Polarizing element housing and case

Abstract

To provide a polarizing element housing and case that can reduce the amount of work required during packaging and unpacking while suppressing damage to the polarizing element. [Solution] The polarizing element housing comprises a plurality of curved plate-shaped polarizing elements used in polarizing lenses, and a case for housing the plurality of polarizing elements. The case has a case body that supports at least one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements in an upright and spaced-apart arrangement, and a lid that can be opened and closed relative to the case body and covers the plurality of polarizing elements when closed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a polarizing element container and a case.

Background Art

[0002] A curved plate-shaped polarizing element having a resin layer laminated on a polarizing film exhibits excellent antiglare properties, and thus is incorporated into a polarizing lens, and the polarizing lens with the built-in polarizing element is used in antiglare products such as sunglasses and goggles.

[0003] Such a polarizing element is produced, for example, by subjecting a polarizing plate having a resin layer laminated on a polarizing film to thermal bending processing. The produced polarizing element is stored as necessary, and then transported to a polarizing lens production line. Then, the polarizing element is placed in a molding die of an injection molding machine, and a resin is injected into the molding die to perform insert molding injection molding, whereby a polarizing lens including the polarizing element and the injected resin is obtained.

[0004] Incidentally, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for storing and transporting one or a plurality of polarizing plates in a state of being stacked and sealed in a container together with a humidity control agent.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, when the polarizing elements are sealed in the container one by one, the containers need to be opened one by one to arrange the polarizing elements on the polarizing lens production line, which leads to a problem that the number of work steps during packaging and opening increases. On the other hand, when a plurality of polarizing elements are stacked and packed in a container, adjacent polarizing elements may slide against each other and be damaged due to vibration or the like during transportation.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a polarizing element housing and case that can reduce the amount of work required during packaging and unpacking while suppressing damage to the polarizing element. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] These objectives are achieved by the present invention as described in (1) to (9) below. (1) Multiple curved plate-shaped polarizing elements used in polarizing lenses, A case for housing the aforementioned plurality of polarizing elements, Equipped with, The aforementioned case is, The case body supports at least one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements in an upright and spaced-apart arrangement, The case body is openable and closable, and when closed, it covers the plurality of polarizing elements, A polarizing element housing having the following characteristics.

[0009] (2) The case body has a plurality of first recesses formed therein, The polarizing element housing (1) above, wherein one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements is inserted into the first recess.

[0010] (3) The case body has a plate portion and an elastic member that is placed on the plate portion and holds one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements, The plurality of first recesses are formed in the elastic member, and are the polarizing element housing of (2) described above.

[0011] (4) The lid portion has a plurality of second recesses formed therein, In the state in which the lid is closed, the other end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements is inserted into the second recess, the polarizing element housing of (2) or (3) above.

[0012] (5) The polarizing element container according to the above (4), wherein the width of the second recess is larger than the width of the first recess.

[0013] (6) The polarizing element container according to any one of the above (1) to (5), wherein the plurality of polarizing elements are arranged in a matrix in a plan view.

[0014] (7) Each of the plurality of polarizing elements has a curved concave surface and a curved convex surface that are in a front-back relationship with each other, The polarizing element container according to any one of the above (1) to (6), wherein the plurality of polarizing elements are arranged such that the curved convex surfaces face the same direction.

[0015] (8) The polarizing element container according to any one of the above (1) to (7), further comprising a moisture-proof bag for accommodating the case.

[0016] (9) A case for accommodating a plurality of curved plate-shaped polarizing elements, a case main body that supports at least one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements in a state where the plurality of polarizing elements stand upright and are arranged spaced apart from each other, a lid portion that is openable and closable with respect to the case main body and covers the plurality of polarizing elements in a closed state, A case having the same. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a polarizing element container and a case that can suppress damage to the polarizing element while reducing the number of work steps during packing and opening. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a polarizing element according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the polarizing element of Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3(a), Figure 3(b), and Figure 3(c) are cross-sectional views showing a method of manufacturing a polarizing lens incorporating the polarizing element of Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a polarizing element housing according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a polarizing element housing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the polarizing element in the polarizing element housing according to the first embodiment is being transferred to the mold. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a polarizing element housing according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0019] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following description does not limit the technical scope or the meaning of terms as defined in the claims. Furthermore, the dimensional ratios in the drawings are exaggerated for illustrative purposes and may differ from actual ratios.

[0020] In each diagram, the X, Y, and Z axes are defined as three mutually orthogonal axes. Each axis is represented by an arrow, with the tip of the arrow designated as the "+ side" and the base of the arrow as the "- side". In the following explanation, for example, "X-axis direction" includes both the positive and negative directions of the X-axis. The same applies to the Y-axis and Z-axis directions. In the following explanation, the Z-axis + side is designated as "up" and the Z-axis - side as "down". The Z-axis does not need to be parallel to the vertical axis; it may be inclined relative to the vertical axis.

[0021] <First Embodiment> Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the polarizing element 110 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the polarizing element 110 of Figure 1. Figures 3(a), 3(b), and 3(c) are cross-sectional views showing a method for manufacturing a polarizing lens 10 incorporating the polarizing element 110 of Figure 1. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the polarizing element housing 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the polarizing element housing 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the polarizing element 110 in the polarizing element housing 100 according to this embodiment is being transferred to the mold 21. Note that in Figures 4 and 5, the moisture-proof bag 130, which will be described later, is shown by a dashed line for the sake of clarity. Also, in Figure 3(c), the polarizing lens 10 is shown as an end face rather than a cross-section for the sake of clarity.

[0022] As shown in Figure 3(c), the polarizing element 110 according to this embodiment is used in a polarizing lens 10. The polarizing lens 10 is used in anti-glare products such as sunglasses and goggles. After manufacturing, the multiple polarizing elements 110 are housed in a case 120 and a moisture-proof bag 130 of the polarizing element housing 100, as shown in Figure 4, stored as needed, and transported to the polarizing lens 10 manufacturing line 20, as shown in Figure 6. The polarizing element 110, the polarizing lens 10, and the polarizing element housing 100 will be described in detail below.

[0023] First, the polarizing element 110 according to this embodiment will be described. The polarizing element 110 is curved plate-shaped, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. The surface of the polarizing element 110 includes a curved convex surface 110s1 and a curved concave surface 110s2, which have a front-back relationship. In Figures 1 and 2, the curved convex surface 110s1 is located on the X-axis side of the curved concave surface 110s2 and is convex toward the X-axis side, while the curved concave surface 110s2 is concave toward the X-axis side. The shape of the polarizing element 110 as viewed from the X-axis direction is circular, as shown in Figure 1. However, the shape of the polarizing element 110 as viewed from the X-axis direction may be other shapes such as elliptical or oblong.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the polarizing element 110 comprises a polarizing film 111, a first resin layer 112 provided on one side of the polarizing film 111, a second resin layer 113 provided on the other side of the polarizing film 111, a first adhesive layer 114 interposed between the polarizing film 111 and the first resin layer 112 and adhering to the polarizing film 111 and the first resin layer 112, and a second adhesive layer 115 interposed between the polarizing film 111 and the second resin layer 113 and adhering to the polarizing film 111 and the second resin layer 113. In Figure 2, the first resin layer 112, the first adhesive layer 114, the polarizing film 111, the second adhesive layer 115, and the second resin layer 113 are stacked in this order on the +X axis side.

[0025] In the first resin layer 112, the surface opposite to the surface bonded to the first adhesive layer 114 constitutes a curved convex surface 110s1. In the second resin layer 113, the surface opposite to the surface bonded to the second adhesive layer 115 constitutes a curved concave surface 110s2.

[0026] The polarizing film 111 has the function of converting incident light, such as natural light, into linearly polarized light in a predetermined unidirectional direction. The degree of polarization of the polarizing film 111 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 50% to 100%, and more preferably 80% to 100%. The visible light transmittance of the polarizing film 111 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10% to 80%, and more preferably 20% to 50%.

[0027] The constituent materials of the polarizing film 111 are not particularly limited as long as they have the above-mentioned functions, but examples include polymer films composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), partially formalized polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene vinyl alcohol, polyvinyl butyral, polycarbonate, partially saponified ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, etc., on which dichroic substances such as iodine or dichroic dyes are adsorbed and dyed, and then uniaxially stretched; and polyene-based oriented films such as dehydrated polyvinyl alcohol or dehydrochlorinated polyvinyl chloride.

[0028] Among these, the polarizing film 111 is preferably made by adsorbing iodine or a dichroic dye onto a polymer film mainly composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), dyeing it, and then uniaxially stretching it. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a material that is excellent in terms of transparency, heat resistance, affinity with iodine or a dichroic dye used as a dyeing agent, and orientation during stretching. Therefore, the polarizing film 111 made mainly of PVA has excellent heat resistance and excellent polarizing ability.

[0029] In this specification, "main material" refers to the constituent material that makes up the layer (film) containing this material, and which is present in an amount of 50% by weight or more.

[0030] Examples of the dichroic dyes mentioned above include Chloratin Fast Red, Congo Red, Brilliant Blue 6B, Benzopurprine, Chlorazole Black BH, Direct Blue 2B, Diamine Green, Chrysophenone, Sirius Yellow, Direct Fast Red, and Acid Black.

[0031] The average thickness of the polarizing film 111 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 5 μm to 60 μm, and more preferably 10 μm to 40 μm.

[0032] The first resin layer 112 and the second resin layer 113 function as protective layers to protect the polarizing film 111. Furthermore, the first resin layer 112 and the second resin layer 113 are light-transmitting. This allows most of the incident light to the polarizing element 110 to enter the polarizing film 111, while most of the linearly polarized light emitted from the polarizing film 111 can be emitted from the polarizing element 110.

[0033] The first resin layer 112 and the second resin layer 113 are not particularly limited, but are mainly composed of resin materials such as polyamide resins, polycarbonate resins, and cellulose resins such as triacetylcellulose, and one or more of these can be used in combination. Among these, it is preferable that the first resin layer 112 and the second resin layer 113 are mainly composed of polyamide resins or polycarbonate resins.

[0034] Polycarbonate resins are rich in mechanical strength, such as light transmission and rigidity, and can improve the light transmission and impact resistance of the polarizing element 110. Furthermore, polycarbonate resins have a specific gravity of approximately 1.2, classifying them as lightweight among resin materials, thus contributing to the weight reduction of the polarizing element 110. Polyamide resins, in addition to light transmission and impact resistance, can improve chemical resistance and stress resistance.

[0035] Furthermore, the first resin layer 112 and the second resin layer 113 may contain other components in addition to the resin material included as the main material. Such components are not particularly limited, but examples include resin materials other than the main material, colorants such as dyes, fillers, orientation aids, stabilizers (heat stabilizers, UV absorbers and antioxidants, etc.), plasticizers, colorants, flame retardants, antistatic agents and viscosity modifiers. The constituent materials of the first resin layer 112 and the second resin layer 113 may be the same or different.

[0036] The average thickness of the first resin layer 112 and the second resin layer 113 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.2 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.25 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less. By keeping the average thickness of the first resin layer 112 and the second resin layer 113 within the above range, it is possible to suppress the average thickness of the polarizing element 110 from becoming too thick while improving the mechanical strength of the polarizing element 110. The average thickness of the first resin layer 112 and the second resin layer 113 may be the same or different.

[0037] The first adhesive layer 114 and the second adhesive layer 115 have adhesive properties and light transmittance. The adhesive used to form the first adhesive layer 114 and the second adhesive layer 115 is not particularly limited, but examples include silicone-based, epoxy-based, acrylic-based, urethane-based, polyolefin-based, chlorinated polyolefin-based, cyanoacrylate-based, rubber-based, polyester-based, polyimide-based, and phenol-based adhesives, and one or more of these can be used in combination. Among these, the first adhesive layer 114 and the second adhesive layer 115 are preferably formed with silicone-based, epoxy-based, acrylic-based, and urethane-based adhesives. The adhesive used to form the first adhesive layer 114 and the second adhesive layer 115 may be a one-component moisture-curing type, a one-component latent curing agent type, or a two-component curing type. The constituent materials of the first adhesive layer 114 and the second adhesive layer 115 may be the same or different.

[0038] The average thickness of the first adhesive layer 114 and the second adhesive layer 115 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 5 μm or more and 60 μm or less, and more preferably 10 μm or more and 40 μm or less. By setting the average thickness of the first adhesive layer 114 and the second adhesive layer 115 within the above range, the adhesive function of the first adhesive layer 114 and the second adhesive layer 115 can be fully exhibited while optical functions such as light transmission can be improved. The average thickness of the first adhesive layer 114 and the second adhesive layer 115 may be the same or different.

[0039] The average thickness (total thickness) of the polarizing element 110 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 5 mm or less, more preferably 0.4 mm or more and 3 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.5 mm or more and 2 mm or less.

[0040] Next, a method for manufacturing the polarizing element 110 will be described.

[0041] The polarizing element 110 is formed, for example, by punching out a circular shape from a flat polarizing plate in which a first resin layer 112, a first adhesive layer 114, a polarizing film 111, a second adhesive layer 115, and a second resin layer 113 are laminated in this order, and then heat-bending it.

[0042] The thermal bending process is carried out, for example, by press forming or vacuum forming. It is preferable to dry the polarizing plate before thermal bending. This helps to suppress deformation of the polarizing plate due to moisture absorption.

[0043] Next, we will explain the polarizing lens 10. The polarizing lens 10 according to this embodiment is curved plate-shaped, as shown in Figure 3(c). The surface of the polarizing lens 10 includes a curved convex surface 10s1 and a curved concave surface 10s2 that have a front-back relationship. In Figure 3(c), the curved convex surface 10s1 is located on the X-axis side of the curved concave surface 10s2 and is convex toward the X-axis side, while the curved concave surface 10s2 is concave toward the X-axis side.

[0044] The polarizing lens 10 comprises a polarizing element 110 and a lens resin layer 12 laminated on the curved concave surface 110s2 of the polarizing element 110. Note that the detailed internal structure of the polarizing element 110 is omitted in Figures 3(a) to (c). The lens resin layer 12 is positioned on the + side of the X-axis direction of the polarizing element 110, is fixed to the polarizing element 110, and is integrated with the polarizing element 110. The curved convex surface 110s1 of the polarizing element 110 constitutes the curved convex surface 10s1 of the polarizing lens 10. The surface of the lens resin layer 12 opposite to the surface fixed to the polarizing element 110 constitutes the curved concave surface 110s2. Note that in Figure 3(c), the boundary between the polarizing element 110 and the lens resin layer 12 is clearly shown for the sake of clarity. However, the second resin layer 113 constituting the polarizing element 110 and the lens resin layer 12 may melt together, making the boundary between the polarizing element 110 and the lens resin layer 12 ambiguous or even nonexistent.

[0045] Next, a method for manufacturing the polarizing lens 10 will be described. The polarizing lens 10 is formed by placing a polarizing element 110 in a mold 21 of an injection molding machine located on the polarizing lens 10 production line 20, injecting lens resin 12a into the mold 21, and performing insert mold injection molding.

[0046] Specifically, the mold 21 has a pair of openable and closable lower molds 21a (female mold) and upper molds 21b (male mold). A cavity 21c corresponding to the shape of the polarizing lens 10 is formed between the closed lower mold 21a and upper mold 21b. The upper mold 21b also has a resin injection channel 21d that communicates with the cavity 21c. A curved recess (depression) is formed on the surface of the lower mold 21a facing the upper mold 21b. The surface of this recess has a shape corresponding to the curved convex surface 110s1 of the polarizing element 110. A curved convex portion (projection) is formed on the surface of the upper mold 21b facing the lower mold 21a. The surface of the convex portion has a shape corresponding to the curved concave surface 10s2 of the polarizing lens 10. The cavity 21c is the cavity between the recess of the lower mold 21a and the convex portion of the upper mold 21b. Note that the specific shape of the mold 21 is not limited to the shape shown in the figure. For example, the position and direction of the resin injection channel 21d are not limited to the position and direction shown in the figure. Also, the specific shapes of the lower mold 21a and upper mold 21b are not limited to the shapes shown in the figure.

[0047] First, as shown in Figure 3(a), the polarizing element 110 is placed in the cavity 21c of the mold 21 such that the curved convex surface 110s1 faces the lower mold 21a.

[0048] Next, with the upper mold 21b closed over the lower mold 21a, lens resin 12a is injected through the resin injection channel 21d to fill the cavity 21c, as indicated by arrow a1 in Figure 3(b). As a result, a polarizing lens 10 is obtained, as shown in Figure 3(c), comprising a polarizing element 110 and a lens resin layer 12 formed by curing the lens resin 12a, with the lens resin layer 12 fixed to the polarizing element 110 and forming an integrated lens. Depending on the size of the polarizing element 110 relative to the cavity 21c, the lens resin layer 12 may also be positioned on the outer edge surface of the polarizing element 110. Next, the outer edge of the polarizing lens 10 is removed, as shown by the dashed line a2 in Figure 3(c).

[0049] Next, the polarizing element housing 100 will be described. As described above, the polarizing element housing 100 is used when storing or transporting multiple polarizing elements 110. As shown in Figure 4, the polarizing element housing 100 comprises multiple polarizing elements 110, a case 120 for housing the multiple polarizing elements 110, and a moisture-proof bag 130 for housing the case 120 with the multiple polarizing elements 110 housed in it. The case 120 and the moisture-proof bag 130 will be described below.

[0050] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the case 120 has a case body 121 that supports the lower ends of each of the multiple polarizing elements 110 in an upright and spaced-apart arrangement, and a lid portion 122 that can be opened and closed relative to the case body 121 and covers the multiple polarizing elements 110 when closed. The lower end of the polarizing element 110 corresponds to "one end" of the polarizing element 110. Here, "the polarizing element 110 is upright" means that the curved concave surface 110s2 or curved convex surface 110s1 of the polarizing element 110 is facing in a direction that intersects with the direction (Z direction) from the part of the case body 121 that supports the polarizing element 110 toward the polarizing element 110. Furthermore, "the lid portion 122 covers the multiple polarizing elements 110" includes not only the state in which the lid portion 122 covers the multiple polarizing elements 110 while spaced apart from them, but also the state in which the lid portion 122 covers the multiple polarizing elements 110 while in contact with them.

[0051] The case body 121 is a bottomed box shape with an opening at the top. That is, the case body 121 has an opening at the top. Specifically, the case body 121 includes a flat bottom plate portion 121a that is generally parallel to the XY plane, and a side plate portion 121b that is connected to the periphery of the bottom plate portion 121a and extends upward.

[0052] Multiple first recesses 121c are formed on the upper surface of the base plate portion 121a, extending downward from the upper surface. The lower end of the polarizing element 110 is inserted into each first recess 121c. Therefore, in this embodiment, the base plate portion 121a corresponds to the part of the case body 121 that supports the polarizing element 110. The width and depth of each first recess 121c are set such that, with the lower end of the polarizing element 110 inserted, the case body 121 grips the lower end of the polarizing element 110 and the polarizing element 110 does not fall over. Here, "width of the first recess 121c" means the length in the thickness direction of the polarizing element 110. As a result, multiple polarizing elements 110 are in an upright position.

[0053] The multiple first recesses 121c are spaced apart from each other such that adjacent polarizing elements 110 do not come into contact with each other when the lower end of a polarizing element 110 is inserted into each first recess 121c. In this embodiment, the multiple first recesses 121c are formed in a matrix shape, with rows in the X-axis direction and columns in the Y-axis direction. However, the arrangement pattern of the multiple first recesses 121c is not limited to a matrix shape, and may be, for example, a triangular grid arrangement pattern.

[0054] Furthermore, the multiple polarizing elements 110 are arranged so that their curved convex surfaces 110s1 face the same direction. In Figure 4, the multiple polarizing elements 110 are arranged so that their curved convex surfaces 110s1 face the negative side of the X-axis direction, and their curved concave surfaces 110s2 face the positive side of the X-axis direction. However, the orientations of the multiple polarizing elements 110 do not necessarily have to be the same.

[0055] In this embodiment, the shape of each first recess 121c is generally similar to the shape of the lower end of the polarizing element 110. However, the shape of each first recess 121c is not particularly limited as long as it can maintain the upright position of the polarizing element 110 when its lower end is inserted.

[0056] The lid 122 includes a flat top plate portion 122a that is generally parallel to the XY plane, and a side plate portion 122b that is connected to the periphery of the top plate portion 122a and extends downward, with an opening at the bottom. In this embodiment, the lid 122 is separate from the case body 121 and is detachably attached to the case body 121. The case 120 is closed by placing the lid 122 over the case body 121. However, the lid 122 may be partially connected to the case body 121 as long as it can be opened and closed relative to the case body 121.

[0057] When the case 120 is closed, the lower surface of the top plate portion 122a abuts against the upper end of the side plate portion 121b of the case body 121 in this embodiment. Also, when the case 120 is closed, the side plate portion 122b of the lid portion 122 is positioned outside the side plate portion 121b of the case body 121 in this embodiment. The top plate portion 122a corresponds to the portion of the lid portion 122 that covers the polarizing element 110. However, a part of the side plate portion 122b of the lid portion 122 may be positioned inside the side plate portion 121b of the case body 121.

[0058] On the top plate portion 122a, the surface (bottom surface) facing the bottom plate portion 121a has multiple second recesses 122c formed, which are recessed upward from the bottom surface. Each second recess 122c is formed in a position facing the corresponding first recess 121c when the case 120 is closed. The upper end of the polarizing element 110 is inserted into each second recess 122c. The upper end of the polarizing element 110 corresponds to the "other end" of the polarizing element 110. Therefore, the upright position of the polarizing element 110 can be made even more stable. In particular, when the polarizing element housing 100 is transported by people or vehicles, the polarizing element housing 100 may vibrate, but even in such cases, the polarizing element 110 is more likely to maintain its upright position.

[0059] The width of each second recess 122c is greater than the width of the first recess 121c. Therefore, by the simple operation of placing the lid 122 over the case body 121, the upper ends of each polarizing element 110, whose lower ends are supported by the case body 121, are inserted into the second recess 122c of the lid 122. However, the relative sizes of the widths of the first recess 121c and the second recess 122c are not limited to the above. For example, the widths of the first recess 121c and the second recess 122c may be the same. In this case, the lid 122 can support the upper ends of each of the multiple polarizing elements 110. Alternatively, the lid 122 may not have the second recess 122c formed therein, and may simply cover each polarizing element 110. In this case, the lid 122 may further have a cushioning member, such as an elastic member, on the lower surface of the top plate 122a. In this case, vibration of each polarizing element 110 during transport or other times may be suppressed by pressing a cushioning member such as the top plate portion 122a or an elastic member against each polarizing element 110.

[0060] In this embodiment, the lower end portion of the polarizing element 110 inserted into the first recess 121c and the upper end portion inserted into the second recess 122c are within the range of the outer edge portion that is cut off in the polarizing lens 10 shown in Figure 3(c). As a result, even if the lower end portion of the polarizing element 110 is damaged by sliding against the case body 121, or even if the upper end portion of the polarizing element 110 is damaged by sliding against the lid portion 122, the outer edge portion of the polarizing element 110, including the lower and upper ends, will be cut off during the manufacturing of the polarizing lens 10. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the inclusion of damaged portions of the polarizing element 110 in the final product. This improves the productivity and yield of the polarizing lens 10.

[0061] It is preferable to use a relatively soft material that retains its shape, such as wood or foamed resin, as the constituent material of case 120. However, various resin materials and various metal materials may also be used as the constituent material of case 120. Furthermore, the constituent material of case 120 may be one type or a combination of two or more types.

[0062] In this embodiment, the moisture-proof bag 130 is made up of a bag that is at least partially open, and the opening is sealed after the case 120 is placed inside. In this way, the moisture-proof bag 130 seals the case 120.

[0063] The water vapor transmission rate of moisture-proof bag 130 is 0 g / m³. 2 ·day or more 2.0g / m 2 It is preferable that it is less than or equal to 0 g / m². 2 ·day or more 1.0g / m 2 It is more preferable that it be less than or equal to 0 g / m² 2 ·day or more 0.5g / m 2 It is even more preferable that it be less than or equal to 1 day. Water vapor transmission rate is measured in accordance with JIS K7129:2008.

[0064] The resin used in the moisture-proof bag 130 is not particularly limited, but examples include polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, various polyamides, polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and other resin materials, as well as metal materials such as aluminum, aluminum alloys, stainless steel, copper, or copper alloys, or combinations of two or more of these. The sheet material constituting the moisture-proof bag 130 may be a single layer or a multi-layered material, for example, a resin layer laminated with a metal layer. Furthermore, the polarizing element housing 100 does not necessarily have to contain the moisture-proof bag 130. Also, the case 120 may have a moisture-proof function. In addition, a desiccant or other humidity control agent may be contained in the moisture-proof bag 130.

[0065] Next, an example of how to use the polarizing element housing 100 will be explained. First, the lower ends of the multiple polarizing elements 110 that have been manufactured are inserted into the first recess 121c of the case body 121. The insertion may be performed manually by an operator or by a robot.

[0066] Next, the lid 122 is placed over the case body 121 to close the case 120. Then, the case 120 is placed inside the moisture-proof bag 130, and the opening of the moisture-proof bag 130 is sealed. This completes the polarizing element housing 100. In this embodiment, since multiple polarizing elements 110 are housed in a single case 120, the amount of work required during packaging and unpacking can be reduced compared to the case where the polarizing elements 110 are individually packaged.

[0067] The resulting polarizing element housing 100 may be temporarily stored in a warehouse or the like. Next, the polarizing element housing 100 is transported to the polarizing lens manufacturing line 20. Since the multiple polarizing elements 110 inside the case 120 are spaced apart from each other, compared to the case where multiple polarizing elements 110 are stacked and packaged together, damage caused by sliding between adjacent polarizing elements 110 during transport can be suppressed.

[0068] Next, on the polarizing lens 10 manufacturing line 20, the moisture-proof bag 130 is opened, the lid 122 is removed from the case body 121, and the case 120 is opened as shown in Figure 6.

[0069] Next, the polarizing elements 110 are sequentially removed from the case body 121 and placed in the lower mold 21a of the molding die 21 located on the polarizing lens 10 production line 20. Lens resin 12a is then injected into the closed molding die 21 to perform insert mold injection molding. This forms the polarizing lens 10. The process of sequentially removing the polarizing elements 110 from the case body 121 and placing them in the molding die 21 may be performed manually by an operator or by a robot. If performed by a robot, the upper end of the polarizing element 110 is held by an end effector by suction or the like, and the polarizing element 110 is moved to the molding die 21 and placed there.

[0070] As described above, the multiple polarizing elements 110 are upright within the case 120, and adjacent polarizing elements 110 are spaced apart, so a robot or operator can easily hold the upper end of a polarizing element 110. Also, as described above, since the multiple polarizing elements 110 are arranged in a matrix, a robot or operator can easily move the multiple polarizing elements 110 sequentially from the case body 121 to the molding die 21. Furthermore, since the orientation of the multiple polarizing elements 110 is aligned, a robot or operator can easily move the multiple polarizing elements 110 sequentially from the case body 121 to the molding die 21.

[0071] In other words, the method for manufacturing the polarizing lens 10 according to this embodiment includes the steps of: manufacturing a plurality of polarizing elements 110; housing the plurality of polarizing elements 110 in a case 120; and moving the plurality of polarizing elements 110, while housed in the case 120, from the polarizing element 110 manufacturing line to the polarizing lens 10 manufacturing line 20. The method for manufacturing the polarizing lens 10 according to this embodiment further includes the steps of: opening the case 120 in the polarizing lens 10 manufacturing line 20, sequentially removing the polarizing elements 110 from the case 120, placing them in the mold 21 of an injection molding machine, and performing insert mold injection molding; and cutting off the outer edge of the polarizing lens 10 obtained by insert mold injection molding.

[0072] The shape and configuration of the case 120 are not limited to those described above. For example, the first recess 121c may not be formed by a depression recessed downward from the upper surface of the bottom plate portion 121a, but rather by a plurality of protrusions on the upper surface of the bottom plate portion 121a and recesses between adjacent protrusions. Also, instead of supporting the lower end of the polarizing element 110 by inserting it into the first recess 121c of the bottom plate portion 121a, for example, a semi-solid adhesive with adhesive properties may be dispersed on the upper surface of the bottom plate portion 121a, and the lower end of the polarizing element 110 may be supported by the adhesive. Furthermore, the case 120 does not have to be positioned so that the direction from the bottom plate portion 121a toward the lid portion 122 is parallel to the direction of gravity. For example, the direction from the bottom plate portion 121a toward the lid portion 122 of the case 120 may be inclined with respect to the direction of gravity or perpendicular to it. In other words, the side plate portion 121b or side plate portion 122b of the case 120 may be the surface that rests on the floor. Alternatively, the side plate portion 121b of the case body 121 may support one end of the multiple polarizing elements 110. Alternatively, the multiple polarizing elements 110 may be arranged in a row, and the case body 121 may support the lower end and lateral end of each of the multiple polarizing elements 110. In other words, the case body 121 may support two or more ends of the multiple polarizing elements 110.

[0073] As described above, the polarizing element housing 100 according to this embodiment comprises a plurality of curved plate-shaped polarizing elements 110 used in the polarizing lens 10, and a case 120 that houses the plurality of polarizing elements 110. The case 120 has a case body 121 that supports at least one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements 110 in an upright and spaced-apart arrangement, and a lid portion 122 that can be opened and closed relative to the case body 121 and covers the plurality of polarizing elements 110 when closed.

[0074] Thus, in this embodiment, since multiple polarizing elements 110 are housed in a single case 120, the amount of work required during packaging and unpacking can be reduced compared to the case where each polarizing element 110 is individually packaged. Furthermore, since the multiple polarizing elements 110 in the case 120 are spaced apart from each other, damage to adjacent polarizing elements 110 due to sliding against each other during transportation can be suppressed compared to the case where multiple polarizing elements 110 are stacked and packaged together. In addition, since the multiple polarizing elements 110 are in an upright position and adjacent polarizing elements 110 are spaced apart, during the manufacturing of the polarizing lens 10, the other ends of the multiple polarizing elements 110 can be easily held, and the polarizing elements 110 can be easily moved sequentially from the case 120 to the polarizing lens 10 manufacturing line 20. This improves the productivity of the polarizing lens 10.

[0075] Furthermore, the case body 121 has a plurality of first recesses 121c formed therein, and one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements 110 is inserted into the first recess 121c.

[0076] Therefore, by simply inserting the polarizing element 110 into the first recess 121c, the case body 121 can be made to support the polarizing element 110.

[0077] Furthermore, the lid portion 122 has a plurality of second recesses 122c formed therein, and when the lid portion 122 is closed, the other end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements 110 is inserted into the second recesses 122c.

[0078] Therefore, even if vibrations occur during transportation, the polarizing element 110 can be kept in an upright position. This suppresses damage to the polarizing element 110. As a result, the yield of the polarizing element 110 can be improved, and the productivity of the polarizing lens 10 can be increased.

[0079] Furthermore, the width of the second recess 122c is greater than the width of the first recess 121c. Therefore, the case body 121 provides good support for one end of the polarizing element 110, and by placing the lid 122 over the case body 121, the other end of the polarizing element 110 can be easily inserted into the second recess 122c.

[0080] Furthermore, the multiple polarizing elements 110 are arranged in a matrix in a planar view. Therefore, multiple polarizing elements 110 can be easily and sequentially moved from the case body 121 to the manufacturing line 20 for the polarizing lenses 10.

[0081] Furthermore, each of the multiple polarizing elements 110 has a curved concave surface 110s2 and a curved convex surface 110s1 that are in a front-back relationship with each other. The multiple polarizing elements 110 are arranged so that the curved convex surfaces 110s1 face in the same direction.

[0082] Because the orientations of the multiple polarizing elements 110 are aligned in this way, the multiple polarizing elements 110 can be easily and sequentially moved from the case body 121 to the manufacturing line 20 of the polarizing lens 10.

[0083] Furthermore, the polarizing element housing 100 further includes a moisture-proof bag 130 that houses the case 120.

[0084] Therefore, it is possible to suppress deterioration or deformation of the polarizing element 110 inside the case 120 due to changes in humidity during storage or transportation.

[0085] Furthermore, the case 120 according to this embodiment is a case 120 that houses a plurality of curved plate-shaped polarizing elements 110. The case 120 has a case body 121 that supports at least one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements 110 in an upright and spaced-apart arrangement, and a lid portion 122 that can be opened and closed relative to the case body 121 and covers the plurality of polarizing elements 110 when closed.

[0086] Thus, in this embodiment, since multiple polarizing elements 110 are housed in a single case 120, the amount of work required during packaging and unpacking can be reduced compared to the case where each polarizing element 110 is individually packaged. Furthermore, since the multiple polarizing elements 110 in the case 120 are spaced apart from each other, damage to adjacent polarizing elements 110 due to sliding against each other during transportation can be suppressed compared to the case where multiple polarizing elements 110 are stacked and packaged together. In addition, since the multiple polarizing elements 110 are in an upright position and adjacent polarizing elements 110 are spaced apart, during the manufacturing of the polarizing lens 10, the other ends of the multiple polarizing elements 110 can be easily held, and the polarizing elements 110 can be easily moved sequentially from the case 120 to the polarizing lens 10 manufacturing line 20. This improves the productivity of the polarizing lens 10.

[0087] <Second Embodiment> Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the polarizing element housing 200 according to this embodiment.

[0088] The polarizing element housing 200 according to this embodiment differs from the polarizing element housing 100 according to the first embodiment in that the case body 121 further has an elastic member 221d disposed on the bottom plate portion 121a, and the first recess 121c is formed in the elastic member 221d instead of the bottom plate portion 121a. Hereinafter, the configurations that differ from the first embodiment in this embodiment will be mainly described, and the same reference numerals will be used for the same components as in the first embodiment, and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0089] The case body 121 has a bottom plate portion 121a and side plate portions 121b, as well as an elastic member 221d positioned on the bottom plate portion 121a that holds the lower ends of each of the multiple polarizing elements 110. Therefore, in this embodiment, the bottom plate portion 121a corresponds to a "plate portion". Multiple first recesses 121c are formed on the upper surface of the elastic member 221d.

[0090] In this embodiment, the width of the first recess 121c is less than or equal to the thickness of the polarizing element 110. Therefore, when inserting the lower end of the polarizing element 110 into the first recess 121c, the elastic member 221d deforms to widen the first recess 121c and then adheres closely to the lower end of the polarizing element 110. This allows the elastic member 221d to adequately hold the lower end of the polarizing element 110. Furthermore, even if vibration occurs in the polarizing element housing 200 during transportation, the elastic member 221d has cushioning properties, which helps to prevent damage to the lower end of the polarizing element 110. However, the relationship between the width of the first recess 121c and the thickness of the polarizing element 110 is not limited to the above.

[0091] The constituent material of the elastic member 221d is not particularly limited, but examples include elastomer materials or foamed resins.

[0092] In this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, multiple polarizing elements 110 are housed in a single case 120, thus reducing the amount of work required during packaging and unpacking compared to individually packaging each polarizing element 110. Furthermore, since the multiple polarizing elements 110 within the case 120 are spaced apart from each other, damage to adjacent polarizing elements 110 due to sliding against each other during transportation can be suppressed compared to packaging multiple polarizing elements 110 stacked on top of each other. In addition, since the multiple polarizing elements 110 are in an upright position and spaced apart from each other, during the manufacturing of the polarizing lens 10, the other ends of the multiple polarizing elements 110 can be easily held, allowing the polarizing elements 110 to be easily and sequentially moved from the case 120 to the polarizing lens 10 manufacturing line 20. This improves the productivity of the polarizing lens 10.

[0093] Furthermore, the case body 121 has a bottom plate portion 121a and an elastic member 221d that is positioned on the bottom plate portion 121a and holds one end of each of the multiple polarizing elements 110. Multiple first recesses 121c are formed in the elastic member 221d.

[0094] Therefore, even if vibration occurs in the polarizing element housing 200 during transportation or other means, the elastic member 221d has cushioning properties, which helps to prevent damage to one end of the polarizing element 110.

[0095] Although embodiments of the polarizing element housing and case according to the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Each part constituting the polarizing element housing and case can be replaced with any configuration that can perform similar functions. Furthermore, any additional components may be added to the polarizing element housing and case. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0096] 10: Polarized lenses 10s1: Curved convex surface 10s2: Curved concave surface 12: Lens resin layer 12a: Lens resin 20: Manufacturing Line 21: Molding mold 21a: Lower mold 21b: Upper mold 21c: Cavity 21d: Resin injection path 100: Polarizing element housing 110: Polarizing element 110s1: Curved convex surface 110s2: Curved concave surface 111: Polarizing film 112: 1st resin layer 113: Second resin layer 114: 1st adhesive layer 115:Second adhesive layer 120: Case 121: Case body 121a: Bottom plate part 121b: Side plate part 121c: First recess 122: Lid 122a: Top panel 122b: Side plate part 122c: Second recess 130: Moisture-proof bag 200: Polarizing element housing 221d: Elastic member a1: Arrow a2: Two-dot chain line

Claims

1. Multiple curved plate-shaped polarizing elements used in polarizing lenses, A case for housing the aforementioned plurality of polarizing elements, Equipped with, The aforementioned case is, The case body supports at least one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements in an upright and spaced-apart arrangement, The case body is openable and closable, and when closed, it covers the plurality of polarizing elements, A polarizing element housing having the following characteristics.

2. The case body has a plurality of first recesses formed therein. The polarizing element housing according to claim 1, wherein one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements is inserted into the first recess.

3. The case body comprises a plate portion and an elastic member disposed on the plate portion and holding one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements. The polarizing element housing according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of first recesses are formed in the elastic member.

4. The lid portion has a plurality of second recesses formed therein. The polarizing element housing according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, when the lid is closed, the other end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements is inserted into the second recess.

5. The polarizing element housing according to claim 4, wherein the width of the second recess is greater than the width of the first recess.

6. The polarizing element housing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of polarizing elements are arranged in a matrix in a plan view.

7. Each of the plurality of polarizing elements has a curved concave surface and a curved convex surface that are in a front-back relationship with each other. The polarizing element housing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of polarizing elements are arranged so that the curved convex surfaces face the same direction.

8. The polarizing element housing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a moisture-proof bag for housing the aforementioned case.

9. A case for housing multiple curved plate-shaped polarizing elements, The case body supports at least one end of each of the plurality of polarizing elements in an upright and spaced-apart arrangement, The case body is openable and closable, and when closed, it covers the plurality of polarizing elements, A case that has

Images