Display device and display method

Abstract

Display the three-dimensional image appropriately. [Solution] The display device 1 is formed by stacking a light source, a polarizing plate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in order from bottom to top, and comprises a liquid crystal panel 20 without a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer, a lens array 30 above the liquid crystal panel 20 in which a plurality of lenses are arranged in two dimensions, a first reflective polarizing plate 11 that transmits light emitted from the lens array 30 and is incident on the viewpoint E, and a second reflective polarizing plate 12 that is positioned further away from the viewpoint E than the first reflective polarizing plate 11, reflects light emitted from the lens array 30, passes through the first reflective polarizing plate 11 and is incident on the viewpoint E, and the polarization axis of the first reflective polarizing plate 11 is different from the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizing plate 12.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device and a display method.

Background Art

[0002] As a method of forming a stereoscopic image in space, there is an integral method (Non-Patent Document 1). In the integral method, an elemental image displayed on a display or the like is displayed through a lens array in which lenses are arranged in a two-dimensional direction, so that a stereoscopic image is formed in space.

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0003]

Non-Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a general integral method, depending on the position of the display with respect to the viewpoint or the size of the display, there may be a case where an elemental image for displaying the entire stereoscopic image to be displayed cannot be displayed on the display. A general integral method may not be able to display the entire stereoscopic image, and the stereoscopic image may be cut off.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique for appropriately displaying a stereoscopic image.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A display device according to one aspect of the present invention is formed by stacking a light source, a polarizing plate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in order from bottom to top, and comprising a liquid crystal panel without a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer; a lens array above the liquid crystal panel in which a plurality of lenses are arranged in a two-dimensional direction; a first reflective polarizing plate that transmits light emitted from the lens array and is incident on the viewpoint; and a second reflective polarizing plate that is positioned further away from the viewpoint than the first reflective polarizing plate in the line of sight from the viewpoint, reflects light emitted from the lens array, passes through the first reflective polarizing plate, and is incident on the viewpoint, wherein the polarization axis of the first reflective polarizing plate is different from the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizing plate.

[0007] A display device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a liquid crystal panel formed by stacking a light source, a polarizing plate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in order from bottom to top, wherein the liquid crystal panel is not provided above the liquid crystal layer; a lens array above the liquid crystal panel in which a plurality of lenses are arranged in a two-dimensional direction; a first reflective polarizing plate that transmits light emitted from the lens array and is incident on the viewpoint; a second reflective polarizing plate positioned further away from the first reflective polarizing plate in the line of sight from the viewpoint, reflecting light emitted from the lens array, passing through the first reflective polarizing plate, and being incident on the viewpoint; and an optical member positioned between the first reflective polarizing plate and the second reflective polarizing plate in the line of sight from the viewpoint, and changing the polarization axis of the light reflected by the second reflective polarizing plate, wherein the polarization axis of the first reflective polarizing plate is the same as the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizing plate.

[0008] A display method according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a display device formed by stacking a light source, a polarizing plate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in order from bottom to top, a liquid crystal panel without a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer, a lens array above the liquid crystal panel in which a plurality of lenses are arranged in a two-dimensional direction, a first reflective polarizing plate that transmits light emitted from the lens array and is incident on the viewpoint, and a third polarizing plate positioned further away from the first reflective polarizing plate in the line of sight from the viewpoint, which reflects light emitted from the lens array and the first reflective polarizing plate The device comprises a second reflective polarizer that passes through and is incident on the viewpoint, wherein the polarization axis of the first reflective polarizer is different from that of the second reflective polarizer, and the lower part of the stereoscopic image is drawn by pixels that emit light from each pixel displayed on the liquid crystal panel of the display device that is incident on the first reflective polarizer without being reflected by the second reflective polarizer, and the upper part of the stereoscopic image is drawn by pixels that emit light that is incident on the second reflective polarizer and passes through the first reflective polarizer.

[0009] A display method according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a display device formed by stacking a light source, a polarizing plate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in order from bottom to top, a liquid crystal panel without a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer, a lens array above the liquid crystal panel in which a plurality of lenses are arranged in a two-dimensional direction, a first reflective polarizing plate that transmits light emitted from the lens array and is incident on the viewpoint, a second reflective polarizing plate positioned further away from the viewpoint than the first reflective polarizing plate in the line of sight from the viewpoint, reflecting light emitted from the lens array, passing through the first reflective polarizing plate and being incident on the viewpoint, and The device further comprises an optical member positioned between the first reflective polarizer and the second reflective polarizer, which changes the polarization axis of the light reflected by the second reflective polarizer, wherein the polarization axis of the first reflective polarizer is the same as that of the second reflective polarizer, and the lower part of the three-dimensional image is drawn by pixels that emit light incident on the first reflective polarizer without being reflected by the second reflective polarizer from each pixel displayed on the liquid crystal panel of the display device, and the upper part of the three-dimensional image is drawn by pixels that emit light incident on the second reflective polarizer and that passes through the optical member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technology for appropriately displaying three-dimensional images. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view of the display device of this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the display device of this disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a top view of the display device of this disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 illustrates the direction of light propagation in the display device of this disclosure and an example of a stereoscopic image. [Figure 5] Figure 5 illustrates the direction of light propagation in a typical integral-type display device and an example of a three-dimensional image. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a side view of the display device of the first modification. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the display device of the first modification. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a top view of the display device of the first modification. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a side view of the display device of the second modification. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the display device of the third modification. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a top view of the display device of the third modification. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the display device of the fourth modification. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a top view of the display device of the fourth modification.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals.

[0013] (Display device) The display device 1 according to the present disclosure appropriately displays a stereoscopic image so as not to be interrupted with respect to the viewing point E.

[0014] The display device 1 according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. The display device 1 displays a stereoscopic image M with respect to the viewing point E.

[0015] The display device 1 includes a first reflective polarizing plate 11, a second reflective polarizing plate 12, a liquid crystal panel 20, and a lens array 30.

[0016] The display device 1 includes a liquid crystal panel 20 on the bottom surface, and includes a lens array 30 on the liquid crystal panel 20.

[0017] The first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 are in contact with opposing sides of the lens array 30. The sides of the first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 that are opposite to the sides fixed to the lens array 30 are in contact above the lens array 30, supporting each other. The first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 each have a rectangular planar shape, with one side connected to one side of the lens array 30. The sides of the first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 that are opposite to the side connected to the lens array 30 are connected above the lens array 30. Above the first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12, The first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 are installed so as to cover the liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30. The first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 are designed to easily receive the light emitted by the liquid crystal panel 20.

[0018] In this disclosure, the first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 form a hollow on the lens array 30. The space surrounded by the first reflective polarizer 11, the second reflective polarizer 12, and the lens array 30 may be filled with a material that does not obstruct the propagation of light.

[0019] In this disclosure, the case in which the first reflective polarizer 11, the second reflective polarizer 12, and the lens array 30 are in contact will be described, but the disclosure is not limited to this case. The lower ends of the first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 may be provided with an opening formed at a predetermined distance from the lens array 30. The first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 may be provided above the lens array 30 without in contact, with an opening formed at a predetermined distance from them.

[0020] The first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 are described as being planar, but are not limited to this case. The first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 may have any shape, such as having a curve formed in at least a part of it. In addition, the first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12 may each be formed from multiple members.

[0021] In this disclosure, the liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30 have the same rectangular shape, but are not limited to this. The lens array 30 does not have to have the same shape, for example, by having a larger surface area than the liquid crystal panel 20. The liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30 may have shapes other than rectangles, such as circles. The surfaces of the liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30 do not have to be flat, for example, by forming at least a part of them as curved surfaces.

[0022] The liquid crystal panel 20 is formed by stacking a liquid crystal layer, sandwiched between a light source, a polarizing plate, and two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates, in that order from bottom to top. The liquid crystal panel 20 differs from a typical liquid crystal display in that it does not have a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer. The liquid crystal panel 20 has multiple pixels, and each pixel emits a predetermined amount of light. In this disclosure, the liquid crystal panel emits linearly polarized light. The liquid crystal panel 20 is, for example, obtained by removing the polarizing plate from the surface of a liquid crystal display of any type, such as an IPS (In-Plane-Switching) type.

[0023] The lens array 30 is arranged in a two-dimensional direction above the liquid crystal panel 20, with multiple lenses aligned. The lens array 30 is a hexagonal lens array. The lens array 30 is similar to the lens arrays used in integral imaging.

[0024] The first reflective polarizer 11 transmits light emitted from the lens array 30 and is incident on the viewpoint E. The first reflective polarizer 11 transmits light along a predetermined polarization axis and reflects light along other polarization axes.

[0025] The second reflective polarizer 12 reflects the light emitted from the lens array 30, passes through the first reflective polarizer 11, and enters the viewpoint. The second reflective polarizer 12 allows light with a predetermined polarization axis to pass through and reflects light with other polarization axes.

[0026] The second reflective polarizer 12 is positioned further away from the line of sight from viewpoint E than the first reflective polarizer 11. In this disclosure, viewpoint E of the display device 1 is on the right side in the side view of Figure 1, so the line of sight is formed to the left from viewpoint E. The first reflective polarizer 11 is installed on the right side, and the second reflective polarizer 12 is installed on the left side.

[0027] In this disclosure, the polarization axis of the first reflective polarizer 11 is different from the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizer 12. Light reflected by the second reflective polarizer 12 passes through the first reflective polarizer 11 and is incident on the viewpoint E. The viewpoint E can see the light emitted from the lens array 30 through the first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, only one viewpoint E is depicted, but there may be two viewpoints E. In the side view shown in Figure 1, in addition to viewpoint E, a new viewpoint E' may be provided symmetrically with respect to a vertical line passing through the portion where the reflective polarizer 11 and the reflective polarizer 12 are in contact. Light reflected by the first reflective polarizer 11 passes through the second reflective polarizer 12 and is incident on viewpoint E'. From viewpoint E', the light emitted from the lens array 30 can be seen through the first reflective polarizer 11 and the second reflective polarizer 12.

[0029] Referring to Figure 4, the mechanism of the display device 1 according to this disclosure will be explained. Here, we will explain viewpoint E, but the same applies to viewpoint E'.

[0030] Each pixel of the liquid crystal panel 20 emits light of a predetermined color according to the mechanism of the display device 1 so that a desired stereoscopic image M is visible at the viewpoint E. Each pixel of the liquid crystal panel 20 emits light in any direction without specifying a particular direction.

[0031] The lens array 30 emits light from the liquid crystal panel 20 in a predetermined direction. The direction of light emitted by the lens array 30 is determined according to the specifications of the lens array 30.

[0032] In the example shown in Figure 4, the lens array 30 directs the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 20 onto the first reflective polarizer 11. The first reflective polarizer 11 transmits the light emitted from the lens array 30 and is incident on the viewpoint E.

[0033] Furthermore, the lens array 30 directs the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 20 onto the second reflective polarizer 12. The second reflective polarizer 12 reflects the light emitted from the lens array 30. The light reflected by the second reflective polarizer 12 then enters the first reflective polarizer 11.

[0034] Whether the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 20 is incident on the first reflective polarizer 11 or the second reflective polarizer 12 depends on the specifications of the display device 1. The specifications of the display device 1 include the position of the pixels on the liquid crystal panel 20 from which the light is emitted, and the shape of the lens array 30 corresponding to those pixels. The specifications of the display device 1 further include the position and size of the first reflective polarizer 11, the second reflective polarizer 12, the lens array 30, and the liquid crystal panel.

[0035] Thus, at viewpoint E, light is incident on the liquid crystal panel 20, passing through the lens array 30 and the first reflective polarizer 11, and light is incident on the liquid crystal panel 20, passing through the lens array 30, being reflected by the second reflective polarizer 12, and passing through the first reflective polarizer 11. The display device 1 displays a stereoscopic image M using the light that is incident on the liquid crystal panel 20, passing through the lens array 30 and the first reflective polarizer 11, and the light that is incident on the liquid crystal panel 20, passing through the lens array 30, being reflected by the second reflective polarizer 12, and passing through the first reflective polarizer 11.

[0036] The display method using the display device 1 according to this disclosure will now be explained. Of the pixels displayed by the liquid crystal panel 20 of the display device 1, the lower part of the stereoscopic image M is drawn by the pixels that emit light that is incident on the first reflective polarizing plate 11 without being reflected by the second reflective polarizing plate 12. Of the pixels displayed by the liquid crystal panel 20 of the display device 1, the upper part of the stereoscopic image M is drawn by the pixels that emit light that is incident on the second reflective polarizing plate 12.

[0037] Of the three-dimensional image M displayed by the display device 1, the light that passes through the first reflective polarizer 11 without being reflected by the second reflective polarizer 12 and enters the viewpoint E is light that is incident on the viewpoint E regardless of the presence or absence of the second reflective polarizer 12. Such light can also be emitted by a general integral-type display device.

[0038] Of the three-dimensional image M displayed by the display device 1, the light reflected by the second reflective polarizer 12 and transmitted through the first reflective polarizer 11 to enter the viewpoint E is light that would not be incident on the viewpoint E if the second reflective polarizer 12 were not present. In the display device 1 according to this disclosure, the second reflective polarizer 12 reflects such light, and it is incident on the viewpoint E. The light reflected by the second reflective polarizer 12 and incident on the viewpoint E is the light shown by the solid line among the light incident on the viewpoint E in Figure 4, and it forms the upper part of the three-dimensional image M.

[0039] Figure 5 shows a display device 100 that displays a stereoscopic image M' using a general integral method. The display device 100 has a lens array 130 mounted on top of a liquid crystal display 120. The display device 100 displays a stereoscopic image M' using light that is directly incident on any viewpoint. The liquid crystal display 120 is similar to the liquid crystal panel 20 used in the display device 1 according to this disclosure in that it is formed by stacking a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between a light source, a polarizing plate, and two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in that order from bottom to top. The liquid crystal display 120 differs in that it has a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer.

[0040] In contrast, the display device 1 according to this disclosure uses the second reflective polarizer 12 to cause light that does not directly enter the viewpoint E to enter the viewpoint E, thereby appropriately displaying the stereoscopic image M.

[0041] When a display device 1 according to this disclosure and a general integral display device 100 are created using a liquid crystal panel 20 and a liquid crystal display 120 of the same size, the display device 1 according to this disclosure displays a wider stereoscopic image M' at the top than the general integral display device 100. Even when the stereoscopic image M' is cut off in the general integral display device 100, the entire stereoscopic image can be displayed.

[0042] (First variation) Referring to Figures 6-8, a first modified example of the display device 1a will be described. The display device 1a comprises a first reflective polarizer 11a, a second reflective polarizer 11b, a liquid crystal panel 20, a lens array 30, and an optical member 40. The liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30 are as described in the display device 1 of this disclosure.

[0043] The first modified display device 1a differs from the display device 1 according to the present disclosure in two respects. First, the polarization axis of the first reflective polarizer 11a is the same as the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizer 11b. Second, it has an optical member 40 positioned between the first reflective polarizer 11a and the second reflective polarizer 11b in the line of sight from viewpoint E.

[0044] As shown in Figures 6-8, the display device 1a includes a plate-shaped optical member 40 that supports the upper ends of the first reflective polarizer 11a and the second reflective polarizer 11b. The optical member 40 changes the polarization axis of the light reflected by the second reflective polarizer 11b. The optical member 40 is, for example, a half-wave plate. The half-wave plate rotates the polarization axis of the incident light.

[0045] In the first modified example, the optical member 40 is positioned to support the upper ends of the first reflective polarizer 11a and the second reflective polarizer 11b, but is not limited to this. The optical member 40 only needs to be positioned between the first reflective polarizer 11a and the second reflective polarizer 11b in line of sight from viewpoint E.

[0046] In the first modified example, since the polarization axes of the first reflective polarizer 11a and the second reflective polarizer 11b are the same, if there is no optical member 40, the light reflected by the second reflective polarizer 11b will also be reflected by the first reflective polarizer 11a and will not be able to pass through the first reflective polarizer 11a. Therefore, in the display device 1a of the first modified example, the light reflected by the second reflective polarizer 11b passes through the optical member 40, and its polarization axis is changed, allowing it to pass through the first reflective polarizer 11a and be incident on the viewpoint E.

[0047] In the same manner as the display device 1, the display device 1a renders the lower part of the stereoscopic image M using pixels on the liquid crystal panel 20 of the display device 1a that emit light that enters the first reflective polarizer 11a without being reflected by the second reflective polarizer 11b. The display device 1a renders the upper part of the stereoscopic image M using pixels on the liquid crystal panel 20 of the display device 1a that emit light that enters the second reflective polarizer 11b. Here, the light that enters the second reflective polarizer 11b passes through the optical element 40 and enters the viewpoint E.

[0048] Similarly, in the first modified display device 1a, light that does not directly incident on the viewpoint E when the second reflective polarizer 11b is absent is also incident on the viewpoint E using the second reflective polarizer 11b, thereby appropriately displaying the stereoscopic image M.

[0049] In the first modified example, as shown in Figure 1, in addition to viewpoint E, viewpoint E' may also be provided. There may be two viewpoints E'. In the side view shown in Figure 6, in addition to viewpoint E, a new viewpoint E' may be provided symmetrically with respect to a vertical line passing through the portion where the reflective polarizer 11a and the reflective polarizer 1b are in contact.

[0050] (Second variation) Referring to Figure 9, a second modified display device 1b will be described. The display device 1b comprises a first reflective polarizer 11a, a second reflective polarizer 11b, a liquid crystal panel 20, a lens array 30, a first optical element 50a, a second optical element 50b, and a third optical element 50c. The liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30 are as described in the display device 1 of this disclosure.

[0051] The first optical member 50a is provided on the liquid crystal panel 20 side of the first reflective polarizer 11a. The second optical member 50b is provided on the liquid crystal panel 20 side of the second reflective polarizer 11b. The third optical member 50c is provided between the liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30. The optical members 50a, 50b, and 50c are members that change the phase of the polarization axis of linearly polarized light.

[0052] The first optical member 50a is attached to the liquid crystal panel 20 side of the first reflective polarizing plate 11a. The second optical member 50b is attached to the liquid crystal panel 20 side of the second reflective polarizing plate 11b. The first optical member 50a and the second optical member 50b are provided on the liquid crystal panel 20 side of each reflective polarizing plate, and may be provided by attachment or at a predetermined distance apart.

[0053] The second modified display device 1b differs from the display device 1 according to the present disclosure in two respects. First, similar to the first modified example, the polarization axis of the first reflective polarizer 11a is the same as the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizer 11b. Second, it has a first optical member 50a, a second optical member 50b, and a third optical member 50c. The first optical member 50a, the second optical member 50b, and the third optical member 50c are collectively referred to as the optical member 50.

[0054] In the second modified example, since the polarization axes of the first reflective polarizer 11a and the second reflective polarizer 11b are the same, if there is no optical member 50, the light reflected from the second reflective polarizer 11b will also be reflected from the first reflective polarizer 11a and will not be able to pass through the first reflective polarizer 11a. Therefore, in the display device 1b of the second modified example, the first optical member 50a, the second optical member 50b, and the third optical member 50c are used to form the device so that the light reflected from the second reflective polarizer 11b is transmitted through the first reflective polarizer 11a.

[0055] In the second modified example, the optical elements 50a, 50b, and 50c are quarter-wave plates. The quarter-wave plates convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light. Depending on the rotation angle between the quarter-wave plate and the central axis of the reflective polarizer, the passing linearly polarized light will have a phase difference of 1 / 4 wavelength.

[0056] In the second modified example, the third optical member 50c and the first optical member 50a, and the third optical member 50c and the second optical member 50b are arranged to cancel out their respective phase shifts.

[0057] The display device 1b according to the second modified example can emit light similar to that of the display device 1a according to the first modified example to the viewpoint E.

[0058] In the same manner as the display device 1, the display device 1b renders the lower part of the stereoscopic image M using pixels on the liquid crystal panel 20 of the display device 1b that emit light that enters the first reflective polarizer 11a without being reflected by the second reflective polarizer 11b. The display device 1b renders the upper part of the stereoscopic image M using pixels on the liquid crystal panel 20 of the display device 1b that emit light that enters the second reflective polarizer 11b. Here, the light that enters the second reflective polarizer 11b passes through the optical element 40 and enters the viewpoint E.

[0059] Similarly, in the second modified display device 1b, light that would not directly incident on the viewpoint E in the absence of the second reflective polarizer 11b is also incident on the viewpoint E using the second reflective polarizer 11b, thereby appropriately displaying the stereoscopic image M. Furthermore, compared to the first modified display device 1a, the third modified display device 1c has reflective polarizers arranged in the circumferential direction, so it can display the stereoscopic image M for a wider range of viewpoints.

[0060] (Third variation) Referring to Figures 10-11, the display device 1c according to the third modified example will be described. The display device 1c according to the third modified example is obtained by changing the arrangement of the reflective polarizing plate and optical elements compared to the display device 1a according to the first modified example.

[0061] In the first modified example, the reflective polarizers are provided facing each other, whereas in the third modified example, the reflective polarizers cover the top of the liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30 and are formed in a convex shape relative to the liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30.

[0062] In the third modified display device 1c, the reflective polarizer forms a pyramidal shape with an upward convex shape relative to the liquid crystal panel 20 and the lens array 30. Four reflective polarizers 11, each having an isosceles triangular shape upwards, are provided on each side of the lens array 30. The four reflective polarizers 11 are in contact with each other above the lens array 30, supporting one another. The four reflective polarizers share a common polarization axis.

[0063] In other words, the first reflective polarizing plate 11a and the second reflective polarizing plate 11b in the first modified example are each part of a reflective polarizing plate that covers the liquid crystal panel 20 and is formed in a convex shape relative to the liquid crystal panel 20.

[0064] In the third modified example, the optical element 40 has a triangular shape with its base on the diagonal of the lens array 30 and the hypotenuse being the side where the two reflective polarizers 11 meet. In the third modified example, the optical element 40 is a half-wave plate.

[0065] In Figures 10-11, the reflective polarizing plate 11 is shown as being formed in a pyramidal shape, but it may also be formed as a curved plate or in a spherical shape.

[0066] In the third modified display device 1c, a suitable stereoscopic image M can be displayed, similar to the display device 1a of the first modified example.

[0067] (Fourth variation) Referring to Figures 12-13, the display device 1d according to the fourth modification will be described. The display device 1d according to the fourth modification is a modified version of the display device 1c according to the third modification, in which the arrangement of the optical elements has been changed.

[0068] In the third modification, the reflective polarizer is provided on one diagonal, whereas in the fourth modification, it is provided on each of the two diagonals. The display device 1d comprises two optical members 40a and 40b. The two optical members 40a and 40b are formed in a cross shape when viewed from above, on the side of the liquid crystal panel 20 and lens array 30 that is closer to the reflective polarizer 11.

[0069] Here, the two optical elements 40a and 40b are half-wave plates. Alternatively, the two optical elements 40a and 40b are quarter-wave plates.

[0070] In the fourth modified display device 1d, just like in the first modified display device 1a, an appropriate stereoscopic image M can be displayed. Furthermore, compared to the third modified display device 1c, the fourth modified display device 1d has a wider range through which the image passes through a single optical element 40, so it can display the stereoscopic image M for a wider range of viewpoints. For example, when multiple people view the display device 1d, or when one person views the display device 1d from multiple viewpoints, the display device 1d can appropriately display the stereoscopic image M.

[0071] (Fifth variation) While several embodiments have been described with reference to the display devices of this disclosure, they are not limited to these embodiments. The number, installation position, or characteristics of the reflective polarizers comprising the display device, or the number, installation position, or characteristics of the optical elements, may be modified as appropriate.

[0072] The display device of this disclosure comprises at least a liquid crystal panel 20, a lens array 30, a first reflective polarizer, and a second reflective polarizer. The second reflective polarizer is positioned further away from the first reflective polarizer in the line of sight from viewpoint E.

[0073] In such a display device, the conditions for linearly polarized light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 20 to be incident on the viewpoint E will be explained.

[0074] First, we will explain the light that passes through the first reflective polarizer without being reflected by the second reflective polarizer and is incident on viewpoint E. Linearly polarized light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 20 is converted into circularly polarized light by the optical component before passing through the first reflective polarizer. The circularly polarized light is converted into linearly polarized light by the optical component and passes through the first reflective polarizer.

[0075] Next, we will explain the light that, after being reflected by the second reflective polarizer, passes through the first reflective polarizer and is incident on viewpoint E. Linearly polarized light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 20 is reflected by the second reflective polarizer. Here, the light reflected by the second reflective polarizer is light that has been converted to circularly polarized light by multiple optical components and then to linearly polarized light. Linearly polarized light is reflected by the second reflective polarizer, passes through the optical components and becomes circularly polarized light. Circularly polarized light becomes linearly polarized light by the optical components and passes through the first reflective polarizer.

[0076] The display device can be formed in any way as long as linearly polarized light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 20 is able to pass through the first reflective polarizer without being reflected by the second reflective polarizer, enter the viewpoint E, and be reflected by the second reflective polarizer, pass through the first reflective polarizer, and enter the viewpoint E.

[0077] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and numerous modifications are possible within the scope of its essence. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 1 Display device 11, 12 Reflective polarizing plate 20 LCD panels 30 lens arrays 40, 50 Optical components E perspective

Claims

1. A liquid crystal panel is formed by stacking a light source, a polarizing plate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in order from bottom to top, and the liquid crystal panel does not have a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer. Above the aforementioned liquid crystal panel is a lens array in which multiple lenses are arranged in a two-dimensional direction, A first reflective polarizing plate that transmits light emitted from the lens array and is incident on the viewpoint, The system comprises a second reflective polarizer positioned further away from the first reflective polarizer in the line of sight from the aforementioned viewpoint, which reflects light emitted from the lens array, passes through the first reflective polarizer, and is incident on the aforementioned viewpoint, The polarization axis of the first reflective polarizer is different from the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizer. Display device.

2. A liquid crystal panel is formed by stacking a light source, a polarizing plate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in order from bottom to top, and the liquid crystal panel does not have a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer. Above the aforementioned liquid crystal panel is a lens array in which multiple lenses are arranged in a two-dimensional direction, A first reflective polarizing plate that transmits light emitted from the lens array and is incident on the viewpoint, A second reflective polarizer is positioned further away from the first reflective polarizer in the line of sight from the aforementioned viewpoint, and reflects light emitted from the lens array, passes through the first reflective polarizer, and enters the viewpoint. The device comprises an optical member positioned between the first reflective polarizer and the second reflective polarizer in the line of sight from the aforementioned viewpoint, which changes the polarization axis of the light reflected by the second reflective polarizer, A display device wherein the polarization axis of the first reflective polarizer is the same as the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizer.

3. The optical element is a half-wave plate. The display device according to claim 2.

4. The optical component is A first quarter-wave plate provided on the liquid crystal panel side of the first reflective polarizing plate, A second quarter-wave plate provided on the liquid crystal panel side of the second reflective polarizing plate, A third quarter-wave plate provided between the liquid crystal panel and the lens array, The first quarter-wave plate and the second quarter-wave plate cancel out the phase shift of the third quarter-wave plate. The display device according to claim 2.

5. The first reflective polarizing plate and the second reflective polarizing plate are each part of a reflective polarizing plate that covers the liquid crystal panel and is formed in a convex shape relative to the liquid crystal panel. The display device according to claim 2.

6. The device comprises two optical members, the two optical members being formed in a cross shape when viewed from above, on the side of the liquid crystal panel that is closer to the reflective polarizer. The display device according to claim 3.

7. The two optical elements are either half-wave plates or quarter-wave plates. The display device according to claim 6.

8. The display device is A liquid crystal panel is formed by stacking a light source, a polarizing plate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in order from bottom to top, and the liquid crystal panel does not have a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer. Above the aforementioned liquid crystal panel is a lens array in which multiple lenses are arranged in a two-dimensional direction, A first reflective polarizing plate that transmits light emitted from the lens array and is incident on the viewpoint, The system comprises a second reflective polarizer positioned further away from the first reflective polarizer in the line of sight from the aforementioned viewpoint, which reflects light emitted from the lens array, passes through the first reflective polarizer, and is incident on the aforementioned viewpoint, The polarization axis of the first reflective polarizer is different from the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizer. Of the pixels displayed by the liquid crystal panel of the display device, the lower part of the three-dimensional image is drawn by the pixel that emits light that is incident on the first reflective polarizer without being reflected by the second reflective polarizer. Among the pixels displayed by the liquid crystal panel of the display device, the pixels that emit light incident on the second reflective polarizing plate and transmitted through the first reflective polarizing plate are used to draw the upper part of the three-dimensional image. Display method.

9. The display device is A liquid crystal panel is formed by stacking a light source, a polarizing plate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent electrode-equipped glass plates in order from bottom to top, and the liquid crystal panel does not have a polarizing plate above the liquid crystal layer. Above the aforementioned liquid crystal panel is a lens array in which multiple lenses are arranged in a two-dimensional direction, A first reflective polarizing plate that transmits light emitted from the lens array and is incident on the viewpoint, A second reflective polarizer is positioned further away from the first reflective polarizer in the line of sight from the aforementioned viewpoint, and reflects light emitted from the lens array, passes through the first reflective polarizer, and enters the viewpoint. The device comprises an optical member positioned between the first reflective polarizer and the second reflective polarizer in the line of sight from the aforementioned viewpoint, which changes the polarization axis of the light reflected by the second reflective polarizer, The polarization axis of the first reflective polarizer is the same as the polarization axis of the second reflective polarizer. Of the pixels displayed by the liquid crystal panel of the display device, the lower part of the three-dimensional image is drawn by the pixel that emits light that is incident on the first reflective polarizer without being reflected by the second reflective polarizer. Among the pixels displayed by the liquid crystal panel of the display device, the pixels that emit light incident on the second reflective polarizing plate and transmitted through the optical element are used to draw the upper part of the three-dimensional image. Display method.

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