Liquid crystal light control device, imaging device and adapter device

Abstract

To allow liquid crystal to be dispersed with utmost uniformity in a liquid crystal injection layer without unevenness.SOLUTION: A liquid crystal light control device is provided, comprising a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into a liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by a sealing portion, and an asymmetricity forming portion for achieving asymmetricity of a liquid crystal inflow in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal injection port.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a liquid crystal light control device, an imaging device, and an adapter device. [Background technology]

[0002] Imaging devices commonly used as digital still cameras and video cameras have a lens and an imaging element disposed on the optical axis of the lens. Some imaging devices have a liquid crystal dimming device used as an ND (Neutral Density) filter disposed between the lens and the imaging element. This liquid crystal dimming device makes it possible to adjust the amount of light directed from the lens to the imaging element. Patent Document 1 listed below discloses a liquid crystal dimming device that can be applied to imaging devices. Patent Document 2 listed below also discloses a liquid crystal display element formed by injecting liquid crystal through an opening provided in a sealing portion. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2020 / 195177 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-34984 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In this field, it is desirable that the liquid crystal be dispersed as uniformly as possible without unevenness in the liquid crystal injection layer into which the liquid crystal is injected.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a liquid crystal dimming device, an imaging device, and an adapter device that are capable of dispersing liquid crystal as uniformly as possible without unevenness within a liquid crystal injection layer into which the liquid crystal is injected. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present disclosure provides, for example, a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; a wall portion for providing asymmetry in the inflow of liquid crystal in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal inlet; and the sealing portion has a side portion along a propagation direction in which the liquid crystal propagates from the liquid crystal injection port toward approximately the center of an effective dimming area set within the sealing portion, the wall portion is provided independently of the sealing portion within the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; Further, the wall portion has a first end and a second end; The first end is provided at a position closer to the approximate center of the effective dimming area than the second end, and the second end is No. 1 is provided at a position closer to the side than the end of the The liquid crystal injection port is provided at a position closer to the first end than to the second end. It is an LCD dimming device.

[0007] The present disclosure provides, for example, An imaging element; A liquid crystal dimming unit, a dimming driver that drives the liquid crystal dimming unit; and The LCD dimming section is a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; a wall portion for providing asymmetry in the inflow of liquid crystal in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal inlet; and the sealing portion has a side portion along a propagation direction in which the liquid crystal propagates from the liquid crystal injection port toward approximately the center of an effective dimming area set within the sealing portion, the wall portion is provided independently of the sealing portion within the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; Further, the wall portion has a first end and a second end; The first end is provided at a position closer to the approximate center of the effective dimming area than the second end, and the second end is No. 1 is provided at a position closer to the side than the end of the The liquid crystal injection port is provided at a position closer to the first end than to the second end. It is an imaging device.

[0008] The present disclosure provides, for example, a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; a wall portion for providing asymmetry in the inflow of liquid crystal in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal inlet; and the sealing portion has a side portion along a propagation direction in which the liquid crystal propagates from the liquid crystal injection port toward approximately the center of an effective dimming area set within the sealing portion, the wall portion is provided independently of the sealing portion within the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; Further, the wall portion has a first end and a second end; The first end is provided at a position closer to the approximate center of the effective dimming area than the second end, and the second end is No. 1 is provided at a position closer to the side than the end of the The liquid crystal injection port is provided at a position closer to the first end than to the second end. It is an adapter device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram to which reference is made when describing the issues to be considered in this disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram to which reference is made when describing the issues to be considered in this disclosure. [Figure 3] Figures A to D are figures to which reference will be made when discussing the issues to be considered in this disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is an exploded perspective view of a liquid crystal light control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a liquid crystal light control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are diagrams to be referred to when describing examples of shapes of asymmetric forming portions according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] 6A and 6B are enlarged views of a portion of FIG. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams to be referred to when explaining the function of an asymmetric forming portion according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are diagrams to be referred to when explaining the function of an asymmetric forming portion according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram to be referred to when explaining the liquid crystal injection process. [Figure 11] 1A to 1D are diagrams to be referred to when explaining an example of the effect obtained by the liquid crystal light control device according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] 1 is a diagram to be referred to when describing an example of application of a liquid crystal light control device according to an embodiment to an imaging device. [Figure 13] 1 is a diagram to be referred to when describing an example of application of a liquid crystal light control device according to an embodiment to an imaging device. [Figure 14] 1A and 1B are diagrams to be referred to when describing an example of application of a liquid crystal light control device according to an embodiment to an imaging device. [Figure 15] 1 is a diagram to be referred to when describing an example of application of a liquid crystal light control device according to an embodiment to an imaging device. [Figure 16] 1 is a diagram to be referred to when describing an example of application of a liquid crystal light control device according to an embodiment to an imaging device. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a modified example. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The description will be made in the following order. <Issues to be considered in this disclosure> <One embodiment> <Modification> The embodiments and the like described below are preferred specific examples of the present disclosure, and the contents of the present disclosure are not limited to these embodiments and the like.

[0011] <Issues to be considered in this disclosure> First, to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure, issues to be considered in the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 1 is a plan view of a typical liquid crystal light control device (liquid crystal light control device 1). FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid crystal light control device 1 taken along line AA-AA in FIG. 1. The liquid crystal light control device 1 can be used, for example, as an ND filter for an imaging device. In the following description, the horizontal direction (left-right direction) in FIG. 1 is defined as the X direction, the vertical direction (up-down direction) as the Y direction, and the direction toward the paper surface (thickness direction) as the Z direction.

[0012] The liquid crystal light control device 1 has an upper glass substrate 2A and a lower glass substrate 2B arranged to face each other. The gap between the upper glass substrate 2A and the lower glass substrate 2B forms a liquid crystal injection layer 3 into which liquid crystal is injected (filled), and liquid crystal (liquid crystal composition) 4 is injected into the liquid crystal injection layer 3. The periphery of the liquid crystal injection layer 3 is sealed with a sealing portion 5. In addition, bead-shaped spacers 6 are arranged in the liquid crystal injection layer 3 to ensure a gap between the upper glass substrate 2A and the lower glass substrate 2B.

[0013] A conductive film 7A and an alignment film 8A are laminated in this order in the -Z direction on the main surface of the upper glass substrate 2A facing the liquid crystal injection layer 3. A conductive film 7B and an alignment film 8B are laminated in this order in the +Z direction on the main surface of the lower glass substrate 2B facing the liquid crystal injection layer 3. The amount of light passing through the liquid crystal dimming device 1 is controlled by controlling the drive voltage applied to the conductive films 7A and 7B.

[0014] Liquid crystal injection ports 9A, 9B, 9C, and 9D, which are holes for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer 3, are provided near the four corners of the upper glass substrate 2A. When it is not necessary to distinguish between the individual liquid crystal injection ports, they will be collectively referred to as the liquid crystal injection port 9. The liquid crystal injection ports 9 communicate with the liquid crystal injection layer 3, and the liquid crystal 4 is injected into the liquid crystal injection layer 3 through the liquid crystal injection ports 9. After the liquid crystal 4 is injected, the liquid crystal injection ports 9 are closed with plugs. For example, the liquid crystal injection port 9A is closed with a plug 10A, and the liquid crystal injection port 9B is closed with a plug 10B. In this example, the number of liquid crystal injection ports 10 is four, but there may be one, two, or five or more.

[0015] In the in-plane directions (X and Y directions) of the liquid crystal injection layer 3, an effective dimming area AP is defined within the filling area of ​​the liquid crystal 4 surrounded by the sealing portion 5 (see FIG. 1). The effective dimming area AP is an area that ensures that dimming works effectively, and is defined as an area narrower than the entire filling area of ​​the liquid crystal 4.

[0016] Such a general liquid crystal light control device 1 has the following problems: For example, when the liquid crystal injection layer 3 is made up of multiple layers and the alignment directions of the liquid crystal in each liquid crystal injection layer 3 are orthogonal to each other, it is necessary to stack multiple configurations shown in Fig. 2, which results in a problem that the thickness of the liquid crystal light control device 1 becomes large.

[0017] Furthermore, when liquid crystal is injected through the liquid crystal injection port 9 provided outside the effective dimming area AP, the flow rate of the liquid crystal 4 near the liquid crystal injection port 9 (near the four corners of the effective dimming area AP) increases. This causes problems such as damage to the alignment films 8A and 8B, which can easily cause white spots where the alignment films 8A and 8B peel off, or in-plane unevenness of the liquid crystal 4.

[0018] FIGS. 3A to 3D are schematic diagrams showing the process of injecting liquid crystal 4 into the liquid crystal injection layer 3 in chronological order. Note that FIGS. 3A to 3D show simplified views of some of the configuration, with the liquid crystal 4 indicated by dots. FIG. 3A shows the state before the liquid crystal 4 is injected. The liquid crystal 4 is then injected through the liquid crystal injection port 9. As shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, the liquid crystal 4 gradually fills the liquid crystal injection layer 3 from the four corners where the liquid crystal injection ports 9 are provided. As shown in FIG. 3D, the flow of the liquid crystal 4 eventually converges near the center of the effective dimming area AP. If the flow of the liquid crystal 4 converges near the center, there is a risk that the spacers 6 and any remaining gas in the liquid crystal injection layer 3 will collect near the center. Furthermore, there is a risk that the spacers 6 will aggregate near the center, which can cause image quality problems, such as the generation of bright spots.

[0019] Furthermore, in the technology described in Patent Document 2, liquid crystal is injected through an opening provided in the sealing portion, so if there are multiple liquid crystal injection layers, an opening must be provided in each layer of the sealing portion. This requires injecting liquid crystal into each of the multiple liquid crystal injection layers, which may complicate the process. Furthermore, in the technology described in Patent Document 2, the liquid crystal inflow path starting from the liquid crystal injection port is symmetrical, which may prevent effective reduction of the load on the alignment film during liquid crystal injection. Taking the above points into consideration, the contents of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to embodiments.

[0020] <One embodiment> [Configuration example of liquid crystal dimming device] First, a configuration example of a liquid crystal light control device (liquid crystal light control device 100) according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid crystal light control device 100. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the liquid crystal light control device 100 taken along the cutting line BB-BB in Fig. 4. In the following description, the surface of each component located on the +Z direction side will be referred to as the front surface or upper surface, and the surface located on the -Z direction side will be referred to as the back surface or lower surface.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 4, the liquid crystal light control device 100 has a configuration in which, for example, an upper substrate 11, a first sealing portion 21, a middle substrate 12, a second sealing portion 22, and a lower substrate 13 are stacked in this order from top to bottom. That is, the first sealing portion 21 is interposed between the upper substrate 11 and the middle substrate 12, and the second sealing portion 22 is interposed between the middle substrate 12 and the lower substrate 13. The region surrounded by the first sealing portion 21 (the region inside the first sealing portion 21) is a first liquid crystal injection layer 25 into which liquid crystal is injected. A first liquid crystal layer 25A (see FIG. 5) is formed by injecting liquid crystal into the first liquid crystal injection layer 25. The region surrounded by the second sealing portion 22 (the region inside the second sealing portion 22) is a second liquid crystal injection layer 26 into which liquid crystal is injected. A second liquid crystal layer 26A (see FIG. 5) is formed by injecting liquid crystal into the second liquid crystal injection layer 26.

[0022] In this embodiment, GH liquid crystal (guest-host liquid crystal) is used as the liquid crystal constituting the first liquid crystal layer 25A and the second liquid crystal layer 26A. The liquid crystal alignment between the two liquid crystal layers is in a crossed Nicol configuration, thereby improving the image quality when the liquid crystal light control device 100 is applied to an imaging device.

[0023] The upper substrate 11, the middle substrate 12, and the lower substrate 13 are glass substrates that separate the first liquid crystal layer 25A and the second liquid crystal layer 26A. The upper substrate 11 is the uppermost substrate, the lower substrate 13 is the lowermost substrate, and the middle substrate 12 is a glass substrate that is disposed between the upper substrate 11 and the lower substrate 13.

[0024] The upper substrate 11 and the middle substrate 12 are joined by a first seal portion 21. For example, the vicinity of the periphery of the upper substrate 11 and the vicinity of the periphery of the middle substrate 12 are joined by the first seal portion 21. Furthermore, the middle substrate 12 and the lower substrate 13 are joined by a second seal portion 22. For example, the vicinity of the periphery of the middle substrate 12 and the vicinity of the periphery of the lower substrate 13 are joined by the second seal portion 22. For example, an adhesive such as an epoxy adhesive or an acrylic adhesive is used as the first seal portion 21 and the second seal portion 22.

[0025] As described above, in this embodiment, the liquid crystal light control device 100 has two liquid crystal layers (the first liquid crystal layer 25A and the second liquid crystal layer 26A). Corresponding to this configuration, a total of four electrodes are formed: two electrodes serving as counter electrodes for one liquid crystal layer and two electrodes serving as counter electrodes for the other liquid crystal layer. Accordingly, four terminals are also formed. For example, ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) can be used as the electrodes. An ITO film laminated with an AR (Anti-Reflection) film may also be used.

[0026] Specifically, a first electrode E1 is formed on the back surface 11B of the upper substrate 11. A first terminal T1 corresponding to the first electrode E1 is formed on the front surface 12A of the middle substrate 12. A second terminal T2 is a terminal corresponding to the second electrode E2 formed on the front surface 12A of the middle substrate 12. The second terminal T2 is a terminal formed as part of the second electrode E2 formed on the front surface 12A of the same middle substrate 12. A gap exists in the thickness direction (Z direction) between the first electrode E1 formed on the upper substrate 11 and the first terminal T1 formed on the middle substrate 12. For this reason, a silver point 31 is provided between the upper substrate 11 and the middle substrate 12 to electrically connect the first terminal T1 and the first electrode E1.

[0027] The third terminal T3 corresponds to the third electrode E3 formed on the back surface 12B of the middle substrate 12, and the fourth terminal T4 corresponds to the fourth electrode E4 formed on the front surface 13A of the lower substrate 13. The fourth terminal T4 is formed as part of the fourth electrode E4 formed on the front surface 13A of the lower substrate 13. A gap exists in the thickness direction of the liquid crystal dimming device 100 between the third terminal T3 formed on the lower substrate 13 and the third electrode E3 formed on the middle substrate 12. For this reason, a silver dot 32 electrically connecting the third terminal T3 and the third electrode E3 is provided between the middle substrate 12 and the lower substrate 13. For example, conductive carbon is used as the silver dots 31 and 32. Note that, in FIG. 5, to avoid complication, the alignment films laminated on the first electrode E1, the second electrode E2, the third electrode E3, and the fourth electrode E4, and the spacers disposed between the substrates, are omitted.

[0028] A cable-equipped connector (not shown) is connected to the first terminal T1, the second terminal T2, the third terminal T3, and the fourth terminal T4. A liquid crystal drive signal SP1 is supplied to the pair of the first terminal T1 and the second terminal T2 via the cable-equipped connector. The liquid crystal drive signal SP1 controls the orientation of the liquid crystal that constitutes the first liquid crystal layer 25A. Furthermore, a liquid crystal drive signal SP2 is supplied to the pair of the third terminal T3 and the fourth terminal T4. The liquid crystal drive signal SP2 controls the orientation of the liquid crystal that constitutes the second liquid crystal layer 26A.

[0029] The lower substrate 13 is formed with liquid crystal filling ports 36 for filling liquid crystal into the first liquid crystal filling layer 25 and the second liquid crystal filling layer 26. In this embodiment, the liquid crystal filling ports 36 include four liquid crystal filling ports 36A, 36B, 36C, and 36D. The four liquid crystal filling ports are provided at positions on the lower substrate 13 corresponding to positions near the four corners of the second liquid crystal filling layer 26 when the second liquid crystal filling layer 26 is viewed in a plan view. When there is no need to distinguish between the four liquid crystal filling ports, they will be collectively referred to as the liquid crystal filling ports 36.

[0030] The middle substrate 12 is formed with a liquid crystal filling port 37 for filling liquid crystal into the first liquid crystal filling layer 25. In this embodiment, the liquid crystal filling port 37 includes four liquid crystal filling ports 37A, 37B, 37C, and 37D. The four liquid crystal filling ports are provided at positions on the middle substrate 12 that correspond to positions near the four corners of the first liquid crystal filling layer 25 when the first liquid crystal filling layer 25 is viewed in a plan view. When there is no need to distinguish between the four liquid crystal filling ports, they will be collectively referred to as the liquid crystal filling port 37.

[0031] The liquid crystal injection port 36 penetrates the lower substrate 13, and the liquid crystal injection port 37 penetrates the middle substrate 12. In this embodiment, the liquid crystal injection ports 36 and 37 are formed to have the same shape and size. Furthermore, their formation positions overlap in the in-plane direction; in other words, they are arranged so that their formation positions overlap in the thickness direction (Z direction, the stacking direction of the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 and the second liquid crystal injection layer 26). Specifically, the formation positions of the liquid crystal injection ports 36A and 37A overlap in the in-plane direction and thickness direction. Furthermore, the formation positions of the liquid crystal injection ports 36B and 37B overlap in the in-plane direction and thickness direction. Furthermore, the formation positions of the liquid crystal injection ports 36C and 37C overlap in the in-plane direction and thickness direction. Furthermore, the formation positions of the liquid crystal injection ports 36D and 37D overlap in the in-plane direction and thickness direction. A liquid crystal injection port 37 located between the layers communicates with the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 and the second liquid crystal injection layer 26.

[0032] As will be described in detail later, liquid crystal is injected into the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 and the second liquid crystal injection layer 26 through the liquid crystal injection port 36 and the liquid crystal injection port 37. After the liquid crystal is injected, the liquid crystal injection port 36 is closed by a stopper 41. Specifically, the liquid crystal injection ports 36A to 36D are closed by corresponding stoppers 41A to 41D, respectively (see FIG. 5). After the liquid crystal is injected, the liquid crystal injection port 37 is closed by a stopper 42. Specifically, the liquid crystal injection ports 37A to 37D are closed by corresponding stoppers 42A to 42D, respectively (see FIG. 5). The stopper members 41 and 42 are the same stopper member, and for example, a hardened adhesive can be used.

[0033] The components of the liquid crystal light control device 100 described above are merely examples, and the liquid crystal light control device 100 may include components other than those described above. For example, in Fig. 4, the area of ​​each electrode that protrudes in the -X direction may be used as a monitoring area for optical density. A connector equipped with a sensor for detecting optical density may be connected to the monitoring area.

[0034] [Asymmetric formation area] (Example of shape) 6 and 7, an example of an asymmetric forming portion of the liquid crystal light control device 100 will be described. Fig. 6 is a plan view of the surface 12A of the middle substrate 12 on which the first seal portion 21 is formed. Fig. 7A is a partial enlarged view of the area surrounded by dotted line PA in Fig. 6, and Fig. 7B is a partial enlarged view of the area surrounded by dotted line PB in Fig. 6.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 6, the first sealing portion 21 has a schematic frame-like shape. An effective dimming area AP is defined within the area enclosed by the first sealing portion 21. The effective dimming area AP is an area that ensures that dimming will work effectively, and is defined as an area narrower than the entire liquid crystal filling area of ​​the first liquid crystal injection layer 25. A reference position RP is set in approximately the center of the effective dimming area AP. Note that the reference position RP can be set to an appropriate position different from approximately the center of the effective dimming area AP. Although not shown, an effective dimming area AP is also defined within the area enclosed by the second sealing portion 22.

[0036] Specifically, first seal portion 21 has first side portion 21A, second side portion 21B facing first side portion 21A, third side portion 21C connecting first side portion 21A and second side portion 21B, and fourth side portion 21D facing third side portion 21C. First side portion 21A, second side portion 21B, and third side portion 21C are linear sides. Fourth side portion 21D has linear portions 21DA and 21DB extending from the respective ends, bent portion 21DC bending obliquely upward from the tip of linear portion 21DA toward the inside, bent portion 21DD bending obliquely downward from the tip of linear portion 21DB toward the inside, and linear portion 21DE connecting the tip of bent portion 21DC to the tip of bent portion 21DD.

[0037] The asymmetric forming portion is intended to impart asymmetry to the inflow of liquid crystal in the multiple inflow paths of liquid crystal extending from the liquid crystal injection port. In this embodiment, the asymmetric forming portion has a first wall portion 51 and a second wall portion 61. The first wall portion 51 is formed from the same material as the first seal portion 21 and is formed in the same process. This simplifies the manufacturing process of the liquid crystal light control device 100. The second wall portion 52 is formed from the same material as the second seal portion 22 and is formed in the same process. This simplifies the manufacturing process of the liquid crystal light control device 100.

[0038] A description will be given of an example shape of the first wall portion 51. The first wall portion 51 has wall portion 51A and wall portion 51B provided on the right side outside the effective dimming area AP, wall portion 51C provided near the lower left corner outside the effective dimming area AP, and wall portion 51D provided near the upper left corner outside the effective dimming area AP.

[0039] The wall 51A is a wall that is approximately parallel to the third side 21C. A liquid crystal injection port 37A is provided between a lower portion of the wall 51A and the third side 21C. The wall 51B is a wall that is approximately parallel to the third side 21C. A liquid crystal injection port 37B is provided between an upper portion of the wall 51B and the third side 21C.

[0040] 7A, the wall portion 51C has a wall portion 511C that is substantially parallel to the second side portion 21B, a wall portion 512C that is substantially parallel to the straight portion 21DA, and a wall portion 513C that is substantially parallel to the bent portion 21DC. The wall portion 51C is formed by integrally connecting these wall portions 511C, 512C, and 513C. A liquid crystal injection port 37C is provided between the boundary between the straight portion 21DA and the bent portion 21DC and the boundary between the wall portion 512C and the wall portion 513C.

[0041] 7B , the wall portion 51D has a wall portion 511D that is substantially parallel to the first side portion 21A, a wall portion 512D that is substantially parallel to the straight portion 21DB, and a wall portion 513D that is substantially parallel to the bent portion 21DD. The wall portion 51D is formed by integrally connecting these wall portions 511D, 512D, and 513D. A liquid crystal injection port 37D is provided between the vicinity of the boundary between the straight portion 21DB and the bent portion 21DD and the vicinity of the boundary between the wall portion 512D and the wall portion 513D.

[0042] In this embodiment, the first wall portion 51 and the second wall portion 52 have substantially the same shape. Therefore, the above description is also applicable to the second wall portion 52. However, this does not exclude the possibility that the first wall portion 51 and the second wall portion 52 have differences in configuration.

[0043] 4, a configuration example of the second wall portion 52 will be described briefly. The second wall portion 52 has a wall portion 52A having a shape similar to that of the wall portion 51A, a wall portion 52B having a shape similar to that of the wall portion 51B, a wall portion 52C having a shape similar to that of the wall portion 51C, and a wall portion 52D having a shape similar to that of the wall portion 51D. In this embodiment, the first seal portion 21 and the second seal portion 22 form a seal portion.

[0044] (action) Next, the function of the asymmetry forming portion according to this embodiment will be described. The wall portion 51A constituting the asymmetry forming portion imparts asymmetry to the inflow of liquid crystal in the multiple inflow paths of liquid crystal extending from the liquid crystal injection port 37A. Here, the asymmetry to the inflow of liquid crystal is, for example, a difference in the length (e.g., the shortest distance) of the inflow path from the liquid crystal injection port 37A to a reference position, and the reference position is, for example, approximately the center of the effective dimming area AP set within the first seal portion 21 (the reference position RP described above).

[0045] As shown in Fig. 8, liquid crystal LC is injected through the liquid crystal injection port 37A. The wall portion 51A branches the inflow path of the liquid crystal LC within the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 into two, forming two inflow paths starting from the liquid crystal injection port 37A. For example, an inflow path RA having a short length from the liquid crystal injection port 37A to the reference position RP and an inflow path RB having a long length from the liquid crystal injection port 37A to the reference position RP are formed. Similarly, the wall portion 51B also forms two inflow paths having different lengths through which the liquid crystal LC injected through the liquid crystal injection port 37B flows.

[0046] The wall portion 51C also forms two inflow paths for the liquid crystal LC of different lengths. As shown in FIG. 9, the liquid crystal LC is injected through the liquid crystal injection port 37C. The wall portion 51C branches the inflow path of the liquid crystal LC within the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 into two, forming two inflow paths starting from the liquid crystal injection port 37C. For example, an inflow path RC having a short length from the liquid crystal injection port 37C to the reference position RP and an inflow path RD having a long length from the liquid crystal injection port 37C to the reference position RP are formed. Similarly, the wall portion 51D also forms two inflow paths of different lengths through which the liquid crystal LC injected through the liquid crystal injection port 37D flows.

[0047] [Example of manufacturing method for liquid crystal light control device] Next, an example of a manufacturing method for the liquid crystal light control device 100 according to this embodiment will be described. First, the upper substrate 11, middle substrate 12, and lower substrate 13 are prepared. A first electrode E1 is formed on the rear surface 11B of the upper substrate 11. A second electrode E2 is formed on the front surface 12A of the middle substrate 12, and a third electrode E3 is formed on the rear surface 12B. A fourth electrode E4 is formed on the front surface 13A of the lower substrate 13. For example, each electrode is formed by patterning a transparent conductive film with a laser.

[0048] Next, a liquid crystal injection port 36 is formed in the lower substrate 13, and a liquid crystal injection port 37 is formed in the middle substrate 12. For example, the liquid crystal injection port 36 and the liquid crystal injection port 37 are formed by hole drilling using a laser.

[0049] Next, a process of forming the seal portion is performed. For example, a first seal portion 21 is formed on the rear surface 11B of the upper substrate 11. At this time, a first wall portion 51 is also formed at the same time. A second seal portion 22 is formed on the front surface 13A of the lower substrate 13. At this time, a second wall portion 52 is also formed at the same time. For example, the first seal portion 21, the second seal portion 22, the first wall portion 51, and the second wall portion 52 (hereinafter, collectively referred to as the first seal portion 21, etc.) are formed by screen printing. As a material for the first seal portion 21, etc., for example, a thermosetting resin such as an epoxy resin is used.

[0050] Subsequently, silver dots 31 are formed on the rear surface 11B of the upper substrate 11, and silver dots 32 are formed on the rear surface 12B of the middle substrate 12. For example, the silver dots 31 and 32 are formed by applying conductive carbon.

[0051] Next, a spacer scattering step is performed. For example, glass beads are scattered on the back surface 11B of the upper substrate 11 and the front surface 12A of the middle substrate 12. In this example, a liquid (e.g., ethanol) containing glass beads with a diameter of 7 μm is scattered by a spray method or the like.

[0052] Next, the upper substrate 11 and the middle substrate 12 are bonded together with a first seal 21, and the middle substrate 12 and the lower substrate 13 are bonded together with a second seal 22. In this embodiment, because a thermosetting resin is used as the material for the first seal 21 and the second seal 22, the bonding process is performed by applying pressure to the aligned upper substrate 11, middle substrate 12, and lower substrate 13 while heating them. Through this process, the periphery of the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 is sealed with the first seal 21, and a first wall 51 is disposed within the first liquid crystal injection layer 25. Furthermore, the periphery of the second liquid crystal injection layer 26 is sealed with the second seal 22, and a first wall 52 is disposed within the second liquid crystal injection layer 26.

[0053] Next, the liquid crystal LC is injected into the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 and the second liquid crystal injection layer 26 through the liquid crystal injection port 36 and the liquid crystal injection port 37. The injection of the liquid crystal LC is performed using a liquid crystal droplet LCA containing the liquid crystal LC placed on a predetermined jig 60, as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 10. Specifically, in this example, the liquid crystal LC is injected by bringing the tip of the liquid crystal droplet LCA placed on the jig 60 and subjected to surface tension into contact with the liquid crystal injection port 36. In this case, the injection of the liquid crystal LC is performed by utilizing capillary action. Note that the injection of the liquid crystal LC into the four liquid crystal injection ports (liquid crystal injection ports 36A to 36D) is performed, for example, simultaneously.

[0054] The liquid crystal LC injected through the liquid crystal injection port 36 fills not only the second liquid crystal injection layer 26 formed between the lower substrate 13 and the middle substrate 12, but also the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 formed between the middle substrate 12 and the upper substrate 11 via the liquid crystal injection port 37. Here, by injecting the liquid crystal by bringing the tip of the liquid crystal droplet LCA, which is subjected to surface tension, into contact with the liquid crystal injection port 36 as described above, the liquid crystal is less likely to leak out of the liquid crystal injection port 36, thereby improving the use efficiency of the liquid crystal LC. Since the liquid crystal injection ports 36 and 37 are positioned in the in-plane direction, particularly their centers, overlap, the liquid crystal LC injected through the liquid crystal injection port 36 can be more easily injected through the liquid crystal injection port 37 into the liquid crystal layer at the back (first liquid crystal injection layer 25), thereby shortening the time required for the liquid crystal injection process.

[0055] After the liquid crystal LC has been filled, the liquid crystal injection port 36 is closed with the plug 41, and the liquid crystal injection port 37 is closed with the plug 42. Specifically, in this example, the liquid crystal LC filled is expanded by heating, and the liquid crystal is sucked out through the liquid crystal injection port 36. An adhesive made of, for example, an ultraviolet curable resin as the plugs 41 and 42 is injected into the gap formed thereby through the liquid crystal injection port 36. Thereafter, as the filled liquid crystal LC cools, the injected adhesive is drawn into the liquid crystal injection port 37, thereby closing the liquid crystal injection ports 36 and 37 and sealing the liquid crystal LC.

[0056] Next, a cable-attached connector is attached to each terminal or electrode, completing the liquid crystal light control device 100. Note that the above-described manufacturing method is an example, and the order of some of the steps may be reversed.

[0057] [Effects Obtained by This Embodiment] In the liquid crystal light control device according to this embodiment, the asymmetrical forming portion forms liquid crystal inflow paths (flow channels) of different lengths in two directions from each liquid crystal inlet. This effectively reduces the wear load on the alignment film near the liquid crystal inlet compared to a configuration with only one inflow path from one liquid crystal inlet (see Figure 2). This reduces the occurrence of defects such as in-plane unevenness and white spots caused by wear of the alignment film.

[0058] Furthermore, when injecting liquid crystal into the first or second liquid crystal injection layer, the liquid crystal tends to flow along the outer edges (the first or second sealing portion), so the inflow speed of the liquid crystal LC is generally faster on the outer edge side (the sealing side). In this embodiment, of the two paths extending from one liquid crystal injection port, the short inflow path (e.g., the inflow paths RA and RC described above) is located at the center of the effective light control area, and the long inflow path (e.g., the inflow paths RB and RD described above) is located at the outer edge side. In this way, by providing asymmetry in the lengths of the inflow paths in consideration of the inflow speed of the liquid crystal, a liquid crystal inflow wavefront that is approximately parallel can be achieved. FIGS. 11A to 11D are schematic diagrams illustrating the process by which the liquid crystal LC (indicated by dots) spreads within the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 (or the second liquid crystal injection layer 26) in this embodiment. FIG. 11A shows the state before the liquid crystal LC is injected. The edges of the liquid crystal LC from each liquid crystal injection port are positioned at approximately the same position in the X direction (FIG. 11B), and ultimately, the edges of the liquid crystal LC propagating left and right become approximately parallel (FIGS. 11C and 11D). This reduces the risk of spacers or residual gas agglomerating near the center and the risk of bright spots resulting from this, as explained in FIG. 3, thereby improving the quality of image quality as well as the strength and reliability of the liquid crystal dimming device. Furthermore, the liquid crystal LC can be dispersed as uniformly as possible in the in-plane direction of the liquid crystal injection layer into which the liquid crystal LC is injected.

[0059] Furthermore, when multiple (e.g., two) liquid crystal layers are provided, the liquid crystal light control device according to this embodiment requires only three substrates, compared to a configuration in which two substrates are stacked with a liquid crystal layer filled between the substrates, thereby enabling the overall size of the liquid crystal light control device to be reduced.Furthermore, the manufacturing process can be simplified because the liquid crystal injection process can be performed only once, rather than multiple times.

[0060] [Application example to imaging device] The liquid crystal light control device 100 according to this embodiment can be applied to, for example, an imaging device. An example of application of the liquid crystal light control device 100 to an imaging device will be described with reference to Figs.

[0061] 12 shows an image capture device 70 and a lens barrel 80 as one of the interchangeable lenses that can be detachably attached to the image capture device 70. The external shapes of the image capture device 70 and lens barrel 80 shown in the figure are merely examples. One type of this embodiment is assumed to be an interchangeable lens video camera or digital still camera.

[0062] As shown in the figure, imaging device 70 is formed with a mount section 71 for lens barrel 80, and lens barrel 80 can be detachably attached to imaging device 70 via mount section 71. Mount section 71 is also formed with terminal sections 72. Lens barrel 80 corresponding to imaging device 70 is provided with electrical contacts that come into contact with the electrical contacts of terminal section 72 when attached to imaging device 70, and this contact state forms transmission paths for various electrical signals between imaging device 70 and lens barrel 80.

[0063] FIG. 13 schematically illustrates the arrangement of a liquid crystal light control device 100, an image sensor 73, and a light control driver 74 that drives the liquid crystal light control device 100 within the camera body of an image capture device 70. The light control driver 74 provides liquid crystal drive signals SP1 and SP2 to each liquid crystal layer in the liquid crystal light control device 100 to control the transmittance of each liquid crystal layer. The image sensor 73 is configured, for example, as a charge-coupled device (CCD) type or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) type. A lens system 81 including multiple optical components such as a zoom lens and a focus lens is provided on the lens barrel 80 side. In the configuration example of FIG. 13, when the lens barrel 80 is attached to the image capture device 70, incident light passing through the lens system 81 is modulated by the liquid crystal light control device 100 on the image capture device 70 side and received by the image capture device 73.

[0064] FIG. 14A shows an example in which a lens system 81, a liquid crystal light control device 100, and a light control driver 74 are arranged on the lens barrel 80 side, and an imaging element 73 is arranged on the main body side of the imaging device 70. In this case as well, when the lens barrel 80 is attached to the imaging device 70 , the incident light passing through the lens system 81 is modulated by the liquid crystal light modulating device 100 and received by the imaging element 73 .

[0065] 14B shows an example in which the lens system 81 and the liquid crystal light control device 100 are arranged on the lens barrel 80 side, and the image sensor 73 and the dimming driver 74 are arranged on the main body side of the imaging device 70. In this example, when the lens barrel 80 is attached to the imaging device 70, the liquid crystal drive signals SP1 and SP2 are supplied to the liquid crystal light control device 100 from the dimming driver 74.

[0066] 15 shows an image pickup device 70A that is not a lens-interchangeable type but has an integrated lens, and this type of image pickup device 70A is also one type of this embodiment. Naturally, in this case, the lens system 81, the liquid crystal light control device 100, the image pickup element 73, and the light control drive unit 74 are all disposed within the main body of the image pickup device 70A.

[0067] FIG. 16 shows an example in which the liquid crystal dimming device 100 and the dimming driver 74 are built into an adapter device 90. As shown schematically in FIG. 16, the adapter device 90 is disposed between the imaging device 70 and the lens barrel 80. The adapter device 90 is detachable from both the imaging device 70 and the lens barrel 80. In this manner, the present disclosure can also be realized as an adapter device 90 having the liquid crystal dimming device 100 as a liquid crystal dimming unit. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 16, the dimming driver 74 may be located in the lens barrel 80 or the imaging device 70.

[0068] <Modification> Although one embodiment of the present disclosure has been specifically described above, the content of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications based on the technical ideas of the present disclosure are possible.

[0069] The shape of the wall portion of the asymmetric forming portion can be changed as appropriate. For example, it may have the shape of the wall portion (wall portion 51E) shown in FIG. 17. The wall portion 51E has, for example, a wall portion 511E that is substantially parallel to the third side portion 21C, a wall portion 512E that is located inside the wall portion 511E and is substantially parallel to the third side portion 21C, and a connecting portion 513E that is substantially parallel to the first side portion 21A and connects the wall portion 511E and the wall portion 512E. A liquid crystal injection port 37A is provided between the connecting portion 513E and the third side portion 21C (approximately the center of the wall portion 51E in the Y direction).

[0070] The wall portion 51E forms inflow paths RE and RF as inflow paths for the liquid crystal LC. In this example, the width WA (length in the X direction) of the inflow path RE is different from the width WB (length in the X direction) of the inflow path RF. For example, the width WA is set larger than the width WB. In this way, the asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal may be due to the difference in width between the inflow paths. The difference between the widths WA and WB causes a difference in the flow velocity of the liquid crystal LC flowing through the inflow path RE and the flow velocity of the liquid crystal LC flowing through the inflow path RF. Specifically, the flow velocity of the liquid crystal LC flowing through the inflow path RF is faster than the flow velocity of the liquid crystal LC flowing through the inflow path RE. In this way, from another perspective, the asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal may be due to a difference in the flow velocity of the liquid crystal flowing through the inflow paths. Furthermore, the difference between the widths WA and WB causes a difference in the flow rate of the liquid crystal LC flowing through the inflow path RE (e.g., the flow rate of the liquid crystal LC flowing per unit time) and the flow rate of the liquid crystal LC flowing through the inflow path RF. Specifically, the flow rate of the liquid crystal LC flowing through the inflow path RE is greater than the flow rate of the liquid crystal LC flowing through the inflow path RF. In this way, from another perspective, the asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal may be a difference in the flow rate of the liquid crystal flowing through the inflow path.

[0071] In the above-described embodiment, the liquid crystal is injected into the first and second liquid crystal injection layers from the same direction (the lower substrate side). However, the liquid crystal may be injected into the first and second liquid crystal injection layers from different directions. For example, as shown in FIG. 18 , a liquid crystal injection port 37 is provided in the upper substrate 11. Then, liquid crystal is injected into the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 through the liquid crystal injection port 37 from the front surface 11A side of the upper substrate 11 (upward direction (an example of a first direction)). As in the above-described embodiment, liquid crystal is injected into the second liquid crystal injection layer 26 through the liquid crystal injection port 36 from the rear surface 13B side of the lower substrate 13 (downward direction (an example of a second direction)). This configuration allows the liquid crystal to be dispersed more uniformly in the first liquid crystal injection layer 25 than a configuration in which liquid crystal is injected through a liquid crystal injection port between layers.

[0072] In the above-described embodiment, the liquid crystal layer includes two liquid crystal layers, a first liquid crystal layer and a second liquid crystal layer. However, the number of sealing portions may be one or three or more. The number of sealing portions may be other than two. Furthermore, while two liquid crystal inflow paths are formed by the wall portion, which is an example of the asymmetric forming portion, three or more inflow paths may be formed. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, an example configuration in which the asymmetric forming portion includes eight wall portions (four wall portions of the first wall portion 51 and four wall portions of the second wall portion 52) has been described. However, some of the eight wall portions may be asymmetric forming portions, or the number of wall portions may be other than eight. The shape of the wall portions may also be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, the asymmetric forming portion may be a recessed portion provided in the middle substrate or the lower substrate instead of a wall portion, and such a recessed portion may impart asymmetry to the inflow of liquid crystal. The liquid crystal dimming device may be applicable to applications other than ND filters.

[0073] The liquid crystal light control device described in the above embodiment may have other components, for example, a pair of polarizing plates provided on the front side of the upper substrate and the back side of the lower substrate.

[0074] The configurations, methods, steps, shapes, materials, and numerical values, etc., described in the embodiment and modified examples are merely examples, and different configurations, methods, steps, shapes, materials, and numerical values, etc., may be used as needed. Furthermore, the materials exemplified in the embodiment and modified examples may be used alone or in combination of two or more types, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the components described in the embodiment and modified examples may be combined as appropriate.

[0075] The effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and other effects may also be obtained.

[0076] The present disclosure may also have the following configurations. (1) a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; an asymmetry forming portion for providing asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal inlet; A liquid crystal dimming device having the same. (2) The asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal is a difference in the length of the inflow path from the liquid crystal injection port to the reference position. The liquid crystal light control device according to (1). (3) the reference position is approximately the center of an effective light control area set within the seal portion; The liquid crystal light control device according to (2). (4) The asymmetry in the inflow of the liquid crystal is a difference in the flow speed of the liquid crystal flowing through the inflow path. The liquid crystal light control device according to (1). (5) The asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal is a difference in width between the inflow paths. The liquid crystal light control device according to (1). (6) The asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal is a difference in the flow rate of the liquid crystal flowing through the inflow path. The liquid crystal light control device according to (1). (7) a plurality of the liquid crystal injection layers stacked one on top of the other; the liquid crystal injection ports for the liquid crystal injection layers are arranged so as to overlap each other along the stacking direction of the liquid crystal injection layers; A liquid crystal light control device according to any one of (1) to (6). (8) a liquid crystal injection port is formed through which liquid crystal is injected from a first direction into the liquid crystal injection layer disposed below; a liquid crystal injection port is formed through which liquid crystal is injected from a second direction opposite to the first direction into the liquid crystal injection layer disposed on the upper side; The liquid crystal light control device according to (7). (9) The asymmetric forming portion is a wall portion that is substantially parallel to the sealing portion. A liquid crystal light control device according to any one of (1) to (8). (10) The asymmetric forming portion has a shape in which a plurality of wall portions substantially parallel to the sealing portion are connected by connecting portions. A liquid crystal light control device according to any one of (1) to (9). (11) the asymmetric formation portion forms two inflow paths originating from the liquid crystal injection port; A liquid crystal light control device according to any one of (1) to (10). (12) The asymmetric forming portion is formed of the same material as the sealing portion. A liquid crystal light control device according to any one of (1) to (11). (13) The liquid crystal injection port is sealed with a plug. A liquid crystal light control device according to any one of (1) to (12). (14) An imaging element; A liquid crystal dimming unit, a light control driver that drives the liquid crystal light control unit; and The liquid crystal light control unit a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; an asymmetry forming portion for providing asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal inlet; Imaging device. (15) a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; an asymmetry forming portion for providing asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal inlet; An adapter device having: [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 11. Upper board 12...Medium board 13 Lower board 21 First seal part 22 Second seal part 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D...LCD inlet 37A, 37B, 37C, 37D...LCD inlet 51...1st wall section 51A, 51B, 51C, 51D...Wall section 52...Second wall part 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D...Wall section 73 Imaging device 100···LCD dimming device AP: Effective dimming area LC...Liquid Crystal RA, RB, RC, RD, RE, RF... Inflow path RP...Reference position

Claims

1. a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; a wall portion for providing asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal inlet; and the sealing portion has a side portion along a propagation direction in which the liquid crystal propagates from the liquid crystal injection port toward approximately the center of an effective dimming area set within the sealing portion, the wall portion is provided independently of the sealing portion within the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion, Further, the wall portion has a first end and a second end, the first end is provided at a position closer to the approximate center of the effective light control area than the second end, and the second end is provided at a position closer to the side portion than the first end, the liquid crystal injection port is provided at a position closer to the first end than to the second end. LCD dimmer.

2. the asymmetry in the inflow of the liquid crystal is a difference in the length of the inflow path from the liquid crystal injection port to approximately the center of the effective dimming area; The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 1 .

3. The asymmetry in the inflow of the liquid crystal is a difference in the flow speed of the liquid crystal flowing through the inflow path. The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 1 .

4. The asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal is a difference in width between the inflow paths. The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 1 .

5. a plurality of the liquid crystal injection layers stacked one on top of the other; the liquid crystal injection ports for the liquid crystal injection layers are arranged so as to overlap each other along the stacking direction of the liquid crystal injection layers; The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 1 .

6. a liquid crystal injection port is formed through which liquid crystal is injected from a first direction into the liquid crystal injection layer disposed below; a liquid crystal injection port is formed through which liquid crystal is injected from a second direction opposite to the first direction into the liquid crystal injection layer disposed on the upper side; The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 5 .

7. The wall portion is a wall portion that is substantially parallel to the seal portion. The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 1 .

8. The wall portion has a shape in which a plurality of wall portions substantially parallel to the sealing portion are connected by connecting portions. The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 1 .

9. the wall portion forms two inflow paths originating from the liquid crystal injection port; The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 1 .

10. The wall portion is formed of the same material as the sealing portion. The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 1 .

11. The liquid crystal injection port is sealed with a plug. The liquid crystal light control device according to claim 1 .

12. An imaging element; A liquid crystal dimming unit, a light control driver that drives the liquid crystal light control unit; and The liquid crystal light control unit a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; a wall portion for providing asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal inlet; and the sealing portion has a side portion along a propagation direction in which the liquid crystal propagates from the liquid crystal injection port toward approximately the center of an effective dimming area set within the sealing portion, the wall portion is provided independently of the sealing portion within the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion, Further, the wall portion has a first end and a second end, the first end is provided at a position closer to the approximate center of the effective light control area than the second end, and the second end is provided at a position closer to the side portion than the first end, The liquid crystal injection port is provided at a position closer to the first end than to the second end. Imaging device.

13. a liquid crystal injection port for injecting liquid crystal into the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion; a wall portion for providing asymmetry regarding the inflow of the liquid crystal in a plurality of inflow paths extending from the liquid crystal inlet; and the sealing portion has a side portion along a propagation direction in which the liquid crystal propagates from the liquid crystal injection port toward approximately the center of an effective dimming area set within the sealing portion, the wall portion is provided independently of the sealing portion within the liquid crystal injection layer surrounded by the sealing portion, Further, the wall portion has a first end and a second end, the first end is provided at a position closer to the approximate center of the effective light control area than the second end, and the second end is provided at a position closer to the side portion than the first end, The liquid crystal injection port is provided at a position closer to the first end than to the second end. Adapter device.

Images