Light-emitting modules and mobile devices

Abstract

To provide a light-emitting module and mobile device with a less conspicuous appearance for light-emitting parts such as flashes. [Solution] The light-emitting module is a first open Mouth The enclosure that has, A substrate having a second opening, The device comprises a light-emitting device positioned within the enclosure and emitting a first light, and electronic paper covering the first opening, wherein the first light irradiated onto the electronic paper is reflected by the electronic paper to become a second light, and at least a portion of the second light can be emitted to the outside of the enclosure through the second opening, the electronic paper is switchable between a first state in which it is a first color when the light-emitting device is lit and a second state in which it is a second color when the light-emitting device is turned off, and in the first and second states, the electronic paper is visible from outside the enclosure through the second opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments relate to a light-emitting module and a mobile device.

Background Art

[0002] Mobile devices such as smartphones are equipped with an LED and a flash module that controls the light emitted from the LED, and an optical element such as a Fresnel lens is disposed on the LED light-emitting surface side.

[0003] It is preferable that mobile devices such as smartphones make the appearance of the flash less conspicuous.

[0004] However, at present, a Fresnel shape may be adopted, resulting in a whitish appearance. When there is a difference from the color of the mobile device case around the flash light-emitting part, the appearance of the flash is conspicuous.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] An embodiment has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a light-emitting module and a mobile device that reduce the difference between the appearance color of a light-emitting part such as a flash when turned off and the color of the case of the mobile device around the flash light-emitting part, making it less conspicuous.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The light-emitting module according to the embodiment comprises a housing having a first opening and a second opening provided on the opposite side of the first opening; a light-emitting device positioned within the housing and emitting first light; and electronic paper covering the first opening. The first light irradiated onto the electronic paper is reflected by the electronic paper to become second light, and at least a portion of the second light can be emitted to the outside of the housing through the second opening. The electronic paper can switch between a first state in which it is a first color when the light-emitting device is lit and a second state in which it is a second color when the light-emitting device is turned off. In the first and second states, the electronic paper is visible from outside the housing through the second opening.

[0008] Furthermore, the mobile device according to the embodiment comprises a case and the above-mentioned light-emitting module disposed within the case. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a light-emitting module and mobile device in which the appearance of light-emitting parts such as flashes is less conspicuous. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1A] This is a front view of a light-emitting module according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1B] This is a plan view of the light-emitting module as seen from the outside of the light-emitting module according to the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments. [Figure 1C] This is a cross-sectional view of the CC of the light-emitting module according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1D] This is a DD end view of a light-emitting module according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1E] This is a bottom view of the light-emitting module according to the first embodiment, as seen from the light-transmitting member side. [Figure 2] This is an example of a diagram illustrating the structure of electronic paper. [Figure 3]It is the relative intensity with respect to the wavelength of the light transmitted through the liquid crystal panel in the white display state, which is the light emitted from the LED. [Figure 4] It is the relative intensity with respect to the wavelength of the light reflected by the electronic paper in the white display state, which is the light emitted from the LED. [Figure 5] It is the D-D end view of the light-emitting module according to the first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] It is the D-D end view of the light-emitting module according to the second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 7A] It is the C-C cross-sectional view of the light-emitting module according to the second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 7B] It is the C-C cross-sectional view of the light-emitting module according to the third modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 7C] It is the C-C cross-sectional view of the light-emitting module according to the fourth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] It is the D-D end view of the light-emitting module according to the fifth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 9A] It is the D-D end view of the light-emitting module according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9B] It is the D-D end view of the light-emitting module according to the first modification of the second embodiment. <https: / / patentscope.wipo.int / search / en / detail.jsf?docId=WO2018079388A1&recNum=0000085&queryString=&prevFilter=&sortOption=DESC_SCORE&queryTab=PATENTS&maxRec=25&offset=0&highlight=true&queryResultPosition=1&tab=PATENTS> [Figure 9C] It is the D-D end view of the light-emitting module according to the second modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 9D] It is the D-D end view of the light-emitting module according to the third modification of the second embodiment. <000009​​​​​​​​​​​​This is a DD end view of a light-emitting module according to the first modified example of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11C] This is a DD end view of a light-emitting module according to a second modification of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a DD end view of a light-emitting module according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view of a mobile device according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0012] 1. Light-emitting module <First Embodiment> First, let me describe the first embodiment. Figure 1A is a front view of the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1B is a top view of the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment, and is a top view of the electronic paper 40 as seen from the outside of the light-emitting module 100. Figure 1C is a cross-sectional view of CC in Figure 1A. Figure 1D is an end view of Figure 1B, specifically the DD end view. Figure 1E is a bottom view of the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment, viewed from below, and is a view from the light-transmitting member 50 side. As shown in Figures 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E, the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment comprises a housing 10, a substrate 20, a light-emitting device 30, and an electronic paper 40. The light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment is, for example, a flash. Each component will be described below.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1D, the housing 10 extends upward (+Z direction) from the substrate 20 and has a rectangular cylindrical side portion 10a that surrounds the outer circumference as shown in Figure 1C. The housing 10 also has an upper portion 10b that is sandwiched between the side portion 10a that contacts the substrate 20 and the side portion 10a that contacts the electronic paper 40, and extends inward. The housing 10 is preferably made of a material consisting of resin, metal, or a combination thereof, and is composed of a light-reflective component. The housing 10 also has a first opening 11 and a second opening 12 provided on the opposite side of the first opening 11. The first opening 11 is provided in the upper part of the housing 10 and is formed by the upper portion 10b. The second opening 12 is provided in the lower part of the housing 10. The size of the second opening 12 is smaller than the size of the first opening 11. On the other hand, the size of the second opening 12 may be larger than the first opening 11. Furthermore, the direction from edge 12a to edge 12b of the second opening 12 is defined as the +X direction (direction of the arrow on the X axis), and the opposite direction is defined as the -X direction. The direction from edge 12d to edge 12c of the second opening 12 is defined as the +Y direction (direction of the arrow on the Y axis), and the opposite direction is defined as the -Y direction. The direction from the second opening 12 to the first opening 11 is defined as the +Z direction (direction of the arrow on the Z axis), and the opposite direction is defined as the -Z direction.

[0014] Inside the housing 10, a reflective material 15 is provided to reflect the first light K1 emitted by the light-emitting device 30 to the electronic paper 40, which will be described later. The reflective material 15 is provided on the substrate 20 and is located between the light-emitting device 30 and the second opening 12 in the X direction. In order to efficiently reflect the first light K1 to the electronic paper 40, the reflective material 15 is triangular in end view, as shown in Figure 1D, and its hypotenuse is positioned opposite the emission surface 33 of the light-emitting device 30.

[0015] The materials constituting the housing 10 may be the same material, or the outer material and inner material of the housing 10 may be made of different materials. Preferably, the inner material, which is at least the inner surface of the housing 10, is the first light-reflecting member 13. The first light-reflecting member 13 is not limited as long as it can reflect the first light K1 emitted by the light-emitting device 30, and is preferably a white resin. In this way, by making the housing 10 a light-reflecting member, the first light K1 from the light-emitting device 30 is reflected efficiently.

[0016] The circuit board 20 has a light-emitting device 30 placed on it. The housing 10 is placed on the circuit board 20 and the circuit board 20 is joined to the housing 10 via a connecting member. The circuit board 20 is a printed circuit board. The second opening 12 is located on the circuit board 20. A connector 21 for connecting power and other devices is provided on the outside of the housing 10, and the connector 21 is located on the circuit board 20.

[0017] The light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment may further include an adjustment member 25. The adjustment member 25 is provided between the substrate 20 and the light-transmitting member 50. The adjustment member 25 adjusts the emission area of ​​the second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40. The adjustment member 25 is made of, for example, resin, metal, or a combination thereof. A third opening 19 may be provided in the adjustment member 25. The third opening 19 may be rectangular or circular in shape. The adjustment member 25 is joined to the substrate 20 and the light-transmitting member 50 with a connecting member such as double-sided tape, acrylic adhesive, or epoxy adhesive. Note that the connecting member is not shown in the figure.

[0018] The light-emitting device 30 is located inside the housing 10, within the enclosure of the housing 10, and is positioned on the substrate 20. The light-emitting device 30 has a wavelength conversion member 31 containing a phosphor and a light-emitting element 32. The phosphors are a red phosphor (hereinafter simply referred to as R) and a green phosphor (hereinafter simply referred to as G). The light-emitting element 32 is a blue light-emitting element (hereinafter simply referred to as B). The light-emitting device 30 emits a first light K1 containing RGB light.

[0019] The emission surface 33 of the light-emitting device 30 is oriented toward the inside of the housing 10. Alternatively, the emission surface 33 of the light-emitting device 30 may be positioned toward the first opening 11. The light-emitting device 30 emits a first light K1 containing RGB light onto the electronic paper 40.

[0020] When the light-emitting module 100 is used, for example, in a flash, the first light K1 is preferably white. White light can be achieved by combining a blue light-emitting element with a green phosphor and a red phosphor, a blue light-emitting element with a yellow phosphor, a blue light-emitting element with a green light-emitting element and a red phosphor, or a red light-emitting element with a blue light-emitting element and a green light-emitting element.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1C, multiple light-emitting devices 30 are provided on the substrate 20 and are positioned between each of the sides 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d of the second opening 12 and the side portion 10a. The emission surfaces 33 of two light-emitting devices 30 positioned between each of the sides 12a and 12b of the second opening 12 and the side portion 10a are positioned to face each other in the +X and -X directions. In addition, the emission surfaces 33 of two light-emitting devices 30 positioned between each of the sides 12c and 12d of the second opening 12 and the side portion 10a are positioned to face each other in the +Y and -Y directions. In this case, all emission surfaces 33 are positioned facing the direction of the second opening 12. The second opening 12 is a rectangle or the like. In this embodiment, for example, four light-emitting devices 30 and four reflective materials 15 are arranged. The reflective material 15 is positioned between the light-emitting device 30 and the second opening 12 on the outside of each of the sides 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d of the second opening 12. Furthermore, the light-emitting device 30 is not limited to the four shown in Figure 1C, but may consist of one or more devices.

[0022] The electronic paper 40 is positioned to cover the first aperture 11. The electronic paper 40 is substantially flat. The electronic paper 40 also emits a second light K2, which is formed by reflecting the first light K1 emitted from the light-emitting device 30, to the outside of the housing 10 through the second aperture 12. The second light K2 refers to the light reflected by the electronic paper 40.

[0023] Electronic paper 40 can be structured using electrochemical, electrophoretic, particle rotation, powder transfer, twist ball, cholesteric liquid crystal, or MEMES methods, as well as reflective LCDs, but is not limited to any particular method as long as it can reflect the first light K1. The configuration of electronic paper 40 is described below.

[0024] Figure 2 is an example of an explanatory diagram of the structure of electronic paper. Electronic paper 40 will be explained using the electrochromic method as an example.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the electronic paper 40 has a display unit 41 and a drive unit 42 from the bottom (-Z side), with an electrolyte 43 provided between them. The display unit 41 is constructed by laminating the following layers from the bottom: a transparent substrate 41a, a first electrode 41b, a magenta layer 41c, a first insulating layer 41d, a second electrode 41e, a yellow layer 41f, a second insulating layer 41g, a third electrode 41h, a cyan layer 41i, and a reflective layer 41j. The transparent substrate 41a is a transparent substrate that transmits the first light K1 from the light-emitting device 30. The first electrode 41b, second electrode 41e, and third electrode 41h are transparent electrodes. The first insulating layer 41d and second insulating layer 41g are transparent insulating layers. The drive unit 42 has a counter electrode 42a and a circuit board 42b. The reflective layer 41j is selected from white and black. The electronic paper 40 includes a magenta layer 41c, a yellow layer 41f, a cyan layer 41i, and a reflective layer 41j, making it capable of color display.

[0026] The magenta layer 41c, yellow layer 41f, and cyan layer 41i are composed of titanium oxide nanoparticle films supporting an electrochromic compound. By injecting / releasing electric charge using the titanium oxide nanoparticles as sensitizing electrodes, the oxidation-reduction reaction of the electrochromic compound is carried out at high speed. Once the color is developed, it is maintained even after the power is turned off.

[0027] Electrochromic compounds that are known to be used include inorganic oxides such as tungsten oxide and iridium oxide, metal complex compounds such as Prussian blue, conductive polymer compounds, viologen compounds, leuco dye compounds, and organic compounds such as terephthalic acid compounds.

[0028] The operation of the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment will now be described. The first light K1 emitted from the light-emitting device 30 is directed toward the electronic paper 40, reflected by the electronic paper 40, and becomes the second light K2. At least a portion of the second light K2 can be emitted to the outside of the housing 10 through the second aperture 12. The electronic paper 40 can be switched between a first state in which it is the first color when the light-emitting device 30 is lit, and a second state in which it is the second color when the light-emitting device 30 is turned off, using the configuration shown in Figure 2. The first state and the second state refer to the color-emitting state. In the first state, the second light K2 in which it is the first color when the light-emitting device 30 is lit is emitted to the outside of the housing 10 through the second aperture 12. In the second state, the electronic paper 40 in which it is the second color when the light-emitting device 30 is turned off is visible from outside the housing 10. Various colors can be emitted in the first and second states, as will be described later.

[0029] The colors of the first and second states are selected from cyan, magenta, yellow, white, red, green, black, blue, and two or more mixtures thereof. Since the light-emitting module 100 is used, for example, as a flash, the color of the first state is preferably white.

[0030] The effects of the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment will now be explained. If the first light K1 emitted from the light-emitting device 30 is not reflected by the electronic paper 40, and the second light K2 emitted from the light-emitting device 30 is white light, for example, if the first light K1 emitted from the light-emitting device 30 is transmitted through a liquid crystal panel including a color filter and emitted to the outside of the housing 10, the wavelength will have a relative intensity distribution as shown in Figure 3. Therefore, in the light-emitting module 100 according to the embodiment, if the first light K1 emitted from the light-emitting device 30 is reflected by the electronic paper 40 and the second light K2 emitted to the outside of the housing 10 is white light, the wavelength will have a relative intensity distribution as shown in Figure 4. As a result, as shown in Figure 3, the average color rendering index Ra of the second light K2 emitted to the outside of the housing 10 when transmitted through the liquid crystal panel and emitted as white light is about 92, while as shown in Figure 4, the average color rendering index Ra of the second light K2 emitted to the outside of the housing 10 when reflected by the electronic paper 40 and emitted as white light is a high 97. As a result, the second light K2, which has a high average color rendering index Ra, can be emitted to the outside of the housing 10, and when used as a camera flash, the color rendering of the subject can be improved. Furthermore, in the first state when the light-emitting device 30 is lit and emits the first color, the light-emitting module 100 according to the embodiment reflects the first light K1 emitted from the light-emitting device 30 off the electronic paper 40 to emit the second light K2 to the outside of the housing 10. By setting the electronic paper 40 to the aforementioned color, it is possible to emit light in various colors, and even higher color rendering can be achieved.

[0031] Furthermore, the electronic paper 40 is visible from the outside of the housing 10 through the second opening 12 in both the first and second states. For example, when viewing the light-emitting module 100 according to the embodiment from the light-transmitting member 50 side as shown in Figure 1E, the electronic paper 40 is visible from the outside of the housing 10. When the light-emitting module 100 according to the embodiment is used in a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, in the second state where the light-emitting device 30 is turned off and displays the second color, the display color of the electronic paper 40 can be made the same as the color of the case surrounding the flash light-emitting part of the mobile device, making the appearance of the light-emitting part such as the flash less conspicuous.

[0032] Preferred forms, modifications, and other embodiments of this embodiment are described below.

[0033] The light-emitting device 30 is positioned away from the second opening 12 and on the side 10a of the housing 10, so that it is not visible from outside the housing 10 through the second opening 12. In other words, the light-emitting device 30 is not visible from outside the light-transmitting member 50 in the end view shown in Figure 1D. This makes the appearance of light-emitting parts such as flashes less conspicuous.

[0034] The light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment further includes a flat light-transmitting member 50. The light-transmitting member 50 is positioned to cover the second opening 12. The light-transmitting member 50 is made of a light-transmitting material such as acrylic, polycarbonate, or glass. This reduces the possibility of foreign matter entering the housing 10. The light-transmitting member 50 is joined to the substrate 20 or adjustment member 25 by placing connecting members such as double-sided tape, acrylic adhesive, or epoxy adhesive at a location that does not obstruct the emission of the second light K2.

[0035] The light intensity of the second light K2 can be adjusted by changing the size of the second aperture 12. Furthermore, by changing the shape of the second aperture 12, the shape of the light emitted outside the housing 10 can be altered. For example, in a plan view, if the second aperture 12 is circular, the shape of the light emitted outside the housing 10 by the second light K2 will be close to a circular shape. If the second aperture 12 is square or rectangular, the shape of the light emitted outside the housing 10 will be close to a square or rectangle.

[0036] In the first embodiment, the light-emitting module 100 can adjust the color of the second light K2 by changing the display color of the second color of the electronic paper 40.

[0037] Figure 5 is a DD end view of Figure 1B of the light-emitting module 101 according to the first modification of the first embodiment. The electronic paper 40 is preferably curved convexly in the direction from the second opening 12 toward the first opening 11, as shown in Figure 5. In this way, the electronic paper 40 can efficiently reflect the first light K1 from the light-emitting device 30 and emit the second light K2 to the outside of the housing 10. The configuration, operation and effects of this modification other than those described above are the same as those of the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0038] Figure 6 is a DD end view of Figure 1B of a light-emitting module 102 according to a second modification of the first embodiment. The light-emitting module 102 according to the second modification of the first embodiment differs from the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment in that the shape of the reflective material 16 is different and the reflective material 16 includes a second light-reflecting member 14. As shown in Figure 6, the light-emitting module 102 according to the second modification of the first embodiment is provided with a second light-reflecting member 14 on the reflective material 16 which is formed from a translucent base material, and the second light-reflecting member 14 is part of the reflective material 16. The second light-reflecting member 14 is not provided on the surface of the reflective material 16 that faces the emission surface 33 of the light-emitting device 30 and is closest to the emission surface 33, but is provided on the surface to which the reflective material 16 is connected to the substrate 20 via a bonding member, and further provided on the surface close to the second opening 12 which is continuous with the surface to which the reflective material 16 is connected to the substrate 20 via a bonding member. Furthermore, the second light-reflecting member 14 may be formed by attaching a reflective sheet to the reflective material 16, or by applying and drying a reflective liquid to the reflective material 16. In this case, the reflective material 16 is translucent. The second light-reflecting member 14 makes it possible to efficiently reflect at least a portion of the first light K1 to the electronic paper 40. Moreover, the second light-reflecting member is not required, as the reflective material 16 is formed from a translucent base material, so total internal reflection of light occurs on the surface on which the second light-reflecting member is provided, and it can be used as a reflective material.

[0039] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the reflective material 16 preferably has a pentagonal shape in cross-section, and has a reflection angle θ formed by a surface 16a to which the reflective material 16 is connected to the substrate 20 via a bonding member, and a surface 16b extending from surface 16a inward and upward (+Z direction) of the housing 10. The reflection angle θ is in the range of 135 to 179 degrees, preferably in the range of 145 to 170 degrees. In this way, the first light K1 can be efficiently emitted to the electronic paper 40 by the second light reflecting member 14.

[0040] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view of Figure 1A of the light-emitting module 102 according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. The reflective material 16 is preferably trapezoidal in shape in plan view, as shown in Figure 7A. If the side of the trapezoidal reflective material 16 on the light-emitting device 30 side is the upper base 16c and the side close to the second opening 12 is the lower base 16d, then the lower base 16d is longer than the upper base 16c. In this way, the first light K1 emitted from the light-emitting device 30 spreads out easily, so the second light-reflecting member 14 can efficiently emit the first light K1 to the electronic paper 40.

[0041] Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of Figure 1A of a light-emitting module 103 according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 7B, the reflective material 17 is provided so as to surround the second opening 12 in a plan view, and curved portions 17a are provided at the four corners of the reflective material 17. By providing curved portions 17a at the four corners, the light reflected by the curved portions 17a can be easily reflected to the electronic paper 40. The reflective material 17 is also in contact with the light-emitting device 30. By having the reflective material 17 in contact with the light-emitting device 30 in this way, the diffusion of the first light K1 can be reduced. Furthermore, by using the reflective material 17 shown in Figure 7B, the reflective material 17 can be manufactured by integral molding, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0042] Figure 7C is a cross-sectional view of Figure 1A of the light-emitting module 104 according to a fourth modification of the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 7C, the reflective material 18 is provided so as to surround the second opening 12 in a plan view, and corners 18b may be provided at the four corners of the reflective material 18. The reflective material 18 is also in contact with the light-emitting device 30. By having the reflective material 18 in contact with the light-emitting device 30 in this way, the diffusion of the first light K1 can be reduced and it can be efficiently emitted to the electronic paper 40. By using the reflective material 18 shown in Figure 7C, the reflective material 18 can be manufactured by integral molding, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0043] Figure 8 is a DD end view of Figure 1B of the light-emitting module 105 according to the fifth modification of the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, the light-emitting module 105 according to the fifth modification of the first embodiment has the emission surface 33 of the light-emitting device 30 facing upward and is positioned toward the electronic paper 40. That is, the first light K1 is emitted upward (+Z direction), passes through and reflects inside the housing 10, and is reflected by the electronic paper 40. The second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40 can then be emitted to the outside of the housing 10. Optical elements such as a focusing lens or TIR lens or a deflection element may be placed above the light source 30 so that the light emitted from the light-emitting device 30 can efficiently irradiate the electronic paper 40. Alternatively, the optical axis of the light-emitting device 30 and the optical element may be shifted to adjust the emission direction toward the center of the electronic paper 40.

[0044] <Second Embodiment> Figure 9A is a DD end view of the light-emitting module 110 according to the second embodiment of Figure 1B. The light-emitting module 110 according to the second embodiment is characterized around the second opening 12 of the light-transmitting member 50. The light-emitting module 110 according to the second embodiment comprises a flat plate-shaped light-transmitting member 50 and a lens portion 51. The light-transmitting member 50 and the lens portion 51 are preferably integrally molded, but the light-transmitting member 50 and the lens portion 51 may be separate parts and connected via a light-transmitting connecting member. The light-transmitting member 50 shown in Figure 9A and Figure 9B, which will be described later, is arranged on the lower side (-Z side) of the substrate 20 and the adjustment member 25 via a bonding member such as double-sided tape, acrylic adhesive, or epoxy adhesive. The lens portion 51 shown in Figure 9A is arranged on the upper side (+Z side) of the light-transmitting member 50 and is curved convexly in the direction from the second opening 12 toward the first opening 11. In this way, the second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40 can be optically controlled, and the light distribution can be adjusted and emitted to the outside of the housing 10. Furthermore, since the emission surface located on the lower surface of the light-transmitting member 50 can be made flat, the light-emitting module 110 according to the second embodiment can be installed as is. The lens portion 51 may have a concave shape that curves in the direction from the first opening 11 to the second opening 12. The light-transmitting member 50 is made of light-transmitting acrylic, polycarbonate, glass, etc. In this way, the ingress of foreign matter into the housing 10 can be reduced. The curvature and size of the lens can be arbitrarily adjusted according to the desired light distribution.

[0045] Figure 9B is a DD end view of Figure 1B of the light-emitting module 111 according to the first modification of the second embodiment. The light-emitting module 111 according to the modification of the second embodiment shown in Figure 9B is provided with a lens portion 51 that is curved convexly in the direction from the second opening 12 toward the first opening 11 on the upper side (+Z side) of the light-transmitting member 50, and a lens portion 52 that is curved convexly in the direction from the first opening 11 toward the second opening 12 on the lower side (-Z side) of the light-transmitting member 50. In this way, the second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40 can be more controlled, and the light distribution can be adjusted and emitted to the outside of the housing 10. Furthermore, in addition to the lens portion 51 provided on the incident surface side of the second light K2, the light-emitting module 111 according to the first modification of the second embodiment is also provided with a lens portion 52 on the emission surface side of the second light K2, so the light control surface is increased and the light controllability is further improved. Note that the lens portions 51 and 52 may be curved in a concave shape. Similarly, in Figures 9C and 9D described later, the lens portions 51 and 52 may also have a concave curved shape. The curvature and size of the lens can be arbitrarily adjusted according to the desired light distribution.

[0046] Figure 9C is a DD end view of Figure 1B of a light-emitting module 112 according to a second modification of the second embodiment. The light-emitting module 112 according to the second modification of the second embodiment shown in Figure 9C comprises a light-transmitting member 50 and a lens portion 51. The light-transmitting member 50 shown in Figure 9C is positioned above the upper surface 20b of the substrate 20 from the lower surface 20a (+Z side). The lens portion 51 shown in Figure 9C is positioned above the light-transmitting member 50 (+Z side) and is curved convexly in the direction from the second opening 12 toward the first opening 11. This allows for better control of the second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40, and the light distribution can be adjusted to emit light to the outside of the housing 10. The curvature and size of the lens can be arbitrarily adjusted according to the desired light distribution. Furthermore, since the emission surface located on the lower surface of the light-transmitting member 50 can be made flat, the light-emitting module 112 according to the second modification of the second embodiment can be installed as is. Furthermore, the amount of resin used in the light-transmitting member 50 and the lens portion 51 can be reduced. While the light-transmitting member 50 and the lens portion 51 are preferably integrally molded, they may also be separate parts connected via a light-transmitting connecting member.

[0047] Figure 9D is a DD end view of Figure 1B of a light-emitting module 113 according to a third modification of the second embodiment. The light-emitting module 113 according to the modification of the second embodiment shown in Figure 9D is provided with a lens portion 51 that is curved convexly in the direction from the second opening 12 toward the first opening 11 on the upper side (+Z side) of the light-transmitting member 50, and a lens portion 52 that is curved convexly in the direction from the first opening 11 toward the second opening 12 on the lower side (-Z side) of the light-transmitting member 50. In addition, the light-transmitting member 50 is positioned above (+Z side) the upper surface 20b of the substrate 20. In this way, the second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40 can be more controlled, and the light distribution can be adjusted and emitted to the outside of the housing 10. The curvature and size of the lenses can be arbitrarily adjusted according to the desired light distribution. Furthermore, the light-emitting module 113 according to the third modified example of the second embodiment is provided with a lens portion 52 on the exit surface side of the second light K2 in addition to the lens portion 51 on the incident surface side of the second light K2, thereby increasing the light control surface and further improving light controllability. In addition, the amount of resin in the light-transmitting member 50 and the lens portions 51 can be reduced. The light-transmitting member 50 and the lens portions 51 and 52 are preferably integrally molded products, but the light-transmitting member 50 and the lens portions 51 and 52 may be separate parts and connected via a light-transmitting connecting member.

[0048] In the second embodiment, the light-emitting modules 110, 111, 112, and 113 can adjust the emission range of the second light K2 to the outside of the housing 10 by changing the display range of the electronic paper 40 through adjusting the curvature of the lens portions 51 and 52 to form an image. Furthermore, by changing the display range of the electronic paper 40, the light-emitting modules 110, 111, 112, and 113 in the second embodiment can perform partial illumination. In addition, by displaying an image on the electronic paper 40, the light-emitting modules 110, 111, 112, and 113 in the second embodiment can be used as a display device, similar to a projector.

[0049] The configurations, operations, and effects in the second embodiment, the first modification of the second embodiment, the second modification of the second embodiment, and the third modification of the second embodiment, other than those described above, are the same as those of the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0050] <Third Embodiment> Figure 10A is a DD end view of the light-emitting module 120 according to the third embodiment of Figure 1B. The light-emitting module 120 according to the third embodiment further includes a light guide member 60 disposed within the housing 10, between the light-emitting device 30 and the electronic paper 40. The light guide member 60 is made of a translucent material such as acrylic, polycarbonate, or glass. By providing the light guide member 60, the first light K1 from the light-emitting device 30 can be efficiently emitted to the electronic paper 40, and the second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40 can be emitted to the outside of the housing 10 more efficiently. Furthermore, the light-emitting module 120 according to the third embodiment includes a translucent adhesive member 70 disposed between the light guide member 60 and the electronic paper 40 in order to bond the electronic paper 40 and the light guide member 60. The adhesive member 70 is a translucent double-sided tape or the like. By providing the adhesive member 70 between the light guide member 60 and the electronic paper 40, the formation of an air layer can be reduced, thereby reducing the diffusion of the first light K1 and the second light K2. In other words, the second light K2 can be efficiently emitted to the outside of the housing 10. The light-emitting module 120 according to the third embodiment also has a reflective material 15 inside the housing 10. On the other hand, the housing 10 may not have a reflective material 15, in which case the light may be controlled by totally reflecting the first light K1 due to the refractive index difference with air.

[0051] Figure 10B is a DD end view of Figure 1B of the light-emitting module 121 according to the first modification of the third embodiment. The light-emitting module 121 according to the first modification of the third embodiment shown in Figure 10B further comprises an anti-reflective coating 75 that covers the surface of the light guide member 60 facing the electronic paper 40. The anti-reflective coating 75 is provided between the upper part of the light guide member 60 and the electronic paper 40. In this way, the diffusion of the first light K1 and the second light K2 can be reduced, and the second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40 can be clearly emitted to the outside of the housing 10, so that the second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40 can be emitted to the outside of the housing 10 more efficiently. The anti-reflective coating 75 is generally called AR coating (Anti Reflection Coating).

[0052] Figure 10C is a DD end view of Figure 1B of the light-emitting module 122 according to the second modification of the third embodiment. The light-emitting module 122 according to the second modification of the third embodiment does not have a light-transmitting member 50, and the bottom surface 60a of the light guide member 60 extends to the bottom surface 25a of the adjustment member 25. Furthermore, the light-emitting module 122 according to the second modification of the third embodiment includes a light-transmitting adhesive member 70 placed between the light guide member 60 and the electronic paper 40 in order to bond the electronic paper 40 and the light guide member 60. The material and effect of the adhesive member 70 are as described above. In addition, the light-emitting module 122 according to the second modification of the third embodiment may also be equipped with an anti-reflective film 75 instead of the adhesive member 70.

[0053] The configurations, operations, and effects of the third embodiment, the first modified example of the third embodiment, and the second modified example of the third embodiment, other than those described above, are the same as those of the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0054] <Fourth Embodiment> Figure 11A is a DD end view of the light-emitting module 130 according to the fourth embodiment of Figure 1B. The light-emitting module 130 according to the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 11A further comprises a light guide member 60 disposed within the housing 10 and between the light-emitting device 30 and the electronic paper 40. The light guide member 60 includes a lens portion 61. On the other hand, the light guide member 60 may be configured with the lens portion 61 and the portion of the light guide member 60 other than the lens portion 61 as separate components. Furthermore, the light-emitting module 130 according to the fourth embodiment includes a translucent adhesive member 70 disposed between the light guide member 60 and the electronic paper 40 in order to bond the electronic paper 40 and the light guide member 60 together.

[0055] In the fourth embodiment of the light-emitting module 130, the provision of the light guide member 60 reduces the amount of foreign matter that enters the housing 10. Therefore, from the viewpoint of reducing the number of parts, it is preferable not to provide the light-transmitting member 50, but it may be provided.

[0056] Figure 11B is a DD end view of Figure 1B of a light-emitting module 131 according to the first modification of the fourth embodiment. The light-emitting module 131 according to the first modification of the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 11B further comprises an anti-reflective film 75 that covers the surface of the light guide member 60 facing the electronic paper 40.

[0057] Figure 11C is a DD end view of Figure 1B of a light-emitting module 132 according to a second modification of the fourth embodiment. In the light-emitting module 132 according to the second modification of the fourth embodiment, the emission surface 33 of the light-emitting device 30 is positioned upward (+Z direction) and toward the electronic paper 40. That is, the first light K1 is emitted upward (+Z direction), passes through and is reflected within the light guide member 60, and is reflected by the electronic paper 40. The second light K2 reflected by the electronic paper 40 can then be emitted to the outside of the housing 10. In addition, both ends 60b of the light guide member 60 are located on the upper side (+Z side) of the light-emitting device 30, and reflect the first light K1 within the light guide member 60. In this way, as shown by the arrow in Figure 11C, the first light K1 emitted to the side 10a of the housing 10 can be reflected by both ends 60b of the light guide member 60 towards the center of the housing 10 in Figure 11C, thereby improving the emission efficiency of the second light K2. Furthermore, the light-emitting module 132 according to the second modification of the fourth embodiment further comprises a light-transmitting member 50. The electronic paper 40 may be supported on the side 10a of the housing 10. Furthermore, the light-emitting module 132 according to the second modification of the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 11C further comprises an adhesive member 70 or an anti-reflective film 75 that covers the surface of the light guide member 60 facing the electronic paper 40. Although Figure 11C shows the light-emitting module 132 according to the second modification of the fourth embodiment as comprising an adhesive member 70, an anti-reflective film 75 may be provided instead of the adhesive member 70.

[0058] The configurations, operations, and effects of the fourth embodiment, the first modification of the fourth embodiment, and the second modification of the fourth embodiment, other than those described above, are the same as those of the light-emitting module 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0059] <Fifth Embodiment> Figure 12 is a DD end view of the light-emitting module 140 according to the fifth embodiment of Figure 1B. The light-emitting module 140 according to the fifth embodiment shown in Figure 12 includes a reflector 80 and a dimming mirror 85 instead of electronic paper 40. As shown in Figure 12, the light-emitting module 140 according to the fifth embodiment includes a housing 10 having a first opening 11 and a second opening 12 provided on the opposite side of the first opening 11, a light-emitting device 30 positioned within the housing 10 and emitting a first light K1, and a dimming mirror 85 covering the first opening 11 and a reflector 80 provided above the dimming mirror 85. In the light-emitting module 140 according to the fifth embodiment, the dimming mirror 85 and the reflector 80 are provided on the upper side (+Z side) of the housing 10 so as to cover the first opening 11. The reflector 80 is made of a material consisting of resin, metal, or a combination thereof.

[0060] The dimmable mirror 85 may be operated by, for example, an electrochromic method, and can be transparent, translucent, and opaque. Known components can be used for the dimmable mirror 85. For example, transparent substrate, ITO, H X WO3, TaO5, Al, Pd, and Mg-Ni alloy are stacked in order. In the above configuration, the dimming mirror 85 is in a mirror state (opaque) that reflects the first light K1. This state is referred to as the third state. When a voltage is applied to this configuration, H X WO3 is oxidized to WO3, the metallic Mg-Ni alloy is reduced to a non-metallic Mg-Ni alloy hydroxide, and the dimmable mirror 85 becomes transparent. This state is referred to as the fourth state. These reactions occur reversibly. The dimmable mirror 85 can switch between a third state, where it is opaque and white when the light-emitting device 30 is lit, and a fourth state, where it is transparent when the light-emitting device 30 is turned off. Once the state is changed, it is maintained even when the power is turned off.

[0061] In the third state, the dimming mirror 85 reflects the first light K1 emitted from the light-emitting device 30 and emits the third light K3 to the outside of the housing 10 through the second aperture 12. On the other hand, in the fourth state, the reflector 80 reflects the first light K1 emitted from the light-emitting device 30 and emits the fourth light K4 to the outside of the housing 10 through the second aperture 12. The third light K3 refers to the light reflected by the dimming mirror 85, and the fourth light K4 refers to the light reflected by the reflector 80.

[0062] Furthermore, in the third and fourth states, the dimming mirror 85 is visible from outside the housing 10 through the second opening 12. Also, as described above, the reflector 80 is visible from outside the housing 10 through the second opening 12 when the dimming mirror 85 is transparent in the fourth state.

[0063] In the fourth state, when the light-emitting device 30 is transparent when turned off, if the light-emitting module 140 is used in a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, the reflector 80 can be made the same color as the exterior color of the mobile device, making the appearance of the light-emitting part, such as a flash, less conspicuous.

[0064] According to the light-emitting module 140 of the fifth embodiment described above, the appearance of light-emitting parts such as flashes can be made less conspicuous.

[0065] The reflector 80 and the dimming mirror 85 may be curved convexly in the direction from the second opening 12 toward the first opening 11. In this way, the dimming mirror 85 efficiently reflects the first light K1 from the light-emitting device 30, and the third light K3 and fourth light K4 are emitted to the outside of the housing 10. Furthermore, the electronic paper 40 of the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments can be replaced with the reflector 80 and the dimming mirror 85.

[0066] 2. Mobile devices Figure 13 is a perspective view of a mobile device 200 according to an embodiment. The mobile device 200 is a smartphone, tablet, or the like, as shown in Figure 13. As shown in Figure 13, the mobile device 200 according to an embodiment comprises a case 90, the light-emitting module 100 described above, a window 92 of the light-emitting module 100, and a camera 91. The window 92 of the light-emitting module 100 is a hole provided so that the second light K2 from the light-emitting module 100 can be emitted to the outside of the case 90.

[0067] As mentioned above, it is preferable that the color of the display unit 41 when the electronic paper 40 is in the second color state and the color of the outer surface of the case 90 are of the same color family. For example, if the color of the display unit 41 when the electronic paper 40 is in the second color state is white, then the color of the outer surface of the case 90 is white. In this way, it is possible to make the appearance of light-emitting parts such as flashes less conspicuous.

[0068] Based on the above, according to the embodiment, it is possible to provide a light-emitting module 100 and mobile device 200 that make the appearance of light-emitting parts such as flashes less conspicuous, enable color tuning and emission of various colors, and have high color rendering.

[0069] The embodiments and their modifications described above are examples that embody the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and modifications. For example, the present invention also includes the addition, deletion, or modification of some components or processes in the embodiments and modifications described above. Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be implemented in combination with each other.

[0070] The present invention includes the following embodiments.

[0071] (Note 1) A housing having a first opening and a second opening provided on the opposite side of the first opening, A light-emitting device that emits first light is positioned within the aforementioned housing, The electronic paper covering the first opening, Equipped with, The first light irradiated onto the electronic paper is reflected by the electronic paper to become second light, and at least a portion of the second light can be emitted to the outside of the housing through the second aperture. The electronic paper is capable of switching between a first state in which the first color is displayed when the light-emitting device is lit, and a second state in which the second color is displayed when the light-emitting device is turned off. In the first and second states, the electronic paper is a light-emitting module visible from outside the housing through the second opening.

[0072] (Note 2) The light-emitting device is a light-emitting module as described in Appendix 1, which is not visible from the outside of the housing through the second opening.

[0073] (Note 3) The inner surface of the housing is the first light-reflecting member, which is the light-emitting module described in Appendix 1 or 2.

[0074] (Note 4) The housing contains a reflective material that reflects the first light, The reflective material includes a second light-reflecting member capable of reflecting at least a portion of the first light to the electronic paper. The second light-reflecting member is positioned opposite the emission surface of the light-emitting device, as described in any one of the light-emitting modules described in Appendix 1 to 3.

[0075] (Note 5) The light-emitting module described in any one of the appendices 1 to 4, wherein the colors of the first and second states are selected from cyan, magenta, yellow, white, red, green, black, and two or more mixed colors thereof.

[0076] (Note 6) The light-emitting module described in any one of the appendices 1 to 5, wherein the color of the first state is white.

[0077] (Note 7) The light-emitting module described in any one of the appendices 1 to 6, wherein the electronic paper is curved convexly in the direction from the second opening toward the first opening.

[0078] (Note 8) The light-emitting module according to any one of appendices 1 to 7, further comprising a light-transmitting member arranged to cover the second opening.

[0079] (Note 9) The light-transmitting member is the light-emitting module described in Appendix 8, including the lens portion.

[0080] (Note 10) The light-transmitting member is a flat plate-shaped light-emitting module as described in Appendix 8 or 9.

[0081] (Note 11) The light-emitting module according to any one of appendices 1 to 10, further comprising a light-guiding member disposed between the light-emitting device and the electronic paper.

[0082] (Note 12) The light-emitting module according to Appendix 11, further comprising a light-transmitting adhesive member disposed between the light-guide member and the electronic paper.

[0083] (Note 13) The light-emitting module according to appendix 11 or 12, further comprising an anti-reflective film covering the surface of the light guide member facing the electronic paper.

[0084] (Note 14) The light guide member is a light-emitting module as described in any one of appendices 11 to 13, including a lens portion.

[0085] (Note 15) The light-emitting device is a light-emitting module according to any one of appendices 1 to 14, which is arranged in a plurality around the second opening.

[0086] (Note 16) The first light is white, and is a light-emitting module as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 15.

[0087] (Note 17) The case and, A light-emitting module described in any one of appendices 1 to 16, which is placed inside the aforementioned case, A mobile device equipped with the following features.

[0088] (Note 18) The mobile device described in Appendix 17, wherein the color of the display section of the electronic paper in the second color state and the color of the outer surface of the case are of the same color family. [Industrial applicability]

[0089] The present invention can be used, for example, in flash light sources or display devices. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0090] 10 Housing, 10a Side, 10b Top, 11 First opening, 12 Second opening, 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d Edge (of the second opening), 13 First light reflecting member, 14 Second light reflecting member, 15, 16, 17, 18 Reflective material, 16a, 16b Face, 16c Top bottom, 16d Bottom bottom, 17a Curved part (of the reflecting material), 18b Corner (of the reflecting material), 19 Third opening, 20 substrate, 20a bottom surface, 20b top surface, 21 connector, 25 adjustment member, 25a bottom surface (of the adjustment member), 30 Light-emitting device, 31 Wavelength conversion member, 32 Light-emitting element, 33 Emission surface, 40 Electronic paper, 41 Display unit, 41a Transparent substrate, 41b First electrode, 41c Magenta layer, 41d First insulating layer, 41e Second electrode, 41f Yellow layer, 41g Second insulating layer, 41h Third electrode, 41i Cyan layer, 41j Reflective layer, 42 Drive unit, 42a Counter electrode, 42b Circuit board, 43 Electrolyte, 50 Light-transmitting member, 51, 52 Lens part, 53 Declination prism, 60 Light guide member, 60a Bottom surface (of the light guide member), 60b Both ends (of the light guide member), 61 Lens portion (of the light guide member), 70 Adhesive material, 75 Anti-reflective coating, 80 reflectors, 85 dimmable mirrors, 90 cases, 91 cameras, 92 windows, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 110, 111, 112, 113, 120, 121, 122, 130, 131, 132, 140 light-emitting modules, 200 mobile devices, K1 1st light, K2 2nd light, K3 3rd light, K4 4th light

Claims

1. A housing having a first opening and a second opening provided on the opposite side of the first opening, A light-emitting device that is positioned within the aforementioned housing and emits first light, The electronic paper covering the first opening, Equipped with, The first light irradiated onto the electronic paper is reflected by the electronic paper to become second light, and at least a portion of the second light can be emitted to the outside of the housing through the second aperture. The electronic paper is capable of switching between a first state in which the first color is displayed when the light-emitting device is lit, and a second state in which the second color is displayed when the light-emitting device is turned off. In the first and second states, the electronic paper is a light-emitting module visible from outside the housing through the second opening.

2. The light-emitting device is not visible from the outside of the housing through the second opening, as described in claim 1.

3. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the housing is a first light-reflecting member.

4. The housing contains a reflective material that reflects the first light, The reflective material includes a second light-reflecting member capable of reflecting at least a portion of the first light to the electronic paper. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, wherein the second light-reflecting member is positioned opposite the emission surface of the light-emitting device.

5. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, wherein the colors of the first and second states are selected from cyan, magenta, yellow, white, red, green, black, and two or more mixed colors thereof.

6. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, wherein the color of the first state is white.

7. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, wherein the electronic paper is curved convexly in the direction from the second opening toward the first opening.

8. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, further comprising a light-transmitting member arranged to cover the second opening.

9. The light-transmitting member is a light-emitting module according to claim 8, including a lens portion.

10. The light-emitting module according to claim 8, wherein the light-transmitting member is in the shape of a flat plate.

11. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, further comprising a light-guiding member disposed between the light-emitting device and the electronic paper.

12. The light-emitting module according to claim 11, further comprising a light-transmitting adhesive member disposed between the light-guiding member and the electronic paper.

13. The light-emitting module according to claim 11, further comprising an anti-reflective film covering the surface of the light guide member facing the electronic paper.

14. The light-emitting module according to claim 11, wherein the light-guiding member includes a lens portion.

15. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of light-emitting devices are arranged around the second opening.

16. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, wherein the first light is white.

17. The case and, A light-emitting module according to any one of claims 1 to 16, disposed within the case, A mobile device equipped with the following features.

18. The mobile device according to claim 17, wherein the color of the display unit of the electronic paper in the second color state and the color of the outer surface of the case are of the same color family.

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