DISPLAY DEVICE

Abstract

To provide a display device capable of switching an infinity mirror image to a non-display state, the display device comprises: a liquid crystal display (120); a semi-transmissive plate (150) arranged on the back side of the liquid crystal display; a total internal reflection mirror (140) arranged on one side opposite the liquid crystal display with respect to the semi-transmissive plate and positioned at a distance from the semi-transmissive plate; and a light source (160) having a central light emission axis directed toward the semi-transmissive plate or the total internal reflection mirror and emitting light into an area between the semi-transmissive plate and the total internal reflection mirror.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Conventionally, a display device comprises a semi-reflecting mirror, a total internal reflection mirror, and a light source positioned between the semi-reflecting mirror and the total internal reflection mirror. When viewed from the display surface, an image is superimposed in many layers between the semi-reflecting mirror and the total internal reflection mirror in the direction of depth, appearing as if it were decreasing in size with increasing depth (see, for example, patent document 1). RELATED DOCUMENTS PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Disclosure of an Unexamined Utility Model Application No. 1981-139191 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION TASKS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0004] In the following, as described above, an image between the half-mirror and the total reflection mirror, which appears superimposed in many layers in the depth direction due to multiple reflections and becomes smaller with increasing depth, is referred to as the infinity mirror image.

[0005] Since an Infinity Mirror image is always displayed on an existing display device, the Infinity Mirror image cannot be hidden.

[0006] Therefore, an objective of the present invention is to provide a display device capable of switching an infinity mirror image to a non-display state. MEANS OF SOLVING THE TASK

[0007] A display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a liquid crystal display, a semi-transmissive plate arranged on the back of the liquid crystal display, a total reflection mirror arranged on one side opposite the liquid crystal display with respect to the semi-transmissive plate and positioned at a distance from the semi-transmissive plate, and a light source having a central light emission axis directed towards the semi-transmissive plate or the total reflection mirror and emitting light into an area between the semi-transmissive plate and the total reflection mirror. ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] A display device can be provided that is capable of switching an Infinity Mirror image to a non-display state. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [ Fig. 1] Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of an example of a cross-sectional structure of a display device according to the first embodiment. [ Fig. 2A] Fig. Figure 2A is a schematic representation of an embodiment of the glass plates of a liquid crystal display of the display device according to the first embodiment. [ Fig. 2B] Fig. Figure 2B is a schematic representation of an embodiment of the glass plates of the liquid crystal display of the display device according to the first embodiment. [ Fig. 3] Fig. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the characteristic of the visible light transmittance of the liquid crystal display in relation to the voltage applied to the liquid crystal display of the display device of the first embodiment. [ Fig. 4A] Fig. Figure 4A is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of a display device according to a modification of the first embodiment. [ Fig. 4B] Fig. Figure 4B is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the first embodiment. [ Fig. 4C] Fig. Figure 4C is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the first embodiment. [ Fig. 4D] Fig. Figure 4D is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the first embodiment. [ Fig. 4E] Fig. Figure 4E is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the first embodiment. [ Fig. 4F] Fig. Figure 4F is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of a display device according to the modification of the first embodiment. [ Fig. 4G] Fig. Figure 4G is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of a display device according to the modification of the first embodiment. [ Fig. 5A] Fig. Figure 5A is an exemplary representation of a test result of the display of the embodiment. [ Fig. 5B] Fig. Figure 5B is an exemplary representation of a test result of the display of the embodiment. [ Fig. 6A] Fig. Figure 6A is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the embodiment. [ Fig. 6B] Fig. Figure 6B is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the embodiment. [ Fig. 7A] Fig. Figure 7A is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of a display device according to a second embodiment. [ Fig. 7B] Fig. Figure 7B is a top view illustration of an example of the positional relationship between two types of light sources of the display device of the second embodiment. [ Fig. 8A] Fig. Figure 8A is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of a display device according to a modification of the second embodiment. [ Fig. 8B] Fig. Figure 8B is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the second embodiment. [ Fig. 8C] Fig. Figure 8C is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the second embodiment. [ Fig. 8D] Fig. Figure 8D is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the second embodiment. [ Fig. 8E] Fig. Figure 8E is a cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the display device according to the modification of the second embodiment. [ Fig. 9A] Fig. 9A is a representation of an actual measurement result of a grayscale control in the display device of the modification of the second embodiment. [ Fig. 9B] Fig. Figure 9B is a representation of an actual measurement result of the grayscale control in the display device of the modification of the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The following describes embodiments to which a display device according to the present disclosure is applied.

[0010] The following description defines an XYZ coordinate system. An X-axis is an example of a first axis, a Y-axis is an example of a second axis, and a Z-axis is an example of a third axis. A direction parallel to the X-axis (X-direction), a direction parallel to the Y-axis (Y-direction), and a direction parallel to the Z-axis (Z-direction) are perpendicular to each other. In the following description, a top view refers to a view in the XY plane. In the following description, the +Z-direction is defined as the upward direction and the -Z-direction as the downward direction. However, the directions mentioned above do not represent a universal vertical relationship. In the following description, the length, width, thickness, and similar dimensions of the individual parts may be exaggerated for clarity of the configuration. <Erste Ausführungsform>

[0011] Fig. Figure 1 shows an example of a cross-sectional structure of a display device 100 according to a first embodiment. The display device 100 comprises a housing 110, a liquid crystal display 120, an antireflection layer 130, a total internal reflection mirror 140, a partial internal reflection mirror 150, and light sources 160. The partial internal reflection mirror 150 is an example of a partially transmissive plate.

[0012] The upper surface of the anti-reflective layer 130 forms the display surface of the display device 100. A transparent plate-shaped element, such as a cover glass, can be provided between the anti-reflective layer 130 and a polarization plate 125 of the liquid crystal display 120.

[0013] The display device 100 can display an image with depth effect because the light emitted by the light source 160 is reflected multiple times between the total reflection mirror 140 and the partial reflection mirror 150, and as a result, reflected virtual images are superimposed in many layers at equal intervals and appear smaller with increasing depth.

[0014] In the following, an image with depth effect created by such multiple reflections will be referred to as an Infinity Mirror image. The Infinity Mirror image is particularly visible when viewed from a slightly oblique angle, compared to the front view in the +Z direction of the display device 100. <Gehäuse 110>

[0015] The housing 110 is the housing of the display device 100. The housing 110 is, for example, box-shaped and rectangular in plan view. The housing 110 has an opening in its upper region and an interior space that communicates with the opening and extends downwards. Such an interior space is an example of a region, and more precisely, an example of a three-dimensional region. The total internal reflection mirror 140 is located at the bottom of the interior space of the housing 110, and the partial internal reflection mirror 150 is attached to the opening in the upper region. The housing 110 has a projection 111 at the center of each of its four inner side faces in the Z-direction, which projects towards the center of the interior space in plan view. Several light sources 160 are attached to the apex of the projection 111. It should be noted that the light sources 160 can also be attached to the inner wall of the housing 110 or the like, without the projection 111 being provided.The interior of housing 110 can, for example, be filled and sealed with a transparent resin. The area where the transparent resin is filled and sealed in this way represents a three-dimensional space within housing 110. <Flüssigkristallanzeige 120>

[0016] The liquid crystal display 120 is mounted on the housing 110. The liquid crystal display 120 comprises a polarizing plate 121, a glass plate 122, a gasket 123, a glass plate 124, a polarizing plate 125, and a liquid crystal layer 126. The glass plate 124 is an example of a first glass plate, and the glass plate 122 is an example of a second glass plate. The liquid crystal display 120 is, for example, a liquid crystal display that is operated according to the passive drive method.

[0017] The polarizing plate 121 is mounted on the underside of the glass plate 122, and the underside of the polarizing plate 121 is in contact with the top side of the partial reflection mirror 150. The polarizing plate 121 has a predetermined polarization direction that corresponds to the arrangement of the liquid crystals in the liquid crystal layer 126.

[0018] The glass plate 122 is a transparent glass plate mounted on the underside of the liquid crystal layer 126. The underside of the liquid crystal layer 126 is an example of a second side (-Z direction) opposite the first side (+Z direction), which in turn is opposite the side of the liquid crystal layer 126 on which the partial reflection mirror 150 is located. The term "transparent" means that light is transmitted. An electrode is mounted on the top side of the glass plate 122. The position of a switchable area 120A, defined by the electrode on the top side of the glass plate 122 and an electrode on the underside of the glass plate 124, is shown by dashed lines in the figures. The electrode mounted on the top side of the glass plate 122 may have a transparent conductive layer and may, for example, contain an indium tin oxide (ITO) layer.The electrode attached to the top of the glass plate 122 is referred to below with reference to the . Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B is described in more detail.

[0019] The seal 123 is a frame-shaped element located between the glass plates 122 and 124. Since the display device 100 has a rectangular shape in plan view, the seal 123 has a rectangular, ring-shaped form in plan view. The seal 123 consists of an insulator, for example, resin. The seal 123 is bonded between the glass plates 122 and 124 and, together with the glass plates 122 and 124, seals the liquid crystal layer 126.

[0020] The glass plate 124 is a transparent glass plate mounted on the top side of the liquid crystal layer 126. The top side of the liquid crystal layer 126 is an example of the first side (+Z direction) that, with respect to the liquid crystal layer 126, is opposite the side on which the partial reflection mirror 150 is located. The meaning of "transparent" corresponds to that of the glass plate 122. An electrode is mounted on the underside of the glass plate 124. The position of the switchable area 120A, defined by the electrode on the underside of the glass plate 124 and the electrode on the top side of the glass plate 122, is shown by dashed lines in the figures. The electrode mounted on the underside of the glass plate 124 may have a transparent conductive layer and may, for example, contain an ITO layer. The electrode mounted on the underside of the glass plate 124 is referred to below with reference to the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B is described in more detail.

[0021] The polarizing plate 125 is mounted on the glass plate 124. The polarizing plate 125 has a predetermined polarization direction.

[0022] The liquid crystal layer 126 is located in a space sealed by the glass plates 122 and 124 and the gasket 123. When a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 126 via the electrode on the top of the glass plate 122 and the electrode on the bottom of the glass plate 124, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules changes, and the light transmittance changes when the liquid crystal layer 126 is viewed from the top.

[0023] The liquid crystal layer 126 is designed to become transparent and transmit light when an electric field is applied to it, and to become opaque and transmit no light when no electric field is applied. The control of the light transmittance of the liquid crystal layer 126 is described below with reference to Fig. 3 described. <Antireflexionsschicht 130>

[0024] The anti-reflective layer 130 is applied to the top surface of the display device 100. The anti-reflective layer 130 may, for example, comprise an anti-reflective film (AR film). The anti-reflective layer 130 can be applied to the surface of a transparent, plate-shaped element, such as a cover glass. Such a transparent, plate-shaped element, like the cover glass, is an example of a protective plate. <Totalreflexionsspiegel 140>

[0025] The total internal reflection mirror 140 is mounted on the bottom of the interior of the housing 110, and its top surface is a reflective surface that completely reflects the light. The total internal reflection mirror 140 can be manufactured, for example, by polishing the top surface of a plate-shaped element and applying aluminum to it. The total internal reflection mirror 140 is not limited to this design and can be a mirror of any configuration, as long as it has a reflective surface that completely reflects the light. <Teilreflexionsspiegel 150>

[0026] The partial reflection mirror 150 is mounted in an opening in the upper region of the housing 110. The light transmittance of the partial reflection mirror 150 can be adjusted to a suitable value in the range of approximately 20% to approximately 80%, and preferably to a value in the range of approximately 30% to approximately 70%, for example. Here, as an example, it is assumed that the light transmittance of the partial reflection mirror 150 is 50%.

[0027] The partial reflection mirror 150 allows some of the light passing from top to bottom through the liquid crystal display 120 to pass from the top to the bottom of the partial reflection mirror 150 and reflects the remaining light from the top of the partial reflection mirror 150 back to the liquid crystal display 120. The partial reflection mirror 150 allows light coming from below to pass from the bottom to the top of the partial reflection mirror 150 and reflects the remaining light from the bottom of the partial reflection mirror 150 downwards.

[0028] Here, an embodiment is described in which the partial reflection mirror 150 is used as an example of the partially transmissive plate. However, the partially transmissive plate can also be a plate-shaped element that transmits a portion of the incident light. Since the light that does not pass through the partially transmissive plate is reflected at the surface of such a plate-shaped element, the partially transmissive plate transmits a portion of the incident light and reflects the remaining light. The reflection of the partially transmissive plate can be, for example, very low, about 10% or less. A partially transmissive plate other than the partial reflection mirror 150 is described below with reference to Fig. 4A described. <Lichtquelle 160>

[0029] The multiple light sources 160 are mounted at the apex of the projection 111 of the housing 110. The light source 160 is, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED), but can also be a light emitter other than an LED. For example, the projection 111 extends from each of the four inner side faces of the housing 110, in plan view, to the center of the interior of the housing 110, and the light sources 160 are arranged in a rectangular, ring-shaped array at equal intervals in plan view. The multiple light sources 160 are located outside the switchable area of ​​the liquid crystal display 120 in plan view. The light source 160 emits light into a space (area) between the partial reflection mirror 150 and the total reflection mirror 140.

[0030] Each light source 160 is connected to an external device of the display device 100 via a line or the like (not shown), and the illumination of each light source 160 is controlled, for example, by the external device.

[0031] The central light emission axes of the light sources 160 are inclined relative to a straight line (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflection mirror 150 and the top of the total reflection mirror 140. Each central light emission axis of the light source 160 is the central axis of a three-dimensional irradiation area of ​​the light emitted by the light source 160. This is because, due to the inclination of the central light emission axis of the light source 160 relative to the straight line that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflection mirror 150 and the top of the total reflection mirror 140 (the straight line parallel to the Z-axis), the light strikes the total reflection mirror 140 and the partial reflection mirror 150 obliquely, the number of multiple reflections increases, and an infinity mirror image with greater depth is achieved.

[0032] The central light emission axis of the light source 160, for example, has an angle of approximately 70 degrees (magnitude) with respect to the line (the line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflection mirror 150 and the top of the total reflection mirror 140. In other words, the central light emission axis of the light source 160 has an angle of approximately 20 degrees upwards or downwards with respect to a horizontal direction. <Aufbau der Glasplatten 122 und 124>

[0033] The Fig. 2A and Fig. Figure 2B shows the structure of the glass plates 122 and 124 of the liquid crystal display 120. In the Fig. 2A and Fig. Figure 2B shows an electrode 122A of glass plate 122 and an electrode 124A of glass plate 124 as transparent. Electrode 122A is located on almost the entire top surface (the side in the +Z direction) of glass plate 122, and electrode 124A is located on almost the entire bottom surface (the side in the -Z direction) of glass plate 124. Each of the electrodes 122A and 124A can consist of a transparent conductive layer and is, for example, implemented as an ITO layer.

[0034] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 2A a state in which a control voltage is applied to the electrodes 122A and 124A of the liquid crystal display 120, and Fig. 2B shows a state in which no control voltage is applied to electrodes 122A and 124A of the liquid crystal display 120. For this reason, in Fig. 2A an AC-like DC power supply 10 is shown.

[0035] Electrodes 122A and 124A are arranged so that they are opposite each other. Electrode 122A has two electrodes 1 and one electrode 2. Electrode 124A has one electrode 1 and two electrodes 2. Electrode 1 of electrode 122A and electrode 1 of electrode 124A are an example of a pair of first electrodes. Electrode 2 of electrode 122A and electrode 2 of electrode 124A are an example of a pair of second electrodes.

[0036] The two electrodes 1 of electrode 122A and the single electrode 1 of electrode 124A are connected to each other via a conductor or similar (not shown) and are designed to have the same potential. One electrode 2 of electrode 122A and two electrodes 2 of electrode 124A are connected to each other via a conductor or similar (not shown) and are designed to have the same potential. Furthermore, for example, AC-like DC voltages V1 and V2 with opposite phases and the same amplitude are applied from the AC-like DC voltage supply 10 to electrode 1 of electrode 124A and electrode 2 of electrode 122A, respectively. As shown in the lower part of Fig. In the 2A representation, the AC-like DC voltages V1 and V2 have one period in which VLCD (> VGND) is applied, and one period in which VGND is applied in a frame. VGND is a ground voltage.

[0037] Therefore, in a state where the AC-like DC voltage supply 10 outputs the AC-like DC voltage, a potential difference is generated between electrodes 1 and 2. Furthermore, in this state, the two electrodes 1 of electrode 122A and the one electrode 1 of electrode 124A have the same potential, and the one electrode 2 of electrode 122A and the two electrodes 2 of electrode 124A also have the same potential.

[0038] The switchable range 120A of the liquid crystal display 120 according to the arrangement of the electrodes 122A and 124A is in the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B is shown.

[0039] The switchable area 120A is an area on the display surface of the liquid crystal display 120 in which the displayed image can be switched. The switchable area 120A is located in a central area, excluding a rectangular ring-shaped area along an outer edge of the display surface of the liquid crystal display 120 in a top view. The width of the rectangular ring-shaped area along the outer edge of the display surface (the width between the outer edge of the display surface and the switchable area 120A) is, for example, approximately 1 mm to 20 mm. The width of the rectangular ring-shaped area along the outer edge of the display surface can also be narrower than 1 mm or wider than 20 mm.

[0040] In the switchable area 120A, electrode 2 of electrode 122A and electrode 1 of electrode 124A are attached. <Elektrode 122A>

[0041] The electrode 122A is designed such that electrode 1, electrode 2 and electrode 1 are arranged in this order from the -X direction to the +X direction.

[0042] Electrode 1 on the -X-direction side of electrode 122A is located on the -X-direction side of the switchable range 120A in the X direction and extends from the end of electrode 122A on the -Y-direction side to the end of electrode 122A on the +Y-direction side in the Y direction. Electrode 1 on the +X-direction side of electrode 122A is located on the +X-direction side of the switchable range 120A in the X direction and extends from the end on the -Y-direction side to the end on the +Y-direction side of electrode 122A.

[0043] Electrode 2 of electrode 122A extends in the X direction within a section between the end of the switchable area 120A on the -X direction side and the end of the switchable area 120A on the +X direction side, and extends in the Y direction from the end of electrode 122A on the -Y direction side to the end of electrode 122A on the +Y direction side. Electrode 2 of electrode 122A, which applies voltage to the switchable area 120A, extends to the end of the glass plate 122 in the Y direction (second direction), which, in the top view, intersects the X direction (first direction).

[0044] For example, electrode 2 of electrode 122A is connected to the AC-like DC power supply 10 via a terminal or the like, which is connected to the end of the glass plate 122 on the +Y-direction side. This is because, if electrode 2 of electrode 122A extends to the end of the glass plate 122, it can easily be connected to the AC-like DC power supply 10 outside the liquid crystal display 120. Electrode 2 of electrode 122A, which applies voltage to the switchable area 120A, can also be connected to the AC-like DC power supply 10, for example, by connecting a terminal or the like to the end of the glass plate 122 on the -Y-direction side.

[0045] The two electrodes 1 of electrode 122A are connected, for example, to the electrode 1 of electrode 124A by placing a conductor between the electrode 1 of electrode 124A and the two electrodes 1 of electrode 122A. The two electrodes 1 of electrode 122A can also be connected to the electrode 1 of electrode 124A via a conductor or the like. The two electrodes 1 of electrode 122A can also be connected, for example, to the AC-like DC voltage supply 10 via terminals or the like, with their ends connected in the -X direction and +X direction. In this way, the two electrodes 1 of electrode 122A and the electrode 1 of electrode 124A are kept at the same potential. <Elektrode 124A>

[0046] The electrode 124A has an H-shaped electrode 1 and two rectangular electrodes 2. The two rectangular electrodes 2 are each arranged in the two remaining areas that result when the area of ​​the H-shaped electrode 1 is excluded from the overall rectangular area of ​​the electrode 124A in the top view.

[0047] Electrode 2 on the -Y-direction side of electrode 124A extends within a section between the end on the -X-direction side and the end on the +X-direction side of the switchable range 120A in the X direction and is located on the -Y-direction side of the switchable range 120A in the Y direction. Electrode 2 on the +Y-direction side of electrode 124A extends within a section between the end on the -X-direction side and the end on the +X-direction side of the switchable range 120A in the X direction and is located on the +Y-direction side of the switchable range 120A in the Y direction.

[0048] Electrode 1 of electrode 124A is located in the remaining H-shaped area that results when the two electrodes 1 described above are excluded from the overall rectangular area of ​​electrode 124A in the top view. Electrode 1 of electrode 124A, which applies voltage to the switchable area 120A, extends to the ends of the glass plate 124 in the X direction (first direction). Electrode 1 of electrode 124A is connected, for example, via a terminal or the like, to the AC-like DC voltage supply 10, which is connected to the end of the glass plate 124 on the -X-direction side.

[0049] This is because, if electrode 1 of electrode 124A extends to the ends of the glass plate 124, electrode 1 of electrode 124A can easily be connected to the AC-like DC power supply 10 outside the liquid crystal display 120. Electrode 1 of electrode 124A, which applies voltage to the switchable area 120A, can also be connected to the AC-like DC power supply 10, for example, by connecting a terminal or the like to the end of the glass plate 124 on the +X-direction side.

[0050] The two electrodes 2 of electrode 124A are connected, for example, to the electrode 2 of electrode 122A by placing a conductor between the electrode 2 of the glass plate 122 and the electrodes 2 of electrode 124A. The two electrodes 2 of electrode 124A can also be connected to the electrode 2 of electrode 122A via conductors connected to it. The two electrodes 2 of electrode 124A can also be connected, for example, to the AC-like DC voltage supply 10 via terminals or the like, with their ends connected in the -Y direction and +Y direction. In this way, the two electrodes 2 of electrode 124A and the electrode 2 of electrode 122A are kept at the same potential.

[0051] For electrodes 122A and 124A, electrode 2 of electrode 122A and electrode 2 of electrode 124A are positioned opposite each other in a region within a section between the end of the switchable range 120A on the -Y direction side and the end of the switchable range 120A on the +Y direction side in the Y direction, i.e., in the region outside the switchable range 120A. The fact that the electrodes are positioned opposite each other means that the electrodes overlap by a certain distance.

[0052] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2A, when an AC-like DC voltage is applied between electrodes 1 and 2 by the AC-like DC power supply 10, a potential difference is generated between electrodes 1 and 2, and an electric field is created in the switchable range 120A of the liquid crystal layer 126. However, even if an AC-like DC voltage is applied between electrodes 1 and 2 by the AC-like DC power supply 10, creating a potential difference between electrodes 1 and 2, no potential difference is generated in the area of ​​the liquid crystal layer 126 outside the switchable range 120A, and therefore no electric field is generated there.

[0053] The liquid crystal layer 126 is in a transmitting state when an electric field is applied and in a non-transmitting state when no electric field is applied. Therefore, when an AC-like DC voltage is applied between electrodes 1 and 2, the switchable area 120A is in a transmitting state. In the area of ​​the liquid crystal display 120 outside the switchable area 120A, electrodes 1 and electrodes 2 are opposite each other, so that even when an AC-like DC voltage is applied between electrodes 1 and 2, the liquid crystal layer 126 remains in a non-transmitting state.

[0054] Furthermore, in a state where no AC-like DC voltage is applied between electrodes 1 and 2, no potential difference is generated between electrodes 1 and 2 in the switchable range 120A, so that the switchable range 120A is in a state where no light is transmitted. Additionally, in the area of ​​the liquid crystal display 120 outside the switchable range 120A, the opposing electrodes 1 and 2 are at the same potential, so that the liquid crystal layer 126 is kept in a state where no light is transmitted.

[0055] In this way, by switching between the state in which the AC-like DC voltage is applied between electrodes 1 and 2 and the state in which the AC-like DC voltage is not applied between electrodes 1 and 2, the transmitted light state of the switchable area 120A of the liquid crystal display 120 can be switched like a shutter of an image recording device. In the area of ​​the liquid crystal display 120 outside the switchable area 120A, the liquid crystal layer 126 is always kept in a state in which no light is transmitted, regardless of whether the AC-like DC voltage is applied between electrodes 1 and 2 or not.

[0056] Since the display device 100 can display an Infinity Mirror image, the display device 100 can switch between a state in which an Infinity Mirror image is displayed and a state in which no Infinity Mirror image is displayed by switching the transmitted light state of the switchable area 120A of the liquid crystal display 120.

[0057] Since the space between the glass plates 122 and 124 is sealed by the gasket 123 along the outer edges (four sides) of the glass plates 122 and 124, the electrodes 122A and 124A can be positioned inwards from the outer edges (four sides) of the glass plates 122 and 124 in the top view, so that they do not overlap with the gasket 123. However, since the electrodes 122A and 124A are connected to the AC-like DC power supply 10 via terminals or the like, it is sufficient if the areas of the electrodes 122A and 124A connected to the terminals or the like extend to the outer edges of the glass plates 122 and 124. In this case, the areas of the glass plates 122 and 124 in which the electrodes 122A and 124A connected with the terminals and the like are formed can project beyond the seal 123 in the top view. <Lichtdurchlässigkeit in der Flüssigkristallanzeige 120>

[0058] Fig. Figure 3 shows an example of the light transmission characteristic of the liquid crystal display 120 with respect to the voltage applied to the liquid crystal display 120. The voltage applied to the liquid crystal display 120 is a DC voltage similar to an alternating current with the opposite phase, which is applied between electrodes 1 and 2. The voltage on the horizontal axis in Fig. The voltage shown in Figure 3 indicates the amplitude of the AC-like DC voltage with the opposite phase.

[0059] In Fig. Figure 3 shows the light transmittance characteristic when no polarization cover is attached to the light sources 160 (without polarization cover), and a dashed line shows the light transmittance characteristic when the polarization cover is attached to the light sources 160 (with polarization cover). The polarization direction of the polarization cover attached to the light sources 160 coincides with the polarization direction of the polarization plate 121 below the liquid crystal layer 126.

[0060] In the voltage range from 0.0 V to approximately 2.0 V, the transmittance values ​​of both light sources 160 with and without polarization covers were very low, approximately 1% to approximately 2%. This corresponds to a state in which no light is transmitted. When the voltage exceeded 2.0 V, the transmittance of both light sources 160 (with and without polarization covers) began to increase rapidly. The rate of increase in transmittance for the light sources 160 with polarization covers was greater than the rate of increase for the light sources 160 without polarization covers.

[0061] When the voltage exceeded approximately 4.0 V, the transmittance values ​​of both the 160 light sources with and without polarization covers became nearly constant. At a voltage of 6.0 V, the maximum transmittance of the 160 light sources with polarization covers was approximately 73%, and the maximum transmittance of the 160 light sources without polarization covers was approximately 37%. The maximum transmittance of the 160 light sources with polarization covers was approximately twice that of the 160 light sources without polarization covers.

[0062] As described above, it was confirmed that the transmittance of the liquid crystal display 120 can be switched between a very low value of about 1% to about 2% and a value that transmits light, such as about 37% or about 73%, by controlling the voltage applied to electrodes 1 and 2.

[0063] For example, to switch the 120A switching range immediately from a non-conducting state to a conducting state, the voltage applied to electrodes 1 and 2 can be increased directly from 0.0 V to 6.0 V. Conversely, to switch the 120A switching range gradually from a non-conducting state to a conducting state, the voltage applied to electrodes 1 and 2 can be increased stepwise from 2.0 V to 4.0 V. <Anzeigevorrichtungen 100A bis 100G gemäß Abwandlungen der ersten Ausführungsform>

[0064] The Fig. Figures 4A to 4G are cross-sectional views showing examples of the construction of display devices 100A to 100G according to variations of the first embodiment. Fig. 4A to 4G show cross-sectional configurations in an XZ plane, corresponding to the display device 100, which is in Fig. 1 is shown. The same components as in the display device 100 according to Fig. 1 are provided with the same reference symbols, and their descriptions are omitted. <Anzeigevorrichtung 100A>

[0065] A 100A display device, as in Fig. Figure 4A shows a hard coating 150A instead of the partial reflection mirror 150 of the display device 100 according to Fig. 1. The hard coating 150A is an example of a semi-transmissive plate.

[0066] The 150A hard coating, for example, is a semi-transparent, hard resin layer. The reflectance of the 150A hard coating is lower than its transmittance. The reflectance of the 150A hard coating can be approximately 10% or less. This means that the transmittance of the 150A hard coating can be approximately 90% or more.

[0067] The hard coating 150A allows some of the light passing from top to bottom through the liquid crystal display 120 to pass from the top to the bottom of the hard coating 150A and reflects the remaining light at the top towards the liquid crystal display 120. The hard coating 150A allows light coming from below to pass from the bottom to the top of the hard coating 150A and reflects the remaining light at the bottom of the hard coating 150A downwards.

[0068] Therefore, the display device 100A with the hard coating 150A displays the infinity mirror image itself less intensely, by the amount of the reduced reflection compared to the partial reflection mirror 150, but the infinity mirror image itself can be displayed similarly to the display device 100 with the partial reflection mirror 150. Therefore, even when using the hard coating 150A instead of the partial reflection mirror 150, it is possible to provide a display device 100A that can switch the infinity mirror image to a non-display state. Furthermore, since the hard coating 150A is less expensive than the partial reflection mirror 150, a display device 100A with lower manufacturing costs can be provided. It should be noted that the light sources 160 can also be mounted on the inner wall of the housing 110 or the like, without the protrusion 111. <Anzeigevorrichtung 100B>

[0069] A display device 100B, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 4B, a reflective polarizing plate 121B is provided instead of the polarizing plate 121 and the partial reflection mirror 150 of the display device 100 according to Fig. 1. The reflective polarizing plate 121B is contained in a liquid crystal display 120B. The liquid crystal display 120B has the reflective polarizing plate 121B instead of the polarizing plate 121 according to Fig. 1 on.

[0070] The reflective polarizing plate 121B functions as a polarizing plate similarly to the polarizing plate 121 and also has a similar function to the partial reflection mirror 150. The reflective polarizing plate 121B is an example of a partially transmissive plate. The light transmittance of the reflective polarizing plate 121B can be adjusted to a suitable value in the range of about 20% to about 80%, and preferably to a value in the range of about 30% to about 70%, for example. In the following, it is assumed as an example that the light transmittance of the reflective polarizing plate 121B is 50%.

[0071] The reflective polarizing plate 121B polarizes a portion of the light passing from top to bottom through the liquid crystal display 120, allows the light to pass from the top to the bottom of the reflective polarizing plate 121B, and reflects the remaining light from the top of the reflective polarizing plate 121B back to the liquid crystal display 120. The reflective polarizing plate 121B allows light coming from below to pass from the bottom to the top of the reflective polarizing plate 121B, polarizes it, and reflects the remaining light from the bottom of the reflective polarizing plate 121B downwards.

[0072] Therefore, the display device 100B with the reflective polarizing plate 121B can be operated in the same way as the display device 100 with polarizing plate 121 and partial reflection mirror 150. It is thus possible to provide a display device 100B that can switch the infinity mirror image to a non-display state. It should be noted that the light source 160 can also be mounted on the inner wall of the housing 110 or the like, without the protrusion 111. <Anzeigevorrichtung 100C>

[0073] The display device 100C, as in Fig. 4C shown, has a configuration in which the switchable range 120A of the display device 100 according to Fig. 1 is enlarged in the top view. In a cross-section, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 4C, the switchable area 120A is located over the entire area of ​​the glass plates 122 and 124 that is not covered by the seal 123.

[0074] To achieve such an increased switching range of 120A, for example the electrode can be 122A, as in the Fig. 2A and Fig. As shown in Figure 2B, electrode 1 can consist entirely of electrode 1, and likewise electrode 124A can consist entirely of electrode 2. In this case, there is no area where electrodes 1 or electrodes 2 are opposite each other outside the switchable range 120A, as shown in Figure 2B. Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B is shown.

[0075] In the display device 100C, the state in which the infinity mirror image is displayed and the state in which the infinity mirror image is not displayed can be changed by switching the enlarged switchable area 120A between the transparent and the non-transparent state. Therefore, it is possible to provide a display device 100C that can switch the infinity mirror image to a non-display state. It should be noted that the light sources 160 can also be mounted on the inner wall of the housing 110 or the like, without the protrusion 111 being provided.

[0076] The above-described enlarged switchable range of 120A can also be applied to the 100A display device according to Fig. 4A and the display device 100B according to Fig. 4B can be applied. <Anzeigevorrichtung 100D>

[0077] A display device 100D, as in Fig. As shown in 4D, it has a configuration in which the multiple light sources 160 of the display device 100 are arranged according to Fig. 1 are attached to the underside of the partial reflection mirror 150. In this configuration, the projection 111 is not required. The multiple light sources 160 are arranged outside the switchable area 120A along the switchable area 120A in the top view. The multiple light sources 160 are arranged so that they are directed obliquely downwards towards the central area of ​​the total reflection mirror 140. That is, the central light emission axis of the light source 160 is inclined relative to a straight line (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflection mirror 150 and to the top of the total reflection mirror 140.

[0078] In the display device 100D, in which the multiple light sources 160 are arranged in this way, a portion of the light emitted by the light sources 160 and reflected by the total internal reflection mirror 140 is transmitted through the partial internal reflection mirror 150, while the remaining light is reflected again by the total internal reflection mirror 140. By repeatedly performing this process, the reflected virtual images generated between the total internal reflection mirror 140 and the partial internal reflection mirror 150 are superimposed in many layers at equal intervals in the depth direction and gradually become smaller, so that an infinity mirror image, as in the display device 100 according to Fig. 1 is created. <Anzeigevorrichtung 100E>

[0079] A display device 100E, as in Fig. Figure 4E shows a configuration in which the multiple light sources 160 of the display device 100 are arranged according to Fig. 1 are attached to the top of the total internal reflection mirror 140. In this configuration, the projection 111 is not required. The multiple light sources 160 are arranged outside the switchable area 120A along the switchable area 120A in the top view. The multiple light sources 160 are arranged so that they are directed obliquely upwards towards the central area of ​​the partial internal reflection mirror 150. That is, the central light emission axis of the light source 160 is inclined relative to a straight line (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the bottom of the partial internal reflection mirror 150 and to the top of the total internal reflection mirror 140.

[0080] In the display device 100E, in which the multiple light sources 160 are arranged in this way, a portion of the light emitted by the light sources 160 is transmitted through the partial reflection mirror 150, while the remaining light is reflected by the total reflection mirror 140 and directed again onto the partial reflection mirror 150. By repeatedly performing this process, the reflected virtual images generated between the total reflection mirror 140 and the partial reflection mirror 150 are superimposed in many layers at equal intervals in the depth direction and gradually become smaller, so that an infinity mirror image, as in the display device 100 according to Fig. 1 is created. <Anzeigevorrichtung 100F>

[0081] A 100F display device, as in Fig. 4F shows a configuration in which the multiple light sources 160 of the display device 100 are arranged according to Fig. The light sources 160 are attached to the projection 111 and point obliquely upwards. The projection 111 of the display device 100F is inclined such that the light sources 160 are directed obliquely upwards. The multiple light sources 160 are arranged so that they are directed obliquely upwards towards the central area of ​​the partial reflection mirror 150. That is, the central light emission axis of the light source 160 is inclined relative to a straight line (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflection mirror 150 and to the top of the total reflection mirror 140.

[0082] In the display device 100F, in which the multiple light sources 160 are arranged in this way, a portion of the light emitted by the light sources 160 is transmitted through the partial reflection mirror 150, while the remaining light is reflected by the total reflection mirror 140 and directed again onto the partial reflection mirror 150. By repeatedly performing this process, the reflected virtual images generated between the total reflection mirror 140 and the partial reflection mirror 150 are superimposed in many layers at equal intervals in the depth direction and gradually become smaller, so that an infinity mirror image, as in the display device 100 according to Fig. 1. It should be noted that the light source 160 can also be attached to the inner wall of the housing 110 or the like, without the projection 111 being provided. <Anzeigevorrichtung 100G>

[0083] A 100G display device, as in Fig. 4G shown, has a configuration in which the multiple light sources 160 of the display device 100 according to Fig. The light sources 160 are attached to the projection 111 and point obliquely downwards. The projection 111 of the display device 100G is inclined such that the light sources 160 are directed obliquely downwards. The multiple light sources 160 are arranged so that they are directed obliquely downwards towards the central area of ​​the total internal reflection mirror 140. That is, the central light emission axis of the light source 160 is inclined relative to a straight line (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial internal reflection mirror 150 and to the top of the total internal reflection mirror 140.

[0084] In the display device 100G, in which the multiple light sources 160 are arranged in this way, a portion of the light emitted by the light sources 160 and reflected by the total internal reflection mirror 140 is transmitted through the partial internal reflection mirror 150, while the remaining light is reflected again by the total internal reflection mirror 140. By repeatedly performing this process, the reflected virtual images generated between the total internal reflection mirror 140 and the partial internal reflection mirror 150 are superimposed in many layers at equal intervals in the depth direction and gradually become smaller, so that an infinity mirror image, as in the display device 100 according to Fig. 1. It should be noted that the light source 160 can also be attached to the inner wall of the housing 110 or the like, without the projection 111 being provided. <Experimentelle Ergebnisse des Infinity Mirror-Bildes>

[0085] The Fig. 5A and Fig. Figure 5B shows examples of experimental results of the display device according to the embodiment. Fig. 5A shows a state in which the switchable area 120A of the liquid crystal display 120 is switched to the transparent state and the antireflection layer 130 is viewed. Fig. Figure 5B shows a state in which the switchable area 120A of the liquid crystal display 120 is switched to the non-transparent state and the anti-reflective layer 130 is viewed.

[0086] The left half of an experimental display device shows the structure of display device 100 (see Fig. 1), and the right half has the structure of the display device 100B (see Fig. 4B). That is, the left half of the experimental display device has the partial reflection mirror 150, and the right half has the reflective polarizing plate 121B.

[0087] In Fig. In Figure 5A, several light sources 160 and other internal structures are visible along the left, right, and top edges. Further visible internal structures include the inner surface or similar of the housing 110 between the total internal reflection mirror 140 and the partial internal reflection mirror 150 in the left half, and the inner surface or similar of the housing 110 between the total internal reflection mirror 140 and the reflective polarizing plate 121B in the right half. The black objects along the left and right edges, as well as the top edge, are black resin strips used for mounting components.

[0088] As in Fig. As shown in 5A, an Infinity Mirror image was obtained in which reflected virtual images of the multiple light sources 160 and other internal structures were superimposed in many layers at equal intervals in the depth direction, gradually becoming smaller along the left and right edges as well as the top edge.

[0089] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5B, in the state where the switchable area 120A is switched to the non-transparent state, the left half appears black and nothing is reflected, while on the right half an image of the front of the antireflection layer 130 is reflected as in a mirror.

[0090] As described above, when the switchable range 120A is switched to the transparent state, an infinity mirror image is displayed, as shown in Fig. 5A is shown. When switching the switchable range 120A to the non-transmitting state, the Infinity Mirror image can be hidden, as shown in Fig. 5B is shown.

[0091] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5B, when using the partial reflection mirror 150 in the non-transparent state, a black display without reflection on the antireflection layer 130 is obtained, and when using the reflective polarizing plate 121B, a display with reflection on the antireflection layer 130 is obtained in the non-transparent state. <wirkungen>

[0092] The display device 100 comprises the liquid crystal display 120, the semi-transmissive plate mounted on the back of the liquid crystal display 120, the total reflection mirror 140 mounted on the side opposite the liquid crystal display 120 with respect to the semi-transmissive plate and positioned at a distance from the semi-transmissive plate, and the light sources 160 (first light source) with central light emission axes directed towards the semi-transmissive plate or the total reflection mirror 140 and emitting light into an area (space) between the semi-transmissive plate and the total reflection mirror.Therefore, the light emitted by the light source 160 is repeatedly reflected between the total internal reflection mirror 140 and the semi-transmissive plate, and each time the light enters the semi-transmissive plate, a portion of the light is transmitted through the semi-transmissive plate from the bottom to the top, thus creating an infinity mirror image. By switching the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer 126 of the liquid crystal display 120, it is possible to switch between a transparent state, in which an infinity mirror image can be displayed, and a non-transmissive state, in which no infinity mirror image is displayed.

[0093] Therefore, it is possible to provide display devices 100 and 100A to 100G that can switch the Infinity Mirror image to a non-display state.

[0094] Furthermore, in the display devices 100 and 100A to 100G, since the light sources 160 are arranged outside the switchable area 120A in the top view, the size of the area outside the switchable area 120A can be chosen arbitrarily according to the size of the light sources 160. Since the light sources 160 can be arranged within the outer edge of the liquid crystal display 120 in the top view, the display devices 100 and 100A to 100G can be reduced in size.

[0095] The semi-transmissive plate can be the partial reflection mirror 150. The amount of light from the multiple reflections between the total reflection mirror 140 and the partial reflection mirror 150 can be adjusted by the reflection of the partial reflection mirror 150, and the intensity of the infinity mirror image display can be set.

[0096] The liquid crystal display 120 can comprise the liquid crystal layer 126, the glass plate 124, which is arranged on the first side (+Z direction) opposite the partial reflection mirror 150 with respect to the liquid crystal layer 126, the glass plate 122, which is arranged on the second side (-Z direction) opposite the first side with respect to the liquid crystal layer 126, a pair of electrodes 1 (first electrodes) and a pair of electrodes 2 (second electrodes). The pair of electrodes 1 can be connected to each other so that they have the same potential, and each of the electrodes 1 of the pair can be placed on the glass plate 124 and the glass plate 122, respectively. The pair of electrodes 2 can be connected to each other so that they have the same potential, and each of the electrodes 2 of the pair can be placed on the glass plate 124 and the glass plate 122, respectively.Electrode 1 of glass plate 124 and electrode 2 of glass plate 122 can overlap in the central area of ​​glass plate 124 and glass plate 122 when viewed from above. The pair of electrodes 1 can overlap each other, and the pair of glass plates 122 can overlap each other in the area outside the central area of ​​glass plate 124 and glass plate 122 when viewed from above.

[0097] When a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 126, only the switchable area 120A is transparent, and an infinity mirror image can be displayed. When no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 126, the entire liquid crystal display 120, including the switchable area 120A, is non-transparent, so all images can be hidden and the components on the back (-Z direction) of the liquid crystal display 120 can be hidden. When no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 126, the entire liquid crystal display 120 is non-transparent, so all images can be hidden.

[0098] Electrode 1 of glass plate 124 can extend to the ends of glass plate 124 in the first direction, and electrode 2 of glass plate 124 can be located at the edge of electrode 1 of glass plate 124. Electrode 2 of glass plate 122 can extend to the ends of glass plate 122 in the second direction, which intersects the first direction in the top view, and electrode 1 of glass plate 122 can be located at the edge of electrode 2 of glass plate 122. Electrode 2 of electrode 122A and electrode 1 of electrode 124A extend to the corresponding ends of glass plate 122, so that electrode 2 of electrode 122A and electrode 1 of electrode 124A can be easily connected outside the liquid crystal display 120 to an AC-like DC voltage supply 10.

[0099] The light sources 160 can be arranged in a region where the pair of electrodes 1 of electrode 122A and electrode 124A overlap in plan view, or in a region where the pair of electrodes 2 of electrode 122A and electrode 124A overlap in plan view. The regions where the pair of electrodes 1 of electrode 122A and electrode 124A overlap, as well as the regions where the pair of electrodes 2 of electrode 122A and electrode 124A overlap in plan view, are regions where the liquid crystal display 120 is always in a non-transparent state, regardless of whether a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 126 or not.By arranging the light sources 160 in an area that is always in a non-transparent state, a more attractive infinity mirror image can be displayed, and it is not necessary to provide a component to conceal the light sources 160 in addition to the liquid crystal display 120, thus simplifying the configuration.

[0100] The light sources 160 can be mounted on a surface of the partial reflection mirror 150 on the side of the total reflection mirror 140, or on a surface of the total reflection mirror 140 on the side of the partial reflection mirror 150. The central light emission axes of the light sources 160 can be inclined relative to a straight line that is perpendicular to the surface of the partial reflection mirror 150 on the side of the total reflection mirror 140 and to the surface of the total reflection mirror 140 on the side of the partial reflection mirror 150. The light sources 160 can be mounted on the total reflection mirror 140 or on the partial reflection mirror 150 without the need for a holder to attach the light sources 160. Because the central light emission axis of the light source 160 is inclined relative to the straight line parallel to the Z-axis, the number of multiple reflections is increased, and an infinity mirror image with greater depth can be produced.

[0101] The display device can further comprise the housing 110 (case) which accommodates the liquid crystal display 120, the partial reflection mirror 150, the light sources 160, and the total reflection mirror 140. The light sources 160 can be held by a holder attached to the inner surface of the housing 110 such that the central light emission axes of the light sources 160 are inclined relative to a straight line perpendicular to the surface of the partial reflection mirror 150 on the side of the total reflection mirror 140 and to the surface of the total reflection mirror 140 on the side of the partial reflection mirror 150. Since the light sources 160 can be attached to the housing 110, they can be positioned at a location other than the positions of the total reflection mirror 140 and the partial reflection mirror 150.Since the central light emission axis of the light source is inclined 160° relative to the line parallel to the Z-axis, the number of multiple reflections increases, and an infinity mirror image with greater depth effect can be created.

[0102] The liquid crystal display device may further comprise a transparent protective plate arranged on the display surface of the liquid crystal display 120. The protective plate may be provided with an opaque cover area that, in plan view, overlaps the outer edge of the liquid crystal display 120, the outer edge of the partial reflection mirror 150, the outer edge of the total reflection mirror 140, and the light sources 160. The outer edges of the liquid crystal display 120, the partial reflection mirror 150, the total reflection mirror 140, and the light source 160 can be concealed by the cover area provided on the protective plate. A configuration with a protective plate is described with reference to the Fig. 6A, 6B, 7A and 8A to 8E are described. <Abgewandeltes Beispiel>

[0103] Fig. Figure 6A shows an embodiment of a display device 100M1 according to a modified example of the embodiment. The display device 100M1 comprises a housing 110, liquid crystal displays 120, an antireflective coating 130, a protective plate 135, total internal reflection mirrors 140, partial internal reflection mirrors 150, light sources 160, a liquid crystal display 170, and a backlight 180. The liquid crystal display 170 is an example of a first display operated by the active-matrix control method. The two liquid crystal displays 120 are an example of a second display operated by the passive control method.

[0104] The display device 100M1 according to Fig. 6A features an infinity mirror image area for displaying infinity mirror images on the -X-direction side and the +X-direction side, and an active display area in the center of the display device 100M1 in the X-direction. In the overall display area of ​​the display device 100M1 in the top view, the active display area is located in the central region, and the infinity mirror image area is positioned closer to the edge of the active display area than the active display area itself.

[0105] Although the configuration in the XZ cross-section is described below, the 100M1 display device can have the same configuration in the Y direction. The 100M1 display device can have the same configuration in both the X and Y directions. That is, the 100M1 display device can have the active display area in the center in the top view and the infinity mirror image area arranged around the active display area.

[0106] The configuration of the Infinity Mirror image area of ​​the display device 100M1 is essentially the same as that of the display device 100 according to Fig. 1, with the exception of the following point: In the display device 100M1, the anti-reflective layer 130 is attached to the top of the protective plate 135.

[0107] The protective plate 135 is a transparent glass plate or a resin plate. "Transparent" means that it allows light to pass through. The protective plate 135 has a decorative layer 135A on the side wall of the housing 110, on the outer edge of the liquid crystal display 120, and on the underside of an area corresponding to the boundary between the liquid crystal display 120 and the liquid crystal display 170. The decorative layer 135A is a black decorative layer that covers the side wall of the housing 110, the outer edge of the liquid crystal display 120, and the boundary between the liquid crystal display 120 and the liquid crystal display 170.

[0108] The housing 110, the polarization plate 125 and the anti-reflective layer 130 are shared by the two Infinity Mirror image areas and the one active display area.

[0109] Each Infinity Mirror image area is equipped with a liquid crystal display 120, an anti-reflective layer 130, a total reflection mirror 140, a partial reflection mirror 150 and a light source 160.

[0110] The active display area also includes a liquid crystal display 170 and the backlight 180. The liquid crystal display 170 comprises a polarizing plate 171, a glass plate 172 on which a thin-film transistor (TFT) is formed, a gasket 173, a glass plate 174 on which a color filter is formed, a polarizing plate 125, and a liquid crystal layer 175.

[0111] The polarization plate 171, the glass plate 172, the seal 173, the glass plate 174 and the polarization plate 125 are arranged in this order from bottom to top, and the liquid crystal layer 175 is enclosed in a space surrounded by the seal 173, which has a rectangular ring shape in plan view, and the glass plates 172 and 174.

[0112] The backlight 180 is an edge-type backlight and is located below the polarizing plate 171. The backlight 180 has a light guide that directs the light emitted from a light source at its end on the -X, +X, -Y, or +Y direction side in the +Z direction. The backlight 180 illuminates the liquid crystal display 170 from the -Z direction.

[0113] The liquid crystal display 170 controls the TFTs formed on the glass plate 172 using the active matrix method. In this way, different images, such as still images and moving images, can be displayed in the active display area.

[0114] Therefore, the 100M1 display device can display different images in the active display area and can display an Infinity Mirror image in the Infinity Mirror image area.

[0115] As described above for the display device 100M1, the liquid crystal display can comprise the first display (liquid crystal display 170), which is operated according to the active-matrix control method, and the second display (liquid crystal display 120), which is operated according to the passive control method. The partial reflection mirror 150 can be mounted on the back of the second display (liquid crystal display 120). The active-matrix control method enables a display device 100M1 that can display various images, such as still images and moving images, and can switch the infinity mirror image in the second display area to a non-display state. It should be noted that the light source 160 can also be mounted on the inner wall of the housing 110 or the like, without the projection 111.

[0116] It should be noted that instead of the liquid crystal display 170 and the backlight 180, the liquid crystal displays 220, 220D and 220E of the display devices 200 and 200A to 200E, as well as the backlights 280 and 280A of a second embodiment described below, can also be used. <Anzeigevorrichtung 100M2 gemäß abgewandeltem Beispiel der Ausführungsform>

[0117] Fig. Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the display device 100M2 according to a modified example of the embodiment.

[0118] The display device 100M2 according to Fig. 6B differs from the display device 100M1 according to Fig. 6A by the fact that the display device 100M2 according to Fig. 6B has a liquid crystal display 120M, in which two liquid crystal displays 120 and one liquid crystal display 170 according to Fig. 6A are integrated. Therefore, the 120M liquid crystal display is described below.

[0119] The display device 100M2 according to Fig. 6B features Infinity Mirror image areas for displaying Infinity Mirror images on the -X-direction side and the +X-direction side, as well as an active display area in the center in the X-direction. In the overall display area of ​​the 100M2 display device in the top view, the active display area is located in the central region, and the Infinity Mirror image area is positioned closer to the edge of the active display area than the active display area itself.

[0120] Although the configuration in the XZ cross-section is described below, the 100M2 display device can have the same configuration in the Y direction. The 100M2 display device can have the same configuration in both the X and Y directions. That is, the 100M2 display device can have the active display area in the center in the top view and the infinity mirror image area arranged around the active display area.

[0121] The liquid crystal display 120M comprises a polarizing plate 121M, a glass plate 122M, a gasket 123M, a glass plate 124M, a polarizing plate 125M, and a liquid crystal layer 126M. The polarizing plate 121M, the glass plate 122M, the gasket 123M, the glass plate 124M, the polarizing plate 125M, and the liquid crystal layer 126M are shared by both the active display area and the infinity mirror image area.

[0122] The glass plate 122M contains the TFT, which is located within the active display area, and a color filter is located within the active display area of ​​the glass plate 124M. The liquid crystal layer 126M is operated in the active display area using an active matrix control method, enabling the display of various images.

[0123] Furthermore, the glass plates 122M and 124M are equipped with electrodes that enable the switchable area 120A within the infinity mirror image area, and the transparent and non-transparent states of the liquid crystal layer 126M in the infinity mirror image area can be switched. When the liquid crystal layer 126M in the infinity mirror image area is switched to the transparent state, an infinity mirror image can be displayed.

[0124] As described above, the 120M liquid crystal display can have a first display area (active display area) operated by the active-matrix control method and a second display area (infinity mirror image area) operated by the passive control method, and the partial reflection mirror 150 can be mounted on the back of the second display area. The active-matrix control method enables a display device 100M2 to display various images, such as still images and moving images, and to switch the infinity mirror image in the second display area to a non-display state. Furthermore, the first display area (active display area) and the second display area (infinity mirror image area) can be displayed in a single 120M liquid crystal display.

[0125] It should be noted that instead of the liquid crystal display 120M in the active display area and the backlight 180, the liquid crystal displays 220, 220D and 220E of the display devices 200 and 200A to 200E, as well as the backlights 280 and 280A of the second embodiment described below, can also be used. Furthermore, the light sources 160 can also be mounted on the inner wall or the like of the housing 110 without the projection 111 being provided. <Zweite Ausführungsform>

[0126] Fig. Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a display device 200 according to the second embodiment. The display device 200 comprises a housing 210, a liquid crystal display 220, a protective plate 235, a total internal reflection film 240, a partial internal reflection film 250, a light diffusion film 255, light sources 260, a substrate 265, and a backlight 280. The partial internal reflection film 250 is an example of a partially transmissive plate and an example of a partially reflective mirror. The light sources 260 are an example of the first light source.

[0127] The housing 210 and the light sources 260 each correspond to the housing 110 and the light sources 160 of the display device 100 (see Fig. 1) of the first embodiment.

[0128] The protective plate 235 corresponds to that of the display device 100M1 (see Fig. 6A) of the modified example of the embodiment. The total reflection film 240 and the partial reflection film 250 are used as film-shaped elements in place of the total reflection mirror 140 and the partial reflection mirror 150 of the display device 100 (see Fig. 1) of the first embodiment. The display device 200 does not have the antireflective coating 130 (see Fig. 1) on, but may contain these. The upper side of the protective plate 235 forms the display surface of the display device 200.

[0129] The components of the display device 200 of the second embodiment are described below, with particular emphasis on the differences compared to the display device 100 of the first embodiment. The display device 200 of the second embodiment is similar to the display device 100 of the first embodiment in that the display device 200 can display an infinity mirror image. <Gehäuse 210>

[0130] The housing 210 is the housing of the display device 200. The housing 210 is, for example, box-shaped and rectangular in plan view. The housing 210 has an opening in its upper region and an interior space that communicates with the opening and extends downwards. Such an interior space is an example of a region, and more precisely, an example of a three-dimensional region. The total internal reflection film 240 is attached to the bottom of the interior space of the housing 210, and the protective plate 235 is attached to the opening in the upper region. The interior space of the housing 210 can, for example, be sealed with a transparent resin. The area in which the transparent resin is sealed in this way within the interior space represents a three-dimensional region within the housing 210. <Flüssigkristallanzeige 220>

[0131] The liquid crystal display 220, for example, is attached to the underside of the protective plate 235 with an optically clear adhesive (OCA) 228. An optically clear resin (OCR) can also be used instead of the OCA 228.

[0132] The liquid crystal display 220 has a polarizing plate 221, a glass plate 222, a glass plate 224 and a polarizing plate 225. In Fig. 7A are the seal 123 and the liquid crystal layer 126 as in Fig. Figure 1 is omitted. Glass plate 224 is an example of the first glass plate, and glass plate 222 is an example of the second glass plate.

[0133] The liquid crystal display 220, for example, is a liquid crystal display operated using the active-matrix control method. For this reason, the TFT is located on the top side of the glass plate 222, and the color filter is mounted on the underside of the glass plate 224. The liquid crystal display 220, operated using the active-matrix control method, can display various images, such as still images and moving images. The configuration and operation of the liquid crystal display 220 correspond to those of the liquid crystal display 170 according to [reference to relevant document]. Fig. 6A, so a detailed description is unnecessary.

[0134] The protective plate 235 is a transparent glass plate or a resin plate. "Transparent" means that it allows light to pass through. The protective plate 235 has a decorative layer 235A in an area where the outer edges of the OCA 228, the liquid crystal display 220, the light diffusion film 255, the partial reflection film 250, the light sources 260, and the substrate 265 are located in the top view. The decorative layer 235A is attached to the underside of the protective plate 235 and is a black decorative layer that covers the outer edges of the OCA 228, the liquid crystal display 220, the light diffusion film 255, the partial reflection film 250, the light sources 260, and the substrate 265. The decorative layer 235A has a rectangular ring-shaped form in plan view, and an inner edge of the decorative layer 235A is located on the side of the center within an edge of the substrate 265, as described below. <Totalreflexionsfolie 240>

[0135] The total internal reflection film 240 is attached to the bottom of the interior of the housing 210, and its upper surface is a reflective surface that completely reflects the light. The total internal reflection film 240 is a film of the total internal reflection mirror 140 of the first embodiment and serves as a total internal reflection mirror. The total internal reflection film 240 can be produced, for example, by vapor-depositing aluminum onto the upper surface of a foil-shaped element. The total internal reflection film 240 is not limited to such an embodiment and can have any desired configuration, as long as it has a reflective surface that completely reflects the light. The total internal reflection mirror 140 of the first embodiment can be used instead of the total internal reflection film 240. <Teilreflexionsfolie 250>

[0136] The partial reflective film 250 is attached to the underside of the liquid crystal display 220 via the light diffusion film 255. The partial reflective film 250 is a film of the partial reflective mirror 150 of the first embodiment and serves as a partial reflective mirror. The light transmittance of the partial reflective film 250 can be adjusted to a suitable value in the range of approximately 20% to approximately 80%, and preferably to a value in the range of approximately 30% to approximately 70%, for example. Here, it is assumed by way of example that the light transmittance of the partial reflective film 250 is 50%.

[0137] The partial reflective foil 250 allows light coming from below to pass from the underside to the top and reflects the remaining light at the underside downwards.

[0138] Here, the partial reflection mirror 150 of the first embodiment (see Fig. 1) instead of the partial reflective foil 250, or the hard coating 150A of the display device 100A of the modified example of the embodiment (see Fig. 4A) can be used instead of the partial reflective foil 250. <Lichtdiffusionsfolie 255>

[0139] The light diffusion film 255 is a film that scatters incident light, and an LED diffusion film, for example, can be used. The light diffusion film 255 is adhesive. Therefore, the partial reflection film 250 can be attached to the underside of the polarizing plate 221 of the liquid crystal display 220 by means of the light diffusion film 255. By providing the light diffusion film 255, the light on the underside of the liquid crystal display 220 can be sufficiently scattered so that an infinity mirror image can be displayed. <Lichtquelle 260>

[0140] The light sources 260 are, for example, attached to the underside of the substrate 265, which is mounted on the underside of the partial reflective film 250. The light source 260 is, for example, an LED, but can also be a light emitter other than an LED. The light sources 260 emit light into a space (area) between the partial reflective film 250 and the total internal reflection film 240.

[0141] The following describes the arrangement of the light sources 260 with reference to Fig. 7B in addition to Fig. 7A described. Fig. Figure 7B shows an example of the positional relationship between the light sources 260 and 282 in a top view. The side walls of the housing 210 and the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A are also shown in Fig. 7B is shown.

[0142] The multiple light sources 260 are arranged at equal intervals along three of the four side walls of the housing 210 in the top view. The three side walls of the housing 210 are, for example, a side wall extending in the Y direction on the -X direction side, a side wall extending in the X direction on the -Y direction side, and a side wall extending in the Y direction on the +X direction side.

[0143] The central light emission axes of the light sources 260 are inclined relative to a straight line (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflective sheet 250 and the top side of the total internal reflection sheet 240. More precisely, the central light emission axes of the light sources 260 are oriented so that they point obliquely downwards towards the central region of a light guide 281 of the backlight 280, for example. This is because, by inclined the central light emission axes of the light sources 260 relative to the straight line that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflective sheet 250 and the top side of the total internal reflection sheet 240 (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis), the light strikes the total internal reflection sheet 240 and the partial reflective sheet 250 obliquely, increasing the number of multiple reflections and achieving an infinity mirror image with greater depth. <Substrat 265>

[0144] The substrate 265 is attached to the underside of the partial reflective film 250 along the three side walls of the housing 210 described above. The substrate 265 is attached to the underside of the partial reflective film 250, for example, with a transparent adhesive such as OCA. In the XZ cross-sectional view, the substrate 265 has a width in the X direction that is greater than that of the light source 260, and both ends in the X direction lie outside the light sources 260. The same applies to a YZ cross-sectional view of a section in which the light sources 260 are arranged along the X direction on the -Y direction side. That is, the width of the substrate 265 in the Y direction is greater than that of the light source 260, and both ends of the substrate in the Y direction lie outside the light sources 260.

[0145] Substrate 265 can be, for example, a wiring substrate such as a printed circuit board (PWB) or a flexible printed circuit board (FPC). It should be noted that the connections of the light sources 260 are connected via the wiring of the substrate 265 or the like, and further via wires or the like (not shown), to an external device of the display device 200, and that the illumination of the light sources 260 is controlled, for example, by the external device. <Hintergrundbeleuchtung 280>

[0146] The backlight 280 is an edge-type backlight and is attached to the top of the total internal reflection film 240. The backlight 280 includes the light guide 281 and several light sources 282. Light source 282 is an example of a second light source. The backlight 280 is located on the -Z-direction side of the light sources 260.

[0147] The light guide 281 is essentially mounted on the entire total internal reflection film 240. A light guide pattern 281A, which reflects the light upwards, is provided in the central region of the underside of the light guide 281, excluding both ends in the X and Y directions. The light guide pattern 281A is a film or the like formed by applying a light-reflecting material or by fine irregularities on the underside of the light guide 281.

[0148] The light source 282, for example, is an LED, but it can also be a different light emitter than an LED. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7B, several light sources 282 are positioned towards the -Y direction near the lower region of the side wall that runs in the X direction on the +Y direction of the four side walls of the housing 210. The multiple light sources 282 are arranged along the X-direction side wall on the +Y direction of the housing 210 in a section that excludes the end on the -X direction and the end on the +X direction. This is to prevent the light sources 282 from overlapping with the light sources 260, which are located at the end region on the -Y direction below the multiple light sources 260 on the X direction and the +X direction in the top view.

[0149] The reason the multiple light sources 282 are mounted along the X-direction side wall on the +Y-direction side of the housing 210 and arranged in the section that excludes the end regions on the -X-direction and +X-direction sides is to improve the visibility of the infinity mirror image by positioning the light sources 282 in locations that do not overlap with the light sources 260 when viewed from above. If the display of the infinity mirror image is not affected, the light source 282 of the backlight 280 can also be mounted in a position that overlaps with the light source 260 when viewed from above.

[0150] In the display device 200, when the light sources 260 and the light sources 282 of the backlight 280 are switched on and the liquid crystal display 220 displays an image, the image of the liquid crystal display 220 is displayed in a rectangular display area surrounded by the decorative layer 235A of the protective plate 235.

[0151] Since the central light emission axis of the light source 260 is inclined relative to the line perpendicular to the partial reflective film 250 and the total reflective film 240 (the line parallel to the Z-axis), the light strikes the total reflective film 240 and the partial reflective film 250 obliquely. This increases the number of multiple reflections between the total reflective film 240 and the partial reflective film 250, and infinity mirror images are displayed at the end regions on the -X-direction side, the -Y-direction side, and the +X-direction side in the rectangular display area surrounded by the decorative layer 235A of the protective plate 235. The end regions on the -X-direction side, the -Y-direction side, and the +X-direction side of the rectangular display area correspond to the three side walls of the housing 210 on which the multiple light sources 260 are mounted.

[0152] As described above, the display device 200 of the second embodiment can display an infinity mirror image. More precisely, the display device 200 of the second embodiment can display an image of the liquid crystal display 220 in the central area of ​​a rectangular display area surrounded by the decorative layer 235A of the protective plate 235, and an infinity mirror image in the area around the image of the liquid crystal display 220. <Anzeigevorrichtungen 200A bis 200E gemäß abgewandelten Beispielen der zweiten Ausführungsform>

[0153] The Fig. Figures 8A to 8E are cross-sectional views showing an embodiment of the display devices 200A to 200E according to modified examples of the second embodiment. Fig. Figures 8A to 8E show cross-sectional configurations in the XZ plane, according to the display device 200, as shown in Fig. 7A shows the same components as in the display device 200 according to Fig. 7A are marked with the same symbols, and their description is omitted. <Anzeigevorrichtung 200A>

[0154] A 200A display device, as in Fig. Figure 8A shows a configuration in which the light diffusion film 255 of the display device 200 is arranged according to Fig. 7A is omitted and instead the backlight 280A is used instead of the backlight 280 according to Fig. 7A is included.

[0155] A light-transmitting material of the light guide 281 in the backlight 280A exhibits a light-scattering function by, for example, containing nanoparticles (nano-scattering material). Therefore, the display device 200A can sufficiently scatter the light on the underside of the liquid crystal display 220 without containing the light diffusion film 255, and produce an infinity mirror image similar to that of the display device 200 according to Fig. Display 7A. <Anzeigevorrichtung 200B>

[0156] A display device 200B, as in Fig. Figure 8B shows a configuration in which the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 of the display device 200 are arranged according to Fig. 7A are located on the top side of the light guide 281 of the backlight 280 and the light sources 260 are oriented upwards.

[0157] The central light emission axes of the light sources 260 of the display device 200B are directed obliquely upwards and aligned with the central area of ​​the partial reflective film 250. That is, the central light emission axes of the light sources 260 are inclined relative to a straight line (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflective film 250 and the top side of the total reflective film 240. This is because the light strikes the total reflective film 240 and the partial reflective film 250 obliquely, increasing the number of multiple reflections and producing an infinity mirror image with greater depth.

[0158] The display device 200B can, by means of the configuration in which the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 are arranged on the top of the light guide 281, produce an infinity mirror image similar to the display device 200 according to Fig. Display 7A. <Anzeigevorrichtung 200B>

[0159] A display device 200B, as in Fig. Figure 8B shows a configuration in which the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 of the display device 200 are arranged according to Fig. 7A are located on the top side of the light guide 281 of the backlight 280, and the light sources 260 are oriented upwards. For example, the substrate 265 can be attached to the top side of the light guide 281 with a transparent adhesive such as OCA.

[0160] The central light emission axes of the light sources 260 in the display device 200B are directed obliquely upwards and aligned with the central area of ​​the partial reflective film 250. That is, the central light emission axes of the light sources 260 are inclined relative to a straight line (a line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflective film 250 and the top side of the total reflective film 240. This is because the light strikes the total reflective film 240 and the partial reflective film 250 obliquely, increasing the number of multiple reflections and producing an infinity mirror image with greater depth.

[0161] The display device 200B can, by means of the configuration in which the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 are arranged on the top of the light guide 281, produce an infinity mirror image similar to the display device 200 according to Fig. Display 7A. <Anzeigevorrichtung 200C>

[0162] A display device 200C, as in Fig. Figure 8C shows a configuration in which the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 of the display device 200 are arranged according to Fig. 7A are laid on the inner surfaces of the side wall of the housing 210. For example, the substrate 265 can be attached to the side wall of the housing 210 with a transparent adhesive such as OCA.

[0163] The central light emission axes of the light sources 260 of the display device 200C can be inclined relative to a straight line (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis) that runs perpendicular to the underside of the partial reflection film 250 and to the top side of the total reflection film 240, as in the display device 100 (see Fig. 1) of the first embodiment. This is because the light strikes the total internal reflection film 240 and the partial internal reflection film 250 at an oblique angle, increasing the number of multiple reflections and resulting in an infinity mirror image with greater depth effect.

[0164] The central light emission axis of each light source 260, for example, has an angle of approximately 70 degrees (magnitude) with respect to a straight line perpendicular to the partial reflection film 250 and the total reflection film 240 (a straight line parallel to the Z-axis). In other words, the central light emission axis of the light source 260 has an angle of approximately 20 degrees upwards or downwards with respect to the horizontal. The light emitted by each light source 260 spreads radially over a wide area and directly reaches the total reflection film 240 on the underside and the partial reflection film 250 on the top side.

[0165] The display device 200C can, by means of the configuration in which the light sources 260 and the substrates 265 are arranged on the inner surfaces of the side wall of the housing 210, produce an infinity mirror image similar to the display device 200 according to Fig. 7A. Since the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 in the display device 200C are arranged on the inner surfaces of the side wall of the housing 210, the distance between the total internal reflection film 240 and the partial internal reflection film 250 can be reduced in the Z-direction. Therefore, the display device 200C can be made thinner than the display device 200 (see Fig. 7A), the display device 200A (see Fig. 8A) and the display device 200B (see Fig. 8B). <Anzeigevorrichtung 200D>

[0166] A 200D display device, as in Fig. As shown in 8D, it has a configuration in which the liquid crystal display 220 of the display device 200 according to Fig. The 7A is replaced by the 220D liquid crystal display.

[0167] The 220D liquid crystal display has a content display area 220D1, a gradation display area 220D2, and a black display area 220D3, which extend from the center to the outer edge of the 220D liquid crystal display in plan view. In plan view, the content display area 220D1 has a rectangular shape, the gradation display area 220D2 has a rectangular ring shape surrounding the content display area 220D1, and the black display area 220D3 has a rectangular ring shape surrounding both the gradation display area 220D2 and the content display area 220D1.

[0168] For example, the liquid crystal display 220D of the display device 200D has a relatively low brightness, so the components inside the housing 210 are less visible than those on the protective plate 235, and the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 are less visible from the display surface of the display device 200D. Therefore, the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 can be positioned within the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A, meaning that the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A can be located further outwards than before. The inner edge of the decorative layer 235A can be positioned further outwards, which means that the distance between the inner and outer edges of the decorative layer 235A can be reduced.

[0169] Even though the contrast of the liquid crystal display 220D is relatively high, the components inside the housing 210 are less visible than those on the protective plate 235, and the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 are less visible from the display surface of the display device 200D, as is also the case at low brightness. Therefore, even with high contrast, the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A can be positioned further outwards, and the distance between the inner and outer edges of the decorative layer 235A can be reduced.

[0170] The content display area 220D1 is an area in which images such as various still images and moving images can be displayed by controlling the TFT formed on the top of the glass plate 222 according to the active matrix method.

[0171] The gradation display area 220D2 is an area where the color gradation is gradually increased from the inside, near the content display area 220D1, to the outside, near the black display area 220D3. This type of color gradation control is called stepwise gradation control. Since the gradation display area 220D2 is an area where an Infinity Mirror image is displayed, the stepwise gradation control makes the Infinity Mirror image appear clearer.

[0172] The black display area 220D3 is arranged so that, in plan view, it overlaps the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A. That is, the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A is located within the black display area 220D3, which has a rectangular ring shape in plan view.

[0173] The black display area 220D3 is an area in which the liquid crystal display 220 is displayed in black. The black display area 220D3 shows black as an inward extension of the black decorative layer 235A when viewed from the display surface. The black display area 220D3 obscures the substrate 265 and the like, which are located within the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A in the top view. In this way, the black display area 220D3 displays black as in the inward extension of the decorative layer 235A, obscuring the substrate 265 and the like, while achieving a uniform appearance with the decorative layer 235A.

[0174] The 200D display device shows various images, such as still and moving images, in the 220D1 content display area and enhances the color gradation in the surrounding 220D2 gradation display area, ensuring a clear display of infinity mirror images. This means the 200D display device can clearly display various images, including still images, moving images, and infinity mirror images.

[0175] The 200D display device is suitable if the brightness of the 220D liquid crystal display is relatively low or the contrast is relatively high. <Anzeigevorrichtung 200E>

[0176] The display device 200E, as in Fig. Figure 8E shows a configuration in which the liquid crystal display 220 of the display device 200 according to Fig. The 7A is replaced by the liquid crystal display 220E.

[0177] The 220E liquid crystal display has a content display area 220E1, a gradation display area 220E2, and a black display area 220E3, which extend from the center to the outer edge of the 220E liquid crystal display in plan view. The content display area 220E1, the gradation display area 220E2, and the black display area 220E3 differ in size from the areas 220D1, 220D2, and 220D3 in plan view according to... Fig. 8D, however, are identical in shape and arrangement.

[0178] In the display device 200E according to Fig. 8E the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A is located further inwards than in the display device 200D according to Fig. 8D. That is, the distance between the inner edge and the outer edge of the rectangular ring-shaped decorative layer 235A of the display device 200E according to Fig. 8E is greater than the distance between the inner edge and the outer edge of the decorative layer 235A of the display device 200D according to Fig. 8D.

[0179] For example, the liquid crystal display 220E of the display device 200E has a relatively high brightness, so the components inside the housing 210 are more visible than those on the protective plate 235, and the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 are clearly visible from the display surface of the display device 200E. Therefore, it is preferable to move the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A further inwards if the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 are located within the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A, as they might otherwise be visible.

[0180] Even though the contrast of the liquid crystal display 220E is relatively low, the components inside the housing 210 are more visible than those on the protective plate 235, and the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 are more visible from the display surface of the display device 200E, even at high brightness. Therefore, even with low contrast, it is preferable to position the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A further inwards. For this reason, the distance between the inner and outer edges of the rectangular annular decorative layer 235A of the display device 200E is greater than the distance between the inner and outer edges of the decorative layer 235A of the display device 200D, according to Fig. 8D.

[0181] The functions of the content display area 220E1, the gradation display area 220E2 and the black display area 220E3 each correspond to the functions of areas 220D1, 220D2 and 220D3 according to Fig. 8D. However, due to the difference in the width of the decorative layer 235A, the content display area 220E1, the gradation display area 220E2 and the black display area 220E3 are designed as follows.

[0182] The content display area 220E1 can display various images such as still images and moving images using the active matrix control method, just like the content display area 220D1, however, the content display area 220E1 is slightly smaller than the content display area 220D1.

[0183] The gradation display area 220E2 is an area in which an Infinity Mirror image is clearly displayed by the stepwise gradation control, just as in the gradation display area 220D2. However, the outer edge of the gradation display area 220E2 essentially coincides with the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A. With stepwise gradation control, it is preferable to control the color gradation so that it is as continuous and uniform as possible.

[0184] The black indicator area 220E3 displays black in the same way as the black indicator area 220D3, but is located in a position that overlaps with the decorative layer 235A.

[0185] Since the liquid crystal display 220E has high brightness or low contrast, components such as the light sources 260 and the substrate 265 inside the housing 210 are clearly visible. To reliably conceal these components, the positions of the gradation display area 220E2 and the black display area 220E3, as well as the width of the decorative layer 235A, are adjusted as described above.

[0186] In the description above, the decorative layer 235A is widened to conceal the internal components, and the black indicator area 220E3 and the decorative layer 235A are adjusted to overlap. However, the positions of the gradation indicator area 220E2 and the black indicator area 220E3, as well as the widths of the decorative layer 235A, can also be adjusted with respect to the color gradation level of the gradation indicator area 220E2, the gradation level of black in the black indicator area 220E3, the appearance of the internal components, and similar factors.

[0187] The 200E display device shows various images, such as still and moving images, in the content display area 220E1 and enhances the color gradation in the surrounding gradation display area 220E2, so that an infinity mirror image is clearly displayed. This means that the 200E display device can clearly display various images, including still images, moving images, and infinity mirror images.

[0188] The 200E display device is suitable if the brightness of the 220E liquid crystal display is relatively high or the contrast is relatively low. <Tatsächliches Messergebnis der Gradationssteuerung>

[0189] The Fig. 9A and Fig. Figure 9B shows actual measurement results of the gradation control in the 200D display device. Fig. 9A and Fig. Figure 9B shows the display status in the display area (within the inner edge of the decorative layer 235A) of the protective plate 235 in the display device 200D. It should be noted that the gradation level of the liquid crystal display 220D can be controlled, for example, for each RGB in 256 gradations, where the lightest (brightest) gray level is L255 and the darkest (darkest) gray level is L0.

[0190] In the Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B is the content display area 220D1 marked by a dashed line, the gradation display area 220D2 by a dash-dotted line and the black display area 220D3 by a double dash-dotted line.

[0191] In the Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B displays an image on the liquid crystal display 220 in which the characters "Welcome" are arranged centrally on a black background, and the color gradations of the content display area 220D1, the gradation display area 220D2 and the black display area 220D3 are set as follows.

[0192] Fig. 9A shows a state in which the light sources 260 are switched on (illuminated), the backlight 280 is switched on (illuminated), and the color gradation level of the background image of the content display area 220D1 is set to L7 (eighth level from L0). Fig. 9A The gradation level of the gradation display range 220D2 is set to L7 at the inner end and L255 at the outer end by means of a stepwise gradation control. The gradation level of the black display range 220D3 is set to L0 (black).

[0193] Fig. 9B shows a state in which the light sources 260 are off (not illuminated), the backlight 280 is on (illuminated), and the gradation level of the content display area image 220D1 is set to L7 (eighth step from L0). Fig. In 9B, the gradation level in the gradation display area 220D2 is set to L7, without any stepwise gradation control being performed. The gradation level of the black display area 220D3 is set to L0 (black).

[0194] As can be seen from the comparison between Fig. 9A and Fig. As can be seen in 9B, it has been confirmed that the infinite mirror image can be created by performing the stepwise gradation control in the content display area 220D1 (see Fig. 9A) can be represented more clearly than in the case where no stepwise gradation control is carried out (see Fig. 9B). Furthermore, it was confirmed that the infinite mirror image can be displayed just as clearly even when the gradation level of the image in the content display area 220D1 is set to L7, the innermost side of the gradation display area 220D2 is set to L7, and the outermost side of the gradation display area 220D2 is set to L0. <wirkungen>

[0195] The display device 200 comprises a liquid crystal display 220, a semi-transmissive plate (partial reflection film 250) arranged on the back of the liquid crystal display 220, and a total reflection mirror (total reflection film 240) arranged on the side opposite the liquid crystal display 220 with respect to the semi-transmissive plate and positioned at a distance from the semi-transmissive plate.The display device 200 further comprises an edge-illuminated backlight (backlight 280) comprising a first light source (light sources 260) with central light emission axes directed towards the semi-transmissive plate or the total internal reflection mirror and emitting light into an area (space) between the semi-transmissive plate and the total internal reflection mirror, a second light source (light sources 282), and a light guide 281, which carries light emitted by the second light source and is arranged closer to the total internal reflection mirror than the light sources 260. This results in multiple reflections of the reflected virtual image between the semi-transmissive plate and the total internal reflection mirror, enabling the display of an infinite mirror image.

[0196] Thus, a display device 200, suitable for displaying an infinite mirror image, can be provided.

[0197] The partially transmissive plate can be a partial reflection mirror (partial reflection film 250). The amount of light from the multiple reflections repeatedly occurring between the total reflection mirror and the partial reflection mirror (partial reflection film 250) can be adjusted by the reflectivity of the partial reflection mirror (partial reflection film 250), so that the intensity of the representation of the infinite reflection image is adjustable.

[0198] The liquid crystal display 220 can have a gradation display area 220D2, which represents a gradation image, and light emitted by the light sources 260 can enter the gradation display area 220D2. Due to the incidence of the light emitted by the light sources 260 into the gradation display area 220D2, an infinite mirror image can be displayed on the gradation display area 220D2.

[0199] The light-transmitting material of the optical fiber 281 may contain a nano-scattering material, or the back side of the optical fiber 281 may have microscopically small irregularities. By using the backlight 280A, which features the optical fiber 281 with the nano-scattering material, or the backlight 280, which features the optical fiber with pattern 281A, the light from the backlight 280 can be scattered, allowing a clearer, infinitely reflected image to be displayed.

[0200] The liquid crystal display 220 can be operated using the active matrix control method. The display device 200 can display various images, such as still and moving images, and can project infinity mirror images around the main images.

[0201] Although the display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiment disclosed, and various modifications and changes can be made without deviating from the scope of the claims.

[0202] The present international application claims priority from Japanese patent application No. 2023-114745, filed on July 12, 2023, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. REFERENCE MARK LIST 100, 100A to 100G, 100M1, 100M2 Display device 110 Enclosures (Example of an enclosure) 111 lead 120, 120B, 120M Liquid Crystal Display 121, 121M Polarizing plate 121B reflective polarizing plate (example of a semi-transmissive plate) 122 Glass pane (example of a second glass pane) 122A electrodes 1 electrode (electrode 1 of electrodes 122A) (example of a first electrode) 2 electrodes (electrode 2 of electrodes 122A) (example of a second electrode) 123, 123M Seal 124, 124M glass pane (example of a first glass pane) 124A electrodes 1 electrode (electrode 1 of electrodes 124A) (example of a first electrode) 2 electrodes (electrodes 2 of electrodes 124A) (example of a second electrode) 125, 125M polarization plate 126, 126M liquid crystal layer 130 Anti-reflective coating 135A Decorative layer 140 total internal reflection mirrors 150 partial reflection mirrors (example of a partially transmissive plate) 150A Hard coating (example of a semi-transmissive plate) 160 light sources 170 Liquid Crystal Display 171 Polarization plate 172 glass pane 173 Seal 174 glass pane 175 Liquid crystal layer 180 Backlight 200 Display device 210 Enclosures (Example of an enclosure) 220, 220M liquid crystal display 220D1, 220E1 Content display area 220D2, 220E2 Gradation Display Range 220D3, 220E3 Black display area 235 Protective plate 235A Decorative layer 240 Total Reflection Film 250 partial reflective foil 255 Light diffusing film 260 Light source (Example of a first light source) 265 substrate 280 Backlight (Example of an edge-lit backlight) 281 Optical fibers 281A Optical Fiber Pattern 282 Light source QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] JP 2023-114745

[0202] < / wirkungen> < / wirkungen>

Claims

[1] Display device comprising: a liquid crystal display; a semi-transmissive plate located on the back of the liquid crystal display; a total internal reflection mirror located on one side opposite the liquid crystal display with respect to the semi-transmissive plate and positioned at a distance from the semi-transmissive plate; and a light source with a central light emission axis directed towards the semi-transmissive plate or the total reflection mirror, emitting light into an area between the semi-transmissive plate and the total reflection mirror. [2] Display device according to claim 1, wherein the semi-transmissive plate is a partial reflection mirror. [3] Display device according to claim 2, wherein the liquid crystal display comprises: a liquid crystal layer; a first glass plate arranged on a first side of the liquid crystal layer, wherein the first side of the liquid crystal layer is opposite the side on which the partial reflection mirror is located; a second glass plate, which is arranged on a second side opposite the first side with respect to the liquid crystal layer; a pair of initial electrodes; and a pair of second electrodes, wherein the pair of first electrodes is connected to each other so that they have the same potential, and each of the first electrodes of the pair is arranged on the first glass plate and the second glass plate respectively, the pair of second electrodes is connected to each other so that they have the same potential, and each of the second electrodes of the pair is arranged on the first glass plate and the second glass plate respectively, a first electrode, wherein the first electrode is taken from the pair of first electrodes, the first glass plate, and a second electrode, wherein the second electrode is taken from the pair of second electrodes, the second glass plate, overlap in a central region of the first and second glass plates in the top view, and The pair of first electrodes overlap each other and the pair of second glass plates overlap each other in an area outside the central region of the first and second glass plates in the top view. [4] Display device according to claim 3, wherein the first electrode of the first glass plate extends in a first direction to the ends of the first glass plate, the second electrode of the first glass plate is arranged at the edge of the first electrode of the first glass plate, the second electrode of the second glass plate is in a second direction, which intersects the first direction in the top view, extends to the ends of the second glass plate, and the first electrode of the second glass plate is arranged at the edge of the second electrode of the second glass plate. [5] Display device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the light source is arranged in a region in which the pair of first electrodes overlap in top view, or in a region in which the pair of second electrodes overlap in top view. [6] Display device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the light source is arranged on a surface of the partial reflection mirror on the side of the total reflection mirror or on a surface of the total reflection mirror on the side of the partial reflection mirror, and the central light emission axis of the light source is inclined relative to a straight line that runs perpendicular to the surface of the partial reflection mirror on the side of the total reflection mirror and to the surface of the total reflection mirror on the side of the partial reflection mirror. [7] Display device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the display device further comprises: a housing that accommodates the liquid crystal display, the partial reflection mirror, the light source and the total reflection mirror, wherein the light source is held by a holder which is attached to an inner surface of the housing, such that the central light emission axis of the light source is inclined relative to a straight line which is perpendicular to the surface of the partial reflection mirror on the side of the total reflection mirror and to the surface of the total reflection mirror on the side of the partial reflection mirror. [8] Display device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the display device further comprises: a transparent protective plate arranged on the display surface of the liquid crystal display, wherein the protective plate is provided with an opaque cover area which, in top view, overlaps with an outer edge of the liquid crystal display, an outer edge of the partial reflection mirror, an outer edge of the total reflection mirror and the light source. [9] Display device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the liquid crystal display comprises: a first display that operates according to the active matrix control method; and a second display, which is operated according to the passive control method, and the partial reflection mirror is located on the back of the second display. [10] Display device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the liquid crystal display comprises: a first display area that operates according to the active matrix control method; and a second display area, which is operated according to the passive control method, and the partial reflection mirror is located on the back of the second display area.

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