Light guide plate, light guide member, display device

The light guide member uses a light-guiding plate with visible and hidden patterns, enhanced by prisms for impactful displays that maintain design quality and allow for pattern changes.

JP7826807B2Active Publication Date: 2026-03-10OMRON CORP
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-03-31
Publication Date
2026-03-10

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

There is a demand for displays using light guide plates that can create more impactful visual effects.

Method used

A light guide member is configured with a light-guiding plate, a light-emitting functional portion, a first pattern visible outside the plate, and a second pattern formed by the functional portion that becomes visible when light enters the plate, combined with prisms to reflect light and enhance visibility.

Benefits of technology

The solution allows for a captivating display with a combined pattern that is impactful and maintains design integrity even with positional shifts, enabling easy replacement of light guide members to change displayed patterns.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

To provide a light guide member which uses a light guide plate to enable display with more impact.SOLUTION: A display device (1) disclosed herein includes a light guide member (2). The light guide member (2) comprises: a light guide plate (10) provided with a light incident surface (10a), a light output function unit, and a light output surface (10b) and configured to output incident light incident from the light incident surface (10a) from the light output surface (10b) using the light output function unit; a fixed pattern (11) formed on the light output surface (10b) of the light guide plate (10) or an opposite surface (10c) located opposite the light output surface (10b), the fixed pattern being a first pattern configured to be visible with light outside the light guide plate (10); and a hidden pattern (12), or a second pattern, formed by the light output function unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a light guide plate, a light guide member using the light guide plate, and a display device. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, acrylic stands and acrylic key holders have been illuminated by light. Acrylic stands are made of transparent acrylic resin plates with a display design such as a character printed on them. Acrylic key holders are made of transparent acrylic resin plates with a display design such as a character printed on them.

[0003] The holder for holding the acrylic stand etc. has a groove into which the bottom end of the acrylic stand etc. is inserted, and the acrylic stand etc. stands upright when the bottom end is inserted into the groove. A light source such as an LED is placed on the bottom of the groove, and the upright acrylic stand etc. receives light from the light source and emits light.

[0004] Furthermore, as a conventional technology for a display device using a light guide plate, for example, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known. In this technology, an advertising board as a display device includes a plurality of advertising sheets with different display content and a light guide plate arranged on the back of the advertising sheets. Light is supplied to the plurality of advertising sheets and the light guide plate from light-emitting diodes. The advertising sheets emit light from the light-emitting diodes to display a display pattern that is the advertising content, and the light guide plate diffuses the light from the light-emitting diodes and transmits the light to the advertising sheets, thereby making the image quality of the display pattern clearer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2010-503889 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In recent years, in the field of displays using light guide plates, there has been a demand for displays with greater impact.

[0007] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide a light guide member or the like that uses a light guide plate and is capable of producing a display with more impact. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention employs the following configuration.

[0009] In one example of the present disclosure, a light-guiding member includes a light-guiding plate having a light incident surface, a light-emitting functional portion, and a light-emitting surface, and causing incident light incident from the light incident surface to be emitted from the light-emitting surface by the light-emitting functional portion; a first pattern formed on the light-emitting surface of the light-guiding plate or on the surface opposite to the light-emitting surface, and visible in light outside the light-guiding plate; and a second pattern formed on the light-emitting functional portion.

[0010] According to the above configuration, a combined pattern consisting of the first and second patterns can be displayed by irradiating light into the light guide plate of the light guide member. The second pattern, which is formed by the light emitting functional unit and is displayed by irradiating light into the light guide plate, is different from the first pattern, so by combining the two, it is possible to create an impactful display.

[0011] In one example of the present disclosure, the light-guiding member may include a plurality of prisms formed on the opposite surface of the light-emitting functional portion and having a reflective surface that reflects the incident light, and the reflective surface may be oriented to face directly toward the incident light.

[0012] With this configuration, the second pattern is difficult for the viewer to see until light enters the light guide plate, and becomes visible once light enters the light guide plate, which allows for a more impactful display that can captivate the viewer.

[0013] In one example of the present disclosure, the light-guiding member may have the first pattern formed on the opposite surface, and the light-emitting function portion formed to extend over the area of ​​the first pattern at the portion where the first pattern and the second pattern meet.

[0014] According to the above configuration, even if the position of the first design is shifted relative to the light guide plate, the shift is not noticeable. This prevents deterioration of the design of the combined design formed by the first design and the second design, and allows the design to be maintained.

[0015] In one example of the present disclosure, the display device includes the light-guiding member, a light source unit arranged opposite the light incident surface of the light-guiding plate included in the light-guiding member, and a holder that holds an end of the light-guiding member to position the light-guiding member upright.

[0016] According to the above configuration, the display using the light guide member can be preferably performed.

[0017] In one example of the present disclosure, in the display device, the light guide member may be detachable from the holder.

[0018] According to the above configuration, the light guide member can be replaced, and therefore, by replacing the light guide member, the pattern displayed by the light guide member can be changed.

[0019] In one example of the present disclosure, a light guide plate has a light incident surface, a light output functional portion, and a light output surface, and causes incident light incident from the light incident surface to be output from the light output surface by the light output functional portion, and is provided with an arrangement area in which a first pattern visible in light outside the light guide plate is arranged, and a second pattern formed by the light output functional portion, the second pattern having a portion formed along the outline of the first pattern, and the brightness of the area of ​​the second pattern due to the incident light is greater than the brightness of the arrangement area due to the incident light.

[0020] According to the above configuration, it is possible to provide a light guide plate suitable for constituting the light guide member or the display device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a light guide member or the like that uses a light guide plate and is capable of producing a display with more impact. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a display device according to a first embodiment and a second embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a display device according to a first embodiment and a second embodiment. [Figure 3] 3 is a diagram showing a light guide plate included in the light guide member of the display device according to the first embodiment before a fixed pattern is formed thereon. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a light guide plate showing a plurality of prisms provided on the light guide plate. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the arrangement of prisms designed so that the entire surface of the pattern is illuminated by incident light from a light source unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the arrangement of prisms when a first light source unit and a second light source unit are arranged at an interval on the light incident surface, and a first hidden pattern and a second hidden pattern are displayed. [Figure 7] 7 is an enlarged view showing the arrangement of a plurality of first prisms and a plurality of second prisms that form the first hidden pattern and the second hidden pattern in FIG. 6. FIG. [Figure 8] 10 is a diagram showing a light guide plate included in a light guide member of a display device according to a second embodiment before a fixed pattern is formed thereon. FIG. [Figure 9] 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating positional deviation of fixed patterns that may occur in the light guide member of the display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is another diagram illustrating the positional deviation of the fixed pattern that may occur in the light guide member of the display device according to the first embodiment, and is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the light guide member. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is another diagram illustrating a positional deviation of a fixed pattern that may occur in the light guide member of the display device according to the second embodiment, and is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the light guide member. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a display device according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment according to one aspect of the present invention (hereinafter also referred to as "the present embodiment") will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0024] [Embodiment 1] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0025] §1 Application Examples 1, a display device 1 according to this embodiment includes a light guide member 2. The light guide member 2 includes a light guide plate 10, and displays a fixed design displayed by a fixed pattern 11 and a hidden pattern 12 formed by a light output functional portion formed on the light guide plate 10. The display device 1 includes a holder 4 that holds the light guide member 2 in an upright position, and the holder 4 includes a light source unit 3 that supplies light from a light incident surface 10a of the light guide plate 10 to the inside of the light guide plate 10.

[0026] The design of the hidden pattern 12 formed by the light emitting function part and displayed by light emission is different from the fixed pattern 11 formed by printing or the like, so by combining both, a display with impact can be achieved.

[0027] §2 Configuration example (1. Overview of display device 1) Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a display device 1 according to Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the display device 1 according to Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2.

[0028] 1 and 2, the display device 1 includes a light guide member 2, a light source unit 3, a holder 4, and a control unit 5. The light guide member 2 includes a light guide plate 10, and displays a fixed pattern (first pattern) and a hidden pattern (second pattern). The light source unit 3 is disposed opposite to the light incident surface of the light guide plate 10 included in the light guide member 2, and supplies light to enter the interior of the light guide plate 10.

[0029] The holder 4 holds the end of the light-guiding member 2 to position the light-guiding member 2 upright. The light-guiding member 2 is detachably provided with respect to the holder 4, and the pattern displayed by the light-guiding member 2 can be changed by replacing the light-guiding member 2. The control unit 5 controls the driving of the light source unit 3. The light source unit 3 and the control unit 5 are provided in the holder 4, for example.

[0030] <Light guide member> The light guide plate 10 included in the light guide member 2 is a member formed in the shape of a plate that is transparent to the visible light emitted from the light source unit 3. The light guide plate 10 is formed by molding a resin that is transparent to visible light, such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate, or cycloolefin polymer.

[0031] The light guide plate 10 has a light incident surface 10a, a light emitting functional portion, and a light emitting surface 10b. The light guide plate 10 causes incident light that enters through the light incident surface 10a to exit from the light emitting surface 10b by the light emitting functional portion. The light emitting functional portion has the function of causing incident light that enters the inside of the light guide plate 10 from the light incident surface 10a to exit from the light emitting surface 10b. The light guide plate 10 is formed with a fixed pattern 11 that displays a fixed design, and a hidden pattern 12 that displays a hidden design. The hidden pattern 12 is formed in the light emitting functional portion.

[0032] The fixed pattern 11 is visible in light outside the light guide plate 10. The fixed pattern 11 is formed on the light guide plate 10 using ink or the like that is visible in visible light. The fixed pattern 11 is always visible when there is light outside the light guide plate 10. The fixed pattern 11 may be provided on either the light exit surface 10b of the light guide plate 10 or the surface 10c opposite to the light exit surface 10b.

[0033] The fixed pattern 11 for the light guide plate 10 may be formed by printing directly on the light guide plate 10, or a sheet on which the fixed pattern 11 is printed may be attached to the light guide plate 10 using an adhesive (pressure-sensitive adhesive) such as glue. The light guide plate 10 has an arrangement region R (see FIG. 3 ) in which the fixed pattern 11 is arranged, and the fixed pattern 11 is arranged in the arrangement region R.

[0034] The hidden pattern 12 formed in the light emitting function section is difficult to see with light outside the light guide plate 10, but becomes visible with light incident from the light source section 3 into the inside of the light guide plate 10.

[0035] The fixed pattern displayed by the fixed pattern 11 and the hidden pattern displayed by the hidden pattern 12 have a predetermined positional relationship, and the fixed pattern and the hidden pattern form a predetermined design (design). The predetermined design can be accurately recognized by viewing the display device 1 from the front. In the example of FIG. 1, a hidden pattern (hidden pattern 12) representing a halo is provided around the fixed human-shaped pattern (fixed pattern 11). The hidden pattern 12 includes multiple patterns 12a, and each pattern 12a is formed by a light-emitting functional unit. <Light source part> The light source unit 3 is configured by, for example, a full-color LED. A plurality of light source units 3 may be provided.

[0036] <Holder> In the example shown in FIG. 1, the holder 4 has a groove 4a that holds the lower end of the light-guiding member 2. The light-guiding member 2 is held in an upright position by the holder 4 when the lower end is inserted into the groove 4a. Note that the light-guiding member 2 is not limited to being held at the lower end, but may also be held at a side end or an upper end, etc. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the light source unit 3 is arranged on the bottom surface of the groove 4a. The light source unit 3 is arranged so as to be embedded in the bottom surface of the groove 4a.

[0037] <Control unit> The control unit 5 drives the light source unit 3 in accordance with a preset drive pattern, for example, changing the emitted light color in a predetermined pattern and changing the light emission timing in a predetermined pattern.

[0038] (2.Light guide plate) Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the light guide plate 10 before the fixed pattern 11 is formed. As shown in Fig. 3, the light guide plate 10 has an arrangement region R where the fixed pattern 11 will be arranged by a method such as printing in a later process. Each pattern 12a of the hidden pattern 12 is formed in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the arrangement region R.

[0039] 3, hidden pattern 12 is a design representing a halo emanating from the periphery of human-shaped fixed pattern 11. Therefore, each pattern 12a is provided so as to be in contact with arrangement region R. In a post-process, fixed pattern 11 is provided in arrangement region R of such light guide plate 10 by a method such as printing, thereby obtaining light guide member 2.

[0040] Before the fixed pattern 11 is formed, the light guide plate 10 has an arrangement region R where the fixed pattern 11 is arranged, and a hidden pattern 12 formed by the light output function section. The hidden pattern 12 has a portion formed along the outline of the fixed design (fixed pattern 11). The brightness of the area of ​​the hidden pattern 12 due to the incident light incident from the light incident surface 10a is greater than the brightness of the arrangement region R due to the incident light.

[0041] (3.Light output function section) As described above, the light output functional portion has the function of causing incident light that enters the light guide plate 10 from the light incident surface 10a to exit from the light output surface 10b. The light output functional portion may be any portion that directs incident light toward the light output surface 10b, and may be, for example, unevenness that reflects and diffuses light formed on the light output surface 10b, the opposite surface 10c, or both. However, it is preferable that the hidden pattern is difficult for an observer to see when no light is supplied inside the light guide plate 10.

[0042] Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the light output function portion is configured to include (consisting of) a plurality of prisms 15 formed on the opposite surface 10c of the light guide plate 10 and having a reflecting surface 151 that reflects the incident light L1.

[0043] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the light guide plate 10, showing a plurality of prisms 15 provided on the light guide plate 10. As shown in Fig. 4, the reflecting surface 151 is oriented so as to face directly against the incident light L1. The reflecting surface 151 is also oriented so as to reflect the incident light L1 in a vertical direction, in a direction facing the light exit surface 10b.

[0044] According to the above configuration, each prism 15 can reflect light L1 incident on light guide plate 10, the light originating from light supplied from light source unit 3, so that the reflected light is approximately perpendicular to the incident light (outgoing light: arrow L2). Even if incident light (e.g., stray light) coming from a direction different from the incident light originating from light supplied by light source unit 3 is reflected by prism 15, it is emitted from light exit surface 10b of light guide plate 10 at a relatively large angle with respect to the exit surface of prism 15. Therefore, it is difficult for an observer positioned directly facing light exit surface 10b to observe this reflected light. Therefore, only while light source unit 3 is supplying light, light guide plate 10 (light guide member 2) can reveal to the observer a hidden design corresponding to hidden pattern 12 in which multiple prisms 15 are arranged.

[0045] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the arrangement of prism 15, which is designed so that the entire surface of pattern 12a is illuminated by incident light from light source unit 3. As shown in Fig. 5, prism 15 is arranged corresponding to the traveling direction of incident light L1, which spreads radially. In the example of Fig. 5, prism 15 is arranged so that reflecting surface 151 directly faces incident light L1 traveling in three directions, corresponding to the three traveling directions of incident light L1.

[0046] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the arrangement of prisms 15 when first light source unit 3A and second light source unit 3B are arranged at an interval on light incident surface 10a to display first hidden pattern 12A and second hidden pattern 12B.

[0047] Figure 7 is an enlarged view showing the arrangement of multiple first prisms 15A and multiple second prisms 15B that form first hidden pattern 12A and second hidden pattern 12B in Figure 6. The diagram indicated by reference numeral 701 in Figure 7 shows the arrangement of multiple first prisms 15A. The diagram indicated by reference numeral 702 shows the arrangement of multiple second prisms 15B. The diagram indicated by reference numeral 703 shows an arrangement in which multiple first prisms 15A and multiple second prisms 15B are mixed, with first hidden pattern 12A and second hidden pattern 12B overlapping.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 6, a light incident surface 10a that faces the first light source unit 3A and the second light source unit 3B is formed on one surface of the side wall of the light guide plate 10.

[0049] Light from the first light source unit 3A enters the light guide plate 10 through the light incident surface 10a. The light propagating through the light guide plate 10 is totally reflected by a plurality of first prisms 15A formed on the opposite surface (diffusion surface) 10c located inside the light guide plate 10. The reflected incident light is then emitted from the light exit surface 10b of the light guide plate 10, which faces the opposite surface 10c. The plurality of first prisms 15A are arranged along the first hidden pattern 12A to form the first hidden pattern 12A. Therefore, while the first light source unit 3A is turned on, the viewer can observe the first hidden pattern 12A, which appears to be luminous on the surface of the light guide plate 10. Note that the sizes of the first prisms 15A and the second prisms 15B are exaggerated in FIG. 6 for clarity.

[0050] Similarly, light from second light source unit 3B enters light guide plate 10 from light incident surface 10a. The light propagating through light guide plate 10 is totally reflected by multiple second prisms 15B formed on the opposite surface (diffusion surface) 10c, and then exits from light exit surface 10b. Multiple second prisms 15B are arranged along second hidden pattern 12B to form second hidden pattern 12B. Therefore, while second light source unit 3B is turned on, an observer can observe second hidden pattern 12B, which appears to be emitting light on the surface of light guide plate 10.

[0051] Each of the plurality of first prisms 15A is formed, for example, as a substantially triangular groove having a predetermined length on opposite surface 10c. Each of the plurality of first prisms 15A has a reflective surface 151A that forms a predetermined angle with respect to opposite surface 10c. Similarly, each of the plurality of second prisms 15B is formed, for example, as a substantially triangular groove having a predetermined length on opposite surface 10c. Each of the plurality of second prisms 15B has a reflective surface 151B that forms a predetermined angle with respect to opposite surface 10c. Note that the predetermined angle is set to an angle at which light from first light source unit 3A or second light source unit 3B that has entered light guide plate 10 is totally reflected and directed toward light exit surface 10b, for example, to an angle of 40° to 50° with respect to opposite surface 10c. The predetermined length is set to a length that allows the plurality of prisms to be arranged within first hidden pattern 12A and second hidden pattern 12B, for example, approximately 100 μm to several mm.

[0052] As shown in the diagram indicated by the reference numeral 701, the plurality of first prisms 15A are arranged in a staggered pattern within the first hidden pattern 12A. That is, the plurality of first prisms 15A are arranged at equal intervals within the first hidden pattern 12A along a direction parallel to the light incident surface 10a of the light guide plate 10 (for convenience, referred to as the X1 direction), and are arranged at a predetermined pitch on lines in a direction perpendicular to the light incident surface 10a (for convenience, referred to as the Y1 direction). Furthermore, between adjacent lines, the positions of two adjacent first prisms 15A in the Y1 direction are shifted by half the pitch. Furthermore, each of the plurality of first prisms 15A is arranged in a plane parallel to the opposite surface 10c so that the reflecting surface 151A directly faces the first light source unit 3A. That is, in this example, the reflecting surface 151A of the first prism 15A, which is located a predetermined distance away from the first light source unit 3A, is oriented so as to be approximately parallel to a circumference having the first light source unit 3A as its center and the predetermined distance as its radius.

[0053] By arranging each of the multiple first prisms 15A in this manner, each first prism 15A can reflect light from the first light source unit 3A, among the light incident through the light incident surface 10a, so that the light is approximately perpendicular to the light exit surface 10b. On the other hand, among the light incident through the light incident surface 10a, light from sources other than the first light source unit 3A, such as light from the second light source unit 3B or stray light, even if reflected by the first prism 15A, will exit from the light exit surface at a relatively large angle with respect to the light exit surface 10b. Therefore, the exiting light is difficult to observe by an observer positioned in front of the light guide plate 10. Therefore, the display device 1 can show the first hidden pattern 12A to the observer only while the first light source unit 3A is turned on.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 702, similar to the first prisms 15A, the second prisms 15B are arranged in a staggered pattern within the second hidden pattern 12B. Furthermore, each of the second prisms 15B is arranged such that its reflective surface 151B faces directly toward the second light source unit 3B on a plane parallel to the opposite surface 10c. Therefore, in this example, the reflective surface 151B of the second prism 15B located a predetermined distance away from the second light source unit 3B is oriented substantially parallel to a circle whose center is the second light source unit 3B and whose radius is the predetermined distance. Therefore, similar to the first hidden pattern 12A, the display device 1 can display the second hidden pattern 12B to the viewer only while the second light source unit 3B is lit.

[0055] As shown in the diagram indicated by the reference numeral 703, in this example, first prisms 15A and second prisms 15B are arranged in a staggered pattern. Therefore, in the area where first hidden pattern 12A and second hidden pattern 12B overlap, first prisms 15A and second prisms 15B are arranged alternately. Therefore, even in the area where first hidden pattern 12A and second hidden pattern 12B overlap, when first light source unit 3A is turned on, first prism 15A guides light from first light source unit 3A toward light exit surface 10b. When second light source unit 3B is turned on, second prism 15B guides light from second light source unit 3B toward light exit surface 10b. Therefore, a pattern corresponding to the light source that is turned on is displayed. Furthermore, arranging first prisms 15A and second prisms 15B as described above makes it easy to form first hidden pattern 12A and second hidden pattern 12B into any desired shape. Furthermore, by arranging first prisms 15A and second prisms 15B as described above, when the boundary between each pattern and other areas is formed on a straight line, the boundary can be made to look good.

[0056] First prisms 15A and second prisms 15B may be arranged in a grid pattern. In the region where first hidden pattern 12A and second hidden pattern 12B overlap, the prisms may be arranged so that the lines in the Y1 direction on which first prisms 15A are arranged and the lines in the Y1 direction on which second prisms 15B are arranged alternate with each other.

[0057] As described above, even if the display device 1 can only arrange the plurality of light source units 3 so that they face one side of the light guide plate 10, the prisms that form the pattern corresponding to the lit light source unit 3 cause the light from that light source to be emitted from the light guide plate. Therefore, the displayed pattern can be switched by switching the lit light source.

[0058] (4. Effects) As described above, the configuration of the light-guiding member 2 and the display device 1 not only displays the fixed pattern 11, but also, by turning on the light source unit 3, displays a combined design made up of the fixed pattern 11 and the hidden pattern 12. The design made up of the hidden pattern 12, which is formed by the light-emitting functional unit and illuminated, is different from the fixed pattern 11 formed by printing or the like. Therefore, by combining the two, it is possible to create a display with impact.

[0059] Moreover, in this embodiment, as described above, the light output function unit is configured to include a plurality of prisms 15. Therefore, the hidden pattern 12 is difficult for the viewer to see until the light source unit 3 is turned on, and becomes visible once the light source unit 3 is turned on. This allows for a more impactful display, which can captivate the viewer viewing the display by the display device 1.

[0060] [Embodiment 2] Other embodiments of the present invention will be described below. For ease of explanation, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0061] 1, the display device 1A according to this embodiment differs from the display device 1 according to embodiment 1 in that a light guide member 2A is provided instead of the light guide member 2, and the other configurations are the same. The difference between the light guide member 2 and the light guide member 2A is in the light guide plate, that is, the light guide member 2A includes a light guide plate 10A instead of the light guide plate 10. The light guide plate 10 and the light guide plate 10A differ in the region where the light output function portion that forms the hidden pattern 12 is provided.

[0062] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing light guide plate 10A before fixed pattern 11 is formed. As shown in Fig. 8, in light guide plate 10A, in the portion where fixed pattern 11 and hidden pattern 12 contact, the light output function portion is formed extending into the area of ​​fixed pattern 11. In other words, in light guide plate 10A, in the portion where fixed pattern 11 and hidden pattern 12 contact, the multiple prisms 15 that form hidden pattern 12 are formed extending into the area of ​​fixed pattern 11 (arrangement area R).

[0063] With this configuration, even if the fixed pattern 11 is misaligned when it is provided on the light guide plate 10A by a method such as printing, the resulting deterioration in design can be suppressed, and the design can be maintained at a good level. This point will be described below.

[0064] (1. Positional deviation of fixed patterns) 9 is a diagram showing misalignment of the fixed pattern 11 that may occur in the light guiding member 2 of the display device 1 according to embodiment 1. The diagram indicated by reference numeral 901 shows a state in which there is no misalignment of the fixed pattern 11, and the diagram indicated by reference numeral 902 shows a state in which there is a misalignment of the fixed pattern 11.

[0065] As shown in the diagram with reference numeral 901, in the intended design, a plurality of patterns 12a representing halos are displayed radiating outward from the outer edge (contour) of a fixed human-shaped pattern 11. The plurality of patterns 12a are arranged in contact with or close to the fixed pattern 11 so as to surround the periphery of the fixed pattern 11.

[0066] In contrast, as shown in the figure with the reference numeral 902, when the fixed pattern 11 is shifted to the left relative to the light guide plate 10, a non-light-emitting area that does not emit light is formed to the right of the human-shaped fixed pattern 11, impairing the design.

[0067] 10 is another diagram showing misalignment of the fixed pattern 11 that may occur in the light guiding member 2 of the display device 1 according to embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the light guiding member 2. The diagram indicated by reference numeral 1001 shows a state in which there is no misalignment of the fixed pattern 11, and the diagram indicated by reference numeral 1002 shows a state in which there is a misalignment of the fixed pattern 11.

[0068] As shown in the diagram indicated by reference numeral 1001, when there is no misalignment, the edge of the fixed pattern 11 is close to the prism 15 that forms the hidden pattern 12 that contacts the fixed pattern 11. In contrast, as shown in the diagram indicated by reference numeral 1002, when the fixed pattern 11 is misaligned with respect to the light guide plate 10 (misaligned downward), the edge of the fixed pattern 11 moves away from the prism 15 that forms the hidden pattern 12 that contacts the fixed pattern 11. As a result, a region where no prism 15 is formed is created between the prism 15 and the fixed pattern 11, and this region becomes a non-light-emitting region.

[0069] (2. Measures to prevent misalignment of fixed patterns) 8, in light guide plate 10A, a plurality of prisms 15 that form hidden pattern 12 are formed inside arrangement region R, that is, extending into the region of fixed pattern 11, at the portion where fixed pattern 11 and hidden pattern 12 meet. In other words, hidden pattern 12 is formed at the portion where fixed pattern 11 and hidden pattern 12 meet, extending into the region of fixed pattern 11.

[0070] 11 is another diagram showing a positional deviation of the fixed pattern 11 that may occur in the light-guiding member 2A of the display device 1A according to embodiment 2, and is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the light-guiding member 2A. The diagram indicated by reference numeral 1101 shows a state in which the fixed pattern 11 is not misaligned, and the diagram indicated by reference numeral 1102 shows a state in which the fixed pattern 11 is misaligned.

[0071] As shown in the diagram with reference numeral 1101, when there is no misalignment, the edge of fixed pattern 11 is close to prism 15, which forms hidden pattern 12 that contacts fixed pattern 11. In this state, multiple prisms 15' for preventing misalignment, which are formed over the area of ​​fixed pattern 11, are filled with ink or adhesive such as glue that forms fixed pattern 11. Therefore, incident light L1 that reaches multiple prisms 15' for preventing misalignment is diffused by reflecting surface 151' of prism 15' and does not head toward the viewer as indicated by arrow L2.

[0072] As shown in the diagram indicated by the reference numeral 1002, when the fixed pattern 11 is misaligned with respect to the light guide plate 10 (misaligned downward), the edge of the fixed pattern 11 moves away from the prisms 15 that form the hidden pattern 12 that contacts the fixed pattern 11. However, since a plurality of prisms 15' are formed over the area of ​​the fixed pattern 11 to counter misalignment, even if the fixed pattern 11 is misaligned, the incident light L1 is reflected by the reflecting surfaces 151' of the plurality of prisms 15' that counter misalignment and moves toward the viewer as indicated by arrow L2. Therefore, there is no area between the prisms 15 and the fixed pattern 11 where the prisms 15 (prisms 15') are not formed, no non-light-emitting area is created, and degradation of the design can be suppressed.

[0073] In hidden pattern 12, pattern 12a located to the left of fixed pattern 11 has prisms 15 formed as multiple extra prisms 15' to counter misalignment so that the right end fits inside R, the arrangement area of ​​fixed pattern 11. In hidden pattern 12, pattern 12a located to the right of fixed pattern 11 has prisms 15 formed as multiple extra prisms 15' to counter misalignment so that the left end fits inside R, the arrangement area of ​​fixed pattern 11.

[0074] In hidden pattern 12, pattern 12a located above fixed pattern 11 has prisms 15 formed as multiple extra prisms 15' to counter misalignment so that the bottom ends of the prisms 15 fit inside R, the arrangement area of ​​fixed pattern 11. In hidden pattern 12, pattern 12a located below fixed pattern 11 has prisms 15 formed as multiple extra prisms 15' to counter misalignment so that the top ends of the prisms 15 fit inside R, the arrangement area of ​​fixed pattern 11.

[0075] 8, multiple prisms 15' for preventing misalignment are formed all around the periphery of fixed pattern 11, but if the direction of misalignment of fixed pattern 11 is determined, multiple prisms 15' for preventing misalignment may be formed only in the corresponding direction. The area where multiple prisms 15' for preventing misalignment are formed may be set taking into consideration the amount of misalignment of fixed pattern 11.

[0076] (3. Effects) As described above, the configuration of the light-guiding member 2A and the display device 1A makes any misalignment in the arrangement of the fixed pattern 11 less noticeable, thereby suppressing any deterioration in the design of the combined design formed by the fixed pattern 11 and the hidden pattern 12, and thereby maintaining the design.

[0077] [Embodiment 3] Other embodiments of the present invention will be described below. For ease of explanation, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0078] 12 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a display device 1B according to embodiment 3. The difference between the display devices 1 and 1A according to embodiments 1 and 2 and the display device 1B according to embodiment 3 is in the light guide member. In the display devices 1 and 1A according to embodiments 1 and 2, the light guide members 2 and 2A are plate-shaped and have a so-called acrylic stand specification, but in the display device 1B according to embodiment 3, the light guide member 2B has a so-called acrylic key holder specification.

[0079] In the above embodiment, the display devices 1 to 1B are illustrated as including the holder 4 for holding the light guide members 2 to 2A in an upright position, but the holder 4 is not an essential component of the display device of one aspect of the present invention. The display device of one aspect of the present invention may be configured to include a light guide member having a fixed pattern and a hidden pattern, and a light source unit that supplies light to a light guide plate included in the light guide member.

[0080] [Additional Notes] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 1, 1A, 1B, display device 2, 2A, 2B Light guide member 3 Light source section 3A 1st light source section 3B 2nd light source section 4 Holder 5. Control section 10, 10A light guide plate 10a Light incidence surface 10b Light exit surface 10c opposite side 11 Fixed Pattern 12, 12A, 12B Hidden Pattern 12a Pattern 15, 15', 15A, 15B Prisms 151, 151', 151A, 151B reflective surface L1 incident light L2 arrow

Claims

1. a light guide plate having a light incident surface, a light emitting function portion, and a light emitting surface, and configured to emit incident light incident from the light incident surface through the light emitting function portion from the light emitting surface; a first pattern formed on a surface opposite to the light exit surface of the light guide plate and visible in light outside the light guide plate; A second pattern formed in the light emitting function portion, the light output function portion includes a plurality of prisms formed on the opposite surface and having a reflecting surface that reflects the incident light, the reflecting surface is oriented so as to face the incident light; The light emitting function portion is formed to extend over the area of ​​the first pattern at a portion where the first pattern and the second pattern contact each other, A light-guiding member in which the plurality of prisms in the portion overlapping with the first pattern are filled with a material forming the first pattern.

2. The light guide member according to claim 1 ; a light source unit disposed opposite the light incident surface of the light guide plate included in the light guide member; a holder that holds an end of the light guide member to position the light guide member upright.

3. The display device according to claim 2 , wherein the light guide member is detachable from the holder.

Citation Information

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