Indication device

Abstract

To provide a display device that is highly efficient in utilizing light and can be miniaturized. [Solution] The display device includes a light-transmitting substrate having a first main surface, an end surface intersecting the first main surface, and a second main surface located on the opposite side of the first main surface; a light source having an emitting surface and positioned opposite to at least one of the second main surface and the end surface; and a reflective layer on the first main surface positioned to overlap with the light source when viewed from above. The light-transmitting substrate includes a light-diffusing scattering portion, and displays a pattern corresponding to the light-diffusing scattering portion when viewed from above.

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device. [[Background Art]]

[0002] Conventionally, display devices that display patterns such as characters using a translucent light-guiding base material are known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a device having a light guide, wherein a light diffusion reflection portion having the same shape as a pattern such as a design to be displayed is formed on the back surface of the light guide. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0003] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2005-258077 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0004] However, in the device described in Patent Document 1, light is guided by entering the inside of the translucent light-guiding base material through the end face thereof from a light source disposed opposite to the end face of the translucent light-guiding base material such as the light guide. Therefore, in order to allow light from the light source to efficiently enter the inside of the translucent light-guiding base material and improve the light use efficiency of the display device, in the thickness direction of the translucent light-guiding base material, the end face is required to have a length equal to or greater than the light emitting surface of the light source. Since the end face is long in the thickness direction of the translucent light-guiding base material, the translucent light-guiding base material becomes thick, which may increase the size of the display device.

[0005] An object of an embodiment according to the present disclosure is to provide a display device that has high light use efficiency and can be reduced in size. [[Means for Solving the Problem]]

[0006] A display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a light-transmitting light guide substrate having a first main surface, an end surface intersecting the first main surface, and a second main surface located on the opposite side of the first main surface; a light source having an emitting surface and positioned opposite to at least one of the second main surface and the end surface; and a reflective layer positioned on the first main surface in a region that overlaps with the light source in a top view, wherein the light-transmitting light guide substrate includes a light-diffusing scattering portion and displays a pattern corresponding to the light-diffusing scattering portion in a top view. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the embodiments described herein, it is possible to provide a display device that has high light utilization efficiency and can be miniaturized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic top view showing the overall configuration of the display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic cross-sectional view along line II-II in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the area around the light source of a comparative example display device. [Figure 4A] This is a schematic top view showing a first example of a pattern displayed by the display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4B] This figure shows the pattern according to the first example in Figure 4A superimposed with the display pattern from the liquid crystal panel located behind the display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows a second example of a pattern displayed by the display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the area around the light source of the display device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a schematic top view showing the overall configuration of the display device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the overall configuration of the display device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the area around the convex portion forming layer of the display device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 10A] This figure shows a first example of a pattern displayed by the display device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 10B] This figure shows a second example of a pattern displayed by the display device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 10C] This figure shows a third example of a pattern displayed by the display device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of how an object behind the display device according to the fourth embodiment appears to be visible through the material. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments shown below are illustrative examples of embodiments for realizing the technical concept of this disclosure and are not limited to those shown below. Since each drawing schematically shows an embodiment of this disclosure, the scale, spacing, or positional relationship of each component may be exaggerated, or some components may be omitted from the illustration. In addition, as a cross-sectional view, an end view showing only the cut surface may be used.

[0010] In the following description, components having substantially the same function are indicated by common reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted where appropriate. Furthermore, terms indicating specific directions or positions, such as "up," "down," and other terms containing these terms, may be used. However, these terms are used merely for clarity to indicate the relative directions or positions in the referenced drawings. If the relative directional or positional relationships expressed by terms such as "up" and "down" in the referenced drawings are the same, the arrangement in drawings other than those disclosed, actual products, etc., does not necessarily have to be identical to those in the referenced drawings.

[0011] In this specification, the positional relationship described as "above" includes both cases where the objects are in contact and cases where they are not in contact but are located above. The positional relationship described as "below" includes both cases where the objects are in contact and cases where they are not in contact but are located below. Furthermore, "to place" is not limited to cases where the objects are in direct contact, but also includes cases where they are placed indirectly, for example, via other members.

[0012] In each drawing, orthogonal coordinates including an X-axis, a Y-axis and a Z-axis are used for direction expression. The X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. In the X direction, the direction the arrow points to is denoted as the +X side, and the direction opposite to the +X side is denoted as the -X side. In the Y direction, the direction the arrow points to is denoted as the +Y side, and the direction opposite to the +Y side is denoted as the -Y side. In the Z direction, the direction the arrow points to is denoted as the +Z side, and the direction opposite to the +Z side is denoted as the -Z side. In the present specification, as an example, the +Z side corresponds to "up" and the -Z side corresponds to "down". Furthermore, as an example, the normal direction of the first main surface of the light-transmissive light guide substrate included in the display device according to the embodiment corresponds to the Z direction. Note that in the present specification, the thickness direction of the light-transmissive light guide substrate included in the display device according to the embodiment may also be referred to as the Z direction.

[0013] [First Embodiment] <Configuration of Display Device According to First Embodiment> The configuration of the display device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG. 1 is a schematic top view showing the overall configuration of the display device 10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the periphery of a light source 2 of a display device 10X according to a comparative example.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the display device 10 includes a light-transmissive light guide base material 1, a light source 2, and a reflective layer 3. The light-transmissive light guide base material 1 includes a first main surface 11, an end surface 12 intersecting the first main surface 11, and a second main surface 13 located on the opposite side of the first main surface 11. The light-transmissive light guide base material 1 further includes a light diffusion and scattering portion 14. The light source 2 includes a light-emitting surface 20. The light source 2 is disposed to face at least one of the second main surface 13 and the end surface 12. The reflective layer 3 is disposed on the first main surface 11 at a position overlapping the light source 2 in top view.

[0015] In the example shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the display device 10 further includes a wiring substrate 4 on which a light source 2 is mounted. The light source 2 is disposed opposite to the second main surface 13 and is not disposed opposite to the end surface 12. The reflective layer 3 is disposed opposite the light source 2 arranged near the -X-side end surface 12 of the light-transmitting light guide base material 1 via the light-transmitting light guide base material 1.

[0016] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the light L emitted from the light source 2 passes through a portion of the second main surface 13 facing the light source 2 and enters the light-transmitting light guide base material 1. At least part of the light L incident on the light-transmitting light guide base material 1 is reflected by the reflective layer 3, and is guided toward the +X side inside the light-transmitting light guide base material 1 while repeating total reflection on each of the first main surface 11 and the second main surface 13. When the light L guided inside the light-transmitting light guide base material 1 reaches the light diffusion scattering portion 14 provided on the light-transmitting light guide base material 1, a part thereof is diffused or scattered by the light diffusion scattering portion 14. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the light diffusion scattering portion 14 is provided on the second main surface 13 of the light-transmitting light guide base material 1. The light diffusion scattering portion 14 is configured to include a plurality of convex portions having light diffusibility or light scattering property.

[0017] The light L diffused or scattered by the light diffusion scattering portion 14 is extracted to the +Z side from the first main surface 11 of the light-transmitting light guide base material 1 as diffused scattered light LS. In FIG. 2, a part of the light L emitted from the light source 2 and guided inside the light-transmitting light guide base material 1 is represented by solid-line arrows. Further, the diffused scattered light LS extracted from the light-transmitting light guide base material 1 is represented by broken-line arrows.

[0018] The light-diffusing scattering section 14 is provided in a position or region corresponding to the pattern P on the translucent light-guiding substrate 1 when viewed from above. In the example shown in Figure 1, the pattern P is a pattern with a rectangular outer edge shape when viewed from above. The light-diffusing scattering section 14 is provided in a region with a rectangular outer edge shape corresponding to the pattern P when viewed from above. In Figure 1, for clarity, the rectangular region on the translucent light-guiding substrate 1 where the light-diffusing scattering section 14 is provided is shown with dot hatching, and the reflective layer 3 is shown with diagonal hatching. In addition, to indicate that the pattern P corresponds to the pattern of the light-diffusing scattering section 14, the symbols for the light-diffusing scattering section 14 and the pattern P are shown together. In subsequent figures, symbols may also be shown together for the same purpose.

[0019] The display device 10 illuminates the light source 2 to display a pattern P in a top view corresponding to the light diffusion scattering section 14 provided on the translucent light guide substrate 1. In a top view, the pattern P appears to glow to the observer due to the diffuse scattered light LS extracted from the translucent light guide substrate 1 by the light diffusion scattering section 14. In the example shown in Figure 1, the display device 10 illuminates the light source 2 to display a pattern P having a rectangular outer edge shape in a top view. However, the pattern P can be changed as appropriate according to the content to be displayed by the display device 10. The display device 10 can display a pattern P that includes characters, symbols, figures, images, or combinations thereof.

[0020] To the observer, the -Z side of the translucent light guide substrate 1 is visible when viewed from above. When the light source 2 is not emitting light, the display device 10 does not display pattern P, and to the observer, the entire -Z side of the translucent light guide substrate 1 is visible when viewed from above. When the light source 2 is emitting light, the display device 10 shows the -Z side of the translucent light guide substrate 1 as visible in areas other than the area where pattern P is displayed. However, when the light source 2 is emitting light, the pattern P may appear luminous to the observer, and the -Z side of the area where pattern P is displayed on the translucent light guide substrate 1 may be visible when viewed from above.

[0021] Here, Figure 3 shows an excerpt of the area around the light source 2 in the comparative example display device 10X. Also, in Figure 3, for the sake of clarity, components of the display device 10X that have the same function as components of the display device 10 according to the first embodiment are conveniently denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0022] As shown in Figure 3, in the comparative example display device 10X, the light source 2 is positioned so that its light-emitting surface 20 faces the end face 12 of the translucent light guide substrate 1. The light LX emitted from the light source 2 passes through the end face 12 and enters the translucent light guide substrate 1, and is guided through the interior of the translucent light guide substrate 1.

[0023] In the Z-direction corresponding to the first principal surface normal direction 11N of the first principal surface 11, if the length of the light-emitting surface 20 of the light source 2 is longer than the length of the end face 12, the light LX from the light source 2 emitted from the region of the light-emitting surface 20 that does not face the end face 12 cannot enter the interior of the translucent light guide substrate 1 and becomes light loss. As a result, light that does not contribute to the display by the display device 10X is generated, which may reduce the light utilization efficiency of the display device 10X. On the other hand, if the length of the end face 12 in the Z-direction is made equal to or greater than the length of the light-emitting surface 20 of the light source 2 in order to increase the light utilization efficiency of the display device 10X, the translucent light guide substrate 1 becomes thicker due to the longer end face 12 in the Z-direction. As a result, the display device 10X may become larger.

[0024] The display device 10 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure includes a light source 2 positioned opposite the second main surface 13, and a reflective layer 3 positioned on the first main surface 11 at a location that overlaps with the light source 2 when viewed from above. By positioning the light source 2 opposite the second main surface 13, the size of the end face 12 does not need to be equal to or greater than the size of the light-emitting surface 20 of the light source 2 in the Z direction. As a result, the end face 12 can be made shorter than the light-emitting surface 20 in the Z direction, which makes it possible to thin the translucent light guide substrate 1 and to make the display device 10 thinner. In other words, it becomes easier to miniaturize the display device 10 in the Z direction. By positioning the reflective layer 3 on the first main surface 11 at a location that overlaps with the light source 2 when viewed from above, the light L emitted from the light source 2 that has been transmitted through the translucent light guide substrate 1 to the +Z side can be reflected by the reflective layer 3 and guided into the interior of the translucent light guide substrate 1. This reduces the amount of light L from the light source 2 that passes through the translucent light guide substrate 1, thereby reducing light loss and increasing the light utilization efficiency of the display device 10. As a result, the first embodiment of this disclosure provides a display device 10 that is highly efficient in light utilization and can be miniaturized.

[0025] For example, when the display device 10 is installed in a car, if the display device 10 is large, the types of cars in which the display device 10 can be installed may be limited to large vehicles, etc. In the first embodiment, by miniaturizing the display device 10, it becomes possible to install the display device 10 in a variety of car types, from small cars to large cars, thereby expanding the range of car types in which the display device 10 can be installed.

[0026] In the display device 10, the -Z side of the translucent light guide substrate 1 is visible when viewed from above. This allows the pattern P displayed by the display device 10 to be superimposed on a design or component placed on the -Z side of the translucent light guide substrate 1, or the pattern P to be displayed in a state where the -Z side of the translucent light guide substrate 1 is visible to the observer. By superimposing the pattern P on a design or component placed on the -Z side of the translucent light guide substrate 1, the pattern P can be displayed without impairing the design or component. Furthermore, a see-through type display device 10 can be realized, improving the design of the display device 10.

[0027] The display device 10 can illuminate the light source 2 to display pattern P when necessary, and hide pattern P by not illuminating the light source 2 when it is not necessary. For example, pattern P indicating the location of an operation button can be displayed only when operation of the operation button is required, and not displayed when it is not necessary. This can reduce the psychological burden on the operator caused by the operation button being displayed at all times.

[0028] The following describes in detail each component of the display device 10.

[0029] (Transparent light guiding base material 1) The material of the translucent light guide substrate 1 can be glass or resin, etc. For the resin, acrylic resin, etc. Preferably, the translucency of the translucent light guide substrate 1 is, for example, 60% or more in terms of transmittance to visible light. The thickness of the translucent light guide substrate 1 can be, for example, about 0.3 mm. Preferably, the translucent light guide substrate 1 is flexible. The flexibility of the translucent light guide substrate 1 allows the display device 10 to be positioned along the shape of various members, not limited to planar shapes, but also curved shapes and other shapes.

[0030] The light-diffusing and scattering portion 14 is not limited to the second main surface 13 of the translucent light-guiding substrate 1, but may be provided on at least one of the first main surface 11 and the second main surface 13 of the translucent light-guiding substrate 1. The light-diffusing and scattering portion 14 may include not only a plurality of protrusions, but also a plurality of recesses, or a combination of a plurality of recesses and a plurality of protrusions, as long as it has light-diffusing or light-scattering properties. Furthermore, the light-diffusing and scattering portion 14 is not limited to the shape of a plurality of protrusions provided on at least one of the first main surface 11 and the second main surface 13, but may also include a plurality of particles or a plurality of voids having light-diffusing or light-scattering properties provided inside the translucent light-guiding substrate 1. The light-diffusing and scattering portion 14 may also be a combination of the shape of a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of particles or a plurality of voids.

[0031] As a method for forming the light-diffusing scattering portion 14 on the translucent light-guiding substrate 1, if the light-diffusing scattering portion 14 has a shape such as multiple protrusions, methods such as printing multiple patterns such as dots, laser processing, cutting, embossing, molding, pressing, and blasting can be used. If the light-diffusing scattering portion 14 consists of multiple particles, methods such as molding a resin containing multiple particles can be used. If the light-diffusing scattering portion 14 consists of multiple voids, methods such as molding a resin containing multiple bubbles can be used.

[0032] (Light source 2) Light source 2 can be one having an light-emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). However, it is not limited to LEDs; LD (Laser Siode), organic EL (organic electro-luminescence), etc., may also be used as light source 2. Furthermore, the number of light sources 2 is not limited to one. For example, multiple light sources 2 may be arranged in the Y direction in which the end face 12 of the translucent light-guiding substrate 1 extends.

[0033] (Reflection layer 3) The reflective layer 3 can be a metal film, metal component, dielectric film, dielectric component, etc., that have high reflectivity to light emitted from the light source 2. Examples of metals with high reflectivity to light emitted from the light source 2 include aluminum. The metal film may be a multilayer metal film in which multiple types of metal films are laminated. The dielectric film may be a multilayer dielectric film in which multiple types of dielectric films are laminated.

[0034] For example, the reflective layer 3 can be positioned on the first main surface 11 of the translucent light-guiding substrate 1 at a location that overlaps with the light source 2 when viewed from above, by a method such as vapor deposition. Alternatively, a component that will become the reflective layer 3, formed by coating a substrate such as glass or resin with a metal film or dielectric film, may be positioned on the first main surface 11 of the translucent light-guiding substrate 1 at a location that overlaps with the light source 2 when viewed from above.

[0035] (Wiring board 4) It is preferable to use an insulating material as the base material for the wiring board 4, and it is also preferable to use a material that has a certain level of strength. Furthermore, it is preferable to use a material for the wiring board 4 that does not easily transmit light emitted from the light source 2 or ambient light. Specifically, the wiring board 4 can be constructed using resins such as phenolic resin, epoxy resin, polyimide resin, BT resin, polyphthalamide, and polyester resin as the base material.

[0036] <Example of display by display device 10> The display device 10 is, for example, placed on the surface of a material that does not emit light, and can display characters, numbers, symbols, figures, images, or combinations thereof on the surface of the material. An example of display by the display device 10 will be explained with reference to Figures 4A, 4B, and 5.

[0037] (Example 1) Figure 4A is a schematic top view showing a first example of a pattern P displayed by the display device 10. Figure 4B shows the pattern P related to the first example in Figure 4A superimposed with the display pattern from the liquid crystal panel located behind the display device 10.

[0038] The first example shown in Figures 4A and 4B involves overlaying a pattern P indicating the temperature display area onto a liquid crystal panel for temperature display located on the instrument panel of an automobile. As shown in Figure 4A, pattern P includes a circle indicating the temperature display area and the letters "Temp." indicating that the area indicated by the circle is the temperature display area.

[0039] In the example shown in Figure 4B, the instrument panel A is provided with a liquid crystal panel B and a temperature adjustment dial C. The liquid crystal panel B includes a number B1 indicating the current set temperature, a ring-shaped figure B2 representing high or low temperatures, and an icon B3 indicating the direction and volume of airflow from the fan. In the example shown in Figure 4B, the display device 10 is placed on top of the liquid crystal panel B, and the area where the set temperature is displayed is indicated by a pattern P. For example, by placing the display device 10 on top of the liquid crystal panel B, it is possible to display a pattern P including characters, numbers, figures, etc., in an area exceeding the area of ​​the liquid crystal panel.

[0040] (Example 2) Figure 5 shows a second example of the pattern P displayed by the display device 10. In the second example shown in Figure 5, the display device 10 is placed on the surface of an aluminum plate D, and a pattern P including letters, numbers, and line figures is displayed on the surface of the aluminum plate D. In addition, the surface of the aluminum plate D, which is placed behind the display device 10, is visible through the display device 10.

[0041] As shown in Figure 5, by placing the display device 10 on the surface of the aluminum plate D, a pattern P can be displayed on the surface of the aluminum plate D, which is a material that cannot emit light. Furthermore, by displaying the pattern P superimposed on a design or component placed on the -Z side of the translucent light guide substrate 1, the design of the component placed behind the translucent light guide substrate 1 can be maintained while displaying the pattern P.

[0042] [Second Embodiment] Next, with reference to Figure 6, a display device according to the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described. Note that names and reference numerals identical to those used in the embodiments already described indicate the same or identical components or configurations, and detailed explanations will be omitted as appropriate. This also applies to the embodiments described hereafter.

[0043] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the area around the light source 2 of the display device 10a according to the second embodiment. Figure 6 shows an extracted section of the area around the light source 2 in one cross-section of the display device 10a corresponding to line II-II in Figure 1.

[0044] The display device 10a according to the second embodiment differs from the display device 10 according to the first embodiment in that the light source 2 is arranged opposite the second main surface 13 and the end surface 12, respectively.

[0045] The light source 2 can be located below the first main surface 11, for example, on the -Z side. In the example shown in Figure 6, the upper end 2T of the light source 2 is located slightly to the -Z side of the first main surface 11 in the Z direction. By having the upper end 2T located below the first main surface 11, the light source 2 is located below the first main surface 11. By having the light source 2 located below the first main surface 11, the display device 10a can be made thinner and smaller in the Z direction.

[0046] In the example shown in Figure 6, the light source 2 does not overlap with the translucent light guide substrate 1 when viewed from above, and is positioned opposite the end face 12 and the reflective layer 3, respectively. Furthermore, the normal 20N of the light-emitting surface 20 is inclined so that it approaches the end face 12 as it goes upwards. In this specification, "opposing" includes not only cases where the surfaces of two objects face each other in a parallel state, but also cases where parts of two objects face each other when the surfaces of the two objects are inclined.

[0047] Since the light source 2 does not overlap with the translucent light guide substrate 1 when viewed from above, and is positioned opposite the end face 12 and the reflective layer 3, the light L emitted from the light-emitting surface 20 is more likely to enter the interior of the translucent light guide substrate 1 through the end face 12 compared to the case where the normal vector 20N is parallel to the end face 12. Furthermore, the light L emitted from the light-emitting surface 20 and reflected by the reflective layer 3 is more likely to enter the interior of the translucent light guide substrate 1 through the end face 12. Because the light L emitted from the light-emitting surface 20 is more likely to enter the interior of the translucent light guide substrate 1, the light utilization efficiency of the display device 10a can be increased. In addition, the light utilization efficiency of the display device 10a can be increased while making the display device 10a smaller in the Z direction.

[0048] Other effects of the display device 10a are the same as those of the display device 10 described in the first embodiment, so redundant explanations are omitted.

[0049] [Third Embodiment] Next, a display device according to the third embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a schematic top view showing the overall configuration of the display device 10b according to the third embodiment.

[0050] The display device 10b according to the third embodiment of this disclosure has one or more light sources 2 aligned in the Y direction on which the end face 12 extends, and the translucent light guide substrate 1 includes one or more notches 15 aligned in the Y direction on which the end face 12 extends. The one or more light sources 2 overlap in correspondence with the one or more notches 15 when viewed from above. This differs from the display device 10 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0051] In the example shown in Figure 7, the display device 10b has one light source 2. The translucent light guide substrate 1 includes one notch 15. In a top view, one light source 2 overlaps with one notch 15. However, the display device 10b may have multiple light sources 2 and multiple notches 15, and in a top view, multiple light sources 2 and multiple notches 15 may overlap in corresponding directions.

[0052] In the example shown in Figure 7, the notch 15 is a recess that is concave from the end face 12 towards the +X side when viewed from above. The notch 15 has a rectangular shape when viewed from above. However, the notch 15 may have a hemispherical shape or the like when viewed from above, concave from the end face 12 towards the +X side.

[0053] In the third embodiment of this disclosure, one or more light sources 2 aligned in the Y direction from which the end face 12 extends overlap in a top view corresponding to one or more notches 15 aligned in the Y direction from which the end face 12 extends. This shortens the length of the translucent light guide substrate 1 in the X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, and miniaturizes the display device 10b in the X direction. Furthermore, the display device 10b can be made thinner in the Z direction, and the reflective layer 3 can be held in the portion of the translucent light guide substrate 1 other than the notches 15.

[0054] Other effects of the display device 10b are the same as those of the display device 10 described in the first embodiment, so redundant explanations are omitted.

[0055] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, a display device according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0056] <Configuration of the display device according to the fourth embodiment> The configuration of the display device according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the overall configuration of the display device 10c according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the area around the convex portion forming layer 6-2 of the display device 10c. Figure 8 shows a cross-section of the display device 10c corresponding to line II-II in Figure 1. Figure 9 shows an excerpt of the area around the convex portion forming layer 6-2 in a cross-section of the display device 10c shown in Figure 8.

[0057] (Overall structure) As shown in Figure 8, the display device 10c has translucent light guide substrates 1-1, 1-2, and 1-3 arranged at different positions in the Z direction. The display device 10c also has light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3, which are arranged at different positions in the Z direction corresponding to translucent light guide substrates 1-1, 1-2, and 1-3. Furthermore, the display device 10c has reflective layers 3-1, 3-2, and 3-3, which are arranged at different positions in the Z direction corresponding to translucent light guide substrates 1-1, 1-2, and 1-3. The display device 10c displays patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3 in a top view, corresponding to the light diffusion scattering sections 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3, which are provided in correspondence with the light-transmitting light guide substrates 1-1, 14-2, and 14-3, respectively. The display device 10c according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure differs from the display device 10a according to the second embodiment of this disclosure in the above respects.

[0058] In the example shown in Figure 8, the display device 10c has light-shielding layers 5-1, 5-2, and 5-3, which are arranged correspondingly on the reflective layers 3-1, 3-2, and 3-3, respectively. The display device 10c also has holding members 8-1, 8-2, and 8-3 that hold the light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3, respectively. Furthermore, the display device 10c has a convex-forming layer 6-2 and a convex-forming layer 6-3.

[0059] The translucent light-guiding substrate 1-1 includes a light-diffusing scattering portion 14-1. The translucent light-guiding substrate 1-2 includes a light-diffusing scattering portion 14-2. The translucent light-guiding substrate 1-3 includes a light-diffusing scattering portion 14-3.

[0060] The holding member 8-1 holds the light source 2-1 via the wiring board 4-1. The holding member 8-2 holds the light source 2-2 via the wiring board 4-2. The holding member 8-3 holds the light source 2-3 via the wiring board 4-3.

[0061] The convex-forming layers 6-2 and 6-3 are arranged correspondingly between adjacent translucent light guide substrates 1-1 and 1-2, and between translucent light guide substrates 1-2 and 1-3, respectively, in the Z direction. Multiple convex portions 63 are provided on the upper and lower surfaces of the convex-forming layers 6-2 and 6-3, respectively, aligned in the X and Y directions.

[0062] Light L-1 emitted from light source 2-1 is guided to the +X side inside the translucent light guide substrate 1-1 and diffused or scattered by the light diffusion scattering section 14-1. The diffusely scattered light LS-1 from the light diffusion scattering section 14-1 is extracted from the translucent light guide substrate 1-1 to the +Z side. Light L-2 emitted from light source 2-2 is guided to the +X side inside the translucent light guide substrate 1-2 and diffused or scattered by the light diffusion scattering section 14-2. The diffusely scattered light LS-2 from the light diffusion scattering section 14-2 is extracted from the translucent light guide substrate 1-2 to the +Z side. Light L-3 emitted from light source 2-3 is guided to the +X side inside the translucent light guide substrate 1-3 and diffused or scattered by the light diffusion scattering section 14-3. The diffusely scattered light LS-3 from the light diffusion scattering section 14-3 is extracted from the translucent light guide substrate 1-3 to the +Z side.

[0063] The display device 10c can display pattern P-1 corresponding to the light diffusion scattering unit 14-1 and hide patterns P-2 and P-3 corresponding to the light diffusion scattering units 14-2 and 14-3 by emitting light from light source 2-1 and not emitting light from light sources 2-2 and 2-3. Furthermore, the display device 10c can display pattern P-2 corresponding to the light diffusion scattering unit 14-2 and hide patterns P-1 and P-3 corresponding to the light diffusion scattering units 14-1 and 14-3 by emitting light from light source 2-2 and not emitting light from light sources 2-1 and 2-3. In addition, the display device 10c can display pattern P-3 corresponding to the light diffusion scattering unit 14-3 and hide patterns P-1 and P-2 corresponding to the light diffusion scattering units 14-1 and 14-2 by emitting light from light source 2-3 and not emitting light from light sources 2-1 and 2-2.

[0064] The display device 10c can select a light source to emit light from among light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3, thereby selecting a pattern to display from among patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3. The display device 10c can select and display patterns with different content, or display patterns in different positions, by making the content or position of patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3 different from each other. At least two of the display positions of patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3 in a top view may overlap at least partially. The content of at least two of patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3 may be the same.

[0065] In the example shown in Figure 8, light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3 do not overlap when viewed from above. When viewed from above, the translucent light guide substrates 1-1, 1-2, and 1-3 overlap in the region +X side of the end face 12-3 of translucent light guide substrate 1-3. When viewed from above, reflective layers 3-1 and 3-2 partially overlap, and reflective layers 3-2 and 3-3 partially overlap. Reflective layers 3-1 and 3-3 do not overlap when viewed from above.

[0066] Because light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3 do not overlap when viewed from above, parts of light sources 2-1 and 2-2 overlap, and parts of light sources 2-2 and 2-3 overlap in the Z direction. This shortens the length of the display device 10c in the Z direction. In other words, the display device 10c becomes thinner. Note that "mutually different positions in the Z direction" also includes states in which parts of objects overlap in the Z direction. For example, "mutually different positions in the Z direction" includes states in which parts of light sources 2-1 and 2-2 overlap, and parts of light sources 2-2 and 2-3 overlap.

[0067] In the display device 10c, for example, the thickness of each of the translucent light guide substrates 1-1, 1-2, and 1-3 can be 0.30 mm. When using three translucent light guide substrates 1, the total length of the translucent light guide substrates 1 in the Z direction is 0.90 mm. The thickness of the convex-forming layers 6-2 and 6-3 can be 0.15 mm. When using four convex-forming layers, the total length of the convex-forming layers in the Z direction is 0.60 mm. Furthermore, by overlapping parts of light sources 2-1 and 2-2, and parts of light sources 2-2 and 2-3 in the Z direction, the total length of the light sources in the Z direction can be made 1.5 mm. As a result, the length of the display device 10c in the Z direction can be made approximately 3 mm.

[0068] If the distance from the translucent light guide substrate 1-1 to the translucent light guide substrate 1-3 in the Z direction is long, the difference in the display positions of patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3 in the Z direction will be large, which may cause discomfort to the observer of the patterns. In the display device 10c, the distance from the translucent light guide substrate 1-1 to the translucent light guide substrate 1-3 can be shortened by making the display device 10c thinner. This reduces the difference in the display positions of patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3 in the Z direction, thereby reducing discomfort to the observer of the patterns.

[0069] In the display device 10c, when viewed from above, the translucent light guide substrates 1-1, 1-2, and 1-3 overlap each other, thereby reducing the area of ​​the display device 10c when viewed from above and enabling miniaturization of the display device 10c. Furthermore, when viewed from above, the overlapping of parts of the reflective layers 3-1, 3-2, and 3-3 also reduces the area of ​​the display device 10c when viewed from above and enables miniaturization of the display device 10c.

[0070] The display device 10c can display patterns P corresponding to the colors of light emitted by the light sources by making the colors of light emitted from at least two of the light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3 different. In the example shown in Figure 8, light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3 emit light of different colors. Specifically, light source 2-1 emits white light. Light source 2-2 emits green light. Light source 2-3 emits yellow light. Pattern P-1 is a white pattern corresponding to the white light emitted by light source 2-1. Pattern P-2 is a green pattern corresponding to the green light emitted by light source 2-2. Pattern P-3 is a yellow pattern corresponding to the yellow light emitted by light source 2-3. In this way, the display device 10c can display patterns of different colors by selecting which light sources to emit light from among light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3.

[0071] "Different light colors" means that the colors of the light are different to the extent that an observer can perceive them as different. Therefore, even if the peak wavelengths of the two lights in question are different, if the peak wavelengths of the two lights are similar and an observer can perceive them as the same, then the lights can be said to be "the same color" and not "different color." Note that at least two of the colors in patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3 may be the same.

[0072] (Light-shielding layer 5-1, light-shielding layer 5-2, and light-shielding layer 5-3) Since light-shielding layers 5-1, 5-2, and 5-3 can all have the same configuration, light-shielding layer 5-2 will be described as a representative example.

[0073] The light-shielding layer 5-2 is a layer that shields light emitted from the light source 2-2 that is not reflected by the reflective layer 3-2 and passes through the reflective layer 3-2. By having the light-shielding layer 5-2, the display device 10c can reduce the amount of leaked light that passes through the reflective layer 3-2 without being reflected by the reflective layer 3-2 and incidents on the translucent light guide substrate 1-1 or the translucent light guide substrate 1-3. As a result, the display device 10c can reduce the patterns of noise caused by leaked light.

[0074] The light-shielding layer 5-2 has light-absorbing properties with respect to light emitted from the light source 2-2. Light absorption means that the reflectance of the light emitted from the light source 2-2 is less than 1%. The light-shielding layer 5-2 is preferably dark in color, and more preferably black. The light-shielding layer 5-2 can be made of a resin substrate with a black coating on its surface, or a metal substrate with a black coating on its surface. Furthermore, the light-shielding layer 5-2 may contain light-absorbing materials such as carbon black. In addition, the light-shielding layer 5-2 is not limited to having light-absorbing properties; it may also have light-reflecting properties. The light-shielding layer 5-1 may have light-absorbing properties with respect to light emitted from the light source 2-1. The light-shielding layer 5-3 may have light-absorbing properties with respect to light emitted from the light source 2-3.

[0075] (Convex-forming layer 6-2 and convex-forming layer 6-3) Since the convex-forming layer 6-2 and the convex-forming layer 6-3 can have the same configuration, the convex-forming layer 6-2 will be described as a representative example.

[0076] As shown in Figure 9, the convex-forming layer 6-2 is a layer for forming an air layer 7 between adjacent translucent light guide substrates 1 in the Z direction among a plurality of translucent light guide substrates 1. Multiple convex portions 63 are provided on the upper surface 61 and lower surface 62 of the convex-forming layer 6-2, respectively, arranged in a matrix in the X and Y directions. In the example shown in Figure 9, the convex portions 63 have a spherical shape. In the Z direction, the length of the convex portions 63 relative to the upper surface 61 and the length of the convex portions 63 relative to the lower surface 62 are 10 μm or more, respectively.

[0077] For example, if adjacent translucent light guide substrates come into contact in the Z direction, the light guided through the substrate at the point of contact may not undergo total internal reflection and may leak out of the substrate, becoming incident on the adjacent translucent light guide substrate in the Z direction. The light incident on the adjacent translucent light guide substrate in the Z direction may be diffused or scattered by the light diffusion scattering portion of that substrate, potentially causing an unintended pattern to be displayed on the display device. Furthermore, even if a gap is provided between adjacent translucent light guide substrates in the Z direction, if the display device is bent, for example, by being placed on a curved surface, the distance between adjacent translucent light guide substrates in the Z direction will fluctuate. This fluctuation may cause the translucent light guide substrates to come into contact with each other, potentially resulting in an unintended pattern being displayed on the display device.

[0078] The display device 10c has a protrusion-forming layer 6-2, which allows adjacent translucent light guide substrates 1-1 and 1-2 in the Z direction to come into contact only at the protrusions 63 of the protrusion-forming layer 6-2. This significantly reduces the contact area between the translucent light guide substrates 1-1 and 1-2 compared to the case without the protrusion-forming layer 6-2. An air layer 7 exists in the region where the translucent light guide substrates 1-1 and 1-2 are not in contact. Therefore, for example, light L-1 guided inside the translucent light guide substrate 1-2 undergoes total internal reflection and does not leak out of the translucent light guide substrate 1-2. By reducing the contact area between the translucent light guide substrates 1-1 and 1-2, for example, the incidence of light L-2 guided inside the translucent light guide substrate 1-2 onto an adjacent translucent light guide substrate 1 in the Z direction can be reduced. As a result, the display of unintended patterns on the display device 10c can be reduced. Furthermore, even when the display device 10c is placed on a curved member, the presence of multiple protrusions 63 reduces the variation in the spacing between adjacent translucent light guide substrates 1 in the Z direction. As a result, the display of unintended patterns on the display device 10c can be reduced.

[0079] Because the convex portion 63 has a spherical shape, only the vicinity of the apex of the convex portion 63 contacts the adjacent translucent light guide substrate 1 in the Z direction. This allows for a suitable reduction in the contact area with adjacent translucent light guide substrates 1. Furthermore, because the shape of the convex portion 63 changes gradually due to its spherical shape, adjacent translucent light guide substrates 1 can be stably positioned on the translucent light guide substrate 1. However, the convex portion 63 is not limited to a spherical shape; it may also be conical, pyramidal, rectangular, or the like.

[0080] By setting the length of the protrusion 63 relative to the upper surface 61 and the length of the protrusion 63 relative to the lower surface 62 to 10 μm or more, contact between adjacent translucent light guide substrates 1 in the Z direction can be suitably reduced. In addition, interference fringes generated by multiple reflections between adjacent translucent light guide substrates 1 in the Z direction can be easily reduced. However, the length of the protrusion 63 relative to the upper surface 61 and the length of the protrusion 63 relative to the lower surface 62 are not limited to 10 μm or more, and may be less than 10 μm. Furthermore, the length of the protrusion 63 relative to the upper surface 61 and the length of the protrusion 63 relative to the lower surface 62 may be different.

[0081] The thickness of the protrusion-forming layer 6-2 can be about 0.15 mm. When viewed from above, if the outer edge shape of the protrusion 63 is circular, the diameter of the protrusion 63 can be about 0.1 mm. When viewed from above, the pitch between adjacent protrusions 63 in the X and Y directions can be about 1 mm. However, the multiple protrusions 63 do not necessarily have to be aligned and may be arranged at an uneven pitch. When viewed from above, the multiple protrusions 63 may be arranged not only in a matrix but also in a triangular lattice or honeycomb lattice, etc.

[0082] The protrusion-forming layer 6-2 is translucent. Preferably, the translucency of the protrusion-forming layer 6-2 is such that, for example, the transmittance to visible light is 60% or more. The protrusion-forming layer 6-2 can be composed of a resin or the like. From the viewpoint of making the protrusion-forming layer 6-2 thin, it is preferable that the protrusion-forming layer 6-2 is a resin film. Methods for forming multiple protrusions 63 on the protrusion-forming layer 6-2 include embossing, molding, and imprinting.

[0083] The convex-forming layer 6-2 is preferably flexible. The flexibility of the convex-forming layer 6-2 allows the display device 10c to be positioned along the shape of a member, not limited to a planar shape, but also including various other shapes such as curved surfaces.

[0084] (Retaining member 8-1, retaining member 8-2, and retaining member 8-3) In the example shown in Figure 8, the holding members 8-1, 8-2, and 8-3 hold the corresponding light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3 such that their positions in the Z direction are different from each other. Furthermore, the holding members 8-1, 8-2, and 8-3 hold the corresponding light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3 such that they do not overlap each other when viewed from above. The holding members 8-1, 8-2, and 8-3 can be made of resin, metal, or the like. The shapes of the holding members 8-1, 8-2, and 8-3 can be appropriately changed according to the shape of the component on which the display device 10c is placed.

[0085] <Example of display using display device 10c> An example of display by the display device 10c will be described with reference to Figures 10A, 10B, 10C, and 11. Figure 10A is a diagram showing a first example of pattern P displayed by the display device 10c. Figure 10B is a diagram showing a second example of pattern P displayed by the display device 10c. Figure 10C is a diagram showing a third example of pattern P displayed by the display device 10c. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of how an object Q behind the display device 10c is visible through it.

[0086] Pattern P-1, shown in Figure 10A, is the pattern displayed when light source 2-1 of light source 2 is illuminated, and neither light sources 2-2 nor 2-3 are illuminated. Pattern P-2, shown in Figure 10B, is the pattern displayed when light source 2-2 of light source 2 is illuminated, and neither light sources 2-1 nor 2-3 are illuminated. Pattern P-3, shown in Figure 10C, is the pattern displayed when light source 2-3 of light source 2 is illuminated, and neither light sources 2-1 nor 2-2 are illuminated. In Figures 10A, 10B, and 10C, the symbols for patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3 are shown together with the symbol for pattern P to indicate that they are examples of pattern P.

[0087] The pattern P-1 shown in Figure 10A contains the numbers and letters "3.0N". Pattern P-1 is a white pattern. The pattern P-2 shown in Figure 10B contains the numbers and letters "1.5N" and is displayed on the +Y side of pattern P-1 when viewed from above. Pattern P-2 is a green pattern. The pattern P-3 shown in Figure 10C contains the numbers and letters "5.0N" and is displayed on the -Y side of pattern P-1 when viewed from above. Pattern P-3 is a yellow pattern. In this way, the display device 10c can display patterns of different colors, at different positions, with different content, and in different colors when viewed from above by selecting the light source 2 to emit light from among light sources 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3. Note that the colors of patterns P-1, P-2, and P-3 are not limited to white, green, or yellow, and can be changed as appropriate depending on the application of the display device 10c.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 11, when the display device 10c is displaying pattern P-3, the object Q located behind the display device 10c is visible through it. Thus, even when the display device 10c has multiple translucent light-guiding substrates 1, it is possible to display pattern P while allowing the object Q located behind the display device 10c to be visible through it.

[0089] Other effects of the display device 10c are the same as those described in the second embodiment, so redundant explanations are omitted.

[0090] Although preferred embodiments have been described in detail above, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and substitutions can be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0091] For example, the first embodiment of this disclosure shows an example in which the light source 2 faces only the second main surface 13 (see Figure 2), and the second embodiment of this disclosure shows an example in which the light source 2 faces only the second main surface 13 and the end surface 12 (Figure 6), but is not limited to these. For example, in the display device according to the embodiment of this disclosure, the light source 2 may be arranged to face only the end surface 12. In this case as well, light loss can be reduced, so a display device 10 with high light utilization efficiency and miniaturization can be provided. However, when the light source 2 faces only the end surface 12, in the Z direction, the length of the end surface 12 must be equal to or greater than the length of the light-emitting surface of the light source 2. Therefore, from the viewpoint of thinning the display device in the Z direction, it is preferable to use a light source 2 with a shorter light-emitting surface length in the Z direction.

[0092] In the four embodiments of this disclosure, examples have been given of multiple light-shielding layers 5 arranged correspondingly on multiple reflective layers 3, but the invention is not limited thereto. In the display device according to the embodiments of this disclosure, one light-shielding layer 5 may be arranged on one reflective layer 3. Specifically, one light-shielding layer 5 may be arranged on the reflective layer 3 shown in Figure 1, or one light-shielding layer 5 may be arranged on the reflective layer 3 shown in Figure 6. In this case as well, it is possible to reduce noise patterns that originate from light leaking upward from the reflective layer 3.

[0093] The ordinal numbers, quantities, and other figures used in the description of the embodiments are all illustrative to specifically illustrate the technology of this disclosure, and this disclosure is not limited to the illustrative figures. Furthermore, the connection relationships between the components are illustrative to specifically illustrate the technology of this disclosure, and are not limited to the connection relationships that realize the functions of this disclosure.

[0094] The display device of this disclosure has high light utilization efficiency and can be miniaturized, making it suitable for use as an in-vehicle display device, such as one placed on the dashboard, instrument panel, door panel, etc., inside an automobile to display the location of operation buttons or the location of information such as the vehicle's speed or temperature displayed on a liquid crystal panel. Because the display device is small, the dashboard, instrument panel, door panel, etc., on which the display device is placed can be made smaller or thinner, thereby increasing the interior space of the automobile. However, the display device of this disclosure is not limited to in-vehicle use and can be applied to a variety of other applications. Furthermore, the display device of this disclosure can also be combined with an operation panel to form a touch panel.

[0095] The aspects of this disclosure may include, for example, the following: <1> A display device comprising: a light-transmitting light-guide substrate including a first main surface, an end surface intersecting the first main surface, and a second main surface located on the opposite side of the first main surface; a light source including an emitting surface and positioned opposite to at least one of the second main surface and the end surface; and a reflective layer positioned on the first main surface in a region that overlaps with the light source when viewed from above, wherein the light-transmitting light-guide substrate includes a light-diffusing scattering portion, and displays a pattern corresponding to the light-diffusing scattering portion when viewed from above. <2> In a top view, the area beneath the translucent light-guiding substrate is visible, <1> This is the container described in [the document]. <3> The light source is located below the first main surface, <1> or the above <2> This is the container described in [the document]. <4> The light source is positioned so as not to overlap with the translucent light guide substrate when viewed from above, and is opposed to the end face and the reflective layer, respectively, and the normal of the light-emitting surface is inclined so as it goes upwards it approaches the end face, <1> From the above <3> It is a display device described in one of the following. <5> The end face has one or more light sources arranged in the direction in which it extends, and the light-transmitting light guide substrate includes one or more notches arranged in the direction in which the end face extends, and the one or more light sources overlap in a top view corresponding to one or more notches, <1> From the above <4> It is a display device described in one of the following. <6> The light-shielding layer is disposed on the reflective layer, <1> From the above <5> It is a display device described in one of the following. <7> The invention comprises a plurality of translucent light guide substrates arranged at mutually different positions in the direction normal to the first main surface of the first main surface, a plurality of light sources arranged at mutually different positions in the direction normal to the first main surface corresponding to the plurality of translucent light guide substrates, and a plurality of reflective layers arranged at mutually different positions in the direction normal to the first main surface corresponding to the plurality of translucent light guide substrates, wherein, in a top view, the invention displays the pattern corresponding to the light diffusion scattering portion provided corresponding to the plurality of translucent light guide substrates. <1> From the above <6> It is a display device described in one of the following. <8> The multiple light sources, when viewed from above, do not overlap with each other. <7> This is the container described in [the document]. <9> The colors of the light emitted from at least two of the multiple light sources are different from each other, and the pattern is displayed according to the color of the light emitted by the light sources. <7> or the above <8> This is the container described in [the document]. <10> Among the plurality of light-transmitting light-guide substrates, one or more convex-forming layers are arranged correspondingly between adjacent light-transmitting light-guide substrates in the direction normal to the first main surface, and each of the upper and lower surfaces has a plurality of convex portions arranged in a row. <7> From the above <9> It is a display device described in one of the following. <11> The aforementioned protrusion has a spherical shape, <10> This is the container described in [the document]. <12> In the direction normal to the first principal surface, the length of the protrusion relative to the upper surface of the protrusion-forming layer and the length of the protrusion relative to the lower surface of the protrusion-forming layer are each 10 μm or more. <10> or the above <11> This is the container described in [the document]. <13> The light-shielding layer is disposed on the reflective layer, <7> From the above <12> It is a display device described in one of the following. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1, 1-1, 1-2, 1-3 Translucent light guiding base material 2, 2-1, 2-1, 2-3 light source 2T top end 3, 3-1, 3-2, 3-3 reflective layer 4, 4-1, 4-2, 4-3 Wiring board 5, 5-1, 5-2, 5-3 Light shielding layer 6-2, 6-3 Convexity-forming layer 7. Air layer 8-1, 8-2, 8-3 Retaining members 10, 10a, 10b, 10c display device 11. First Main Surface 11N First principal surface normal direction 12, 12-3 End face 13. Second Main Surface 14 Light Diffusion Scattering 15 Notches 20 Light-emitting surface 20N normal 61 Top surface 62 Bottom surface 63 Convex part A Instrument Panel B LCD panel B1 numbers B2 Shapes B3 Icon C Dial D Aluminum Plate L, L-1, L-2, L-3 light LS, LS-1, LS-2, LS-3 Diffuse scattered light P, P-1, P-2, P-3 patterns Q Object

Claims

1. A light-transmitting light-guiding substrate comprising a first main surface, an end surface intersecting the first main surface, and a second main surface located on the opposite side of the first main surface, A light source including an emitting surface, which is positioned opposite to at least one of the second main surface and the end surface, The first main surface has a reflective layer positioned in a region that overlaps with the light source when viewed from above, The light-transmitting light-guiding substrate includes a light-diffusing scattering portion. A display device that, when viewed from above, displays a pattern corresponding to the light diffusion scattering portion.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed from above, the area beneath the translucent light-guiding substrate is visible.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the light source is located below the first main surface.

4. The light source is positioned so as not to overlap with the translucent light-guiding substrate when viewed from above, and is positioned opposite the end face and the reflective layer, respectively. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the normal of the light-emitting surface is inclined to approach the end face as it extends upward.

5. The end faces have one or more of the light sources arranged in the direction in which they extend, The light-transmitting light-guiding substrate includes one or more notches aligned in the direction in which the end face extends, The display device according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the light sources overlap in a top view corresponding to one or more of the notches.

6. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a light-shielding layer disposed on the reflective layer.

7. A plurality of light-transmitting light-guide substrates arranged at mutually different positions in the direction normal to the first main surface of the first main surface, A plurality of light sources are arranged at mutually different positions in the direction normal to the first principal surface, corresponding to a plurality of light-transmitting light-guiding substrates, The system comprises a plurality of reflective layers, each corresponding to a plurality of light-transmitting light-guiding substrates, and positioned at mutually different locations in the direction normal to the first main surface. The display device according to claim 1, which, when viewed from above, displays the pattern corresponding to the light diffusion scattering portion provided in accordance with a plurality of light-transmitting light-guiding substrates.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of light sources do not overlap with each other when viewed from above.

9. Of the multiple light sources, the colors of the light emitted from at least two of the light sources are different from each other. The display device according to claim 7, which displays the pattern corresponding to the color of light emitted by the light source.

10. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, among the plurality of light-transmitting light-guide substrates, one or more convex-forming layers are arranged correspondingly between adjacent light-transmitting light-guide substrates in the direction normal to the first main surface, and each of the upper and lower surfaces has a plurality of convex portions arranged in a row.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein the convex portion has a spherical shape.

12. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, in the direction normal to the first principal surface, the length of the protrusion relative to the upper surface of the protrusion-forming layer and the length of the protrusion relative to the lower surface of the protrusion-forming layer are each 10 μm or more.

13. The display device according to claim 7, further comprising a plurality of light-shielding layers arranged correspondingly on a plurality of reflective layers.

Images