Aerial input device and aerial input display device

Abstract

To provide an aerial imaging apparatus configured to allow a user to recognize a position which can be detected by a non-contact position detection sensor, in an existing display device easily with small footprint.SOLUTION: An aerial input device 10 includes a lighting member 30, a hologram sheet 50, and a position detection sensor 13. The hologram sheet 50 forms an image 58 recorded with light from the lighting member 30 on an imaging surface 57. The position detection sensor 13 has sensitivity in a detection position 13a corresponding to the imaging surface 57. A distance between the lighting member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 is equal to or smaller than a length of the imaging surface in a first direction formed by projecting a direction of irradiating the hologram sheet with light from the lighting member on a sheet surface of the hologram sheet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerial input device and an aerial input display device having the aerial input device. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Input devices that input information based on information displayed on a display surface of a display device are known. Examples of such input devices include a contact-type position detection sensor, or a so-called touch panel sensor, that is provided on the display surface.

[0003] Currently, there is a demand for non-contact position detection sensors to prevent contact infection of viruses and the like. Infrared sensors and the like are known as sensors that can detect a position without touching a display surface or the like. With a non-contact position detection sensor, the position of an object, such as a finger, can be detected by placing the object at a detectable position. By placing such a non-contact position detection sensor at a position away from the display surface of a display device so as to be able to detect the object, information based on the detected position can be input. Therefore, a user can input information displayed on the display surface without touching the display surface.

[0004] It has been considered to install such a non-contact type position detection sensor in an existing display device. By utilizing an existing display device, an input device that allows contactless input of information based on information displayed on the display surface can be realized at low cost. However, users of such devices may not be able to properly recognize the detection position to which the non-contact type position detection sensor is sensitive because the detection position is invisible. This can result in inability to properly input information or the user unintentionally touching the display surface.

[0005] In addition to such a non-contact type position detection sensor, it has also been considered to provide an aerial imaging device that forms an image in the air, as described in Patent Document 1, for example. In the combination of the aerial imaging device and the non-contact type position detection sensor, the position of the image formed by the aerial imaging device corresponds to the position to which the non-contact type position detection sensor is sensitive. By observing the image formed by the aerial imaging device, the user can recognize the position to which the non-contact type position detection sensor is sensitive. This makes it possible to input information appropriately without touching the display surface. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2009 / 131128 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, the aerial imaging device described in Patent Document 1 has restrictions on its optical arrangement due to the positional relationship between the illumination member and the optical element for imaging, the user's observation position, and other factors. Therefore, it is difficult to install such an aerial imaging device in an existing display device. In particular, it is difficult to install an aerial imaging device in an existing display device in a space-saving manner. In other words, it is difficult to realize a device that allows appropriate input of information without touching the display surface at low cost and in a space-saving manner by using an existing display device.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to easily and space-savingly install an aerial imaging device in an existing display device, which allows a user to recognize positions that can be detected by a non-contact position detection sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The aerial input device of the present invention comprises: A lighting element; a hologram sheet that forms a recorded image on an imaging surface using light from the illumination member; a position detection sensor having sensitivity at a detection position corresponding to the imaging surface, the detection position is spaced apart from the hologram sheet, The distance between the illumination member and the hologram sheet is less than the length of the imaging plane in a first direction, which is the direction in which the hologram sheet is irradiated with light from the illumination member projected onto the sheet surface of the hologram sheet.

[0010] The aerial input device of the present invention comprises: A second lighting member; a second hologram sheet that forms an image recorded by the light from the second illumination member on a second imaging plane, The second illumination member may be disposed in a different direction from the illumination member with respect to the hologram sheet.

[0011] In the aerial input device of the present invention, the illumination member and the second illumination member are provided at positions facing each other in the first direction, The second hologram sheet may be disposed adjacent to the hologram sheet in the first direction.

[0012] In the aerial input device of the present invention, the hologram sheet is disposed closer to the illumination member than the second illumination member, The second hologram sheet may be disposed closer to the second illumination member than the illumination member.

[0013] In the air input device of the present invention, the second hologram sheet may be laminated on the hologram sheet.

[0014] In the air input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a plurality of light sources arranged in a direction along the sheet surface of the hologram sheet.

[0015] In the air input device of the present invention, the light sources may be controlled to emit light independently of each other.

[0016] In the air input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a light source and a lens provided between the light source and the hologram sheet.

[0017] In the air input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a light source and a prism provided between the light source and the hologram sheet.

[0018] In the air input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a light source and a light transmission direction control film provided between the light source and the hologram sheet.

[0019] In the air input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a light source and a shielding member that covers the light source from the side opposite to the hologram sheet.

[0020] In the air input device of the present invention, the detection position may be located between the illumination member and the hologram sheet in a normal direction to a surface of the hologram sheet.

[0021] In the air input device of the present invention, the size of the image recorded on the hologram sheet may increase with increasing distance from the illumination member.

[0022] The air input device of the present invention may further include a reflecting member that reflects light from the illumination member toward the hologram sheet.

[0023] The aerial input display device of the present invention comprises: a display device having a display surface for displaying an image; The hologram sheet is provided with an air input device provided on the display surface.

[0024] The aerial input display device of the present invention may further include a support capable of supporting the illumination member at a distance from the display surface.

[0025] The aerial input display device of the present invention may further include a support capable of supporting the position detection sensor at a distance from the display surface.

[0026] In the aerial input display device of the present invention, the image includes a periodic structure; The size of a pattern included in the image displayed on the display surface may be larger than the pitch of the periodic structure of the image.

[0027] In the aerial input display device of the present invention, the image may be formed at a position that overlaps a pattern included in an image displayed on the display surface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0028] According to the present invention, an aerial imaging device that allows a user to recognize a position that can be detected by a non-contact position detection sensor can be easily and space-savingly installed on an existing display device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an aerial input display device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a top view showing an example of an image displayed on the display device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side view of the lighting member. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the illumination member. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a top view showing an example of an image formed by an aerial imaging device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a hologram sheet. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a perspective view for explaining the position detection sensor. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an example of a top view of an aerial input display device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top view of another example of the aerial input display device. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a hologram. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a hologram. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a hologram. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing an example of the aerial input display device in a state where an image is formed. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing another example of the aerial input display device in a state where an image is formed. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the aerial input device. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining another modified example of the aerial input device. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining still another modified example of the aerial input device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings accompanying this specification, the scale and aspect ratios have been appropriately changed and exaggerated from those of the actual objects for the sake of clarity and ease of understanding.

[0031] The term "sheet surface" refers to a surface that coincides with the planar direction of the target sheet-like member when the target sheet-like member is viewed overall and from a global perspective.

[0032] Furthermore, terms used in this specification that specify shapes, geometric conditions, and their degrees, such as "parallel," "orthogonal," and "identical," as well as values ​​of lengths and angles, are not to be construed as being bound by strict meanings, but rather as including a range within which similar functions can be expected.

[0033] FIG. 1 shows an example of an aerial input display device 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the aerial input display device 1 includes a display device 5, a support 9, and an aerial input device 10. The aerial input display device 1 displays an image using the display device 5 and forms an image in the air using the aerial input device 10. A user of the aerial input display device 1 can simultaneously view an image displayed on a display surface 6 of the display device 5 and an image formed at a position spaced apart from the display surface 6. The user can also input information into the aerial input display device 1. Typically, a user of the aerial input display device 1 can input information into the aerial input display device 1 without touching the display surface 6 or the like by placing an object such as a finger at the position of the image formed in the air. For example, a user of the aerial input display device 1 can input information that they have selected one of multiple options, such as "yes," "no," "A," "B," "C," or "D."

[0034] The display device 5 has a display surface 6. The display device 5 can display an image on the display surface 6. The image displayed on the display surface 6 can be observed by a user of the aerial input display device 1. The display device 5 can be any display device such as a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, or an organic EL display. The display surface 6 of such a display device 5 is typically a glass surface.

[0035] Alternatively, the display device 5 may be one that displays an image by transmitting light through a printed transparent film or the like, or one that displays an image by shading part of the light with a light-shielding object. In this case, the display device 5 includes a light-emitting body that emits light and a predetermined pattern portion, such as a transparent film printed with a pattern corresponding to the image to be displayed or a light-shielding object having a shape corresponding to the image to be displayed. The surface of the transparent film or the non-formed portion of the light-shielding object serves as the display surface 6. As the light-emitting body, it is preferable to use, for example, a surface light source device that emits light in a planar manner in order to make the intensity of light transmitted through the predetermined pattern portion uniform.

[0036] 2 shows an example of an image displayed on the display surface 6 of the display device 5. The image includes a picture 7. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the letters A, B, C, and D are displayed as the pictures 7 on the display surface 6 within four rectangular frames. The pictures 7 indicate options to be input on the aerial input display device 1.

[0037] The support body 9 supports the illumination member 30, second illumination member 40, and position detection sensor 13 (described later) of the air input device 10. The support body 9 allows the illumination member 30, second illumination member 40, and position detection sensor 13 to be supported at positions spaced apart from the display surface 6 of the display device 5. The support body 9 is attached to the outer frame of the display device 5. The support body 9 can adjust the distances between the illumination member 30, second illumination member 40, and position detection sensor 13 and the display surface 6 continuously or in steps.

[0038] The aerial input device 10 can input information by forming an image in the air and placing an object such as a finger at a position corresponding to the image. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the aerial input device 10 is disposed on the side of the display surface 6 of the display device 5. The aerial input device 10 includes an aerial imaging device 20 and a position detection sensor 13. In the aerial input device 10, the aerial imaging device 20 forms an image in the air, and the position detection sensor 13 detects the presence of an object at a detection position 13a to which it is sensitive. By detecting the presence of an object, information on the detected position can be input. Furthermore, the detection position 13a to which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive corresponds to the position at which the aerial imaging device 20 forms an image.

[0039] 3, each component of the aerial input device 10 is disposed on the side of the display surface 6 of the display device 5. Therefore, the aerial input device 10 can be installed as a retrofit to an existing display device 5. In other words, by providing the aerial input device 10 to an existing display device 5, it can be made to function as the aerial input display device 1. In particular, the aerial input device 10 is disposed so that the hologram sheet 50 and the second hologram sheet 60 are provided on the display surface 6 of the display device 5.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 3, aerial imaging device 20 includes illumination member 30, second illumination member 40, hologram sheet 50, and second hologram sheet 60. When hologram sheet 50 is irradiated with light from illumination member 30, it forms a recorded image 58 on imaging plane 57. When second hologram sheet 60 is irradiated with light from second illumination member 40, it forms a recorded image 68 on imaging plane 67. The formed images 58, 68 are observed by a user. Note that in this specification, "image" refers to both an image recorded on the hologram sheet and an image formed on the imaging plane.

[0041] The components of the aerial input device 10 and the aerial imaging device 20 will be described below.

[0042] The illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 emit light that forms the basis of the image formed by the air input device 10. The illumination member 30 emits light onto the hologram sheet 50, and the second illumination member 40 emits light onto the second hologram sheet 60. The light emitted by the illumination member 30 includes a wavelength that reproduces the image recorded on the hologram sheet 50. Similarly, the light emitted by the second illumination member 40 includes a wavelength that reproduces the image recorded on the second hologram sheet 60. The second illumination member 40 is disposed in a different direction from the illumination member 30 with respect to the hologram sheet 50. Specifically, the illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 are disposed in positions that face each other in the first direction d1 with the hologram sheet 50 and the second hologram sheet 60 interposed therebetween. The first direction d1 is the direction in which light is irradiated onto hologram sheet 50 from illumination member 30 projected onto the sheet surface of hologram sheet 50, and is also the direction in which light is irradiated onto second hologram sheet 60 from second illumination member 40 projected onto the sheet surface of second hologram sheet 60. The direction in which light is irradiated onto hologram sheet 50 from illumination member 30 is the direction of the optical axis of illumination member 30, in other words, the direction in which the brightness of light irradiated from illumination member 30 is highest. The direction projected onto the sheet surface of hologram sheet 50 is the direction when observed from the normal direction nd of hologram sheet 50.

[0043] 3, the illumination member 30 includes a light source 31, an optical member 35, and a light-blocking member 39. Similarly, the second illumination member 40 includes a second light source 41, a second optical member 45, and a second light-blocking member 49. The illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 have the same configuration. The configuration of the illumination member 30 will be described below, but the second illumination member 40 can also have a similar configuration.

[0044] FIG. 4 shows a side view of the illumination member 30 observed from the first direction d1. As shown in FIG. 4, multiple light sources 31 are arranged along a second direction d2 that is non-parallel to the first direction d1. The second direction d2 is a direction along the sheet surface of the hologram sheet 50, e.g., a direction perpendicular to the first direction d1. In other words, the hologram sheet 50 extends in the first direction d1 and the second direction d2. For example, an LED light can be used as the light source 31. The light emitted by the light source 31 includes a wavelength that reproduces the image 58 recorded on the hologram sheet 50. The light emission of the multiple light sources 31 is individually controlled by an external control device (not shown). For example, the light emission of the multiple light sources 31 is controlled by forming pairs of every other light source 31 in the second direction d2.

[0045] Furthermore, an optical member 35 is positioned between the light source 31 and the hologram sheet 50. In the example shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the optical member 35 is provided at a position facing the light source 31. The optical member 35 optically acts on light traveling from the light source 31 toward the hologram sheet 50. FIG. 5 shows an enlarged view of the light source 31 and the optical member 35. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the optical member 35 includes a lens 35a, a prism 35b, and a light transmission direction control film 35c. However, the illustrated example is not limiting, and the optical member 35 may include only one of the lens 35a, the prism 35b, and the light transmission direction control film 35c, or any combination thereof. Alternatively, the optical member 35 may include other elements.

[0046] Lens 35a refracts the light emitted from light source 31 in a diffusing manner to form parallel light. For example, lens 35a is a Fresnel lens, a cylindrical lens, or the like. Prism 35b refracts the light emitted from light source 31 in a direction toward hologram sheet 50. Light transmission direction control film 35c transmits, of the light emitted from light source 31, that is directed toward hologram sheet 50, and blocks light other than the light directed toward hologram sheet 50. Typically, light transmission direction control film 35c is a louver film.

[0047] As clearly shown in FIG. 3, light-blocking member 39 covers light source 31 from the side opposite hologram sheet 50. Light-blocking member 39 blocks light emitted from light source 31 that travels in the opposite direction from hologram sheet 50. Light-blocking member 39 protrudes in first direction d1 beyond light source 31 and optical member 35 to easily block light traveling in the opposite direction from hologram sheet 50. The length by which light-blocking member 39 protrudes beyond light source 31 and optical member 35 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 10 mm or less. Light-blocking member 39 is preferably dark in color, particularly black, to easily absorb light.

[0048] The hologram sheet 50 is irradiated with light containing a predetermined wavelength to form a recorded image 58 on an image forming plane 57 spaced apart from the hologram sheet 50. The second hologram sheet 60 is irradiated with light containing a predetermined wavelength to form a recorded second image 68 on a second image forming plane 67 spaced apart from the second hologram sheet 60. The wavelength of the light used by the hologram sheet 50 to form the image 58 may be the same as or different from the wavelength of the light used by the second hologram sheet 60 to form the second image 68. More specifically, the hologram sheets 50 and 60 diffract light to direct incident light toward a predetermined position, thereby forming the images 58 and 68 on the image forming planes 57 and 67. In particular, in the illustrated example, the image forming planes 57 and 67 are located in front of the display surface 6. In the illustrated example, the hologram sheets 50 and 60 form images 58 and 68 on the sides where the light from the illumination members 30 and 40 is incident.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 3, the second hologram sheet 60 is disposed adjacent to the hologram sheet 50 in the first direction d1. More specifically, the hologram sheet 50 is disposed closer to the illumination member 30 than the second illumination member 40 in the first direction d1, and the second hologram sheet 60 is disposed closer to the second illumination member 40 than the illumination member 30. It is preferable that the hologram sheet 50 and the second hologram sheet 60 are disposed so that the sheet surfaces define the same plane. Note that the hologram sheet 50 and the second hologram sheet 60 may be formed integrally.

[0050] Hologram sheet 50 forms image 58 on image plane 57 when illuminated with light from illumination member 30. Hologram sheet 50 is formed to easily form image 58 using light illuminated from the direction of illumination member 30. Second hologram sheet 60 forms second image 68 on second image plane 67 when illuminated with light from second illumination member 40. Second hologram sheet 60 is formed to easily form second image 68 using light illuminated from the direction of second illumination member 40. It is preferable that the illumination direction of light that makes it easy for hologram sheet 50 to form image 58 and the illumination direction of light that makes it easy for second hologram sheet 60 to form second image 68 are different from each other.

[0051] It is preferable that the visible light transmittance of the hologram sheets 50, 60 be high so that the display surface 6 of the display device 5 can be observed through the hologram sheets 50, 60. Specifically, the visible light transmittance of the hologram sheets 50, 60 is preferably 50% or more, and more preferably 80% or more. The visible light transmittance can be determined as the average value of the transmittance at each wavelength when measured using a spectrophotometer (Shimadzu Corporation's "UV-3100PC", JIS K 0115 compliant) within the measurement wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0052] FIG. 6 shows a specific example of an image 58 recorded on the hologram sheet 50. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the image 58 includes a periodic structure periodically arranged at a pitch p. The pitch p depends on the size of the display device 5, but is, for example, 5 mm or more and 50 mm or less. In the example shown, the periodic structure is a plurality of dots. However, the periodic structure is not limited to the example shown, and may be a line, a picture, a character string, or the like. Furthermore, the image 58 does not necessarily have to include a periodic structure. For example, the image 58 may include irregularly arranged dots.

[0053] It is preferable that the light source 31 of the illumination member 30 is arranged to match the position of the image 58 recorded on the hologram sheet 50. In the example shown in Fig. 6, the light source 31 is arranged at a position in the second direction d2 where the images 58 are periodically arranged. In this case, the image 58 is clearly formed by the light from the light source 31.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 6, the image 58 recorded on the hologram sheet 50 varies in size in the first direction d1. More specifically, the image 58 becomes larger as it moves away from the illumination member 30. As an example, the image 58 closest to the illumination member 30 has a diameter of 0.2 mm or more and 0.3 mm or less. As it moves away from the illumination member 30 in the first direction d1, the diameter of the image 58 increases by 0.1 mm or more and 0.2 mm or less. The largest image 58 has a diameter of 2 mm or more and 2.5 mm or less. Similarly, the second image 68 recorded on the second hologram sheet 60 becomes larger as it moves away from the second illumination member 40.

[0055] 7 shows an example of the configuration of hologram sheet 50. As shown in Fig. 7, hologram sheet 50 includes base layer 51, hologram layer 53 supported by base layer 51, bonding layer 52 bonding base layer 51 and hologram layer 53 together, surface layer 54 laminated on hologram layer 53 to form the surface of hologram sheet 50, and adhesive layer 55 for bonding hologram sheet 50 to display surface 6 of display device 5.

[0056] Base layer 51 supports hologram layer 53. Base layer 51 is what is generally called a transparent film that transmits wavelengths in the visible light wavelength band (380 nm to 780 nm). Base layer 51 may be made of any material that is transparent and can appropriately support hologram layer 53, and examples of such materials include polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and cyclic polyolefin. Furthermore, in consideration of transparency, appropriate support and durability of hologram layer 53, base layer 51 preferably has a thickness of 10 μm or more and 100 μm or less.

[0057] The bonding layer 52 bonds the base layer 51 and the hologram layer 53. The bonding layer 52 can be made of a material having various adhesive or sticky properties. The bonding layer 52 preferably has a high visible light transmittance. A typical example of the material for the bonding layer 52 is an acrylic adhesive material. The thickness of the bonding layer 52 is, for example, 5 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0058] The hologram layer 53 functions to focus incident light on the hologram sheet 50 onto an image plane 57. The hologram layer 53 is preferably a volume hologram (also known as a Lippmann hologram). In the illustrated example, the hologram sheet 50 focuses an image 58 on the side where light from the illumination member 30 is incident. Therefore, the hologram layer 53 is a reflection hologram that focuses an image by reflecting light. The hologram layer 53 can be made of, for example, a hardened silver halide photosensitive material, dichromated gelatin, a crosslinked polymer, a photopolymer, or the like. The thickness of the hologram layer 53 is, for example, from 1 μm to 100 μm, and more preferably from 5 μm to 40 μm.

[0059] The surface layer 54 forms the surface of the hologram sheet 50 and functions as a protective layer that protects the hologram layer 53 from the outside. Any transparent material that can adequately protect the hologram layer 53 may be used, including polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and cyclic polyolefin. The thickness of the surface layer 54 is, for example, 10 μm to 100 μm. Furthermore, the surface layer 54 may be endowed with a certain function. Examples of functions that can be imparted to the surface layer 54 include an antibacterial function, an antiviral function, an alcohol-resistant function, a low-reflection (LR) function, a hard coat (HC) function with scratch resistance, an infrared shielding (reflective) function, an ultraviolet shielding (reflective) function, an antifouling function, and a bonding function. The surface layer 54 may be endowed with two or more functions. In particular, imparting the surface layer 54 with an antibacterial or antiviral function can prevent contact infection with bacteria, viruses, and the like even if a user comes into contact with the hologram sheet 50. Furthermore, since the surface layer 54 is provided with an alcohol resistance function, the surface of the hologram sheet 50 can be disinfected with alcohol. By disinfecting the surface with alcohol, even if a user comes into contact with the hologram sheet 50, contact infection with bacteria, viruses, etc. can be prevented.

[0060] The adhesive layer 55 is a layer for adhering the hologram sheet 50 to the display surface 6 of the display device 5. The adhesive layer 55 can be peeled off from a member to which it has been adhered, and is preferably re-adherable after being peeled off. Furthermore, it is preferable that the adhesive layer 55 has a high visible light transmittance. Examples of such adhesive layers 55 include urethane-based adhesives, silicone-based adhesives, and acrylic-based adhesives. The thickness of the adhesive layer 55 is, for example, 5 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0061] Although the configuration of the hologram sheet 50 has been described with reference to FIG. 7, the second hologram sheet 60 can also have the same configuration as the hologram sheet 50 described above.

[0062] The position detection sensor 13 detects the position of an object in a sensitive region, particularly a surface. The position detection sensor 13 may detect not only the position but also the movement of an object. The position detection sensor 13 is, for example, a frame-shaped member. The position detection sensor 13 detects the position of an object, for example, by infrared rays and / or by electrostatic capacitance. As shown in FIG. 8 , the position detection sensor 13 as an infrared sensor includes, for example, a detection unit 13a that detects infrared rays and a retroreflection unit 13b that reflects infrared rays. The detection unit 13a is provided at an inner corner of the rectangular frame-shaped position detection sensor 13, and the retroreflection unit 13b is provided, for example, inside the rectangular frame-shaped position detection sensor 13. The position detection sensor 13 detects the position of an object at the detection position 13a separated from the hologram sheet 50. The position detection sensor 13 is set and arranged so as to have detection sensitivity at positions corresponding to the imaging planes 57 and 67 on which the images 58 and 68 are formed. In other words, the detection position 13 a to which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive is indicated by the images 58 and 68 formed on the image forming surfaces 57 and 67 .

[0063] 9 and 10 show an example and another example of a top view of the aerial input display device 1. In the examples shown, letters A, B, C, and D are displayed in four rectangular frames on the display surface 6 of the display device 5, and images 58 and 68 are formed on imaging surfaces 57 and 67 on the display surface 6. The size of the picture 7 displayed on the display surface 6 is larger than the pitch p of the periodic structure of the images 58 and 68. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the images 58 and 68 generated by the aerial input device 10 are formed over the entire area where they overlap the display surface 6. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the images 58 and 68 generated by the aerial input device 10 are formed only at positions where they overlap the picture 7 included in the image displayed on the display surface 6.

[0064] 11 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in FIG. 9. In the examples shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the position detection sensor 13 detects the presence of an object at a position overlapping the letters A, B, C, and D displayed on the display surface 6. In such an air input device 10, when a user points at a letter drawn on the display surface 6 with an object such as a finger F at a detection position 13a where the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive, the position detection sensor 13 detects the pointed position. The letter pointed at by the user is identified from the position on the display surface 6 corresponding to the detected position. By identifying the pointed letter, information about the letter pointed at by the user can be input.

[0065] Detection position 13a is located between illumination member 30 and hologram sheet 50 in the normal direction nd to the sheet surface of hologram sheet 50. Detection position 13a is also located between second illumination member 40 and second hologram sheet 60 in the normal direction nd to the sheet surface of second hologram sheet 60.

[0066] The illumination member 30 is provided near the hologram sheet 50 to prevent the entire air input device 10 from becoming large. Specifically, the distance D1 between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 is equal to or less than the sum of the lengths of the imaging plane 57 and the second imaging plane 67 in the first direction d1. Alternatively, the distance D1 between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 is equal to or less than the length of the display surface 6 of the display device 5 in the first direction d1. Similarly, the distance between the second illumination member 40 and the second hologram sheet 60 is equal to or less than the sum of the lengths of the imaging plane 57 and the second imaging plane 67 in the first direction d1. Alternatively, the distance between the second illumination member 40 and the second hologram sheet 60 is equal to or less than the length of the display surface 6 of the display device 5 in the first direction d1. Alternatively, the distance D1 between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 may be equal to or less than the length of the imaging plane 57 in the first direction d1. Alternatively, the distance between second illumination member 40 and second hologram sheet 60 may be equal to or less than the length of second image plane 67 in first direction d1. As described above, first direction d1 is the direction in which hologram sheet 50 is irradiated with light from illumination member 30, projected onto the sheet surface of hologram sheet 50, and is also the direction in which second hologram sheet 60 is irradiated with light from second illumination member 40, projected onto the sheet surface of second hologram sheet 60.

[0067] As described above, hologram sheet 50 forms an image on the side where light from illumination member 30 is incident. In other words, illumination member 30 is located on the same side of hologram sheet 50 as imaging plane 57. Distance D2 between imaging plane 57 and hologram sheet 50 is preferably 10 mm or more and 100 mm or less, and more preferably 20 mm or more and 50 mm or less.

[0068] Detection position 13a, at which position detection sensor 13 is sensitive, may coincide with imaging planes 57, 67 where images 58, 68 are formed, or may be closer to hologram sheet 50 than imaging planes 57, 67. However, it is preferable that detection position 13a be farther from hologram sheet 50 than imaging planes 57, 67. In other words, distance D2 between imaging planes 57, 67 and hologram sheets 50, 60 is preferably shorter than distance D3 between detection position 13a, at which position detection sensor 13 is sensitive, and hologram sheets 50, 60. Specifically, distance D2 between imaging planes 57, 67 and hologram sheets 50, 60 is preferably 1 mm or more and 20 mm or less shorter, and more preferably 5 mm or more and 10 mm or less shorter, than distance D3 between detection position 13a, at which position detection sensor 13 is sensitive, and hologram sheets 50, 60.

[0069] Next, the operation of the aerial input device 10 will be described.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 11 , first, light is irradiated from the illumination member 30 onto the hologram sheet 50, and then light is irradiated from the second illumination member 40 onto the second hologram sheet 60. The light irradiated onto the hologram sheet 50 is diffracted at a portion of the hologram sheet 50 where interference fringes are generated in the hologram layer 53. That is, the hologram layer 53 diffracts the light based on the recorded pattern. The light diffracted by the hologram layer 53 is focused on an imaging plane 57 to form an image 58 based on the recorded pattern. Similarly, the light irradiated onto the second hologram sheet 60 forms a second image 68 on a second imaging plane 67. In this way, images 58 and 68 are formed in the air by the light from the illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40. That is, the light irradiated from the illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 serves as reconstruction light for reconstructing the hologram.

[0071] A position detection sensor 13 having detection sensitivity is disposed at a position corresponding to the imaging planes 57 and 67. By placing an object such as a user's finger F at a detection position 13a at which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive, the position detection sensor 13 detects the position of the object such as the finger F. The position detection sensor 13 enables the air input device 10 to identify the position pointed at by the object such as the finger F and input information about that position. In particular, the detection position 13a at which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive can be easily recognized by the images 58 and 68 formed on the imaging planes 57 and 67.

[0072] Next, a method for manufacturing the hologram layer 53 and the hologram sheet 50 will be described with reference to Figures 12 to 14. The second hologram sheet 60 can also be manufactured by a similar method.

[0073] First, as shown in FIG. 12 , a hologram-sensitive material 97a and a pattern mask 93 are provided on a glass substrate 91. Examples of the hologram-sensitive material 97a include silver halide-sensitive materials, dichromated gelatin, cross-linked polymers, and photopolymers. Photopolymers are particularly preferred as the material for the hologram-sensitive material 97a because they are dry materials that harden when irradiated with ultraviolet light and are suitable for mass production. The photopolymer contains at least one photopolymerizable compound and a photopolymerization initiator. The pattern mask 93 has openings 93a. The openings 93a block light in areas where the openings 93a are not provided, but transmit light in areas where the openings 93a are provided. The openings 93a form a pattern shape in the pattern mask 93 corresponding to the position of the image 58 formed by the hologram sheet 50. For example, the pattern mask 93 does not have openings 93a at a position that overlaps the image 58 formed by the hologram sheet 50.

[0074] Next, ultraviolet light is irradiated through pattern mask 93, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 12. The ultraviolet light is blocked in areas where pattern mask 93 does not have openings 93a. On the other hand, in areas where openings 93a are provided, the ultraviolet light passes through pattern mask 93 and is irradiated onto hologram sensitive material 97a. The hologram sensitive material 97a irradiated with ultraviolet light is hardened. That is, the hologram sensitive material 97a is hardened in areas other than the pattern shape corresponding to pattern mask 93. The hardened areas of hologram sensitive material 97a become insensitive areas 97b where no hologram is recorded. That is, even if light for imaging a hologram is irradiated later, no hologram will be formed in insensitive areas 97b.

[0075] Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 13, the pattern mask 93 is removed. A first hologram master 95 is placed on the opposite side of the glass substrate 91 from the side on which the hologram-sensitive material 97a is provided. A hologram is recorded entirely on the first hologram master 95. In this state, light, particularly a parallel beam of light, is irradiated onto the hologram-sensitive material 97a, as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 13. The light directly irradiating the hologram-sensitive material 97a serves as reference light, while the diffracted light that passes through the hologram-sensitive material 97a and is diffracted by the first hologram master 95 serves as object light. The object light and reference light interfere with each other, generating interference fringes, which are light-dark patterns, in the hologram-sensitive material 97a. These interference fringes are then recorded on the photosensitive hologram-sensitive material 97a. On the other hand, no interference fringes are recorded in the insensitive portions 97b. Interference fringes are recorded at a position overlapping with the image 58 formed on the hologram sheet 50, and a second hologram master 97 is produced from the hologram sensitive material 97a.

[0076] The light irradiated onto the hologram sensitive material 97a, i.e., the object light and reference light, may be, for example, an argon ion laser (wavelengths 457.9 nm, 476.5 nm, 488.0 nm, 514.5 nm), a krypton ion laser (wavelength 647.1 nm), a helium-neon laser (wavelength 632.8 nm), or a YAG laser (wavelength 532 nm). The light irradiated here has a wavelength included in the light irradiated from the illumination member 30.

[0077] Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 14 , hologram sensitive material 53a forming hologram layer 53 and second hologram master 97 manufactured in the above-described process are disposed at a distance from each other. The distance between hologram sensitive material 53a and second hologram master 97 corresponds to the distance between hologram layer 53 and imaging plane 57 where image 58 recorded in hologram layer 53 to be manufactured is formed. That is, by adjusting the distance between hologram sensitive material 53a and second hologram master 97, the distance between hologram layer 53 and imaging plane 57 where image 58 recorded in hologram layer 53 is formed can be adjusted. In the example shown in FIG. 14 , a substrate 92 made of glass, transparent resin, or the like is provided between hologram sensitive material 53a and second hologram master 97 to separate hologram sensitive material 53a and second hologram master 97 by a desired distance. Alternatively, the space between the hologram sensitive material 53a and the second hologram master 97 may be air or the like, provided that they are spaced a desired distance apart. Thereafter, as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 14 , light is irradiated onto the hologram sensitive material 53a, thereby generating interference fringes, which are light and dark patterns, in the hologram sensitive material 53a, similar to the manufacturing process of the second hologram master 97 described above. The interference fringes are generated at positions where the interference fringes are generated in the second hologram master 97, i.e., positions that overlap with the image 58 formed by the hologram sheet 50. In this manner, the hologram layer 53 is manufactured.

[0078] The manufactured hologram layer 53 is bonded to base layer 51 via bonding layer 52, and an adhesive layer 55 is provided on the side of base layer 51 opposite to the side on which hologram layer 53 is provided. In addition, a surface layer 54 is provided on the side of hologram layer 53 opposite to the side on which base layer 51 is provided. In this manner, hologram sheet 50 as shown in FIG. 7 is manufactured. Note that a peelable separator may be provided on adhesive layer 55 to prevent adhesive layer 55 from unintentionally adhering to other members.

[0079] There is a demand for providing existing display devices with equipment that allows users to input information appropriately without touching the display surface. In particular, there is a demand for such equipment to be installed easily, at low cost, and in a space-saving manner in order to take early measures against contact infection. However, simply providing a non-contact position detection sensor to an existing display device may result in the sensor being unable to properly recognize the detection position to which it is sensitive. Therefore, providing such a sensor to an existing display device makes it difficult to properly input information and may result in unintentional contact with the display surface. Meanwhile, due to optical layout constraints, equipment that combines an aerial imaging device and a non-contact position detection sensor is difficult to install in a space-saving manner on an existing display device.

[0080] On the other hand, the air input device 10 of this embodiment has a position detection sensor 13. The detection position 13a to which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive is separated from the hologram sheet 50. That is, the position detection sensor 13 can detect positions in a non-contact manner. The air input device 10 also has an illumination member 30 and a hologram sheet 50. The hologram sheet 50 forms an image 58 on an imaging plane 57 using light from the illumination member 30. By providing the illumination member 30, the hologram sheet 50, and the position detection sensor 13 on the side of the display surface 6 of an existing display device 5, the air input display device 1 can be easily constructed. Furthermore, the hologram sheet 50 makes it easy to recognize the imaging plane 57 on which the image 58 is formed. The detection position 13a to which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive corresponds to the imaging plane 57. By recognizing the imaging plane 57, a user of the air input device 10 can recognize the detection position 13a to which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive. Furthermore, the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 are provided together in a small space. The distance between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 is equal to or less than the length of the imaging plane 57 in the first direction d1, which is the direction in which the direction in which light is irradiated from the illumination member 30 is projected onto the surface of the hologram sheet 50. The illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 can be provided in the display device 5 while being provided together in a small space. In other words, the air input device 10, which allows the user to recognize the detection position 13a detectable by the non-contact position detection sensor 13, can be provided in an existing display device 5 easily and in a space-saving manner, to form the air input display device 1.

[0081] Furthermore, the illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 are provided at positions facing each other in the first direction d1. The second hologram sheet 60 is disposed adjacent to the hologram sheet 50 in the second direction d2. Therefore, the imaging plane 57 on which the hologram sheet 50 forms the image 58 is adjacent in the second direction d2 to the second imaging plane 67 on which the second hologram sheet 60 forms the second image 68. This allows different images to be observed at different positions in a planar view.

[0082] Furthermore, the hologram sheet 50 is arranged closer to the illumination member 30 than the second illumination member 40, and the second hologram sheet 60 is arranged closer to the second illumination member 40 than the illumination member 30. Light from the illumination member 30 is more likely to be irradiated onto the hologram sheet 50. Therefore, a bright image 58 is more likely to be formed. Similarly, light from the second illumination member 40 is more likely to be irradiated onto the second hologram sheet 60. Therefore, a bright second image 68 is more likely to be formed.

[0083] Illumination member 30 includes a plurality of light sources 31 arranged in second direction d2 along the sheet surface of hologram sheet 50. With the plurality of light sources 31, even if illumination member 30 is disposed close to hologram sheet 50, it is possible to irradiate light onto the entire hologram sheet 50. Therefore, image 58 can be formed from the entire hologram sheet 50.

[0084] The light emission of the multiple light sources 31 is controlled separately. For example, the light emission of the multiple light sources 31 is controlled in pairs, every other pair in the second direction d2. In this case, when a certain pair of light sources 31 emits light, an image 58 is formed on an image formation surface 57 as shown in FIG. 15 . When a certain pair of light sources 31 is turned off and another pair of light sources 31 emits light, the image 58 is formed on the image formation surface 57 at a position slightly shifted in the second direction d2 as shown in FIG. 16 . In this way, by controlling the light emission of the multiple light sources 31, the position of the image 58 on the image formation surface 57 in the second direction d2 can be changed. This allows the image 58 to be formed at an appropriate position corresponding to the position from which the aerial input device 10 and the aerial input display device 1 are observed in the second direction d2. For example, the image 58 can be formed at an appropriate position that matches the eye level of a person observing the aerial input display device 1.

[0085] The illumination member 30 includes a lens 35a. The lens 35a converts the light from the light source 31 into parallel light. The parallel light from the illumination member 30 can be uniformly irradiated onto the entire hologram sheet 50. Therefore, an image 58 can be formed from the entire hologram sheet 50. Furthermore, uneven brightness can be reduced on the imaging surface 57.

[0086] Illumination member 30 includes prism 35b. Prism 35b makes it easier for light from light source 31 to be directed toward hologram sheet 50. This allows the light from illumination member 30 to be efficiently used and focused as image 58 on hologram sheet 50. Furthermore, since it is less likely for light from light source 31 to be directed toward anything other than hologram sheet 50, the light from illumination member 30 is less likely to be directly observed from the outside.

[0087] The illumination member 30 includes a light transmission direction control film 35c. The light transmission direction control film 35c blocks light from the light source 31 that is directed toward directions other than the hologram sheet 50. This makes it difficult for the light from the illumination member 30 to be directly observed from the outside.

[0088] The illumination member 30 includes a light-shielding member 39 that covers the light source 31 from the side opposite to the hologram sheet 50. The light-shielding member 39 blocks light from the light source 31 that travels toward the side opposite to the hologram sheet 50. This makes it difficult for the light from the illumination member 30 to be directly observed from the outside.

[0089] The amount of light from illumination member 30 decreases with increasing distance from illumination member 30. In this embodiment, the size of image 58 recorded on hologram sheet 50 increases with increasing distance from illumination member 30. Because a dark image 58 is observed to be large at positions farther away from illumination member 30, image 58 formed by hologram sheet 50 on image plane 57 can be recognized uniformly across the entire image plane 57. In other words, when light from illumination member 30 is irradiated and image plane 57 is observed with the human eye, image 58 appears to have the same brightness from the side closer to illumination member 30 to the side farther away. This observation pattern is also true for image plane 67 and image 68 when second hologram sheet 60 is used.

[0090] 9 and 10, the picture 7 and the image 58 are observed to overlap. The size of the picture 7 included in the image displayed on the display surface 6 is larger than the pitch p of the periodic structure of the image 58. Therefore, the visibility of the picture 7 is less likely to be obstructed by the image 58.

[0091] As described above, the image 58 indicates the detection position 13a detected by the position detection sensor 13. The picture 7 indicates an option to be input in the aerial input display device 1. As in the examples shown in Figs. 9 and 10, the image 58 is formed at a position where it overlaps the picture 7, making it possible to easily recognize the position where an object such as a finger F is placed.

[0092] As described above, the air input device 10 of this embodiment includes the illumination member 30, the hologram sheet 50 that forms an image 58 recorded by light from the illumination member 30 on the imaging plane 57, and the position detection sensor 13 that is sensitive to the detection position 13a corresponding to the imaging plane 57. The detection position 13a is spaced apart from the hologram sheet 50, and the distance between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 is equal to or less than the length of the imaging plane in the first direction d1, which is the direction in which the hologram sheet 50 is irradiated with light from the illumination member 30 and projected onto the surface of the hologram sheet 50. According to this air input device 10, the illumination member 30, the hologram sheet 50, and the position detection sensor 13 can be easily provided on the side of the display surface 6 of an existing display device 5 to form an air input display device 1. Furthermore, the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 are provided together in a small space. In this way, an aerial imaging device that allows a user to recognize positions detectable by a non-contact position detection sensor can be easily and space-savingly provided on an existing display device.

[0093] The aerial input display device 1 and the aerial input device 10 may be provided in an automated teller machine (ATM), a ticket vending machine, an ordering machine, a vending machine, an image or photo printer, an amusement cabinet installed in a game center, etc. Alternatively, they may be provided in a moving object such as an automobile.

[0094] It should be noted that various modifications can be made to the aerial input display device 1 and the aerial input device 10 of the above-described embodiment.

[0095] An air input device 10 according to a modified example of this embodiment is shown in Fig. 17. In the air input device 10 shown in Fig. 17, the second hologram sheet 60 is laminated on the hologram sheet 50.

[0096] According to such an aerial input device 10, the hologram sheet 50 forms an image 58 over the entire area where it overlaps the display surface 6, and the second hologram sheet 60 forms a second image 68. The user can observe the image 58 and the second image 68 overlapping each other.

[0097] Fig. 18 shows an air input device 10 that is another modified example of this embodiment. The air input device 10 shown in Fig. 18 further has a reflecting member 17. The reflecting member 17 reflects light from the illumination member 30 toward the hologram sheet 50. In the example shown, the reflecting member 17 is provided at a position facing the illumination member 30 in the first direction d1 across the hologram sheet 50. The reflecting member 17 may be any member that reflects light, and is, for example, a mirror.

[0098] With this air input device 10, the optical distance from the illumination member 30 to the hologram sheet 50 can be increased by reflecting light with the reflecting member 17. As the optical distance increases, the light from the illumination member 30 becomes closer to parallel light and is more likely to be uniformly irradiated onto the entire hologram sheet 50. As a result, an image 58 with little unevenness in brightness can be formed from the entire hologram sheet 50.

[0099] The aerial input display device 1 may be connected to a sensor that detects the presence or approach of a person. In this case, the lighting member 30 emits light when the presence or approach of a person is detected. Since the lighting member 30 does not emit light while no person is present near the aerial input display device 1, the power consumed by the lighting member 30 can be reduced.

[0100] 19 , the air input device 10 may further include a spacer 11 on the hologram sheet 50 side of the illumination member 30. The spacer 11 allows adjustment of the distance between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50. This allows light to be irradiated from the illumination member 30 onto the hologram sheet 50 at an appropriate distance and angle. Similarly, the air input device 10 may further include a second spacer 12 on the second hologram sheet 60 side of the second illumination member 40. By adjusting the distance between the second illumination member 40 and the second hologram sheet 60 with the second spacer 12, light can be irradiated from the second illumination member 40 onto the second hologram sheet 60 at an appropriate distance and angle.

[0101] Although several modifications of the above-described embodiment have been described, it is of course possible to combine a plurality of modifications as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1. Air-to-air input display device 5 Display device 6 Display surface 7. Design 9 Support 10. Aerial Input Device 11 Spacer 12 Second spacer 13 Position detection sensor 13a Detection position 17 Reflective material 20 Aerial imaging device 30 Lighting components 31 Light source 35 Optical Components 35a lens 35b Prism 35c Light Transmission Direction Control Film 39 Light blocking material 40 second lighting member 41 Second light source 45 Second optical member 49 Second light blocking member 50 Hologram Sheet 51 Base material layer 52 Bonding layer 53 Hologram Layer 54 Surface layer 55 Adhesive layer 57 Image plane 58 statue 60 Second Hologram Sheet 67 Second imaging plane 68 Statue 2

Claims

[Claim 1] A lighting element; a hologram sheet that forms a recorded image on an imaging surface using light from the illumination member; a position detection sensor having sensitivity at a detection position corresponding to the imaging plane; Equipped with the detection position is spaced apart from the hologram sheet, an aerial input device, wherein the distance between the illumination member and the hologram sheet is equal to or less than the length of the imaging plane in a first direction, which is the direction in which the hologram sheet is irradiated with light from the illumination member projected onto the sheet surface of the hologram sheet.

Images