Camera module

Abstract

This technology provides an approach that enables both a high contrast ratio and high transmittance in the incident light control region of a liquid crystal panel. [Solution] The camera module includes a liquid crystal panel having an incident light control region, a lens, an image sensor that acquires information on the light transmitted through the incident light control region of the liquid crystal panel and the lens, and a control circuit. The liquid crystal panel includes a first guest host liquid crystal cell having a black state and a transparent state, a second guest host liquid crystal cell having a black state and a transparent state, and a liquid crystal element provided between the first guest host liquid crystal cell and the second guest host liquid crystal cell and having the incident light control region. The control circuit sets the first guest host liquid crystal cell and the second guest host liquid crystal cell to the black state and uses the first guest host liquid crystal cell and the second guest host liquid crystal cell as polarizers.

Description

【Technical Field】 , , 【0001】 The present disclosure is applicable to a camera module. 【Background Art】 【0002】 A camera module and an electronic device have been proposed in which an incident light control region provided in a liquid crystal panel is used to form a coded aperture pair (CAP) pattern (hereinafter, simply referred to as a coded pattern) for deriving (measuring) the opening and closing of an aperture of a camera and the distance from the camera to a subject (see Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-051426). 【Prior Art Documents】 【Patent Documents】 【0003】 【Patent Document 1】 Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-051426 【Summary of the Invention】 【Problems to be Solved by the Invention】 【0004】 When realizing an aperture function with a liquid crystal panel, in order to control transmitted light, a pair of polarizing plates are used to utilize the birefringence and optical rotation of the liquid crystal. However, since the polarizing plate attached to the outside of the substrate has a dark color, the contrast ratio increases, but the transmittance decreases. Further, when attached to the outside of the substrate, it is exposed to the outside air, so that the members deteriorate in the aperture function due to use under direct sunlight or long-term use under high temperature and high humidity conditions. 【0005】 An object of the present disclosure is to provide a technique capable of achieving both a high contrast ratio and a high transmittance in an incident light control region provided in a liquid crystal panel. 【0006】 Other problems and novel features will become apparent from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. 【Means for Solving the Problems】 【0007】 A brief overview of some of the representative aspects of this invention is as follows. 【0008】 In other words, the camera module is A liquid crystal panel having an incident light control region, Lens and, An image sensor that acquires information about the incident light control region of the liquid crystal panel and the light that has passed through the lens, It has a control circuit, The aforementioned liquid crystal panel is A first guest host liquid crystal cell having a black state and a transparent state, A second guest host liquid crystal cell having both a black state and a transparent state, A liquid crystal element provided between the first guest host liquid crystal cell and the second guest host liquid crystal cell, having the incident light control region, is included, The control circuit sets the first guest host liquid crystal cell and the second guest host liquid crystal cell to the black state and uses the first guest host liquid crystal cell and the second guest host liquid crystal cell as polarizing plates. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0009】 [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a camera module according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a top view of the liquid crystal panel shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a liquid crystal panel relating to a comparative example. [Figure 4] Figure 4 illustrates the challenges of liquid crystal panels. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the first state of a first configuration example of a liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the second state of the first configuration example of the liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the first state of a second configuration example of a liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a second state of a second configuration example of a liquid crystal panel according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the alignment axis of a dichroic dye. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a plurality of incident light control regions TA in an incident light control region PCA. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram for explaining a plurality of divided regions. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a conceptual cross-sectional view of a first incident light control region and each divided region. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a pattern related to the aperture function of an incident light control region PCA and an example of a CAP pattern. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining a first state of a third configuration example of a liquid crystal panel according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a second state of a third configuration example of a liquid crystal panel according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining divided segment electrodes of a first transparent electrode in a first guest-host liquid crystal cell. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining divided segment electrodes of a third transparent electrode in a second guest-host liquid crystal cell. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing another configuration example of an incident light control region PCA. 【Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention】 【0010】 Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 【0011】 Furthermore, the disclosure is merely an example, and any modifications that a person skilled in the art could easily conceive while maintaining the spirit of the invention are naturally included within the scope of the present invention. In addition, the drawings may schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part in order to clarify the explanation, but these are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention. 【0012】 (Embodiment) Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a camera module CM according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a top view of the liquid crystal panel PNL of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 1, the camera module CM comprises an image sensor 3, a liquid crystal panel PNL having an incident light control region PCA, and a lens LN positioned between the image sensor 3 and the liquid crystal panel PNL. The camera module CM comprises, for example, multiple lenses LN. The drive unit MD of the camera module CM can adjust the relative positional relationship of the multiple lenses LN, and can contribute to, for example, focus adjustment. The drive unit MD is housed in a case 4 together with the lenses LN. The case 4 is made of, for example, resin. 【0013】 The image sensor 3 is fixed to the substrate SR via a support SO. The substrate SR is a rigid substrate. This allows the substrate SR to securely fix the relative positional relationship between the image sensor 3 and the liquid crystal panel PNL. However, the substrate SR may also be a flexible printed circuit board. The image sensor 3 is also housed in the case 4. The case 4 is fixed to the substrate SR. 【0014】 In this example, the liquid crystal panel PNL does not have a display area. Of the incident light control area PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL, the area FF inside the inner circumference I1 of the first light-shielding portion BM1 is contained within the opening ON of the case 4. The liquid crystal panel PNL is attached to the case 4 by fixing means such as double-sided tape. In this embodiment, the liquid crystal panel PNL is housed in the case 4. As shown in Figure 2, when viewed from above, the liquid crystal panel PNL is rectangular in this example. The liquid crystal panel PNL is provided with a circular incident light control area PCA. The incident light control area PCA is surrounded by the first light-shielding portion BM1. The liquid crystal panel PNL may also be circular when viewed from above. 【0015】 The image sensor 3 is positioned directly below the incident light control region PCA (region FF) of the liquid crystal panel PNL so that it can acquire information about the light that has passed through the PCA and LN. 【0016】 The camera module CM further comprises a first circuit board CT1 and a second circuit board CT2. The first circuit board CT1 and the second circuit board CT2 are, for example, flexible printed circuit boards. The first circuit board CT1 is connected to the image sensor 3. The second circuit board CT2 is connected to the liquid crystal panel PNL. In this embodiment, the first circuit board CT1 and the second circuit board CT2 are physically independent of each other. However, the first circuit board CT1 and the second circuit board CT2 may be formed integrally. 【0017】 The camera module CM further comprises a first drive circuit DR1 and a second drive circuit DR2. The first drive circuit DR1 is provided on the first circuit board CT1 and can drive the image sensor 3. The second drive circuit DR2 is provided on the second circuit board CT2 and can drive the liquid crystal panel PNL. The second drive circuit DR2 is also called the control circuit DR2. 【0018】 In this embodiment, the first circuit board CT1 and the second circuit board CT2 are electrically connected to the wiring of the substrate SR. The first circuit board CT1 and the second circuit board CT2 are electrically connected to each other via the substrate SR. In this case, the first drive circuit DR1 and the second drive circuit DR2 may be formed integrally and provided on the first circuit board CT1 or the second circuit board CT2. 【0019】 The incident light control region PCA is configured to be used, under the control of the second drive circuit DR2, to open and close the camera's aperture and to form a coded aperture pair (CAP) pattern (hereinafter also simply called a CAP pattern or coded pattern) for deriving (measuring) the distance from the camera to the subject. 【0020】 As shown in Figure 1, a camera module CM capable of capturing images well can be obtained. Furthermore, since a CAP can be formed in the incident light control region PCA of the liquid crystal panel PNL, the camera module CM alone can acquire distance information from the camera module CM to the subject. 【0021】 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a liquid crystal panel relating to a comparative example. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the problems with the liquid crystal panel. 【0022】 As shown in Figure 2, the liquid crystal panel PNLr comprises a first light-shielding portion BM1 composed of a light-shielding film BM, and an incident light control region PCA having a circular shape surrounded by the light-shielding film BM. The incident light control region PCA is located at the opening of the light-shielding film BM. As shown in Figure 3, the liquid crystal panel PNLr comprises a liquid crystal element LCD, a first polarizing plate PL1, and a second polarizing plate PL2 provided above the liquid crystal element LCD. The first polarizing plate PL1 is provided below the liquid crystal element LCD, and the second polarizing plate PL2 is provided above the liquid crystal element LCD, so that the liquid crystal element LCD is positioned between the first polarizing plate PL1 and the second polarizing plate PL2. 【0023】 The liquid crystal element LCD comprises a first substrate SUB1, a second substrate SUB2, a liquid crystal layer LC, a sealing material SE, and a spacer SP. The sealing material SE and spacer SP are located in the first light-shielding section BM1 and join the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. A first polarizing plate PL1 is provided on the underside of the first substrate SUB1. A second polarizing plate PL2 is provided on the upper side of the second substrate SUB2. 【0024】 The liquid crystal layer LC is located between the first light-shielding portion BM1 and the incident light control region PCA, and is held between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. The liquid crystal layer LC is provided in the space surrounded by the first substrate SUB1, the second substrate SUB2, and the sealing material SE. 【0025】 The first substrate SUB1 comprises a first insulating substrate 10, a first alignment film (not shown), and a first electrode (not shown). The second substrate SUB2 comprises a second insulating substrate 20, a light-shielding layer BM, a second alignment film (not shown), and a second electrode (not shown). The first insulating substrate 10 and the second insulating substrate 20 are transparent substrates such as glass substrates or flexible resin substrates. The first alignment film and the second alignment film are in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC. The light-shielding layer BM is located between the second insulating substrate 20 and the liquid crystal layer LC. The light-shielding layer BM may also be referred to as a light-shielding film. 【0026】 The liquid crystal display (LCD) may have any configuration that supports a display mode that utilizes a transverse electric field along the main surface of the substrate, a longitudinal electric field along the normal to the main surface of the substrate, a gradient electric field that is tilted diagonally with respect to the main surface of the substrate, or a display mode that utilizes a combination of the transverse electric field, longitudinal electric field, and gradient electric field as appropriate. Here, the main surface of the substrate is a plane parallel to the XY plane. 【0027】 As shown in Figure 4, when implementing an aperture function in the PCA (Primary Collision Aspect) of a liquid crystal panel PLNr, a pair of polarizers PL1 and PL2 are used to control transmitted light by utilizing the birefringence and optical rotation of the liquid crystal layer LC. However, because the polarizers PL1 and PL2 attached to the outside of the first insulating substrate 10 and the second insulating substrate 20 are dark in color, the contrast ratio is high, but light LT1 is absorbed by polarizers PL1 and PL2 to become light LT11, and light LT2 is absorbed by polarizers PL2 and PL1 to become light LT21, resulting in low transmittance. 【0028】 Furthermore, if the polarizing plate PL1 is attached to the outside of the first insulating substrate 10, the polarizing plate PL1 will be exposed to the outside air. Therefore, it is conceivable that the polarizing plate PL1 may deteriorate in terms of its aperture function in the incident light control region PCA due to use in direct sunlight or prolonged use under high temperature and high humidity conditions. 【0029】 Therefore, in the liquid crystal panel PLN according to the embodiment of this disclosure, a pair of guest-host liquid crystal cells (GHL1, GHL2) are used instead of polarizing plates PL1, PL2. The guest-host liquid crystal cells GHL1, GHL2 are provided on the outside of the first insulating substrate 10 and the second insulating substrate 20. In other words, the liquid crystal element LCD is provided between the first guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the second guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL2. 【0030】 The guest host liquid crystal cells GHL1 and GHL2 display a CAP pattern in the incident light control region (PCA) and are set to a black state (polarizer state) when the PCA is used for distance measurement. When the PCA is not used for distance measurement, they are set to a transparent state. The black and transparent states of the guest host liquid crystal cells GHL1 and GHL2 are controlled, for example, by the second drive circuit DR2. 【0031】 Therefore, the following effects can be obtained with the liquid crystal panel PLN according to the embodiment of this disclosure. 【0032】 1) When a CAP pattern is displayed in the incident light control area (PCA) and the PCA is used for distance measurement, the guest host liquid crystal cells GHL1 and GHL2 are set to a black state, and the guest host liquid crystal cells GHL1 and GHL2 act as polarizers. This results in a high contrast ratio. 【0033】 2) When the incident light control region PCA is not used for distance measurement, the guest host liquid crystal cells GHL1 and GHL2 are made transparent, and do not act as polarizers. This results in high transmittance. 【0034】 3) As a result, the liquid crystal panel PNL according to the embodiment can achieve both a high contrast ratio and high transmittance suitable for the application. 【0035】 The liquid crystal panel PLN according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 5 to 8. The configuration of the incident light control area (PCA) and the CAP pattern and aperture function displayed in the incident light control area (PCA) will be described later. 【0036】 Figure 5 illustrates the first state of the first configuration example of the liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment. Figure 6 illustrates the second state of the first configuration example of the liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment. Figure 7 illustrates the first state of the second configuration example of the liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment. Figure 8 illustrates the second state of the second configuration example of the liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment. 【0037】 The liquid crystal panel PNL shown in Figures 5 and 6 comprises a liquid crystal element LCD, a first guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL1, and a second guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL2. The liquid crystal element LCD is provided between the first guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the second guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL2. The first guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL1 is provided below the first insulating substrate 10 of the liquid crystal element LCD, and the second guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL2 is provided above the second insulating substrate 20 of the liquid crystal element LCD. 【0038】 The configuration of the liquid crystal element (LCD) is the same as that described in Figure 3, so redundant explanations regarding the configuration of the liquid crystal element (LCD) will be omitted. 【0039】 The first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 comprises a third substrate SUB11, a fourth substrate SUB12, a second sealing material SE, and a first guest host liquid crystal layer GH1. The second sealing material SE bonds the third substrate SUB11 and the fourth substrate SUB12. 【0040】 The first guest-host liquid crystal layer GH1 is held between the third substrate SUB11 and the fourth substrate SUB12. The first guest-host liquid crystal layer GH1 is provided in the space surrounded by the third substrate SUB11, the fourth substrate SUB12, and the second sealing material SE. The first guest-host liquid crystal layer GH1 has a first dichroic dye (guest element) GE1 and a first liquid crystal molecule (host element) HE1. In the first guest-host liquid crystal layer GH1, the orientation axis of the first dichroic dye (guest element) GE1 is, for example, parallel to the Y-axis (horizontal orientation). 【0041】 The third substrate SUB11 comprises a third insulating substrate 101, a first alignment film AL11, and a first transparent electrode EL11. The first transparent electrode EL11 is provided between the third insulating substrate 101 and the first alignment film AL11, and the first alignment film AL11 is in contact with the first guest host liquid crystal layer GH1. 【0042】 The fourth substrate SUB12 comprises a fourth insulating substrate 201, a second alignment film AL12, and a second transparent electrode EL12. The second transparent electrode EL12 is provided between the fourth insulating substrate 201 and the second alignment film AL12, and the second alignment film AL12 is in contact with the first guest host liquid crystal layer GH1. 【0043】 The second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 comprises a fifth substrate SUB21, a sixth substrate SUB22, a third sealing material SE, and a second guest host liquid crystal layer GH2. The second sealing material SE bonds the fifth substrate SUB21 and the sixth substrate SUB22. 【0044】 The second guest-host liquid crystal layer GH2 is held between the fifth substrate SUB21 and the sixth substrate SUB22. The second guest-host liquid crystal layer GH2 is provided in the space surrounded by the fifth substrate SUB21, the sixth substrate SUB22, and the third sealing material SE. The second guest-host liquid crystal layer GH2 has a second dichroic dye (guest element) GE2 and a second liquid crystal molecule (host element) HE2. In the second guest-host liquid crystal layer GH2, the orientation axis of the dichroic dye (guest element) GE2 is, for example, parallel to the X-axis (horizontal orientation). 【0045】 The fifth substrate SUB21 comprises a fifth insulating substrate 102, a third alignment film AL21, and a third transparent electrode EL21. The third transparent electrode EL21 is provided between the fifth insulating substrate 102 and the third alignment film AL21, and the third alignment film AL21 is in contact with the second guest host liquid crystal layer GH2. 【0046】 The sixth substrate SUB22 comprises a sixth insulating substrate 202, a fourth alignment film AL22, and a fourth transparent electrode EL22. The fourth transparent electrode EL22 is provided between the sixth insulating substrate 202 and the fourth alignment film AL22, and the fourth alignment film AL22 is in contact with the second guest host liquid crystal layer GH2. 【0047】 In Figure 5, no potential is applied (0V) between the first transparent electrode EL11 and the second transparent electrode EL12, and between the third transparent electrode EL21 and the fourth transparent electrode EL22, due to the control of the second drive circuit DR2. In this state, the first guest host liquid crystal layer GH1 and the second guest host liquid crystal layer GH2 are colored, for example, to a black state, and the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 are in a state where they can be used as polarizers. In this state, a CAP pattern is displayed in the incident light control region PCA, and the incident light control region PCA can be used for distance measurement. The incident light control region PCA can also be used as an aperture opening and closing function. 【0048】 On the other hand, Figure 6 shows a state in which a predetermined potential (V1, V2) is applied between the first transparent electrode EL11 and the second transparent electrode EL12, and between the third transparent electrode EL21 and the fourth transparent electrode EL22, controlled by the second drive circuit DR2. In this case, the first guest host liquid crystal layer GH1 and the second guest host liquid crystal layer GH2 are made almost transparent, and high transmittance is obtained. In this state, the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 are made unusable as polarizers. Also, the incident light control region PCA is not used for distance measurement. 【0049】 The difference between the liquid crystal panel PNL shown in Figures 7 and 8 and the liquid crystal panel PNL shown in Figures 5 and 6 is that the third guest-host liquid crystal layer GH3 and the fourth guest-host liquid crystal layer GH4 used in the liquid crystal panel PNL shown in Figures 7 and 8 have the opposite positive and negative dielectric anisotropy to the first guest-host liquid crystal layer GH1 and the second guest-host liquid crystal layer GH2, respectively. The third guest-host liquid crystal layer GH3 has a third dichroic dye (guest element) GE3 and a third liquid crystal molecule (host element) HE3. The fourth guest-host liquid crystal layer GH4 has a fourth dichroic dye (guest element) GE4 and a fourth liquid crystal molecule (host element) HE4. 【0050】 In other words, Figure 7 shows that no potential is applied (0V) between the first transparent electrode EL11 and the second transparent electrode EL12, and between the third transparent electrode EL21 and the fourth transparent electrode EL22, due to the control of the second drive circuit DR2. At this time, the third guest host liquid crystal layer GH3 and the fourth guest host liquid crystal layer GH4 are made almost transparent, and high transmittance is obtained. In other words, the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 are rendered unusable as polarizers. 【0051】 On the other hand, Figure 8 shows a state in which a predetermined potential (V1, V2) is applied between the first transparent electrode EL11 and the second transparent electrode EL12, and between the third transparent electrode EL21 and the fourth transparent electrode EL22, controlled by the second drive circuit DR2. At this time, the third guest host liquid crystal layer GH3 and the fourth guest host liquid crystal layer GH4 are colored, for example, to a black state. In other words, the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 are in a state that can be used as polarizers. In Figure 8, the orientation axis of the third dichroic dye (guest element) GE3 is, for example, parallel to the Y axis (horizontal orientation), and the orientation axis of the dichroic dye (guest element) GE4 is, for example, parallel to the X axis (horizontal orientation). 【0052】 The other configurations of the liquid crystal panel PNL shown in Figures 7 and 8 are the same as those shown in Figures 5 and 6, so redundant explanations are omitted. 【0053】 Next, Figure 9 will be used to explain the orientation axes of the dichroic dyes (GE1-GE4) in the black state. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the orientation axes of the dichroic dyes. The orientation axis (also called the long axis) of the dichroic dyes (GE1-GE4) is configured to be in the same direction as the absorption axis of polarizers PL1 and PL2 when polarizers PL1 and PL2 are used, as explained in Figure 3. Figure 9 shows the orientation axes of the dichroic dyes (GE1-GE4) according to the panel type of the liquid crystal element LCD. In Figure 9, the solid arrow AA indicates the orientation axes of dichroic dyes GE2 and GE4, and the solid arrow BB indicates the orientation axes of dichroic dyes GE1 and GE3. 【0054】 (1) shows the orientation axis of the dichroic dyes when the panel type is TN type (Twisted Nematic: twisted nematic liquid crystal: for example, 90° twisted liquid crystal). In this case, the orientation axis of the dichroic dyes GE2 and GE4 is, for example, 45° as shown by AA, and the orientation axis of the dichroic dyes GE1 and GE3 is, for example, 135° as shown by BB. The orientation axis (long axis direction) of the liquid crystal molecules (HE1, HE2, HE3, HE4) is in the same direction as the dichroic dyes (GE1, GE2, GE3, GE4). 【0055】 (2) shows the orientation axes of the dichroic dyes when the panel method is IPS (In-Plane-Switching) or FFS (Advanced Fringe Field Switching). In this case, the orientation axes of the dichroic dyes GE2 and GE4 are, for example, parallel to the Y axis (horizontal orientation), as shown by AA, and the orientation axes of the dichroic dyes GE1 and GE3 are, for example, parallel to the X axis (horizontal orientation), as shown by BB. The orientation axis (long axis direction) of the liquid crystal molecules (HE1, HE2, HE3, HE4) is also in the same direction as the dichroic dyes (GE1, GE2, GE3, GE4). 【0056】 (3) shows the orientation axis of the dichroic dyes when the panel method is the VA (Vertical Alignment) method. In this case, the orientation axis of the dichroic dyes GE2 and GE4 is, for example, parallel to the Y axis (horizontal orientation), as shown by AA, and the orientation axis of the dichroic dyes GE1 and GE3 is, for example, parallel to the X axis (horizontal orientation), as shown by BB. The orientation axis of the dichroic dyes GE2 and GE4 may be, for example, 45°, similar to the TN method, and the orientation axis of the dichroic dyes GE1 and GE3 may be, for example, 135°, similar to the NT method. The orientation axis of the liquid crystal molecules (HE1, HE2, HE3, HE4) is also in the same direction as the dichroic dyes (GE1, GE2, GE3, GE4). 【0057】 Next, we will explain the configuration of the Incident Light Control Area (PCA) and the CAP patterns and aperture functions displayed in the Incident Light Control Area (PCA). 【0058】 Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of multiple incident light control regions TA of the incident light control region PCA. As shown in Figure 10, the incident light control region PCA has a first incident light control region TA1 to a sixth incident light control region TA6. Each of the first incident light control regions TA1 to the sixth incident light control region TA6 has a pair of wires connected to the control circuit DR2 so that it can be set to a transmitting state that transmits ambient light (visible light) or an opaque state that blocks ambient light (visible light) by the control circuit DR2. 【0059】 The first incident light control region TA1 is located at the center (CP) of the incident light control region PCA and is a circular region with a diameter L1. 【0060】 The second incident light control region TA2 is positioned to surround the outer periphery of the first incident light control region TA1. The inner circumference of the second incident light control region TA2 has a diameter of L1, and the outer circumference of the second incident light control region TA2 has a diameter of L2, forming an annular region. 【0061】 The third incident light control region TA3 is positioned to surround the outer periphery of the second incident light control region TA2. The inner periphery of the third incident light control region TA3 has a diameter of L2, and the outer periphery of the third incident light control region TA3 is an annular region with a diameter of L3. 【0062】 The fourth incident light control region TA4 is positioned to surround the outer periphery of the third incident light control region TA3. The inner periphery of the fourth incident light control region TA4 has a diameter of L3, and the outer periphery of the fourth incident light control region TA4 is an annular region with a diameter of L4. 【0063】 The fifth incident light control region TA5 is positioned to surround the outer periphery of the fourth incident light control region TA4. The inner periphery of the fifth incident light control region TA5 has a diameter of L4, and the outer periphery of the fifth incident light control region TA5 is an annular region with a diameter of L5. 【0064】 The sixth incident light control region TA6 is positioned to surround the outer periphery of the fifth incident light control region TA5. The inner periphery of the sixth incident light control region TA6 has a diameter of L5, and the outer periphery of the sixth incident light control region TA6 is an annular region with a diameter of L6. 【0065】 Each of the second to sixth incident light control regions TA2 to TA6 contains multiple divided regions that are divided in the circumferential direction. The second incident light control region TA2 contains multiple second divided regions VI2, the third incident light control region TA3 contains multiple third divided regions VI3, and the fourth incident light control region TA4 contains multiple fourth divided regions VI4. The fifth incident light control region TA5 contains multiple fifth divided regions VI5, and the sixth incident light control region TA6 contains multiple sixth divided regions VI6. In this example, the number of divisions in each of the second to sixth incident light control regions TA2 to TA6 is four. In this example, each of the second to sixth incident light control regions TA2 to TA6 is divided into four equal parts. The boundaries of the second divided region VI2, the third divided region VI3, the fourth divided region VI4, the fifth divided region VI5, and the sixth divided region VI6 are aligned radially with the incident light control region PCA. 【0066】 Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating multiple divided regions. Note that Figure 11 shows the same first incident light control region TA1 to the sixth incident light control region TA6 and multiple divided regions (VI2-VI6) as shown in Figure 10, but to avoid complexity in the drawing, Figure 11 omits the descriptions of the first incident light control region TA1 to the sixth incident light control region TA6 and multiple divided regions (VI2-VI6) that are shown in Figure 10. 【0067】 As shown in Figure 11, each divided region (VI2-VI6) is configured as the first region R1, the second region R2, the third region R3, and the fourth region R4, in a clockwise direction RR with respect to the center position CP of the first incident light control region TA1. Therefore, it is as follows: 【0068】 The second divided region VI2 of the second incident light control region TA2 is composed of the first region VI21 ​​of the second divided region, the second region VI22 of the second divided region, the third region VI23 of the second divided region, and the fourth region VI24 of the second divided region. 【0069】 The third divided region VI3 of the third incident light control region TA3 is composed of the first region VI31 of the third divided region, the second region VI32 of the third divided region, the third region VI33 of the third divided region, and the fourth region VI34 of the third divided region. 【0070】 The fourth divided region VI4 of the fourth incident light control region TA4 is composed of the first region VI41 of the fourth divided region, the second region VI42 of the fourth divided region, the third region VI43 of the fourth divided region, and the fourth region VI44 of the fourth divided region. 【0071】 The fifth divided region VI5 of the fifth incident light control region TA5 is composed of the first region VI51, the second region VI52, the third region VI53, and the fourth region VI54 of the fifth divided region. 【0072】 The sixth divided region VI6 of the sixth incident light control region TA6 is composed of the first region VI61, the second region VI62, the third region VI63, and the fourth region VI64 of the sixth divided region. 【0073】 Figure 12 is a conceptual cross-sectional view of the first incident light control region and each divided region. Figure 12 shows a conceptual cross-sectional view illustrating the cross-sectional structure of the first incident light control region TA1 and each divided region (VI2-VI6) (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4). 【0074】 As shown in Figure 12, the liquid crystal element LCD of the liquid crystal panel PNL comprises a first substrate SUB1, a second substrate SUB2, and a liquid crystal layer LC. The first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 are facing each other. The liquid crystal layer LC is positioned between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. Although not shown in Figure 12, a sealing material adheres the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 and seals the liquid crystal layer LC. Note that the liquid crystal element LCD of the liquid crystal panel PNL only needs to be able to display an encoded aperture pattern and does not need to display a visible image, so no color filters or light sources are provided. 【0075】 The first substrate SUB1 comprises a transparent substrate, a first insulating substrate 10, pixel electrodes 11 (first electrode, first control electrode), and an alignment film 12 (first alignment film). The second substrate SUB2 comprises a transparent substrate, a second insulating substrate 20, common electrodes 21 (second electrode, second control electrode), and an alignment film 22 (second alignment film). The pixel electrodes 11 and the common electrodes 21 face each other. The alignment film 12 covers the pixel electrodes 11 and is in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC. The alignment film 22 covers the common electrodes 21 and is in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC. The pixel electrodes 11 and the common electrodes 21 are formed from a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO). The alignment films 12 and 22 are formed from a polyimide film, for example. 【0076】 For example, if the liquid crystal layer LC is a liquid crystal layer that corresponds to a normally open mode (normally white), it has an off state and an on state. The off state corresponds to a state in which no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC (for example, a state in which the potential difference between the pixel electrode 11 and the common electrode 21 is almost zero), and the liquid crystal layer LC is in a transparent state that transmits ambient light (visible light). The on state corresponds to a state in which a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC (for example, a state in which the potential difference between the pixel electrode 11 and the common electrode 21 is greater than or equal to a threshold), and the liquid crystal layer LC is in an opaque state that blocks ambient light (visible light). 【0077】 Furthermore, if the liquid crystal layer LC is a liquid crystal layer that corresponds to normally closed mode (normally black) in the liquid crystal panel PNL, it has both an off-state liquid crystal layer LC and an on-state liquid crystal layer LC. The off-state corresponds to a state in which no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC (for example, a state in which the potential difference between the pixel electrode 11 and the common electrode 21 is almost zero), and the liquid crystal layer LC is in an opaque state that blocks ambient light (visible light). The on-state corresponds to a state in which a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC (for example, a state in which the potential difference between the pixel electrode 11 and the common electrode 21 is greater than or equal to a threshold), and the liquid crystal layer LC is in a transparent state that transmits ambient light (visible light). 【0078】 Here, the potential between the pixel electrode 11 and the common electrode 21 is controlled by the control circuit DR2. This allows the first incident light control region TA1 and each of the divided regions (VI2-VI6) (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4) to be set to either a transmittance state or an opaque state. Each of the first incident light control region TA1 and each of the divided regions (VI2-VI6) (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4) has a wiring pair for controlling the potential between the pixel electrode 11 and the common electrode 21, and each of the multiple wiring pairs is connected to the control circuit DR2. The control circuit DR2 is capable of independently controlling each of the multiple wiring pairs. 【0079】 Figure 13 illustrates an example of a pattern related to the aperture function of the incident light control region (PCA) and an example of a CAP pattern. In Figure 13, (1) shows an example of a pattern illustrating the aperture function, and (2) shows an example of a CAP pattern. In (1), (11) is the closed aperture state, (12) is the minimum aperture narrowed state, (13) is the slightly open aperture state, and (14) is the maximum aperture open state. 【0080】 (11) can be displayed by setting all regions of the first incident light control region TA1 and each divided region (VI2-VI6) (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4) to an opaque state. 【0081】 (12) can be displayed by setting the first incident light control region TA1 to a transparent state and setting all of the other divided regions (VI2-VI6) (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4) to an opaque state. 【0082】 (13) can be displayed by setting the region from the first incident light control region TA1 to the fourth emitted light control region TA4 to a transparent state, and setting all of the other divided regions (VI5-VI6) (VIil: i (positive integer) = 5 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4) to an opaque state. 【0083】 (14) can be displayed by setting all regions of the first incident light control region TA1 and each divided region (VI2-VI6) (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4) to a transparent state. 【0084】 (21) can be displayed by setting the region from the first incident light control region TA1 to the second emitted light control region TA2 to a transparent state, setting all of (VIil: i (positive integer) = 3 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1, 2, 4) in each divided region (VI3-VI6) to a transparent state, and setting all of (VIil: i (positive integer) = 3 to 6, l (positive integer) = 3) in each divided region (VI3-VI6) to an opaque state. 【0085】 (22) can be displayed by setting the region from the first incident light control region TA1 to the second emitted light control region TA2 to a transparent state, setting all of (VIil: i (positive integer) = 3 to 6, l (positive integer) = 2, 3, 4) in each divided region (VI3-VI6) to a transparent state, and setting all of (VIil: i (positive integer) = 3 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1) in each divided region (VI3-VI6) to an opaque state. 【0086】 Next, we will describe the case where the first transparent electrode EL11 of the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the third transparent electrode EL21 of the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 are composed of segmented electrodes. Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the first state of the third configuration example of the liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the second state of the third configuration example of the liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment. 【0087】 The differences between the liquid crystal panel PNL shown in Figures 14 and 15 and the liquid crystal panel PNL shown in Figures 5 and 6 are that the first transparent electrode EL11 of the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 is composed of segmented electrodes (first transparent electrode EL11 and first transparent electrode EL110), and the third transparent electrode EL21 of the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 is composed of segmented electrodes (third transparent electrode EL21 and third transparent electrode EL210). 【0088】 In Figure 14, the potential between the two segment electrodes (first transparent electrodes EL11 and EL110) and the second transparent electrode EL12 of the first guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL1 is both set to 0V, and the first guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL1 is in a black state. Similarly, the potential between the segment electrodes (third transparent electrodes EL21 and EL210) and the fourth transparent electrode EL22 of the second guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL2 is both set to 0V, and it is in a black state. Therefore, in the liquid crystal panel PNL shown in Figure 14, the entire surface of the first guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the entire surface of the second guest-host liquid crystal cell GHL2 function as polarizers. 【0089】 On the other hand, in Figure 15, the potential between one segment electrode (first transparent electrode EL11) and the second transparent electrode EL12 of the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 is set to 0V, resulting in a black state. Meanwhile, the potential between the other segment electrode (first transparent electrode EL110) and the second transparent electrode EL12 is set to a predetermined potential V1, resulting in a transparent state. Furthermore, the potential between one segment electrode (third transparent electrode EL21) and the fourth transparent electrode EL22 of the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 is set to 0V, resulting in a black state. Meanwhile, the potential between the other segment electrode (third transparent electrode EL210) and the fourth transparent electrode EL22 is set to a predetermined potential V2, resulting in a transparent state. 【0090】 Therefore, in Figure 15, the left region of the liquid crystal panel PNL where the first transparent electrode EL11 and the third transparent electrode EL21 are located (the left region of the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the left region of the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2) functions as a polarizer. On the other hand, the right region of the liquid crystal panel PNL where the first transparent electrode EL110 and the third transparent electrode EL210 are located (the right region of the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the right region of the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2) is transparent, resulting in high transmittance. In other words, the right region of the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 and the right region of the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 are in a state where they cannot be used as polarizers. 【0091】 Next, the segmented electrodes of the first transparent electrode (EL11 in Figure 5) and the third transparent electrode (EL21 in Figure 5) will be described using Figures 16 and 17. Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the segmented electrodes of the first transparent electrode in the first guest host liquid crystal cell. Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the segmented electrodes of the third transparent electrode in the second guest host liquid crystal cell. 【0092】 As shown in Figure 16, in the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1 of the liquid crystal panel PNL, the first transparent electrode EL11 is divided into multiple first segment electrodes EE (EE11, EE21-EE24, EE31-EE34, EE41-EE44, EE51-EE54, EE61-EE64). The multiple first segment electrodes EE are divided to correspond to each region (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4) of the first incident light control region TA1 and each divided region (VI2-VI6) as described in Figures 10 and 11. The potential of each first segment electrode EE is configured to be individually controllable by the control circuit DR2. 【0093】 As shown in Figure 17, in the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 of the liquid crystal panel PNL, the third transparent electrode EL21 is divided into multiple second segment electrodes EF (EF11, EF21-EF24, EF31-EF34, EF41-EF44, EF51-EF54, EF61-EF64). The multiple second segment electrodes EF are divided to correspond to each region (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4) of the first incident light control region TA1 and each divided region (VI2-VI6) as described in Figures 10 and 11. The potential of each second segment electrode EF is configured to be individually controllable by the control circuit DR2. 【0094】 For example, when configuring an aperture as shown in (12) of Figure 13, the following steps are taken. 【0095】 The control circuit DR2 controls the potential between the pixel electrode 11 corresponding to the first incident light control region TA1 and the common electrode 21, as shown in Figure 12, so that the first incident light control region TA1 becomes transparent. The control circuit DR2 then controls the potential between the first segment electrode EE11 and the second transparent electrode EL12 of the first transparent electrode EL11 corresponding to the first incident light control region TA1, and the potential between the second segment electrode EF11 and the fourth transparent electrode EL22 of the third transparent electrode EL21, thereby controlling it to a transparent state. 【0096】 Furthermore, the control circuit DR2 controls the potential between the pixel electrode 11 corresponding to the second incident light control region TA2 and the sixth incident light control region TA6 and the common electrode 21 so that the second incident light control region TA2 and the sixth incident light control region TA6 become opaque. In addition, the control circuit DR2 controls the potential between the first segment electrodes (EE21-EE24, EE31-EE34, EE41-EE44, EE51-EE54, EE61-EE64) of the first transparent electrode EL11 corresponding to the second incident light control region TA2 and the sixth incident light control region TA6 and the second transparent electrode EL12, and the potential between the second segment electrodes (EF21-EF24, EF31-EF34, EF41-EF44, EF51-EF54, EF61-EF64) of the third transparent electrode EL21 to control the image to a black state. 【0097】 For the other patterns (11), (13), (14), (21), and (22) in Figure 13, the same approach as described above allows the control circuit DR2 to control the first incident light control region TA1 and each region of each divided region (VI2-VI6) (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4), control multiple first segment electrodes EE of the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1, and control multiple second segment electrodes EF of the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2, thereby enabling the display of aperture-related patterns and CAP patterns in the incident light control region PCA. 【0098】 In other words, the shapes of the multiple first segment electrodes EE and the multiple second segment electrodes EF correspond to the shapes of the multiple incident light control regions (each of the first incident light control region TA1 and each of the divided regions (VI2-VI6) (VIil: i (positive integer) = 2 to 6, l (positive integer) = 1 to 4)). When one or more of the multiple incident light control regions are set to an opaque state by the control circuit DR2, and the other one or more of the multiple incident light control regions are set to a transparent state, the control circuit DR2 controls one or more of the multiple first segment electrodes EE and one or more of the multiple second segment electrodes EF corresponding to the one or more of the multiple incident light control regions to set them to a black state, and sets the other one or more of the multiple first segment electrodes EE and the other one or more of the multiple second segment electrodes EF to a transparent state. 【0099】 With this configuration, the first transparent electrodes (EL11, EL110) and the third transparent electrodes (EL21, EL210) of the guest host liquid crystal cells (GHL1, GHL2) are divided into the first segment electrode EE (see Figure 16) and the second segment electrode EF (see Figure 17), respectively, thereby dividing the region that functions as a polarizer (the region in a black state) within the plane of the liquid crystal panel PNL. The drive region of the guest host liquid crystal cells (GHL1, GHL2) is controlled by the control circuit DR2 in accordance with the driving of the liquid crystal element LCD. As a result, areas that should be shielded can be shielded, and areas that should be transmitted can be transmitted more, making it possible to achieve both a high contrast ratio and high transmittance. 【0100】 The shape of the segment electrode is not limited to Figures 16 and 17. The shape of the segment electrode may be, for example, as shown in Figure 18. Figure 18 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the incident light control region PCA. Figure 18 shows an example of the configuration of the CAP pattern. In Figure 18, (31) is a configuration in which the incident light control region PCA includes a large circular first incident light control region TA1 and a small circular second incident light control region TA2 provided on the upper right side of the first incident light control region TA1. 【0101】 (32) has a configuration in which the incident light control region PCA includes a first incident light control region TA1 which is large and circular in shape, and a second incident light control region TA2 which is small and circular in shape and located on the lower left side of the first incident light control region TA1. 【0102】 (33) has a configuration in which the incident light control region PCA includes a first incident light control region TA1 which is a large circular shape, and a second circular incident light control region TA2 and a third circular incident light control region TA3 which are arranged horizontally inside the first incident light control region TA1. 【0103】 As explained in Figures 10, 11, 16, and 17, the configuration and shape of the incident light control region PCA, the configuration and shape of the segment electrode of the first transparent electrode EL11 of the first guest host liquid crystal cell GHL1, and the configuration and shape of the segment electrode of the third transparent electrode EL21 of the second guest host liquid crystal cell GHL2 should be configured to match (31), (32), and (33) in Figure 18. The configuration of the incident light control region PCA may be other configurations than those shown in Figure 18. 【0104】 All camera modules that a person skilled in the art could implement by appropriately modifying the design based on the camera module described above as an embodiment of this disclosure also fall within the scope of this disclosure, insofar as they encompass the gist of this disclosure. 【0105】 Within the scope of the ideas presented hereto, a person skilled in the art will be able to conceive of various modifications and alterations, and such modifications and alterations will also be understood to fall within the scope of this disclosure. For example, any addition, deletion, or design change of components, or addition, omission, or modification of processes, made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments, will also fall within the scope of this disclosure, as long as they retain the essence of this disclosure. 【0106】 Furthermore, any other effects and advantages brought about by the embodiments described herein that are obvious from this specification or that can be appropriately conceived by those skilled in the art are naturally provided by this disclosure. 【0107】 Various disclosures can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be removed from all the components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined. [Explanation of Symbols] 【0108】 CM: Camera module, LN: Lens, 3: Image sensor, PNL: Liquid crystal panel, DR2: Second drive circuit (control circuit), PCA: Incident light control area, GHL1: First guest host liquid crystal cell, GHL2: Second guest host liquid crystal cell, LCD: Liquid crystal element.

Claims

[Claim 1] A liquid crystal panel having an incident light control region, Lens and, An image sensor that acquires information about the incident light control region of the liquid crystal panel and the light that has passed through the lens, It has a control circuit, The aforementioned liquid crystal panel is A first guest host liquid crystal cell having a black state and a transparent state, A second guest host liquid crystal cell having a black state and a transparent state, A liquid crystal element provided between the first guest host liquid crystal cell and the second guest host liquid crystal cell, having the incident light control region, is included, The control circuit sets the first guest host liquid crystal cell and the second guest host liquid crystal cell to the black state and uses the first guest host liquid crystal cell and the second guest host liquid crystal cell as polarizing plates. Camera module. [Claim 2] In the camera module according to claim 1, The first guest-host liquid crystal cell includes a first guest-host liquid crystal layer containing a first dichroic dye and a first liquid crystal molecule, a first transparent electrode, and a second transparent electrode, and the potential between the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode is controlled by the control circuit to control the black state and the transparent state of the first guest-host liquid crystal cell. The second guest-host liquid crystal cell includes a second guest-host liquid crystal layer containing a second dichroic dye and a second liquid crystal molecule, a third transparent electrode, and a fourth transparent electrode, and the potential between the third transparent electrode and the fourth transparent electrode is controlled by the control circuit to control the black state and the transparent state of the second guest-host liquid crystal cell. Camera module. [Claim 3] In the camera module according to claim 2, The incident light control region includes a plurality of incident light control regions, Each of the plurality of incident light control regions has a pair of wires connected to the control circuit so that it can be set to a transparent state that transmits ambient light and an opaque state that blocks ambient light by control of the control circuit. A camera module in which, under the control of the control circuit, an aperture function or an encoded aperture pattern is configured in the incident light control region. [Claim 4] In the camera module according to claim 3, The first transparent electrode has a plurality of first segment electrodes, The third transparent electrode has a plurality of second segment electrodes, The shapes of the plurality of first segment electrodes and the plurality of second segment electrodes correspond to the shapes of the plurality of incident light control regions. When one or more of the plurality of incident light control regions are set to the non-transparent state by the control of the control circuit, and the other ones are set to the transparent state, the control circuit controls one or more of the plurality of first segment electrodes and one or more of the plurality of second segment electrodes corresponding to one or more of the plurality of incident light control regions to set them to the black state, and sets the other ones of the plurality of first segment electrodes and the other ones of the plurality of second segment electrodes to the transparent state. Camera module.

Images