel electrode PE serves as a display electrode as described above. However, among the pixel electrodes PE and the common electrode CE, the electrode closer to the display liquid crystal layer LCI (liquid crystal layer LC) may also constitute the common electrode CE. In this case, the common electrode CE serves as a display electrode as described above and includes a linear display electrode instead of the pixel electrode PE.

[0080] Fig. Figure 8 shows a plan view of the light-shielding layer BM in the incident light control region PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL. As shown in Fig. 8, the incident light control area PCA is provided with a second incident light control area TA2 in the center and, from the outside to the inside, with a first light-shielding area LSA1, a first incident light control area TA1, a third light-shielding area LSA3, a third incident light control area TA3, a second light-shielding area LSA2, and a second incident light control area TA2.

[0081] The first light-shielding region LSA1 is positioned at the outermost periphery of the incident light control region PCA and has a circular shape. The first incident light control region TA1 is surrounded by the first light-shielding region LSA1, is in contact with the first light-shielding region LSA1, and has a circular shape. The second incident light control region TA2 is positioned in the center of the incident light control region PCA and has a circular shape. The second light-shielding region LSA2 is in contact with the second incident light control region TA2, surrounds the second incident light control region TA2, and has a circular shape. The third light-shielding region LSA3 is surrounded by the first incident light control region TA1, is in contact with the first incident light control region TA1, and has a circular shape.The third incident light control region TA3 is surrounded by the third light-shielding region LSA3, is in contact with the third light-shielding region LSA3 and the second light-shielding region LSA2, and has a circular shape.

[0082] In the incident light control area PCA, the light-shielding layer BM is provided with the first light-shielding part BM1, a first opening OP1, the second light-shielding part BM2, a second opening OP2, the third light-shielding part BM3, and a third opening OP3. The first light-shielding part BM1 is positioned in the first light-shielding area LSA1 and has a circular shape. The second light-shielding part BM2 is positioned in the second light-shielding area LSA2 and has a circular shape. The third light-shielding part BM3 is positioned in the third light-shielding area LSA3 and has a circular shape.

[0083] Each of the first, second and third light-shielding parts BM1, BM2 and BM3 may be referred to as an annular light-shielding part.

[0084] The first opening OP1 is positioned in the first incident light control area TA1 and has a circular shape. The second opening OP2 is positioned in the second incident light control area TA2 and has a circular shape. The third opening OP3 is positioned in the third incident light control area TA3 and has a circular shape.

[0085] The incident light control region PCA includes a first annular incident light control part in which a first control electrode RL1 and a second control electrode RL2 positioned in the first opening OP1 and described later are formed, a circular incident light control part in which a third control electrode pattern RE3 (the third control electrode RL3) and a fourth control electrode pattern RE4 (the fourth control electrode RL4) positioned in the second opening OP2 and described later are formed, and a second annular incident light control part in which a fifth control electrode RL5 and a sixth control electrode RL6 positioned in the third opening OP3 and described later are formed.

[0086] In the above-mentioned first annular incident light control part, the outer periphery is in contact with the first light-shielding part BM1, and the inner periphery is in contact with the third light-shielding part BM3. The outer periphery of the circular incident light control part is in contact with the second light-shielding part BM2. In the second annular incident light control part, the outer periphery is in contact with the third light-shielding part BM3, and the inner periphery is in contact with the second light-shielding part BM2.

[0087] In the present first embodiment, the incident light control region PCA is further provided with a fourth light-shielding region LSA4 and a fifth light-shielding region LSA5. The fourth light-shielding region LSA4 extends linearly in the first extension direction d1 from the second light-shielding region LSA2 to the third light-shielding region LSA3. The fifth light-shielding region LSA5 extends linearly in the first extension direction d1 from the third light-shielding region LSA3 to the first light-shielding region LSA1 and is aligned with the fourth light-shielding region LSA4 in the first extension direction d1. As mentioned above, the second incident light control region TA2 and the third incident light control region TA3 each have a substantially C-shape.

[0088] In the present first embodiment, the light-shielding layer BM is further provided with a fourth light-shielding part BM4 and a fifth light-shielding part BM5. The fourth light-shielding part BM4 is positioned in the fourth light-shielding region LSA4 and extends linearly in the first extension direction d1 from the second light-shielding part BM2 to the third light-shielding part BM3. The fifth light-shielding part BM5 is positioned in the fifth light-shielding region LSA5 and extends linearly in the first extension direction d1 from the third light-shielding part BM3 to the first light-shielding part BM1.

[0089] The outer peripheral circle of the first light-shielding part BM1, the outer peripheral circle of the first incident light control area TA1, the outer peripheral circle of the second light-shielding part BM2, the second incident light control area TA2, the outer peripheral circle of the third light-shielding part BM3 and the outer peripheral circle of the third incident light control area TA3 are concentric circles.

[0090] However, the liquid crystal panel PNL can also be formed without the fourth light-shielding region LSA4, the fifth light-shielding region LSA5, the fourth light-shielding part BM4, and the fifth light-shielding part BM5 in the incident light control area PCA. This is because even if the fourth and fifth light-shielding parts BM4 and BM5 are not present, the impact on the amount of light received by the laid line L described below is small and can be corrected.

[0091] The liquid crystal panel PNL can also be formed without the third light-shielding region LSA3, the third light-shielding part BM3, and the third incident light control region TA3. In this case, it is sufficient for the first incident light control region TA1 to be in contact with the second light-shielding region LSA2.

[0092] In the present first embodiment, the width WI1 of the first light-shielding part BM1 in the radial direction of the incident light control area PCA is 800 to 900 μm, the width WI3 of the third light-shielding part BM3 is 30 to 40 μm, the width WI2 of the second light-shielding part BM2 is 30 to 40 μm, the width WI5 of the fifth light-shielding part BM5 is 60 to 70 μm, and the width WI4 of the fourth light-shielding part BM4 is 30 to 40 μm.

[0093] The width WI1 is larger than the respective widths WI3 and WI2. The first width, i.e., the outer diameter of the first light-shielding part BM1 less the inner diameter, is larger than the second width, i.e., the outer diameter of the third light-shielding part BM3 less the inner diameter. The above-mentioned first width is also larger than the third width, i.e., the outer diameter of the second light-shielding part BM2 less the inner diameter.

[0094] Fig. Figure 9 shows the electrode structure of the incident light control region PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL and is a plan view showing the plurality of control electrode structures RE and the plurality of laid lines L. As shown in Fig. 9 and Fig. 8, the liquid crystal panel PNL is provided with a first control electrode structure RE1, a second control electrode structure RE2, a third control electrode structure RE3, a fourth control electrode structure RE4, a fifth control electrode structure RE5, a sixth control electrode structure RE6, a first routed line L1, a second routed line L2, a third routed line L3, a fourth routed line L4, a fifth routed line L5, and a sixth routed line L6.

[0095] Fig. 9 is a schematic view showing that the electrodes in the incident light control area PCA have a configuration corresponding to the IPS (In-Plane Switching) mode.

[0096] The first control electrode structure RE1 has a first power supply line CL1 and the first control electrode RL1.

[0097] The first power supply line CL1 is positioned in the first light-shielding area LSA1 and includes a first line WL1 having a circular ring shape. In the present first embodiment, the first line WL1 has a C-shape and is formed by dividing a region through which the second to sixth wires L2 to L6 pass.

[0098] The plurality of first control electrodes RL1 are positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1 and the first incident light control region TA1, are electrically connected to the first wiring WL1, extend linearly in the first extension direction d1, and are lined up spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc1. In the present first embodiment, the first wiring WL1 and the first control electrode RL1 are integrally formed. The first control electrodes RL1 are arranged within the first wiring WL1.

[0099] The plurality of first control electrodes RL1 include a first control electrode RL1 connected to the first line WL1 at both ends and a first control electrode RL1 connected to the first line WL1 at one end and not connected to the first line WL1 at the other end.

[0100] The second control electrode structure RE2 has a second power supply line CL2 and a second control electrode RL2.

[0101] The second power supply line CL2 is positioned in the first light-shielding area LSA1 and includes a second line WL2 having a circular ring shape. In the present first embodiment, the second line WL2 has a C-shape and is formed by dividing a portion through which the third to sixth wirings L3 to L6 pass. The second line WL2 is adjacent to the first line WL1. The inner diameter of the second line WL2 is smaller than that of the first line WL1. In the present first embodiment, the second line WL2 is positioned inside the first line WL1, but it may also be positioned outside the first line WL1.

[0102] The plurality of second control electrodes RL2 are positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1 and the first incident light control region TA1, are electrically connected to the second wiring WL2, extend linearly in the first extension direction d1, and are lined up spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc1. In the present first embodiment, the second wiring WL2 and the second control electrode RL2 are integrally formed. The second control electrodes RL2 are arranged within the second wiring WL2.

[0103] The plurality of second control electrodes RL2 includes a second control electrode RL2 connected to the second line WL2 at both ends and a second control electrode RL2 connected to the second line WL2 at one end and not connected to the second line WL2 at the other end.

[0104] The plurality of first control electrodes RL1 and the plurality of second control electrodes RL2 are alternately arranged in the orthogonal direction dc1.

[0105] The third control electrode structure RE3 and the fourth control electrode structure RE4 are positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2 and the second incident light control region TA2, respectively. The third control electrode structure RE3 and the fourth control electrode structure RE4 are shown in the shape of a semicircle, each with sides parallel to the first extension direction d1. The upper side of the third control electrode structure RE3 and the upper side of the fourth control electrode structure RE4 are positioned spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc1. The outline of the third and fourth control electrode structures RE3 and RE4 is shown as a semicircle, but the detailed structure will be described later.

[0106] The fifth control electrode structure RE5 has a fifth power supply line CL5 and a fifth control electrode RL5.

[0107] The fifth power supply line CL5 is positioned in the third light-shielding area LSA3 and includes a fifth line WL5 having a circular ring shape. In the present first embodiment, the fifth line WL5 has a C-shape and is formed by dividing a region through which the fourth to sixth lines L4 to L6 pass.

[0108] The plurality of fifth control electrodes RL5 are positioned in the third light-shielding region LSA3 and the third incident light control region TA3, are electrically connected to the fifth wiring WL5, extend linearly in the first extension direction d1, and are arrayed spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc1. In the present first embodiment, the fifth wiring WL5 and the fifth control electrode RL5 are integrally formed. The fifth control electrode RL5 is arranged within the fifth wiring WL5.

[0109] The plurality of fifth control electrodes RL5 include a fifth control electrode RL5 connected to the fifth line WL5 at both ends and a fifth control electrode RL5 connected to the fifth line WL5 at one end and not connected to the fifth line WL5 at the other end.

[0110] The sixth control electrode structure RE6 has a sixth power supply line CL6 and a sixth control electrode RL6.

[0111] The sixth power supply line CL6 is positioned in the third light-shielding region LSA3 and includes a sixth line WL6 having a circular ring shape. In the present first embodiment, the sixth line WL6 has a C-shape and is formed by dividing a portion through which the fifth laid line L5 and the sixth laid line L6 pass. The sixth line WL6 is adjacent to the fifth line WL5. The inner diameter of the fifth line WL5 is smaller than that of the second line WL2. The inner diameter of the sixth line WL6 is smaller than that of the fifth line WL5. In the present first embodiment, the sixth line WL6 is positioned inside the fifth line WL5, but may also be positioned outside the fifth line WL5.

[0112] The plurality of sixth control electrodes RL6 are positioned in the third light-shielding region LSA3 and the third incident light control region TA3, are electrically connected to the sixth wiring WL6, extend linearly in the first extension direction d1, and are arrayed spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc1. In the present first embodiment, the sixth wiring WL6 and the sixth control electrode RL6 are integrally formed. The sixth control electrode RL6 is arranged within the sixth wiring WL6.

[0113] The plurality of sixth control electrodes RL6 include a sixth control electrode RL6 connected at both ends to the sixth line WL6, and a sixth control electrode RL6 connected at one end to the sixth line WL6 and not connected to the sixth line WL6 at the other end.

[0114] The plurality of fifth control electrodes RL5 and the plurality of sixth control electrodes RL6 are alternately arranged in the orthogonal direction dc1.

[0115] The liquid crystal panel PNL has a configuration in the incident light control area PCA corresponding to the IPS (In-Plane Switching) mode, which is a display mode using a transverse electric field. The above-described first to sixth control electrodes RL1 to RL6 each have a different shape from that of the pixel electrode PE, which corresponds to the aforementioned FFS mode.

[0116] As represented by the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2, the voltage is supplied to the alternately arranged control electrodes, and the liquid crystal molecules are driven by the potential difference created between the electrodes. For example, it is possible to extend the line from the display area DA to supply the first control electrode RL1 with a video signal corresponding to that of the pixel electrode and the second control electrode RL2 with a common voltage corresponding to that of the common electrode. It is also possible to supply the first control electrode RL1 with a signal of positive polarity with respect to the common voltage and the second control electrode RL2 with a signal of negative polarity.

[0117] In the incident light control area PCA, the above-described alignment films AL1, AL2 have an alignment axis AA parallel to the Y direction. That is, the alignment axes AA of the alignment films AL1, AL2 run parallel between the display area DA and the incident light control area PCA. In the incident light control area PCA, the alignment direction AD1 of the alignment film AL1 is parallel to the Y direction, and the alignment direction AD2 of the alignment film AL2 is parallel to the alignment direction AD1.

[0118] In the state where no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, the initial alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the display region DA and the initial alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the incident light control region PCA are the same. The above-mentioned linear pixel electrode (linear display electrode) PA and the control electrode RL extend parallel to each other. In the XY plane of the present first embodiment, the first extension direction d1 and the second extension direction d2 are each inclined by 10° to the Y direction. Therefore, it is possible to match the rotation direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the display region DA and the incident light control region PCA. The inclination was explained with respect to the linear pixel electrode PA. However, the above also applies when the inclination at the linear pixel electrode PA is replaced by the inclination of the slit of the common electrode.

[0119] Fig. Figure 10 shows a sectional view of the incident light control area PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL. Fig. 10, the illustration of the signal line S and the scanning line G, etc. are omitted. As in Fig. 10, the insulating layer 13 is clamped with one or more conductors from the first line WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the second line WL2, the second control electrode RL2, the third control electrode structure RE3, the fourth control electrode structure RE4, the fifth line WL5, the fifth control electrode RL5, the sixth line WL6, and the sixth control electrode RL6, and a remaining conductor from the first line WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the second line WL2, the second control electrode RL2, the third control electrode structure RE3, the fourth control electrode structure RE4, the fifth line WL5, the fifth control electrode RL5, the sixth line WL6, and the sixth control electrode RL6.

[0120] The above-mentioned one or more conductors are provided on the same layer as one of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned one electrode. The remaining conductors are provided on the same layer as the other electrode of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned other electrode.

[0121] In the present first embodiment, the second wiring WL2, the second control electrode RL2, the fourth control electrode pattern RE4, the sixth wiring WL6, and the sixth control electrode RL6 are provided on the insulating layer 12 and covered by the insulating layer 13. The second wiring WL2, the second control electrode RL2, the fourth control electrode pattern RE4, the sixth wiring WL6, and the sixth control electrode RL6 are provided on the same layer as the common electrode CE and are formed of the same transparent conductive material as the common electrode CE.

[0122] The first wiring WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the third control electrode pattern RE3, the fifth wiring WL5, and the fifth control electrode RL5 are provided on the insulating layer 13 and covered by the alignment film AL1. The first control electrode RL1, the third control electrode pattern RE3, the fifth wiring WL5, and the fifth control electrode RL5 are provided on the same layer as the pixel electrode PE and are formed of the same transparent conductive material as the pixel electrode PE.

[0123] The insulating layer 13 is clamped, for example, between the first control electrode RL1 (first control electrode structure RE1) and the second control electrode RL2 (second control electrode structure RE2).

[0124] In the incident light control area PCA, the first to sixth laid lines L1 to L6 extend in the first extension direction d1. The first to sixth laid lines L1 to L6 are made of metal. For example, the first to sixth laid lines L1 to L6 are on the same layer as the aforementioned metal layer ML and are made of the same metal as the aforementioned metal layer ML.

[0125] The first laid line L1 is electrically connected to the first line WL1 (the first power supply line CL1). The second laid line L2 runs through a separate section of the first line WL1 and is electrically connected to the second line WL2 (the second power supply line CL2).

[0126] The third routed line L3 runs through the respective separated sections of the first line WL1, the second line WL2, the fifth line WL5, and the sixth line WL6, as well as between the first routed line L1 and the second routed line L2, and is electrically connected to the third control electrode structure RE3. The fourth routed line L4 runs through the respective separated sections of the first line WL1, the second line WL2, the fifth line WL5, and the sixth line WL6, as well as between the second routed line L2 and the third routed line L3, and is electrically connected to the fourth control electrode structure RE4.

[0127] The fifth laid line L5 runs through the respective separated sections of the first line WL1 and the second line WL2, as well as between the second laid line L2 and the fourth laid line L4, and is electrically connected to the fifth line WL5 (the fifth power supply line CL5). The sixth laid line L6 runs through the respective separated sections of the first line WL1, the second line WL2, and the fifth line WL5, as well as between the first laid line L1 and the third laid line L3, and is electrically connected to the sixth line WL6 (the sixth power supply line CL6).

[0128] The first to sixth laid lines L1 to L6 are bundled and extend in the display area DA over an area covered by a light-shielding part (BMA2). However, the first to sixth laid lines L1 to L6 do not need to be bundled, and it is sufficient for each of the first to sixth laid lines L1 to L6 to extend over at least one of the light-shielding parts BMA1 and BMA2 in the display area DA.

[0129] The first power supply line CL1, the second power supply line CL2, the fifth power supply line CL5, the sixth power supply line CL6 and the first to sixth laid lines L1 to L6 may be formed with a laminate of a transparent conductive layer and a metal layer.

[0130] As in Fig. As explained in Figure 7, the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE in the display area DA are formed of a transparent conductive material (transparent conductive film), and the pixel PX has two different layers of transparent conductive film. As described below, the first wiring WL1 to the sixth wiring WL6 are formed with one of the two-layer transparent conductive films, and the first control electrode RL1 to the sixth control electrode RL6 are formed with the other transparent conductive film. The first control electrode RL1 to the sixth control electrode RL6 may be formed on the same layer. The first wiring WL1 to the sixth wiring WL6 may also be formed with a multilayer film of a transparent conductive film and a metal film.

[0131] In the incident light control region PCA, the alignment film AL1 covers the first wiring WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the second wiring WL2, the second control electrode RL2, the third control electrode pattern RE3, the fourth control electrode pattern RE4, the fifth wiring WL5, the fifth control electrode RL5, the sixth wiring WL6, and the sixth control electrode RL6, and is in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC.

[0132] Here, the pitch in the orthogonal direction dc1 of the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 is referred to as pitch pi1, and the pitch in the orthogonal direction dc1 of the fifth control electrode RL5 and the sixth control electrode RL6 is referred to as pitch pi2. In other words, pitch pi1 is the pitch in the orthogonal direction dc1 between the center of the first control electrode RL1 and the center of the second control electrode RL2. Pitch pi2 is the pitch in the orthogonal direction dc1 between the center of the fifth control electrode RL5 and the center of the sixth control electrode RL6.

[0133] The pitches pi1 and pi2 can each be constant, but it is preferable for the pitches pi1 and pi2 to be random. This prevents the light interference that occurs when the pitches pi1 and pi2 are constant.

[0134] On the second substrate SUB2, the color filter CF is not provided in the incident light control area PCA.

[0135] The liquid crystal layer LC includes a first control liquid crystal layer LC1 positioned in the first incident light control region TA1, a second control liquid crystal layer LC2 positioned in the second incident light control region TA2, and a third control liquid crystal layer LC3 positioned in the third incident light control region TA3.

[0136] A voltage generated by the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 is applied to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1. A voltage generated by the third control electrode structure RE3 and the fourth control electrode structure RE4 is applied to the second control liquid crystal layer LC2. A voltage generated by the fifth control electrode RL5 and the sixth control electrode RL6 is applied to the third control liquid crystal layer LC3.

[0137] In the present first embodiment, a voltage (an electric field) generated between the plurality of first control electrodes RL1 and the plurality of second control electrodes RL2 is applied to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1. A voltage (an electric field) generated between the third control electrode pattern RE3 and the fourth control electrode pattern RE4 is applied to the second control liquid crystal layer LC2. A voltage (an electric field) generated between the plurality of fifth control electrodes RL5 and the plurality of sixth control electrodes RL6 is applied to the third control liquid crystal layer LC3.

[0138] The first control voltage is supplied to the first control electrode structure RE1 via the first laid line L1, the second control voltage is supplied to the second control electrode structure RE2 via the second laid line L2, the third control voltage is supplied to the third control electrode structure RE3 via the third laid line L3, the fourth control voltage is supplied to the fourth control electrode structure RE4 via the fourth laid line L4, the fifth control voltage is supplied to the fifth control electrode structure RE5 via the fifth laid line L5 and the sixth control voltage is supplied to the sixth control electrode structure RE6 via the sixth laid line L6.

[0139] The first control voltage, the third control voltage, and the fifth control voltage may have the same voltage level as one of the image signal and the common voltage, and the second control voltage, the fourth control voltage, and the sixth control voltage may have the same voltage level as the other of the image signal and the common voltage.

[0140] Alternatively, the first control voltage, the third control voltage, and the fifth control voltage may have a voltage level of the first polarity relative to the common voltage, and the second control voltage, the fourth control voltage, and the sixth control voltage may have a voltage level of the second polarity relative to the common voltage. For the first and second polarities, one is positive and the other is negative.

[0141] When explaining the incident light control area PCA as the aperture DP, the opening state of the aperture DP is defined. The liquid crystal display device DSP sets the aperture DP to the maximum open state (open state) by driving it under the first condition. The liquid crystal display device DSP sets the aperture DP to the minimum dimmed state by driving it under the second condition. The liquid crystal display device DSP sets the aperture DP to the intermediate state between the maximum open state and the minimum dimmed state by driving it under the third condition. The liquid crystal display device DSP sets the aperture DP to the closed state by driving it under the fourth condition.

[0142] As described above, the incident light control area PCA is provided with the first incident light control area TA1, the third incident light control area TA3, and the second incident light control area TA2 from the outside to the center, and the transmittance / non-transmittance states of the first incident light control area TA1, the third incident light control area TA3, and the second incident light control area TA2 corresponding to the first to fourth conditions are as follows.

[0143] For example, when the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 are driven under the first condition, the liquid crystal panel PNL sets the first incident light control region TA1, the second incident light control region TA2, and the third incident light control region TA3 in the transmittance state.

[0144] When the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 are driven under the second condition, the liquid crystal panel PNL sets the second incident light control region TA2 in the transmitting state and sets the first incident light control region TA1 and the third incident light control region TA3 in a non-transmitting state.

[0145] When the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 are driven under the third condition, the liquid crystal panel PNL sets the third incident light control region TA3 and the second incident light control region TA2 in the transmitting state and the first incident light control region TA1 in the non-transmitting state.

[0146] When the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 are driven under the fourth condition, the liquid crystal panel PNL places the first incident light control region TA1, the third incident light control region TA3, and the second incident light control region TA2 in the non-transmittance state. Here, the non-transmittance state refers to a light-shielding state or a state where the transmittance is lower than the above-mentioned transmittance state.

[0147] As explained above, the incident light control area PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL forms the aperture of camera 1. Therefore, the aperture can be opened (first condition), the aperture can be stopped down (third condition), the aperture can be further stopped down (second condition), or the aperture can be closed (fourth condition), and camera 1 can capture images with different depth of field. The liquid crystal panel PNL can open and close the aperture in concentric circles. In other words, the liquid crystal panel PNL can control the light transmission area in concentric circles in the incident light control area PCA.

[0148] The aperture under the second condition can serve as a pinhole that regulates the amount of light entering camera 1. When the distance between camera 1 and an object is a few centimeters, the resolving power of camera 1 is improved, and clear images of the object at close range can be captured. As an example of capturing an object with camera 1 at close range, fingerprints can be captured for fingerprint authentication. Capturing through the pinhole is effective even under large amounts of light.

[0149] According to the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 according to the first embodiment configured as above, it is possible to obtain the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 that can control the light transmittance range of the incident light control area PCA. (Second embodiment)

[0150] Next, the present second embodiment will be explained. The electronic device 100 is configured in the same manner as the above-mentioned first embodiment, except for the configuration explained in the present second embodiment. Fig. 11 shows a part of the liquid crystal panel PNL and the camera 1 of the electronic device 100 according to the present second embodiment, along with a plan view showing the liquid crystal panel PNL and the camera 1 and a sectional view showing the liquid crystal panel PNL and the camera 1. In the drawing, the outline is shown with respect to the camera 1. The light-shielding layer BM shows only the first light-shielding part BM1 in the incident light control area PCA.

[0151] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the liquid crystal panel PNL forms a diaphragm DP that switches the light transmission area in concentric circles in the incident light control area PCA. The diaphragm DP is positioned in front of the camera 1, and the light passing through the diaphragm DP enters the camera 1. Using the function of controlling the amount of light passing through the liquid crystal panel PNL, the diaphragm DP can control the amount of light entering the camera 1. As described later, the outer diameter of the diaphragm DP is determined by the diameter DI2 of the effective aperture EA of the optical system 2 (camera 1), and the inner diameter DI1 of the first light-shielding part BM1 is larger than the diameter DI2 of the effective aperture EA of the optical system 2 (camera 1). The first light-shielding part BM1 is formed outside the outer periphery of the diaphragm DP to shield unwanted light.Next, the outer perimeter of the aperture DP is defined by the inner perimeter I1 of the first light-shielding part BM1, as the boundary is clear. The aperture DP can increase or decrease the amount of light entering the camera 1 by shielding the light within the inner perimeter I1 of the first light-shielding part BM1. The first light-shielding part BM1, with a width WI1, surrounds the effective aperture EA and covers the first light-shielding area LSA1 not used for display around the camera 1.

[0152] Fig. 12 is a sectional view of a part of the liquid crystal panel PNL, a part of an illumination device IL, and the camera 1 according to the present second embodiment.

[0153] The liquid crystal panel PNL is provided with the first substrate SUB1, the second substrate SUB2, the liquid crystal layer LC, the polarizing plate PL1, the polarizing plate PL2, etc. In the drawing, the liquid crystal layer LC is represented by a line between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2.

[0154] The illumination device IL comprises the light guide LG1, which emits the light from the above-mentioned light source EM1 as a flat light, the light-reflecting plate RS, which reflects the light from the light guide LG1 onto the liquid crystal panel PNL side, and an optical plate, etc., which controls the direction of the light from the light guide LG1. The above-mentioned optical plate includes, for example, the light diffusion plate SS and the prism plate PS. The prism plate PS can Fig. 2 and the prism plate PS2.

[0155] The illumination device IL has an opening IL0 in which the camera 1 is arranged, and the light-shielding wall CS2 is arranged between the light guide LG1, etc., and the opening IL0. Adhesive tape TP1 is attached to the light-shielding wall CS2 to fix the prism plate PS. Adhesive tape TP1 also serves to shield unnecessary light near the light-shielding wall CS2. The illumination device IL further includes a plastic frame FR positioned around the periphery of the illumination device IL and accommodating the light guide LG1, etc.

[0156] The camera 1 is arranged near the end of the liquid crystal panel PNL.

[0157] Next, the angle of the light incident on the effective aperture EA of camera 1 is explained. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the explanation is given with the definition in a virtual plane containing the central axis AX1 of the optical system 2 (camera 1) and the orthogonal axis AX2 orthogonal to the central axis AX1.

[0158] The point on the outermost circumference of the effective aperture EA of the optical system 2 is taken as the first point P1. The line passing through the first point P1 is taken as the first reference line RF1. Another point on the outermost circumference of the effective aperture EA is taken as the third point P3. The line passing through the third point P3 is taken as the second reference line RF2. The line passing through the first point P1, the central axis AX1, and the third point P3 is taken as the third reference line RF3. The point where the first reference line RF1 and the second reference line RF2 intersect is taken as the fifth point P5. The point where the central axis AX1 and the third reference line RF3 intersect is taken as the sixth point P6.

[0159] The sixth point P6 is also the center of the effective aperture EA. The central axis AX1 is orthogonal to the third reference line RF3. The central axis AX1 is a perpendicular line to the area formed by the effective aperture EA, which is generally the optical axis of camera 1 (optical system 2). The first and second reference lines RF1 and RF2 are also the light paths of the outermost rays of the light beam, which is determined depending on the focal length of camera 1 and the size of the image pickup area 3a described above and used for image acquisition.

[0160] The effective aperture EA is circularly symmetric about the central axis AX1. The central axis AX1 passes through the fifth point P5. The first reference line RF1 and the central axis AX1 intersect at an angle θ. The second reference line RF2 and the central axis AX1 also intersect at an angle θ. For some cameras 1, the angle 2θ, which is twice the angle θ, is the angle of view.

[0161] The light-shielding wall CS2 is adjacent to the camera 1 in a direction parallel to the third reference line RF3. The light-shielding wall CS2 is positioned between the camera 1 and the light guide LG1 and has a cylindrical shape.

[0162] Next, the third distance DT3 and the inner diameter DI1 are explained. Here, the third distance DT3 is the linear distance along the central axis AX1 from the fifth point P5 to the opening (second opening OP2) of the light-shielding layer BM. Fig. Fig. 13 shows another sectional view of a part of the liquid crystal panel PNL, a part of the illumination device IL, and the camera 1 according to the present second embodiment. Here, too, the explanation is given with the definition in a virtual plane including the central axis AX1 and the orthogonal axis AX2.

[0163] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, a point on the inner circumference I1 of the first light-shielding part BM1 near the first point P1 is taken as the second point P2. The point on the inner circumference I1 of the first light-shielding part BM1 near the third point P3 is taken as the fourth point P4. The first reference line RF1 is a straight line passing through the first point P1 and the second point P2. The second reference line RF2 is a straight line passing through the third point P3 and the fourth point P4.

[0164] The light traveling toward camera 1 from outside the second point P2 (on the right in the drawing) and intersecting the central axis AX1 at an angle of θ or less does not enter the effective aperture EA because it travels outside the effective aperture EA. Furthermore, the light traveling toward camera 1 from outside the fourth point P4 (on the left in the drawing) and intersecting the central axis AX1 at an angle of θ or less does not enter the effective aperture EA. Even if the above-mentioned first incident light control area (TA1) is positioned to the right of the second point P2 and to the left of the fourth point P4, the influence on the amount of light entering the effective aperture EA is small.

[0165] Therefore, the circumference formed by a point at which the line representing the first reference line RF1 intersects the central axis AX1 at an angle θ and passes through the outermost circumference of the effective aperture EA and the liquid crystal layer LC intersect is the effective maximum inner diameter of the diaphragm DP.

[0166] The liquid crystal layer LC alone does not have a function of shielding light, and to shield light, it is necessary to combine the functions of the liquid crystal layer LC, the polarizing plate PL1, the polarizing plate PL2, etc., and in the explanation, it is assumed that, although the liquid crystal layer LC is not strictly speaking the aperture DP, the aperture DP is formed in the liquid crystal layer LC, and furthermore, since the boundary is clear, the inside of the opening of the first light-shielding part BM1 is the aperture DP in the plane in which the first light-shielding part BM1 is formed. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, although the color filter CF, the transparent layer OC, and the alignment film AL2 are present between the liquid crystal layer LC and the light-shielding layer BM, the total thickness of these layers is only a few micrometers, so the explanation assumes that the liquid crystal layer LC and the light-shielding layer BM lie in the same plane. The first light-shielding part BM1, with a width WI1, shields unwanted light near the outer periphery of the incident light control area PCA. Therefore, the inner periphery I1 can also be considered the outermost periphery of the aperture DP.

[0167] Furthermore, it is also possible to consider the light path of the outermost rays as lying on the first reference line RF1 and the second reference line RF2. That is, the light path of the outermost rays is the line connecting the outermost perimeter of the aperture DP and the outermost perimeter of the effective aperture EA of camera 1.

[0168] The point positioned at the opening (second opening OP2) of the light-shielding layer BM on the central axis AX1 is taken as the seventh point P7. When the triangle formed by the fifth point P5, the second point P2, and the seventh point P7, as well as the triangle formed by the fifth point P5, the fourth point P4, and the seventh point P7, are considered, the following relationship is obtained: DI1 / 2=DT3×tanθ

[0169] With the third distance DT3 between the fifth point P5 and the seventh point P7, the inner diameter DI1 of the first light-shielding part BM1 also increases. Therefore, if the inner diameter DI1 is to be reduced, it is necessary to move the camera 1 closer to the liquid crystal panel PNL.

[0170] From the inside of the area surrounded by the light-shielding wall CS2, the light from the illumination device IL is not radiated onto the liquid crystal panel PNL. Therefore, the first light-shielding part BM1 is disposed in the first light-shielding area LSA1 (the area represented by the width WI1 from the second point P2 to the end EN1 on the side of a light-irradiated area of ​​the adhesive tape TP1, and the area represented by the width WI1 from the fourth point P4 to the end EN2 on the side of a light-irradiated area of ​​the adhesive tape TP1). This is because the first light-shielding area LSA1 is an area not used for the aperture DP or the display.

[0171] To make the display area DA as large as possible, it is necessary to make the first light-shielding part BM1 as small as possible. By positioning the camera 1 close to the liquid crystal panel PNL, the inner diameter DI1 can be reduced and the area enclosed by the first light-shielding part BM1 can be reduced.

[0172] Next, the relationship between the inner diameter DI1 of the first light-shielding part BM1 and the diameter DI2 of the effective aperture EA of the camera 1 is explained. Fig. 14 shows a sectional view of a portion of the liquid crystal panel PNL and the camera 1 according to the present second embodiment. For convenience, in the liquid crystal panel PNL, the first light-shielding portion BM1 is shown in solid lines, and the liquid crystal layer LC in the opening of the first light-shielding portion BM1 is shown in dashed lines. Here, too, the explanation will be given by defining it on a virtual plane including the central axis AX1 and the orthogonal axis AX2.

[0173] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the linear distance on the central axis AX1 between the fifth point P5 and the sixth point P6 is taken as the first distance DT1. The linear distance on the central axis AX1 between the sixth point P6 and the seventh point P7 (opening of the light-shielding layer BM) is taken as the second distance DT2. The inner and outer diameters DI1 and DI2 can be determined by the following relationship: DI1 / 2=DT3×tanθ DI2 / 2=DT1×tanθ

[0174] The following relationship results from the above relationships: DI1 / DI2=DT3 / DT1

[0175] For example, if the inner diameter DI1 is to be less than twice the diameter DI2, it is necessary to shorten the second distance DT2 (DT3 - DT1) further than the first distance DT1.

[0176] In Fig. 14, the case where the aperture DP is open (first condition) was explained. Therefore, in the incident light control area PCA, the first incident light control area TA1, the second incident light control area TA2, and the third incident light control area TA3 are all set to the transmittance state ( Fig. 8).

[0177] Next, the case where the aperture DP is stopped down (third condition) will be explained. Therefore, in the incident light control area PCA, the second incident light control area TA2 and the third incident light control area TA3 are set to the transmitting state, and the first incident light control area TA1 is set to the non-transmitting state ( Fig. 8). Fig. 15 shows another sectional view of a portion of the liquid crystal panel PNL and the camera 1 according to the present second embodiment. For convenience, the first light-shielding portion BM1 and the third light-shielding portion BM3 in the liquid crystal panel PNL are shown in solid lines, and the liquid crystal layers LC except for the first light-shielding portion BM1 and the third light-shielding portion BM3 are shown in dashed lines. Here, too, the explanation will be given by defining them on a virtual plane including the central axis AX1 and the orthogonal axis AX2.

[0178] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, when the aperture of the diaphragm DP is reduced to reduce the light incident on the camera 1, the obliquely incident light intersecting the central axis AX1 at a large angle is reduced compared to the incident light intersecting the central axis AX1 at a small angle. Therefore, there is a problem that the amount of light at the periphery of the image captured by the camera 1 is reduced.

[0179] Therefore, the inner diameter DI3 of the third light-shielding part BM3 is checked to prevent the above-mentioned oblique incident light from being extremely reduced. Here, the straight line parallel to the second reference line RF2 and passing through the first point P1 is taken as the fourth reference line RF4. The line parallel to the first reference line RF1 and passing through the third point P3 is taken as the fifth reference line RF5. The point where the fourth reference line RF4 intersects the light-shielding layer BM is taken as the eighth point P8. The point where the fifth reference line RF5 intersects the light-shielding layer BM is taken as the ninth point P9.

[0180] When viewing the fourth reference line RF4, the light intersecting the central axis AX1 at an angle θ (oblique light line OL1) and positioned outside the fourth reference line RF4 with respect to the effective aperture EA does not enter the effective aperture EA. Therefore, even if the light outside the eighth point P8 (right in the drawing) is shielded, there is no increase or decrease in the oblique light line OL1. The inner circumference I3 of the third light-shielding part BM3 is therefore positioned at the eighth point P8.

[0181] When the fifth reference line RF5 is observed, the light intersecting the central axis AX1 at an angle θ (oblique light line OL2) and positioned outside the fifth reference line RF5 with respect to the effective aperture EA does not enter the effective aperture EA. Therefore, even if the light outside the ninth point P9 (left in the drawing) is shielded, there is no increase or decrease in the oblique light line OL2. On the other hand, the inner circumference I3 of the third light-shielding part BM3 is therefore positioned at the ninth point P9. However, if the light outside the ninth point P9 is shielded, the light outside the ninth point P9 is shielded within the oblique light line OL1.

[0182] In order to avoid an extreme reduction in the amount of light at the periphery of the captured image of the camera 1, the inner diameter DI3 of the third light-shielding part BM3 coincides with the distance between the eighth point P8 and the ninth point P9.

[0183] Next, the area within the inner circumference I3 is explained in the case where the aperture DP is stopped down (third condition). Fig. 16 is a sectional view showing the position of a portion of the liquid crystal panel PNL and the camera 1 according to the present second embodiment. For convenience, the first light-shielding portion BM1 and the third light-shielding portion BM3 in the liquid crystal panel PNL are shown in solid lines, and the liquid crystal layers LC except for the first light-shielding portion BM1 and the third light-shielding portion BM3 are shown in dashed lines. Here, too, the explanation will be given by defining them on a virtual plane including the central axis AX1 and the orthogonal axis AX2.

[0184] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, a straight line passing through the first point P1 and parallel to the central axis AX1 is taken as the sixth reference line RF6. A straight line passing through the third point P3 and parallel to the central axis AX1 is taken as the seventh reference line RF7. The point where the sixth reference line RF6 intersects the liquid crystal layer LC is taken as the tenth point P10. The point where the seventh reference line RF7 intersects the liquid crystal layer LC is taken as the eleventh point P11.

[0185] Since the fourth reference line RF4 intersects the central axis AX1 at an angle θ, the triangle with the first point P1, the eighth point P8, and the tenth point P10 as vertices and the triangle with the fifth point P5, the first point P1, and the sixth point P6 as vertices are similar. Since the fifth reference line RF5 also intersects the central axis AX1 at an angle θ, the triangle with the third point P3, the ninth point P9, and the eleventh point P11 as vertices and the triangle with the fifth point P5, the third point P3, and the sixth point P6 as vertices are similar.

[0186] The linear distance between the first point P1 and the tenth point P10 is the second distance DT2. The linear distances between the eighth point P8 and the tenth point P10, and between the ninth point P9 and the eleventh point P11, are each taken as distances DT4 / 2. If the linear distance, which is twice the distance DT4 / 2, is taken as the fourth distance DT4, the relationship DT4 / DT2 = DI2 / DT1 is obtained, where DT4 = DI2 × (DT2 / DT1).

[0187] From the relationship DT4 = DI2 - DI3, DI2 × (DT2 / DT1) = DI2 - DI3, and DI2 (1 - DT2 / DT1) = DI3, and the relationship DI3 / DI2 = 1-(DT2 / DT1) results.

[0188] If the second distance DT2 is set to 50% of the first distance DT1, DI3 / DI2 = 0.5.

[0189] In this case, the radius is 50%, so that the area within the inner circumference I3 of the third light-shielding part BM3 is 0.25% of the area of ​​the effective aperture EA.

[0190] If the second distance DT2 is set to 60% of the first distance DT1, DI3 = 0.4 × DI2, where the area inside the inner circumference I3 is 0.16% of the area of ​​the effective aperture EA.

[0191] Since the relationship DT4 = DI2 × (DT2 / DT1) holds, DT4 = DI2 when DT2 = DT1, and the area within the inner circumference I3 is zero. Therefore, to create an opening within the inner circumference I3, it is necessary to extend the first distance DT1 further than the second distance DT2 (DT1 > DT2).

[0192] Next, the relationship between the inner diameter DI1 of the first light-shielding part BM1 and the inner diameter DI3 of the third light-shielding part BM3 is explained. Fig. 17 is another sectional view showing the position of a portion of the liquid crystal panel PNL and the camera 1 according to the present second embodiment. For convenience, the first light-shielding portion BM1 and the third light-shielding portion BM3 in the liquid crystal panel PNL are shown in solid lines, and the liquid crystal layers LC except for the first light-shielding portion BM1 and the third light-shielding portion BM3 are shown in dashed lines. Here, too, the explanation will be given by defining it on a virtual plane including the central axis AX1 and the orthogonal axis AX2.

[0193] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the triangle with the first point P1, the eighth point P8, and the tenth point P10 as vertices and the triangle with the fifth point P5, the second point P2, and the seventh point P7 as vertices are similar. Furthermore, the triangle with the third point P3, the ninth point P9, and the eleventh point P11 as vertices and the triangle with the fifth point P5, the fourth point P4, and the seventh point P7 as vertices are similar.

[0194] From the above facts, the relationship DT4 / DT2 = DI1 / DT3 results, where DT4 = (DI1 × DT2) / DT3.

[0195] From the relationship DI3=DI1-(2×DT4) DI3=DI1-(2×DI1×DT2) / DT3 applies, and the relationship DI3 / DI1 = 1-(2×DT2) / DT3 results.

[0196] For example, if the second distance DT2 is 25% of the third distance DT3, DI3 = 0.5 × DI1.

[0197] Furthermore, if the second distance DT2 is 50% of the first distance DT1, the third distance DT3 is 150% of the first distance DT1. Since the second distance DT2 is 1 / 3 of the third distance DT3, DI3 = DI1 / 3.

[0198] Fig. 18 shows a plan view of the incident light control area PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL and the camera 1 according to the present second embodiment. In the drawing, the liquid crystal panel PNL is positioned at the front and the camera 1 is positioned at the rear. The drawing shows a case where the inner diameter DI3 of the third light-shielding part BM3 is 1 / 3 of the inner diameter DI1 of the first light-shielding part BM1.

[0199] As in Fig. 18, for example, the inner diameter DI3 is 0.6 mm when the inner diameter DI1 is 1.8 mm. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the second opening OP2 (second incident light control area TA2) is provided within the inner circumference I3 of the third light-shielding part BM3, which is surrounded by the second light-shielding part BM2. The second opening OP2 is, for example, an opening with a diameter of 0.2 mm used for pinhole camera recording. Therefore, the inner diameter DI4 of the Fig. The diameter of the second light-shielding part BM2 shown in Figure 8 is 0.2 mm. The second opening OP2 is a relatively small opening. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the liquid crystal panel PNL and the camera 1 using the light passing through the second opening OP2.

[0200] Next, the tuning of the liquid crystal panel PNL and camera 1 is explained. Fig. 19 is a sectional view showing a part of the liquid crystal panel PNL, a part of the illumination device IL, and the camera 1 according to the present second embodiment.

[0201] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 19, the light enters camera 1 through an aperture with an area limited by the aperture DP. Therefore, if the center of the incident light control area PCA deviates from the central axis AX1 of the optical system 2, the problem arises that the required light no longer reaches the image recording surface 3a. Therefore, it is necessary to precisely align the center of the incident light control area PCA with the central axis AX1.

[0202] Therefore, to improve the tuning accuracy, the second aperture OP2 is used, which is the smallest aperture among the apertures in the incident light control area PCA. That is, the aperture DP is further stopped down (third condition), and in the incident light control area PCA, the second incident light control area TA2 is set to the transmitting state, and the first incident light control area TA1 and the third incident light control area TA3 are set to the non-transmitting state ( Fig. 8).

[0203] By perpendicularly irradiating the liquid crystal panel PNL with parallel light, such as laser light or LED light, the light passing through the second opening OP2 (the second incident light control area TA2) can be detected on the image pickup surface 3a. Based on the light intensity in the area of ​​the image pickup surface 3a through which the central axis AX1 passes, the degree to which the center of the incident light control area PCA coincides with the central axis AX1 can be measured, and adjustment can be performed.

[0204] If it is possible to precisely align the center point of the incident light control area PCA with the central axis AX1, the peripheral gap PG between camera 1 and the light-shielding wall CS2 can be reduced. The peripheral gap PG here refers to the gap from camera 1 to the light-shielding wall CS2 in the direction parallel to the third reference line RF3. This allows the size of the aperture DP (incident light control area PCA), including the first light-shielding part BM1, to be reduced.

[0205] In order to reduce the peripheral gap PG, it is desirable that the inner diameter DI4 (diameter of the second opening OP2) of the second light-shielding part BM2 is sufficiently shorter than the peripheral gap PG (DI4 < PG) ( Fig. 8).

[0206] It is desirable that the inner diameter DI4 is 0.1 mm or more to prevent diffraction of light (0.1 mm ≤ DI4) ( Fig. 8).

[0207] With the electronic device 100 according to the second embodiment configured as above, it is possible to obtain the electronic device 100 capable of good recording. (Third embodiment)

[0208] Next, the present third embodiment will be explained. The electronic device 100 is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment, except for the configuration related to the longitudinal electric field mode explained in the present third embodiment. Fig. 20 shows a sectional view of a part of the liquid crystal panel PNL of the electronic device 100 according to the third embodiment. In Fig. Figure 20 shows the vicinity of the boundary between the display area DA and the incident light control area PCA. Furthermore, only the parts of the liquid crystal panel PNL necessary for explanation are shown, and the illustration of the aforementioned alignment films AL1, AL2, etc. is omitted from the drawing.

[0209] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, in the longitudinal electric field mode configuration, in addition to the control electrode structure RE provided on the insulating substrate 10, the counter electrode OE is also provided on the insulating substrate 20. In the longitudinal electric field mode, the liquid crystal layer LC of the incident light control region PCA is driven by the voltage applied between the control electrode structure RE and the counter electrode OE. The above-mentioned common electrode CE may be referred to as the first common electrode, and the counter electrode OE may be referred to as the second common electrode.

[0210] A plurality of spacers SP are provided between the insulating electrode substrate 10 and the insulating substrate 20. The first gap Ga1 between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 in the display area DA and the second gap Ga2 between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 in the incident light control area PCA are maintained by the plurality of spacers SP. In the display area DA, the spacers SP are covered by the light-shielding part BMA2 (light-shielding part BMA). In the incident light control area PCA, the spacer SP is covered by the second light-shielding part BM2 or the third light-shielding part BM3.

[0211] In the incident light control region PCA, the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 are driven in the ECB (Electrically Controlled Birefringence) mode by the longitudinal electric field mode, so that a λ / 4 plate QP2 is sandwiched between the polarizing plate PL2 and the insulating substrate 20, and a λ / 4 plate QP1 is sandwiched between the polarizing plate PL1 and the insulating substrate 10.

[0212] In the display area DA and the incident light control area PCA, the polarizing plate PL1 and the polarizing plate PL2 are common. The easy transmission axis (polarization axis) of the polarizing plate PL1 and the polarizing plate PL2 is oriented in the same direction in the display area DA and the incident light control area PCA. The easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL1 and the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL2 are orthogonal to each other.

[0213] In contrast, the display liquid crystal layer LCI in the display area DA is driven in the transverse electric field mode, as in the first embodiment described above. In the present third embodiment, the display liquid crystal layer LCI is driven in the FFS mode, but can also be driven in the IPS mode. In the display area DA, when no voltage is applied between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE, an alignment axis (phase advance axis) of the liquid crystal molecules is orthogonal or parallel to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL1 (or polarizing plate PL2). Therefore, when no voltage is applied to the display liquid crystal layer LCI, no phase difference occurs in the display liquid crystal layer LCI, and the light is shielded because the easy transmission axes of the polarizing plate PL2 and the polarizing plate PL1 are orthogonal (normally black mode).

[0214] When a voltage is applied between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE, the liquid crystal molecules are rotated, and the phase advance axis of the liquid crystal molecules assumes an angle with respect to the polarization direction of linearly polarized light, resulting in a phase difference. In the display liquid crystal layer LCI, the birefringence index Δn and the gap Ga are adjusted so that the phase difference is π when the liquid crystal molecules are rotated (the phase advance axis is tilted 45° to the polarization direction) (Δn × Ga = 1 / 2λ). The light passing through the display liquid crystal layer LCI changes from linearly polarized light parallel to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL1 to linearly polarized light tilted 90° to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL1.Therefore, in the display area DA, light is transmitted by applying a voltage between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE.

[0215] In the present third embodiment, the same liquid crystal layer LC and the same polarizing plates PL1 and PL2 are used in both the display region DA and the incident light control region PCA, and the alignment axes of the liquid crystal molecules are also in the same direction. Therefore, the phase difference of the liquid crystal layer LC is also the same, and the direction of the alignment axis of the liquid crystal molecules with respect to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plates PL1 and PL2 is also the same.

[0216] Therefore, in the incident light control area PCA, the λ / 4 plate QP2 and the λ / 4 plate QP1 are sandwiched between the polarizing plate PL2 and the polarizing plate PL1. The phase retardation axis of the λ / 4 plate QP2 is tilted 45° to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL2, and the phase retardation axis of the λ / 4 plate QP1 is tilted 45° to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL1. The light passing through the λ / 4 plate QP2 and the λ / 4 plate QP1 changes from linearly to circularly polarized light or from circularly to linearly polarized light.

[0217] In the present third embodiment, the phase retardation axis of the λ / 4 plate QP1 is tilted by +45° to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL1, and the linearly polarized light emitted by the polarizing plate PL1 changes into right-handed circularly polarized light. In the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3, the birefringence index Δn and the second gap Ga2 are adjusted so that the phase difference is π (Δn × Ga2 = 1 / 2λ), and the light changes from right-handed circularly polarized light to left-handed circularly polarized light.

[0218] The phase retardation axis of the λ / 4 plate QP2 is tilted by -45° to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL1, and the light passing through the λ / 4 plate QP2 changes into linearly polarized light tilted by 90° to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL1 and passes through the polarizing plate PL2.

[0219] In the present third embodiment, the first substrate SUB1 is positioned in the incident light control region PCA and is provided with a control electrode pattern group REG including the plurality of control electrode patterns RE. The second substrate SUB2 is positioned in the incident light control region PCA and has a counter electrode OE opposite the control electrode pattern group REG. Therefore, light is transmitted in the incident light control region PCA without an applied voltage between the control electrode pattern RE and the counter electrode OE (normally white mode). The second substrate SUB2 of the present third embodiment has a transparent layer TL instead of the color filter CF in the incident light control region PCA.

[0220] In ECB mode, the amount of transmitted light is controlled by applying a voltage between the control electrode structure RE and the counter electrode OE and aligning the liquid crystal molecules along a direction perpendicular to the first and second substrates SUB1 and SUB2, thus utilizing a change in the birefringence (Δn) of the liquid crystal molecules.

[0221] In the present third embodiment, the birefringence for the transmitted light is reduced and the amount of the transmitted light is decreased by applying a voltage between the control electrode structure RE and the counter electrode OE and making the direction of the long axis of the liquid crystal molecules along the direction perpendicular to the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2.

[0222] For example, when the birefringence Δn is 0 and the phase difference is 0, the light passing through the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 remains as right-handed circularly polarized light, and the right-handed circularly polarized light passing through the λ / 4 plate QP2 becomes linearly polarized light parallel to the easy transmission axis of the polarizing plate PL1 and does not pass through the polarizing plate PL2. Therefore, by applying a voltage between the control electrode structure RE and the counter electrode OE, the light entering the camera 1 can be reduced at the aperture DP (non-transmission state).

[0223] Fig. Fig. 21 shows a plan view of the light-shielding layer BM in the incident light control region PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL according to the present third embodiment. The present third embodiment differs from the above-mentioned first embodiment ( Fig. 8) in that the first incident light control area TA1, the second incident light control area TA2 and the third incident light control area TA3 are each divided into two areas.

[0224] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the first incident light control area TA1 includes a first area TA1a and a second area TA1b apart from the first area TA1a. The second incident light control area TA2 includes a third area TA2a and a fourth area TA2b apart from the third area TA2a. The third incident light control area TA3 includes a fifth area TA3a and a sixth area TA3b apart from the fifth area TA3a.

[0225] In the present third embodiment, the first region TA1a and the second region TA1b are adjacent to each other in the Y direction, the third region TA2a and the fourth region TA2b are adjacent to each other in the Y direction, and the fifth region TA3a and the sixth region TA3b are adjacent to each other in the Y direction. In addition, the boundary of the first region TA1a and the second region TA1b, the boundary of the third region TA2a and the fourth region TA2b, and the boundary of the fifth region TA3a and the sixth region TA3b are oriented in the X direction.

[0226] The incident light control area PCA can be divided into a first area A1 and a second area A2 according to the diameter of the circle formed by the outer periphery of the first light-shielding part BM1. In the present third embodiment, the first area A1 includes the first area TA1a, the third area TA2a, and the sixth area TA3b. The second area A2 includes the second area TA1b, the fourth area TA2b, and the fifth area TA3a.

[0227] However, the manner of dividing the first incident light control area TA1, the second incident light control area TA2 and the third incident light control area TA3 into two areas is shown by way of example in the present third embodiment and can be varied in various ways.

[0228] Next, the formation of the first control electrode structure RE1, the second control electrode structure RE2, the third control electrode structure RE3, the fourth control electrode structure RE4, the fifth control electrode structure RE5, the sixth control electrode structure RE6, and the counter electrode OE in driving the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 in the longitudinal electric field mode in the incident light control area PCA will be explained. Fig. 22 shows a plan view of the plurality of control electrode structures RE and the plurality of laid lines L of the first substrate SUB1 according to the present third embodiment. As shown in Fig. 22 and Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the first control electrode structure RE1 includes the first power supply line CL1 positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1, and the first control electrode RL1 positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1 and the first region TA1a. The first power supply line CL1 includes the first line WL1. In the present third embodiment, the first line WL1 and the first control electrode RL1 are integrally formed.

[0229] The second control electrode structure RE2 includes the second power supply line CL2 positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1, and the second control electrode RL2 positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1 and the second region TA1b. The second power supply line CL2 includes the second line WL2. In the present third embodiment, the second line WL2 and the second control electrode RL2 are integrally formed.

[0230] The third control electrode structure RE3 includes the third power supply line CL3 positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2, and the third control electrode RL3 positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2 and the third region TA2a. The third power supply line CL3 includes the third line WL3.

[0231] The fourth control electrode structure RE4 includes the fourth power supply line CL4 positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2, and the fourth control electrode RL4 positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2 and the fourth region TA2b. The fourth power supply line CL4 includes the fourth line WL4.

[0232] The fifth control electrode structure RE5 includes the fifth power supply line CL5 positioned in the third light-shielding region LSA3, and the fifth control electrode RL5 positioned in the third light-shielding region LSA3 and the fifth region TA3a. The fifth power supply line CL5 includes the fifth line WL5. In the present third embodiment, the fifth line WL5 and the fifth control electrode RL5 are integrally formed.

[0233] The sixth control electrode structure RE6 includes the sixth power supply line CL6 positioned in the third light-shielding region LSA3, and the sixth control electrode RL6 positioned in the third light-shielding region LSA3 and the sixth region TA3b. The sixth power supply line CL6 includes the sixth line WL6. In the present third embodiment, the sixth line WL6 and the sixth control electrode RL6 are integrally formed.

[0234] In the present third embodiment, the first control electrode structure RE1, the third control electrode structure RE3, and the fifth control electrode structure RE5 are located between the insulating layer 13 and the alignment film AL1. The second control electrode structure RE2, the fourth control electrode structure RE4, and the sixth control electrode structure RE6 are located between the insulating layer 12 and the insulating layer 13.

[0235] Fig. 23 shows a plan view of the counter electrode OE and a laid line Lo of the second substrate SUB2 according to the present third embodiment. As shown in Fig. 23 and Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the counter electrode OE is located in the incident light control area PCA. The counter electrode OE includes an opposing power supply line CLo positioned in the first light-shielding area LSA1 and a counter electrode body OM positioned in the incident light control area PCA. The opposing power supply line CLo includes a counter line WLo having a circular ring shape. In the present third embodiment, the counter line WLo and the counter electrode body OM are formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO.

[0236] The counter electrode body OM comprises a plurality of linear counter electrodes OML. The plurality of linear counter electrodes OML are positioned in the incident light control area PCA, are electrically connected to the counter line WLo, extend linearly in the third extension direction d3, and are arranged in a row in the orthogonal direction dc3, orthogonal to the third extension direction d3, spaced apart from each other.

[0237] In the present third embodiment, the counter line WLo and the linear counter electrodes OML are integrally formed. The third extension direction d3 points in the same direction as the X direction, and the orthogonal direction dc3 points in the same direction as the Y direction. From the above, the counter electrode OE is an electrode having a plurality of slits OS extending in the third extension direction d3 and arranged at a distance from each other in the orthogonal direction dc3.

[0238] In the incident light control area PCA, the laid line Lo extends in the first extension direction d1. The laid line Lo is made of metal and is electrically connected to the counter line WLo. The laid line Lo runs through the area covered by a light-shielding part (BMA2) in the display area DA. However, it is sufficient for the laid line Lo to run through at least one of the light-shielding parts BMA1 and BMA2 in the display area DA.

[0239] The opposite power supply line CLo and the laid line Lo can each be formed with a laminate of a transparent conductive layer and a metal layer.

[0240] The voltage applied to the counter electrode OE via the installed line Lo is called the counter voltage. The voltage applied to the counter electrode (second common electrode) OE can also be called the common voltage.

[0241] Fig. 24 shows a plan view of the plurality of first control electrodes RL1, the plurality of second control electrodes RL2, and the plurality of linear counter electrodes OML according to the present third embodiment.

[0242] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 24, the plurality of first control electrodes RL1 are positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1 and the first region TA1a, are electrically connected to the first wiring WL1, extend linearly in the third extension direction d3, and are arrayed at a distance from each other in the orthogonal direction dc3. The plurality of second control electrodes RL2 are positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1 and the second region TA1b, are electrically connected to the second wiring WL2, extend linearly in the third extension direction d3, and are arrayed at a distance from each other in the orthogonal direction dc3.

[0243] The first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 have strip-shaped sections with sides along the above-mentioned diameter, which separate the first region A1 from the second region A2.

[0244] Fig. 25 shows a sectional view of the liquid crystal panel PNL along the line XXV-XXV in Fig. 24, wherein the insulating substrates 10, 20, the plurality of first control electrodes RL1, the plurality of second control electrodes RL2, the plurality of linear counter electrodes OML, and the first control liquid crystal layer LC1 are shown. In Fig. 25 only shows the training courses necessary for explanation.

[0245] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 25, a first gap SC1 of a pair of adjacent first control electrodes RL1 faces a corresponding linear counter electrode OML. A second gap SC2 of a pair of adjacent second control electrodes RL2 faces a corresponding linear counter electrode OML. A third gap SC3 between the adjacent first and second control electrodes RL1 and RL2 faces a corresponding linear counter electrode OML. A fourth gap SC4 of a pair of adjacent linear counter electrodes OML faces a corresponding first control electrode RL1 or a corresponding second control electrode RL2.

[0246] In the orthogonal direction dc3, the width WD1 of the first control electrode RL1 and the width WD2 of the second control electrode RL2 are each 390 µm, and the first gap SC1, the second gap SC2, and the third gap SC3 are each 10 µm. In the orthogonal direction dc3, the width WDo of the linear counter electrode OML is 390 µm, and the fourth gap SC4 is 10 µm.

[0247] The pitches of the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 in the orthogonal direction dc3 and the pitch of the linear counter electrode OML can be as in the above-mentioned first embodiment ( Fig. 10) are randomly determined.

[0248] When the first control electrode pattern RE1, the second control electrode pattern RE2, and the counter electrode OE are driven under the first condition (opening condition of the shutter DP), the liquid crystal panel PNL places the first incident light control region TA1 in the transmitting state. The first control voltage applied to the first control electrode pattern RE1 and the second control voltage applied to the second control electrode pattern RE2 are equal to the counter voltage applied to the counter electrode OE, respectively.

[0249] In contrast, when the first control electrode pattern RE1, the second control electrode pattern RE2, and the counter electrode OE are driven under the third condition (condition for dimming the aperture DP), the second condition (condition for further dimming the aperture DP), and the fourth condition (condition for closing the aperture DP), the liquid crystal panel PNL puts the first incident light control region TA1 into the non-transmittance state.

[0250] When considering a period of time during which the first control liquid crystal layer LC1 is driven, one of the first and second control voltages is positive due to the reverse voltage. During this period, the control voltage of the other of the first and second control voltages is negative due to the reverse voltage. With respect to the reverse voltage, the polarity of the first control voltage differs from the polarity of the second control voltage.

[0251] Therefore, the polarity of the voltage generated between the first control electrode structure RE1 and the counter electrode OE and applied to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1 differs from the polarity of the voltage generated between the second control electrode structure RE2 and the counter electrode OE and applied to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1. The influence of the potential fluctuation of the counter electrode OE caused by the potential fluctuation of the first control electrode structure RE1 and the influence of the potential fluctuation of the counter electrode OE caused by the potential fluctuation of the second control electrode structure RE2 cancel each other out. This allows the undesirable potential fluctuation of the counter electrode OE to be suppressed.

[0252] In the present third embodiment, the absolute value of the difference between the counter voltage and the first control voltage is equal to the absolute value of the difference between the counter voltage and the second control voltage. Therefore, the undesirable potential fluctuation of the counter electrode OE can be further suppressed.

[0253] In contrast to the present third embodiment, it is undesirable that the respective polarities of the first and second control voltages are the same as the counter voltage, since this leads to an undesirable potential fluctuation of the counter electrode OE.

[0254] As mentioned above, polarity inversion driving can be performed in which the polarity of the first control voltage and the polarity of the second control voltage are reversed with respect to the reverse voltage during the period in which the first control liquid crystal layer LC1 is driven under the second to fourth conditions. During the above-mentioned period, the reverse voltage is a constant voltage.

[0255] The positional relationship between the first gap SC1, the second gap SC2, and the third gap SC3 and the linear counter electrode OML is as described above. The positional relationship between the fourth gap SC4 and each of the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 is as described above. During the period when the first control liquid crystal layer LC1 is driven under the second to fourth conditions, an oblique electric field can be generated between the first control electrode RL1 and the linear counter electrode OML, and an oblique electric field can be generated between the second control electrode RL2 and the linear counter electrode OML. Therefore, compared with the case where the above-mentioned electric field is parallel to the Z direction, the direction in which the liquid crystal molecules of the first control liquid crystal layer LC1 rise can be further controlled.In the drawing, the above electric field is shown as a dashed line.

[0256] Fig. 26 shows a plan view of the third control electrode structure RE3 and the fourth control electrode structure RE4 according to the present third embodiment.

[0257] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 26, the third control electrode RL3 and the fourth control electrode RL4 each have a semicircular shape with one side parallel to the third extension direction d3. The above-mentioned sides of the third control electrode RL3 and the fourth control electrode RL4 lie along the above-mentioned diameter separating the first region A1 and the second region A2. The third control electrode RL3 and the fourth control electrode RL4 are arranged spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc3.

[0258] As in Fig. 26 and Fig. As shown in Figure 22, the inner diameter of the third line WL3 is smaller than that of the sixth line WL6. The inner diameter of the fourth line WL4 is smaller than that of the third line WL3.

[0259] Fig. Figure 27 shows a sectional view of the liquid crystal panel PNL along the line XXVII-XXVII in Fig. 26, wherein the insulating substrates 10, 20, the third control electrode structure RE3, the fourth control electrode structure RE4, the linear counter electrode OML, and the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 are shown. In Fig. 27 only shows the training courses necessary for explanation.

[0260] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 27, the fifth gap SC5 lies between the adjacent third and fourth control electrodes RL3 and RL4 opposite a corresponding linear counter electrode OML. The fifth gap SC5 is oriented with the above-mentioned third gap SC3 in the third extension direction d3 ( Fig. 22 and Fig. 25).

[0261] When the third control electrode pattern RE3, the fourth control electrode pattern RE4, and the counter electrode OE are driven under the first, second, and third conditions, the liquid crystal panel PNL places the second incident light control region TA2 in the transmitting state. The third control voltage applied to the third control electrode pattern RE3 and the fourth control voltage applied to the fourth control electrode pattern RE4 are the same as the counter voltage applied to the counter electrode OE.

[0262] In contrast, when the third control electrode pattern RE3, the fourth control electrode pattern RE4, and the counter electrode OE are driven under the fourth condition, the liquid crystal panel PNL puts the second incident light control region TA2 into a non-transmission state.

[0263] When considering a period of time during which the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 is driven, one of the third and fourth control voltages is positive due to the reverse voltage. During this period, the control voltage of the other of the third and fourth control voltages is negative due to the reverse voltage.

[0264] Therefore, the polarity of the voltage developed between the third control electrode structure RE3 and the counter electrode OE and applied to the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 differs from the polarity of the voltage developed between the fourth control electrode structure RE4 and the counter electrode OE and applied to the second control liquid crystal layer LC2. In the present third embodiment, the absolute value of the difference between the counter voltage and the third control voltage and the absolute value of the difference between the counter voltage and the fourth control voltage are the same.

[0265] In contrast to the present third embodiment, it is undesirable that the respective polarities of the third and fourth control voltages are the same with respect to the counter voltage, since this leads to an undesirable potential fluctuation of the counter electrode OE.

[0266] As explained above, during the period in which the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 is driven under the fourth condition, polarity inversion driving can be performed in which the polarity of the third control voltage and the polarity of the fourth control voltage are reversed with respect to the reverse voltage. In the above-mentioned period, the reverse voltage is a constant voltage. When the third control electrode pattern RE3 and the fourth control electrode pattern RE4 are driven under the first condition, the polarity inversion driving of the third control electrode pattern RE3 and the fourth control electrode pattern RE4 can be performed synchronously with the polarity inversion driving of the first control electrode pattern RE1 and the second control electrode pattern RE2.

[0267] Furthermore, the positional relationship between the fifth gap SC5 and the linear counter electrode OML is as described above. Therefore, compared to the case where the electric field generated between the third control electrode RL3 and the linear counter electrode OML and the electric field generated between the fourth control electrode RL4 and the linear counter electrode OML are parallel to the Z direction, the direction in which the liquid crystal molecules of the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 rise can be further controlled.

[0268] Fig. 28 shows a plan view of the fifth control electrode structure RE5 and the sixth control electrode structure RE6 according to the present third embodiment.

[0269] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 28, the plurality of fifth control electrodes RL5 are positioned in the third light-shielding region LSA3 and the fifth region TA3a, are electrically connected to the fifth wiring WL5, extend linearly in the third extension direction d3, and are arrayed spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc3. The plurality of sixth control electrodes RL6 are positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1 and the sixth region TA3b, are electrically connected to the sixth wiring WL6, extend linearly in the third extension direction d3, and are arrayed spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc3.

[0270] The fifth line WL5 and the sixth control electrode RL6 have strip-shaped sections with sides along the above-mentioned diameter, which separate the first region A1 from the second region A2.

[0271] Fig. Figure 29 shows a sectional view of the liquid crystal panel PNL along the line XXIX-XXIX in Fig. 28, wherein the insulating substrates 10, 20, the plurality of fifth control electrodes RL5, the plurality of sixth control electrodes RL6, the plurality of linear counter electrodes OML, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 are shown. In Fig. 29 only shows the training courses necessary for explanation.

[0272] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 29, a sixth gap SC6 of a pair of adjacent fifth control electrodes RL5 faces a corresponding linear counter electrode OML. A seventh gap SC7 of a pair of adjacent sixth control electrodes RL6 faces a corresponding linear counter electrode OML. An eighth gap SC8 between the adjacent fifth and sixth control electrodes RL5 and RL6 faces a corresponding linear counter electrode OML. A fourth gap SC4 faces a corresponding fifth control electrode RL5 or a corresponding sixth control electrode RL6.

[0273] The eighth gap SC8 is oriented in the third extension direction d3 with the above-mentioned third gap SC3 and the above-mentioned fifth gap SC5 ( Fig. 22, Fig. 25 and Fig. 27). The sixth gap SC6 is oriented with the second gap SC2 in the third extension direction d3 ( Fig. 22 and Fig. 25). The seventh gap SC7 is oriented with the first gap SC1 in the third extension direction d3 ( Fig. 22 and Fig. 25).

[0274] In the orthogonal direction dc3, the width WD5 of the fifth control electrode RL5 and the width WD6 of the sixth control electrode RL6 are each 390 µm, and the sixth gap SC6, the seventh gap SC7 and the eighth gap SC8 are each 10 µm.

[0275] The pitches of the fifth and sixth control electrodes RL5 and RL6 in the orthogonal direction dc3 can be as in the first embodiment ( Fig. 10) are randomly determined.

[0276] When the fifth control electrode pattern RE5, the sixth control electrode pattern RE6, and the counter electrode OE are driven under the first and third conditions, the liquid crystal panel PNL places the third incident light control region TA3 in a transmitting state. The fifth control voltage applied to the fifth control electrode pattern RE5 and the sixth control voltage applied to the sixth control electrode pattern RE6 are the same as the counter voltage applied to the counter electrode OE.

[0277] In contrast, when the fifth control electrode pattern RE5, the sixth control electrode pattern RE6, and the counter electrode OE are driven under the second and fourth conditions, the liquid crystal panel PNL puts the third incident light control region TA3 into a non-transmission state.

[0278] When considering a period of time during which the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 is driven, one of the fifth and sixth control voltages is positive due to the reverse voltage. During this period, the control voltage of the other of the fifth and sixth control voltages is negative due to the reverse voltage.

[0279] Therefore, the polarity of the voltage generated between the fifth control electrode structure RE5 and the counter electrode OE and applied to the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 differs from the polarity of the voltage generated between the sixth control electrode structure RE6 and the counter electrode OE and applied to the third control liquid crystal layer LC3. In the present third embodiment, the absolute value of the difference between the counter voltage and the fifth control voltage and the absolute value of the difference between the counter voltage and the sixth control voltage are the same.

[0280] In contrast to the present third embodiment, it is undesirable that the respective polarities of the fifth and sixth control voltages are the same with respect to the counter voltage, since this leads to an undesirable potential fluctuation of the counter electrode OE.

[0281] As explained above, polarity inversion driving can be performed in which the polarity of the fifth control voltage and the polarity of the sixth control voltage are reversed with respect to the reverse voltage during the period in which the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 is driven under the second and fourth conditions. During the above-mentioned period, the reverse voltage is a constant voltage. When the fifth control electrode pattern RE5 and the sixth control electrode pattern RE6 are driven under the second and fourth conditions, the polarity inversion driving of the fifth control electrode pattern RE5 and the sixth control electrode pattern RE6 can be performed synchronously with the polarity inversion driving of the first control electrode pattern RE1 and the second control electrode pattern RE2.

[0282] The positional relationship between the sixth gap SC6, the seventh gap SC7, and the eighth gap SC8 and the linear counter electrode OML is as described above. Therefore, compared to the case where the electric field generated between the fifth control electrode RL5 and the linear counter electrode OML and the electric field generated between the sixth control electrode RL6 and the linear counter electrode OML are parallel to the Z direction, the direction in which the liquid crystal molecules of the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 rise can be further controlled.

[0283] According to the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 according to the third embodiment configured as above, it is possible to obtain the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 that can control the light transmittance range of the incident light control area PCA. (Fourth embodiment)

[0284] Next, the present fourth embodiment will be explained. The electronic device 100 is configured in the same manner as the above-mentioned first embodiment, except for the configuration explained in the present fourth embodiment. Fig. 30 shows a plan view of the first control electrode structure RE1 and the second control electrode structure RE2 of the liquid crystal panel PNL of the electronic device 100 according to the present fourth embodiment. In Fig. 30 only shows the training courses necessary for explanation.

[0285] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 30, the first line WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the second line WL2, and the second control electrode RL2 are each formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO. The insulating layer 13 is sandwiched between one or more conductors of the first line WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the second line WL2, and the second control electrode RL2 and the remaining conductors of the first line WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the second line WL2, and the second control electrode RL2 ( Fig. 10).

[0286] The above-mentioned one or more conductors are provided on the same layer as one of the pixel electrodes PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned one electrode ( Fig. 7). The above-mentioned remaining conductors are provided on the same layer as the other electrode of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned other electrode ( Fig. 7).

[0287] In the present fourth embodiment, the insulating layer 13 is sandwiched between the line group of the first line WL1 and the second line WL2 and the electrode group of the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 ( Fig. 10). In other words, the line WL and the control electrodes RL are formed in different layers over the insulating layer 13.

[0288] The first line WL1 and the second line WL2 are provided on the same layer as the common electrode CE, are formed of the same transparent conductive material as the common electrode CE, and are arranged spaced apart from each other ( Fig. 7). The first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 are provided on the same layer as the pixel electrode PE, are made of the same transparent conductive material as the pixel electrode PE, and are spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc3 ( Fig. 7). The first control electrode RL1, the second control electrode RL2, and the pixel electrode PE are formed from the first conductive layer (transparent conductive layer). The first wiring WL1, the second wiring WL2, and the common electrode CE are formed from the second conductive layer (transparent conductive layer).

[0289] The first control electrode structure RE1 further comprises one or more first metal layers ME1. The first metal layer ME1 is positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1, is in contact with the first line WL1, and, together with the first line WL1, forms the first power supply line CL1. The first metal layer ME1 contributes to the low resistance of the first power supply line CL1.

[0290] The second control electrode structure RE2 further comprises one or more second metal layers ME2. The second metal layer ME2 is positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1, is in contact with the second line WL2, and, together with the second line WL2, forms the second power supply line CL2. The second metal layer ME2 contributes to the low resistance of the second power supply line CL2.

[0291] In the present fourth embodiment, the above-mentioned first metal layer ME1 and the second metal layer ME2 are arranged on the same layer as the metal layer ML and are made of the same metal material as the metal layer ML.

[0292] The first control electrode RL1 is passed through a contact hole ho1 formed in the insulating layer 13 and is in contact with the first wiring WL1. The second control electrode RL2 is passed through a contact hole ho2 formed in the insulating layer 13 and is in contact with the second wiring WL2. The first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 are arranged alternately in the orthogonal direction dc1. The first control electrode RL1 intersects the second wiring WL2 and extends in the first extension direction d1.

[0293] In the orthogonal direction dc1, the width WT1 of the first control electrode RL1 is 2 µm, and the width WT2 of the second control electrode RL2 is 2 µm, and the plurality of gaps SF are not constant. The aforementioned gaps SF here refer to the gaps between the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2, and they randomly change in the first incident light control area TA1.

[0294] For example, the slit SF changes randomly in units of 0.25 µm with a center of 8 µm. The slits SF arranged in the orthogonal direction dc1 change in the order 7.75 µm, 6.25 µm, 10.25 µm, 8.75 µm, 7.25 µm, 5.75 µm, 6.75 µm, 9.25 µm, 8.25 µm, and 9.75 µm.

[0295] The pitch between the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 can be constant, but should preferably be randomly set as in the present fourth embodiment. This can prevent the occurrence of diffraction and interference of light, which occur when the above-mentioned pitch is constant. The gap SF can be randomly changed in units of 0.25 µm, with a center of 8 µm to 18 µm.

[0296] As above, for the first control electrode structure RE1 and the second control electrode structure RE2, Fig. 30, the calculation can be carried out using Fig. However, the technique explained in Figure 30 can also be applied to the fifth control electrode structure RE5 and the sixth control electrode structure RE6.

[0297] Fig. 31 shows a plan view of the third control electrode structure RE3, the fourth control electrode structure RE4, the fifth control electrode structure RE5, the sixth control electrode structure RE6, the third laid line L3, and the fourth laid line L4 according to the present fourth embodiment.

[0298] As in Fig. 31, the liquid crystal panel PNL also has a configuration corresponding to the IPS mode in the second incident light control region TA2.

[0299] The third control electrode structure RE3 has the third power supply line CL3 and the third control electrode RL3.

[0300] The third power supply line CL3 is positioned in the second light-shielding area LSA2 and comprises the third line WL3 with a circular ring shape and a third metal layer ME3 ( Fig. 8). In the present fourth embodiment, the third line WL3 has a C-shape and is formed by dividing a region through which the fourth laid line L4 passes. The third metal layer ME3 is positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2, contacts the third line WL3, and together with the third line WL3, forms the third power supply line CL3. The third metal layer ME3 contributes to the low resistance of the third power supply line CL3.

[0301] The plurality of third control electrodes RL3 are positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2 and the second incident light control region TA2, are electrically connected to the third line WL3, extend linearly in the first extension direction d1, and are arrayed spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc1 ( Fig. 8).

[0302] The plurality of third control electrodes RL3 are connected to the third line WL3 at both ends. However, the plurality of third control electrodes RL3 may include a third control electrode RL3 that is connected to the third line WL3 at one end and is not connected to the third line WL3 at the other end.

[0303] The fourth control electrode structure RE4 has the fourth power supply line CL4 and the fourth control electrode RL4.

[0304] The fourth power supply line CL4 is positioned in the second light-shielding area LSA2 and comprises the fourth line WL4 having a circular ring shape and a fourth metal layer ME4 ( Fig. 8). The fourth line WL4 is adjacent to the third line WL3. In the present fourth embodiment, the fourth line WL4 is positioned inside the third line WL3, but it may also be positioned outside the third line WL3. The fourth metal layer ME4 is positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2, is in contact with the fourth line WL4, and together with the fourth line WL4, forms the fourth power supply line CL4. The fourth metal layer ME4 contributes to the low resistance of the fourth power supply line CL4.

[0305] The plurality of fourth control electrodes RL4 are positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2 and the second incident light control region TA2, are electrically connected to the fourth line WL4, extend linearly in the first extension direction d1, and are arrayed spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc1 ( Fig. 8).

[0306] The plurality of fourth control electrodes RL4 are connected to the fourth line WL4 at both ends. However, the plurality of fourth control electrodes RL4 may include a fourth control electrode RL4 that is connected to the fourth line WL4 at one end and is not connected to the fourth line WL4 at the other end.

[0307] The third control electrode RL3 intersects the fourth line WL4. The plurality of third control electrodes RL3 and the plurality of fourth control electrodes RL4 are alternately arrayed in the orthogonal direction dc1. The third line WL3, the third control electrode RL3, the fourth line WL4, and the fourth control electrode RL4 are each formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO. The insulating layer 13 is sandwiched between one or more conductors of the third line WL3, the third control electrode RL3, the fourth line WL4, and the fourth control electrode RL4 and the remaining conductors of the third line WL3, the third control electrode RL3, the fourth line WL4, and the fourth control electrode RL4 ( Fig. 10).

[0308] The above-mentioned one or more conductors are provided on the same layer as one of the pixel electrodes PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned one electrode ( Fig. 7). The above-mentioned remaining conductors are provided on the same layer as the other electrode of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned other electrode ( Fig. 7).

[0309] In the present fourth embodiment, the insulating layer 13 is sandwiched between the line group of the third line WL3 and the fourth line WL4 and the electrode group of the third control electrode RL3 and the fourth control electrode RL4 ( Fig. 10).

[0310] The third line WL3 and the fourth line WL4 are provided on the same layer as the common electrode CE, are made of the same transparent conductive material as the common electrode CE and are arranged at a distance from each other ( Fig. 7). The third control electrode RL3 and the fourth control electrode RL4 are provided on the same layer as the pixel electrode PE and are made of the same transparent conductive material as the pixel electrode PE ( Fig. 7).

[0311] The third control electrode RL3 is passed through the contact hole ho3 formed in the insulating layer 13 and is in contact with the third line WL3. The fourth control electrode RL4 is passed through the contact hole ho4 formed in the insulating layer 13 and is in contact with the fourth line WL4.

[0312] In the present fourth embodiment, the inner diameter DI4 of the second light-shielding part BM2 is 200 µm ( Fig. 8). In the orthogonal direction dc1, the plurality of third control electrodes RL3 and the plurality of fourth control electrodes RL4 are arranged at a random pitch with a center of 10 µm.

[0313] In the present fourth embodiment, the third laid line L3 and the fourth laid line L4 are formed with a laminate of a transparent conductive layer and a metal layer.

[0314] According to the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 according to the fourth embodiment configured as above, the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 that can control the light transmission range of the incident light control area PCA can be obtained. (Fifth embodiment)

[0315] Next, the present fifth embodiment will be explained. The electronic device 100 is configured in the same manner as in the above-mentioned third embodiment ( Fig. 22), except for the configuration explained in the present fifth embodiment. Fig. 32 shows a plan view of the first control electrode structure RE1 and the second control electrode structure RE2 of the liquid crystal panel PNL of the electronic device 100 according to the fifth embodiment. In Fig. 32 only shows the training courses necessary for explanation.

[0316] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 32, the first line WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the second line WL2, and the second control electrode RL2 are each formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO. The insulating layer 13 is sandwiched between one or more conductors of the first line WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the second line WL2, and the second control electrode RL2 and the remaining conductors of the first line WL1, the first control electrode RL1, the second line WL2, and the second control electrode RL2 ( Fig. 10).

[0317] The above-mentioned one or more conductors are provided on the same layer as one of the pixel electrodes PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned one electrode ( Fig. 7). The above-mentioned remaining conductors are provided on the same layer as the other electrode of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned other electrode ( Fig. 7).

[0318] In the present fifth embodiment, the insulating layer 13 is sandwiched between the line group of the first line WL1 and the second line WL2 and the electrode group of the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 ( Fig. 10).

[0319] The first line WL1 and the second line WL2 are provided on the same layer as the common electrode CE, are formed of the same transparent conductive material as the common electrode CE, and are arranged spaced apart from each other ( Fig. 7). The first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 are provided on the same layer as the pixel electrode PE, are made of the same transparent conductive material as the pixel electrode PE, and are spaced apart from each other in the orthogonal direction dc3 ( Fig. 7).

[0320] The first control electrode structure RE1 further comprises one or more first metal layers ME1. The first metal layer ME1 is positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1, is in contact with the first line WL1, and together with the first line WL1 forms the first power supply line CL1 ( Fig. 21). The first metal layer ME1 contributes to the low resistance of the first power supply line CL1.

[0321] The second control electrode structure RE2 further comprises one or more second metal layers ME2. The second metal layer ME2 is positioned in the first light-shielding region LSA1, is in contact with the second line WL2, and together with the second line WL2 forms the second power supply line CL2 ( Fig. 21). The second metal layer ME2 contributes to the low resistance of the second power supply line CL2.

[0322] In the present fifth embodiment, the above-mentioned first metal layer ME1 and the second metal layer ME2 are provided on the same layer as the metal layer ML and are made of the same metal material as the metal layer ML.

[0323] The first control electrode RL1 is positioned in the first region TA1a, intersects the second line WL2, and extends in the third extension direction d3. The second control electrode RL2 is positioned in the second region TA1b and extends in the third extension direction d3.

[0324] The first control electrode RL1 is passed through a contact hole ho1 formed in the insulating layer 13 and is in contact with the first wiring WL1. The second control electrode RL2 is passed through a contact hole ho2 formed in the insulating layer 13 and is in contact with the second wiring WL2. In the present fifth embodiment, the first control electrode RL1 and the second control electrode RL2 are each in contact with the corresponding wiring WL at two locations.

[0325] Although the case where the first metal layer ME1 is included in the first power supply line CL1 and the second metal layer ME2 is included in the second power supply line CL2 has been explained, it is also possible to form the first power supply line CL1, the second power supply line CL2 and the laid line L only with transparent conductive layers, for example, when the control electrode pattern RE and the laid line L are not covered with the light-shielding layer BM.

[0326] As mentioned above, the first control electrode structure RE1 and the second control electrode structure RE2 were Fig. 32, but the results obtained from Fig. 32 can also be applied to the fifth control electrode structure RE5 and the sixth control electrode structure RE6.

[0327] Fig. 33 shows a plan view of the third control electrode structure RE3, the fourth control electrode structure RE4, the fifth control electrode structure RE5, the sixth control electrode structure RE6, the third laid line L3, and the fourth laid line L4 according to the present fifth embodiment.

[0328] As in Fig. 33, the liquid crystal panel PNL has a structure corresponding to the longitudinal electric field mode also in the second incident light control region TA2.

[0329] The third control electrode structure RE3 has the third power supply line CL3 and the third control electrode RL3.

[0330] The third power supply line CL3 is positioned in the second light-shielding area LSA2 and comprises the third line WL3 with a circular ring shape and a third metal layer ME3 ( Fig. 21). In the present fifth embodiment, the third line WL3 has a C-shape and is formed by dividing a region through which the fourth laid line L4 passes. The third metal layer ME3 is positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2, is in contact with the third line WL3, and together with the third line WL3, forms the third power supply line CL3. The third metal layer ME3 contributes to the low resistance of the third power supply line CL3. The third control electrode RL3 is positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2 and the third region TA2a and is electrically connected to the third line WL3 ( Fig. 21).

[0331] The fourth control electrode structure RE4 has the fourth power supply line CL4 and the fourth control electrode RL4.

[0332] The fourth power supply line CL4 is positioned in the second light-shielding area LSA2 and comprises the fourth line WL4 having a circular ring shape and a fourth metal layer ME4 ( Fig. 21). In the present fifth embodiment, the fourth line WL4 is positioned within the third line WL3, but may also be positioned outside the third line WL3. The fourth metal layer ME4 is positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2, is in contact with the fourth line WL4, and together with the fourth line WL4, forms the fourth power supply line CL4. The fourth metal layer ME4 contributes to the low resistance of the fourth power supply line CL4. The fourth control electrode RL4 is positioned in the second light-shielding region LSA2 and in the fourth region TA2b and is electrically connected to the fourth line WL4 ( Fig. 21).

[0333] The third line WL3, the third control electrode RL3, the fourth line WL4, and the fourth control electrode RL4 are each formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO. The insulating layer 13 is sandwiched between one or more conductors of the third line WL3, the third control electrode RL3, the fourth line WL4, and the fourth control electrode RL4 and the remaining conductors of the third line WL3, the third control electrode RL3, the fourth line WL4, and the fourth control electrode RL4 ( Fig. 10).

[0334] The above-mentioned one or more conductors are provided on the same layer as one of the pixel electrodes PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned one electrode ( Fig. 7). The above-mentioned remaining conductors are provided on the same layer as the other electrode of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE and are made of the same material as the above-mentioned other electrode ( Fig. 7).

[0335] In the present fifth embodiment, the insulating layer 13 is sandwiched between the line group of the third line WL3 and the fourth line WL4 and the electrode group of the third control electrode RL3 and the fourth control electrode RL4 ( Fig. 10).

[0336] The third line WL3 and the fourth line WL4 are provided on the same layer as the common electrode CE, are made of the same transparent conductive material as the common electrode CE and are arranged at a distance from each other ( Fig. 7). The third control electrode RL3 and the fourth control electrode RL4 are provided on the same layer as the pixel electrode PE and are made of the same transparent conductive material as the pixel electrode PE ( Fig. 7).

[0337] In the present fifth embodiment, the inner diameter (DI4) of the second light-shielding part BM2 is 200 µm. Fig. The widths WD1 and WD2 shown in Figure 32 are substantially 400 µm, as described above. Therefore, the third control electrode RL3 in the third region TA2a is neither split nor slotted. In the fourth region TA2b, the fourth control electrode RL4 is also neither split nor slotted.

[0338] The third control electrode RL3 has an extension portion RL3a. In the present fifth embodiment, the third control electrode RL3 has the plurality of extension portions RL3a. Each of the extension portions RL3a intersects the fourth wiring WL4, passes through the contact hole ho3 formed in the insulating layer 13, and is in contact with the third wiring WL3.

[0339] The fourth control electrode RL4 has an extension portion RL4a. In the present fifth embodiment, the fourth control electrode RL4 has the plurality of extension portions RL4a. Each of the extension portions RL4a passes through the contact hole ho4 formed in the insulating layer 13 and is in contact with the fourth wiring WL4.

[0340] In the present fifth embodiment, the third laid line L3 and the fourth laid line L4 are formed with a laminate of a transparent conductive layer and a metal layer.

[0341] According to the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 according to the fifth embodiment configured as above, the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 that can control the light transmission area of ​​the incident light control area PCA can be obtained. (Sixth Embodiment)

[0342] Next, the present sixth embodiment will be explained. The electronic device 100 is configured in the same manner as in the above-mentioned third embodiment ( Fig. 20), except for the configuration explained in the present sixth embodiment. Fig. 34 shows a plan view of the liquid crystal panel PNL of the electronic device 100 according to the present sixth embodiment. In Fig. 34 only shows the training courses necessary for explanation.

[0343] As in Fig. 34, the non-display area NDA includes a first non-display area NDA1 including the area where the extension portion Ex of the first substrate SUB1 is positioned, a second non-display area NDA2 positioned on the opposite side of the first non-display area NDA1 across the display area DA, a third non-display area NDA3 positioned between the first non-display area NDA1 and the second non-display area NDA2, and a fourth non-display area NDA4 positioned on the opposite side of the third non-display area NDA3 across the display area DA.

[0344] In the present sixth embodiment, the first non-display area NDA1 is positioned on the lower side, the second non-display area NDA2 is positioned on the upper side, the third non-display area NDA3 is positioned on the right side, and the fourth non-display area NDA4 is positioned on the left side.

[0345] The first substrate SUB1 further includes a plurality of pads PD including a first pad PD1, a second pad PD2, a third pad PD3, a fourth pad PD4, a fifth pad PD5, a sixth pad PD6, a seventh pad PD7, etc. These pads PD are positioned in the extension portion Ex of the first non-display area NDA1 of the first substrate SUB1 and oriented in the X direction.

[0346] The first routed line L1, the second routed line L2, the third routed line L3, the fourth routed line L4, the fifth routed line L5, and the sixth routed line L6 extend in the incident light control area PCA, the display area DA, and the non-display area NDA. In the present sixth embodiment, the aperture DP (incident light control area PCA) is provided at a position near the second non-display area NDA2 among the first to fourth non-display areas NDA1 to NDA4. Therefore, the first to sixth routed lines L1 to L6 bypass the display area DA and extend in the non-display area NDA, so that the extension distance in the display area DA is shortened as much as possible.

[0347] Here, the connection relationship between the control electrode structure RE and the pad (connection terminal) PD is explained.

[0348] As in Fig. 34 and Fig. As shown in Figure 22, the first routed line L1 electrically connects the first control electrode pattern RE1, positioned in the first incident light control region TA1, to the first pad PD1. The second routed line L2 electrically connects the second control electrode pattern RE2, positioned in the first incident light control region TA1, to the second pad PD2.

[0349] The third routed line L3 electrically connects the third control electrode structure RE3, positioned in the second incident light control region TA2, to the third pad PD3. The fourth routed line L4 electrically connects the fourth control electrode structure RE4, positioned in the second incident light control region TA2, to the fourth pad PD4.

[0350] The fifth routed line L5 electrically connects the fifth control electrode structure RE5, positioned in the third incident light control region TA3, to the fifth pad PD5. The sixth routed line L6 electrically connects the sixth control electrode structure RE6, positioned in the third incident light control region TA3, to the sixth pad PD6.

[0351] In the present sixth embodiment, the first routed line L1, the third routed line L3, and the sixth routed line L6 extend in the second non-display area NDA2, the third non-display area NDA3, and the first non-display area NDA1, respectively. The second routed line L2, the fourth routed line L4, and the fifth routed line L5 extend in the second non-display area NDA2, the fourth non-display area NDA4, and the first non-display area NDA1.

[0352] In the incident light control area PCA, the third laid line L3 and the fourth laid line L4 are clamped between the fifth laid line L5 and the sixth laid line L6. The fifth laid line L5 and the sixth laid line L6 are clamped between the first laid line L1 and the second laid line L2.

[0353] In the second non-display area NDA2, third non-display area NDA3 and first non-display area NDA1, the first laid line L1 is positioned on the display area DA side with respect to the sixth laid line L6, and the sixth laid line L6 is positioned on the display area DA side with respect to the third laid line L3.

[0354] In the second non-display area NDA2, the fourth non-display area NDA4, and the first non-display area NDA1, the second laid line L2 is positioned on the display area DA side with respect to the fifth laid line L5, and the fifth laid line L5 is positioned on the display area DA side with respect to the fourth laid line L4.

[0355] In each of the above-mentioned first to sixth wirings L1 to L6, the portion positioned in the display area DA between the non-display area NDA and the incident light control area PCA may be referred to as a routed line, and the portion positioned in the non-display area NDA may be referred to as a peripheral line. In this case, the above-mentioned routed lines are connected to the corresponding control electrodes RL via the corresponding wirings WL. In addition, the above-mentioned peripheral line extends from the corresponding pad PD to the corresponding above-mentioned routed line in the non-display area NDA and is connected to the corresponding pad PD and the corresponding above-mentioned routed line.

[0356] The aperture DP (incident light control area PCA) does not need to be provided near the second non-display area NDA2. For example, the aperture DP (incident light control area PCA) may be provided near the third non-display area NDA3 among the first to fourth non-display areas NDA1 to NDA4. In this case, the first to sixth laid lines L1 to L6 may extend only in the third non-display area NDA3 and the first non-display area NDA1 of the non-display area NDA.

[0357] As explained above, in the present sixth embodiment, the laid line L is used to supply a voltage to the control electrode structure RE, but the liquid crystal panel PNL can also be formed without the laid line L as long as the control electrode structure RE is supplied with a voltage. For example, the control electrode structure RE and the IC chip 6 can be connected via some signal lines S from the plurality of signal lines S ( Fig. 3) be electrically connected, and the control electrode structure RE can be controlled via a signal line S dedicated to the control electrode structure RE.

[0358] The first substrate SUB1 further includes an eighth pad PD8 positioned in the non-display area NDA, and a connecting line CO positioned in the non-display area NDA and electrically connecting the eighth pad PD8 to the seventh pad PD7. The second substrate SUB2 further includes a ninth pad PD9 positioned in the non-display area NDA and overlapping the eighth pad PD8. The ninth pad PD9 is electrically connected to the laid line Lo ( Fig. 23).

[0359] For example, the routed line Lo extends through the second non-display area NDA2, the fourth non-display area NDA4, and the first non-display area NDA1, as well as the second routed line L2, etc., and electrically connects the counter electrode OE to the ninth pad PD9. The eighth pad PD8 and the ninth pad PD9 are electrically connected by a conductive element not shown in the drawing. This allows the counter voltage to be applied to the counter electrode OE via the seventh pad PD7, the connecting line CO, the eighth pad PD8, the ninth pad PD9, the routed line Lo, etc.

[0360] Here, the relationship between the counter voltage applied to the counter electrode OE and the first to sixth control voltages applied to the first to sixth control electrode structures RE1 to RE6 is explained.

[0361] As in Fig. 34, Fig. 25, Fig. 27 and Fig. As shown in Figure 29, in the above-mentioned first condition, the first to sixth control voltages are each equal to the counter voltage. For example, at any time in the above-mentioned first condition, the first to sixth control voltages and the counter voltage are each 0 V. The liquid crystal panel PNL can set the first to third incident light control regions TA1 to TA3 in a transmitting state.

[0362] In such a case, the influence of the voltage supplied to the third non-display area NDA3 through the first laid line L1, the third laid line L3 and the sixth laid line L6 and the influence of the voltage supplied to the fourth non-display area NDA4 through the second laid line L2, the fourth laid line L4 and the fifth laid line L5 are substantially absent.

[0363] In the second condition mentioned above, the polarity of the first control voltage and the polarity of the second control voltage are different from each other with respect to the reverse voltage. That is, the polarity of the first control voltage and the polarity of the second control voltage are reversed. The polarity of the fifth control voltage and the polarity of the sixth control voltage are different from each other with respect to the reverse voltage. The third control voltage and the fourth control voltage are equal to the reverse voltage. For example, at any time in the second condition mentioned above, the third control voltage, the fourth control voltage, and the reverse voltage are each 0 V, the first control voltage and the fifth control voltage are each +α V, and the second control voltage and the sixth control voltage are each -α V.The liquid crystal panel PNL can set the second incident light control region TA2 in the transmitting state and the first incident light control region TA1 and the third incident light control region TA3 in the non-transmitting state.

[0364] In such a case, the first routed line L1 and the sixth routed line L6 are set to reverse polarity, and the second routed line L2 and the fifth routed line L5 are set to reverse polarity. Therefore, compared with the case where the polarity of the first routed line L1 and the polarity of the sixth routed line L6 are the same, and the polarity of the second routed line L2 and the polarity of the fifth routed line L5 are the same, the influence of the voltage that may be exerted on the third non-display area NDA3 and the fourth non-display area NDA4 can be suppressed.

[0365] In the above-mentioned third condition, the polarity of the first control voltage and the polarity of the second control voltage are different from each other with respect to the reverse voltage. The third, fourth, fifth, and sixth control voltages are equal to the reverse voltage. For example, at any time in the above-mentioned third condition, the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth control voltages and the reverse voltage are each 0 V, the first control voltage is +α V, and the second control voltage is -α V. The liquid crystal panel PNL can set the second incident light control region TA2 and the third incident light control region TA3 to the transmitting state and the first incident light control region TA1 to the non-transmitting state.

[0366] In such a case, the third and sixth routed lines L3 and L6 are set to 0 V, and the fourth and fifth routed lines L4 and L5 are set to 0 V. Therefore, the influence of the voltage that the routed line L may exert on the third non-display area NDA3 and the fourth non-display area NDA4 is small even in the third condition mentioned above.

[0367] In the fourth condition, the polarity of the first control voltage and the polarity of the second control voltage are different from each other with respect to the reverse voltage. The polarity of the fifth control voltage and the polarity of the sixth control voltage are different from each other with respect to the reverse voltage. The polarity of the third control voltage and the polarity of the fourth control voltage are different from each other with respect to the reverse voltage. For example, at any time in the above-mentioned fourth condition, the first control voltage, the third control voltage, and the fifth control voltage are each +αV, and the second control voltage, the fourth control voltage, and the sixth control voltage are each -αV. The liquid crystal panel PNL can set the first to third incident light control regions TA1 to TA3 in the non-transmitting state.

[0368] In such a case, the polarity of the first routed line L1, the polarity of the third routed line L3, and the polarity of the sixth routed line L6 are not the same, and the polarity of the second routed line L2, the polarity of the fourth routed line L4, and the polarity of the fifth routed line L5 are also not the same. Therefore, compared with the case where the above polarities are the same, the influence of the voltage that may be exerted on the third non-display area NDA3 and the fourth non-display area NDA4 can be suppressed.

[0369] As explained above, the capacitance caused by the installed line L is balanced between the third non-display area NDA3 and the fourth non-display area NDA4. This allows, for example, negative influences on the circuits in the third non-display area NDA3 and the fourth non-display area NDA4 to be suppressed.

[0370] According to the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 according to the sixth embodiment configured as above, it is possible to obtain the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 that can control the light transmittance range of the incident light control area PCA. (Seventh Embodiment)

[0371] Next, the present seventh embodiment will be explained. Fig. 35 shows a plan view of the scanning lines G and signal lines S in the incident light control region PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL of the electronic device 100 according to the present seventh embodiment. In Fig. 35, the scanning line G is shown as a solid line, the signal line S as a dashed line, and the inner and outer peripheries of the first light-shielding area LSA1 are shown as two-dot chain lines. In Fig. 35 shows only the configurations necessary for explanation. The electronic device 100 of the present seventh embodiment is configured in the same manner as the electronic device 100 of any of the above-mentioned first to sixth embodiments, except for the wiring of the scanning line G and the signal line S in the incident light control area PCA.

[0372] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 35, the plurality of scanning lines G are arrayed in the Y direction at a pitch of 60 to 180 µm in the display area DA. The plurality of signal lines S are arrayed in the X direction at a pitch of 20 to 60 µm. The scanning lines G and the signal lines S also extend in the incident light control area PCA.

[0373] Among the plurality of scanning lines G and the plurality of signal lines S, one or more lines extending in the display area DA toward the first incident light control area TA1 extend in the first light-shielding area LSA1 of the incident light control area PCA, bypassing the first incident light control area TA1. Therefore, when the outer circumference diameter of the first light-shielding area LSA1 (first light-shielding part BM1) is 6 to 7 mm, 30 to 120 wires in the scanning line G and 100 to 350 wires in the signal line S bypass the first incident light control area TA1 and are arranged in the first light-shielding area LSA1 covered by the first light-shielding part BM1. Therefore, the scanning lines G, the signal lines S, etc., can be well laid even if the incident light control area PCA surrounded by the display area DA exists.

[0374] According to the liquid crystal display device DSP and the electronic device 100 according to the seventh embodiment configured as above, the electronic device 100 is configured in the same manner as the electronic device 100 of the above-mentioned embodiments, and therefore, the same effects as those of the above-mentioned embodiments can be obtained. (Eighth Embodiment)

[0375] Next, the present eighth embodiment will be explained. First, the relationship between the gap Ga of the liquid crystal layer LC and the transmittance and response speed will be explained. Fig. Fig. 36 is a view diagrammatically illustrating the change in light transmittance with respect to the gap Ga of the liquid crystal layer LC and the change in the response speed of the liquid crystal with respect to the gap Ga in the liquid crystal panel PNL of the electronic device 100 according to the present eighth embodiment. The electronic device 100 is configured in the same manner as in the above-mentioned third embodiment ( Fig. 20), except for the configuration explained in the present eighth embodiment.

[0376] Fig. 36 shows the relationship between the Fig. 20 and the response speed of the liquid crystal. It can be seen that the smaller the gap Ga, the higher the response speed of the liquid crystal. In the present specification, the response speed of the liquid crystal refers to the speed at which the liquid crystal molecules transition from the initial alignment to the predetermined state, that is, the so-called rising speed. Therefore, in the present eighth embodiment, the second gap Ga2 is set smaller than the first gap Ga1 (Ga2 < Ga1). For illustrative purposes, the second gap Ga2 may be set to half of the first gap Ga1 (Ga2 = Ga1 / 2).

[0377] This allows the response speed of the liquid crystal in each of the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 in the incident light control region PCA to be set higher than the response speed of the liquid crystal in the display liquid crystal layer LCI in the display region DA. For example, the incident light control region PCA (aperture DP) of the liquid crystal panel PNL can serve as a liquid crystal shutter.

[0378] The shutter speed may be 0.001 seconds or less, and to serve as a liquid crystal shutter, the time for applying the voltage to the control electrode RL is shorter than the time for applying the voltage to the pixel electrode PE. Therefore, the response speed of the liquid crystal driven by the control electrode RL must also be fast.

[0379] However, it should be noted that the narrower the second gap Ga2 is, the lower the light transmittance in the incident light control region PCA becomes.

[0380] The first gap Ga1 can be reduced and the response speed of the liquid crystal in the display liquid crystal layer LCI can be increased.

[0381] However, it should be noted that the light transmittance in the display area DA is then lower and the displayed image is darker.

[0382] Next, the relationship between the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer LC and the response speed is explained. Fig. Fig. 37 is a view showing the change in the response speed of the liquid crystal with respect to the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer LC in the present eighth embodiment. Fig. 37 the second gap Ga2 is set to 1.7 µm.

[0383] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 37, it can be seen that the larger the potential difference between the control electrode structure RE and the counter electrode OE, the higher the response speed of the liquid crystal. When the incident light control region PCA (aperture DP) serves as a liquid crystal shutter, it is desirable that the response speed of the liquid crystal be 1.0 ms or less. It can be seen that when achieving the response speed of the liquid crystal of 1.0 ms or less, it is necessary that the voltage (absolute value of the voltage) applied between the control electrode structure RE and the counter electrode OE be 13 V or more.

[0384] For example, when the first incident light control region TA1, the second incident light control region TA2, and the third incident light control region TA3 are changed from the transmitting state to the non-transmitting state at high speed, a voltage of 13 V or more should be applied to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3.

[0385] When the incident light control area PCA (aperture DP) serves as a liquid crystal shutter, the absolute value of the voltage applied to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the absolute value of the voltage applied to the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the absolute value of the voltage applied to the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 are each higher than the absolute value of the voltage applied to the display liquid crystal layer LCI.

[0386] Therefore, the response speed of the liquid crystal in each of the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 of the incident light control region PCA can also be set by the voltage higher than the response speed of the liquid crystal in the display liquid crystal layer LCI of the display region DA.

[0387] The incident light control area PCA (aperture DP) of the liquid crystal panel PNL can serve as the first liquid crystal shutter by returning the condition from the above-mentioned fourth condition through the first condition to the fourth condition. The liquid crystal panel PNL can achieve the first liquid crystal shutter by simultaneously switching the first incident light control area TA1, the second incident light control area TA2, and the third incident light control area TA3 from the non-transmitting state to the transmitting state and then back to the non-transmitting state.

[0388] When the first incident light control region TA1, the second incident light control region TA2, and the third incident light control region TA3 are switched from the transmitting state back to the non-transmitting state as described above, the liquid crystal panel PNL simultaneously applies a voltage of 13 V or more to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3, and simultaneously drives the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3.

[0389] The incident light control area PCA (aperture DP) of the liquid crystal panel PNL can serve as a second liquid crystal shutter by returning the condition from the aforementioned fourth condition to the second condition and then to the fourth condition. The liquid crystal panel PNL can achieve the second liquid crystal shutter by switching the second incident light control area TA2 from the non-transmitting state to the transmitting state and then back to the non-transmitting state, while the first incident light control area TA1 and the third incident light control area TA3 remain in the non-transmitting state. In the second liquid crystal shutter, it is possible to combine the functions of a pinhole and an aperture in the aperture DP.

[0390] The voltage applied to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1 and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 during the period in which the first incident light control region TA1 and the third incident light control region TA3 are maintained in a non-transmitting state may be less than 13 V. For example, the above-mentioned voltage applied to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1 and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 to maintain the non-transmitting state may be the same as the voltage applied to the display liquid crystal layer LC1.

[0391] When the second incident light control region TA2 is switched from the transmitting state back to the non-transmitting state as described above, the liquid crystal panel PNL applies a voltage of 13 V or more to the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 and drives the second control liquid crystal layer LC2.

[0392] The incident light control area PCA (aperture DP) of the liquid crystal panel PNL can serve as a third liquid crystal shutter by returning the condition from the aforementioned fourth condition through the third condition to the fourth condition. The liquid crystal panel PNL can achieve the third liquid crystal shutter by simultaneously switching the second incident light control area TA2 and the third incident light control area TA3 from the non-transmitting state to the transmitting state and then back to the non-transmitting state, while the first incident light control area TA1 remains in the non-transmitting state. The third liquid crystal shutter makes it possible to combine the function of reducing incident light and the function as a shutter in the aperture DP.

[0393] Since it is necessary to adjust the aperture and shutter speed to obtain a desired image, the voltage applied to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1 during the period in which the first incident light control region TA1 is positioned in a non-transmittance state may be less than 13 V.

[0394] When the second incident light control region TA2 and the third incident light control region TA3 are switched from the transmittance state back to the non-transmittance state as described above, the liquid crystal panel PNL simultaneously applies a voltage of 13 V or more to the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 and drives the second control liquid crystal layer LC2 and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3 simultaneously.

[0395] As explained above, it is possible to capture good images not only of a stationary but also of a moving subject by using the incident light control area PCA (aperture DP) of the liquid crystal panel PNL as a liquid crystal shutter. The liquid crystal panel PNL can control the light transmission area in concentric circles within the incident light control area PCA, allowing the incident light control area PCA to serve as a liquid crystal shutter.

[0396] According to the electronic device 100 according to the present eighth embodiment configured as described above, it is possible to obtain the electronic device 100 that can capture good images.

[0397] The technique shown in the present eighth embodiment can also be applied to other embodiments. For example, the technique of the present eighth embodiment can be applied to the above first embodiment. In the above first embodiment, the method of the incident light control area PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL is the normally black mode. Therefore, when switching from the non-transmitting state to the transmitting state, the liquid crystal panel PNL should apply a voltage of 13 V or more to the first control liquid crystal layer LC1, the second control liquid crystal layer LC2, and the third control liquid crystal layer LC3.

[0398] As in Fig. 9, the control electrode RL extending in a straight line may be referred to as a linear electrode, and the power supply line CL having a circular ring shape may be referred to as an annular line.

[0399] The insulating layer described above can be called an insulating film.

[0400] The incident light control area described above can be called the incident light restriction area.

[0401] The non-display area NDA described above can be called the peripheral area.

[0402] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been explained, these embodiments are shown as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments may be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and variations thereof are included within the spirit and scope of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents, as recited in the claims. Multiple embodiments may also be combined if desired.

Claims

[1] Electronic device equipped with: a liquid crystal panel and a camera, wherein the liquid crystal panel is provided with a display area and an incident light control area, the camera overlaps the incident light control area, the incident light control region comprises an annular line and a control electrode connected to the annular line and arranged within the annular line, and the annular line and the control electrode are formed on different layers over an insulating film. [2] The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the annular line comprises a first annular line and a second annular line disposed adjacent to the inside of the annular line, the control electrode comprises a first control electrode connected to the first annular line and a second control electrode connected to the second annular line, and the first control electrode intersects the second control electrode. [3] Electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the annular conduit comprises a first annular conduit and a second annular conduit arranged adjacent to the inside of the annular conduit, the control electrode comprises a first control electrode connected to the first annular line and a second control electrode connected to the second annular line, and the first control electrode and the second control electrode are arranged side by side and alternately. [4] The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the first control electrode and the second control electrode are formed of a first transparent conductive layer, and the first annular line and the second annular line are formed of a second transparent conductive layer. [5] The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the annular line has, within the first annular line and the second annular line, a third annular line having a smaller inner diameter than the first annular line and the second annular line. [6] The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein the display region has a pixel electrode, and the pixel electrode is formed of the first transparent conductive layer. [7] Electronic device equipped with: a liquid crystal panel comprising a first substrate, a second substrate and a liquid crystal layer held between the first substrate and the second substrate, and a camera, wherein the liquid crystal panel is provided with a display area for displaying an image and an incident light control area, Light from outside passes through the incident light control area and falls on the camera, the incident light control region has an annular line and a control electrode connected to the annular line, the annular conduit comprises a first annular conduit and a second annular conduit arranged adjacent to the inside of the first annular conduit, and the annular line and the control electrode are formed on different layers over an insulating film. [8] The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the control electrode comprises a first control electrode connected to the first annular line and a second control electrode connected to the second annular line, and the first control electrode intersects the second annular line. [9] Electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the control electrode comprises a first control electrode connected to the first annular line and a second control electrode connected to the second annular line, and the first control electrode and the second control electrode are arranged side by side and alternately. [10] The electronic device according to claim 8, wherein the first control electrode and the second control electrode are formed of a first transparent conductive layer, and the first annular line and the second annular line are formed of a second transparent conductive layer. [11] The electronic device according to claim 8, wherein the annular conduit includes, within the first annular conduit and the second annular conduit, a third annular conduit having a smaller inner diameter than the first annular conduit and the second annular conduit. [12] Electronic device equipped with: a liquid crystal display device comprising a liquid crystal panel and a lighting device, and a camera arranged in an opening formed in the lighting device, wherein the liquid crystal panel is provided with a display area for displaying an image and an incident light control area, Light from outside passes through the incident light control area and falls on the camera, the incident light control region has an annular line and a control electrode connected to the annular line, the control electrode is arranged within the annular line and the annular line and the control electrode are formed on different layers over an insulating film. [13] The electronic device according to claim 12, wherein the annular conduit comprises a first annular conduit and a second annular conduit disposed adjacent to the inside of the first annular conduit. [14] The electronic device according to claim 13, wherein the control electrode comprises a first control electrode connected to the first annular line and a second control electrode connected to the second annular line, and the first control electrode and the second control electrode are arranged alternately. [15] The electronic device according to claim 14, wherein the first control electrode and the second control electrode are formed of a first transparent conductive layer, and the first annular line and the second annular line are formed of a second transparent conductive layer. [16] The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein the display region has a pixel electrode, and the pixel electrode is formed of the first transparent conductive layer. [17] The electronic device according to claim 14, wherein the annular conduit includes, within the first annular conduit and the second annular conduit, a third annular conduit having a smaller inner diameter than the first annular conduit and the second annular conduit.

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