Display device

Abstract

This display device comprises: a first support member; a second support member; a plurality of first light-emitting elements disposed on the first support member; and a plurality of second light-emitting elements disposed on the second support member. The outer shape of the first support member is the same as the outer shape of the second support member. In a first region on the first support member, n (n is an integer of 2 or more) first light-emitting elements that are adjacent to each other are disposed. In a second region on the second support member, one or more but not more than (n-1) of the second light-emitting elements are disposed. The second region is congruent with the first region. The position of the second region in the second support member is relatively the same as the position of the first region in the first support member.

Description

display device

[0001] The embodiment relates to a display device.

[0002] Vehicles such as automobiles are equipped with display devices that display information such as speed to the driver. In recent years, such display devices have been gradually replacing physical meters with digital meters. Typically, digital meters use liquid crystal panels. However, liquid crystal panels have the problem of consuming a lot of power.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-248461

[0004] The embodiments have been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and have an object to provide a display device that can reduce power consumption.

[0005] A display device according to an embodiment includes a first support member, a second support member, a plurality of first light-emitting elements arranged on the first support member, and a plurality of second light-emitting elements arranged on the second support member. The outer shape of the first support member is the same as the outer shape of the second support member. Adjacent n (n is an integer of 2 or greater) first light-emitting elements are arranged in a first region on the first support member. One to (n-1) second light-emitting elements are arranged in a second region on the second support member. The second region is congruent with the first region. The position of the second region on the second support member is relatively the same as the position of the first region on the first support member.

[0006] A display device according to an embodiment includes a first support member, a second support member, a plurality of first light-emitting elements, and a plurality of second light-emitting elements. The outer shape of the first support member is the same as the outer shape of the second support member. The first support member is defined with a first zone and a second zone disposed between the first zone and the second support member. A first region on the first zone includes n adjacent first light-emitting elements (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2). A second region on the second support member includes one or more (n-1) second light-emitting elements. A third region on the second zone includes a number of second light-emitting elements that is less than the number of first light-emitting elements disposed in the first region and equal to or greater than the number of second light-emitting elements disposed in the second region. The first region, the second region, and the third region are congruent with each other. The position of the second region on the second support member is relatively the same as the position of the first region on the first support member.

[0007] A display device according to an embodiment includes a first support member, a second support member, a plurality of first light-emitting elements arranged on the first support member, a plurality of second light-emitting elements arranged on the second support member, a first drive circuit arranged on the first support member to drive the plurality of first light-emitting elements, and a second drive circuit arranged on the second support member to drive the plurality of second light-emitting elements, wherein the resolution of an image displayed by the second drive circuit on the plurality of second light-emitting elements is lower than the resolution of an image displayed by the first drive circuit on the plurality of first light-emitting elements.

[0008] A display device according to an embodiment includes a first support member, a second support member, a plurality of first light-emitting elements, a plurality of second light-emitting elements, a first drive circuit disposed on the first support member, and a second drive circuit disposed on the second support member. The first support member has a first zone and a second zone disposed between the first zone and the second support member. The plurality of first light-emitting elements are disposed in the first zone. The plurality of second light-emitting elements are disposed in the second zone and on the second support member. The resolution of an image displayed by the first drive circuit on the second light-emitting elements in the second zone is lower than the resolution of an image displayed by the first drive circuit on the plurality of first light-emitting elements. The resolution of an image displayed by the second light-emitting elements on the second support member by the second drive circuit is equal to or lower than the resolution of an image displayed by the second light-emitting elements in the second zone by the first drive circuit.

[0009] According to the embodiment, a display device capable of reducing power consumption can be realized.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a display device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a portion of the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing one panel in the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing one first light-emitting element in the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing one unit and its periphery in the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram showing one panel in the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a first light adjustment member in the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a first drive circuit in the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a high-resolution panel in the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a medium-resolution panel in the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in the display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing one panel in a display device according to a first modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a medium-resolution panel in a display device according to a second modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing another medium-resolution panel in a display device according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a medium-resolution panel in a display device according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing another medium-resolution panel in a display device according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to a fourth modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to a fifth modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to a sixth modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 23 is a partially enlarged plan view showing a display device according to a seventh modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXIV-XXIV in FIG. 23.FIG. 25 is a plan view showing a display device according to an eighth modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 26 is a plan view showing a display device according to a ninth modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 27 is a plan view showing a display device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 28 is a plan view showing a display device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 29 is a plan view showing a display device according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing the operation of the display device according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 31 is a plan view showing a display device according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 32 is a diagram showing the operation of the display device according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 33 is a diagram showing the inside of a traffic moving object according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 34 is a diagram showing an image displayed by the display device according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 35 is a diagram showing the rear surface of a traffic moving object according to a first modified example of the sixth embodiment. FIG. 36 is a diagram showing the front surface of a traffic moving object according to a second modified example of the sixth embodiment. FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view showing the front shield of a traffic moving object according to the second modified example of the sixth embodiment.

[0011] <First Embodiment> Fig. 1 is a plan view showing a display device according to this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a plan view showing a portion of the display device according to this embodiment. Fig. 3 is a plan view showing one panel in the display device according to this embodiment. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the display device according to this embodiment. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing one first light-emitting element in the display device according to this embodiment. Fig. 6 is a plan view showing one unit and its periphery in the display device according to this embodiment. Fig. 7 is a circuit diagram showing one panel in the display device according to this embodiment. Fig. 8 is a plan view showing a first light adjustment member in the display device according to this embodiment. Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing a first drive circuit in the display device according to this embodiment.

[0012] The drawings are schematic and conceptual, and have been appropriately emphasized and simplified. Furthermore, even if the same components are shown in the drawings, the dimensional ratios, positional relationships, numbers, etc. may not be strictly consistent. The same applies to the other drawings described below.

[0013] 1, the display device 1 according to this embodiment includes one mounting substrate 100, multiple panels 200, and one flexible wiring 300. The flexible wiring 300 may be divided into multiple pieces. The display device 1 displays one image by linking the multiple panels 200.

[0014] The mounting substrate 100 is translucent and is made of, for example, glass. The mounting substrate 100 may be a flexible substrate that is both translucent and flexible. The multiple panels 200 are arranged in a line along one direction. The flexible wiring 300 is arranged across the multiple panels 200, connecting the multiple panels 200 to each other and connecting at least one panel 200 to the outside of the display device 1. The flexible wiring 300 is flexible and is, for example, an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuits). In the flexible wiring 300, multiple wirings 302 are provided on a tape-shaped insulating base 301.

[0015] For ease of explanation, the present specification will hereinafter adopt an XYZ Cartesian coordinate system. The direction parallel to the surface of the mounting substrate 100 and in which the multiple panels 200 are arranged will be referred to as the "first direction X," the direction parallel to the surface of the mounting substrate 100 and perpendicular to the first direction X will be referred to as the "second direction Y," and the direction perpendicular to the first direction X and the second direction Y will be referred to as the "third direction Z."

[0016] Regarding the first direction X, a distinction is made between a "+X direction" and a "-X direction" as necessary. The same applies to the second direction Y and the third direction Z. Of the third direction Z, the direction from the mounting substrate 100 toward the panel 200 is referred to as the "+Z direction," and the opposite direction is referred to as the "-Z direction." The +Z direction is also referred to as "up" and the -Z direction as "down," but these expressions are also for convenience and are unrelated to the direction of gravity. Furthermore, in this specification, "planar view" refers to the view from the third direction Z (+Z direction or -Z direction). In describing the planar view, even if something is actually hidden by other components and cannot be seen, the description may be given assuming that it is visible.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1 , there are multiple types of panels 200. The display device 1 is provided with, for example, three types of panels 200a, 200b, and 200c. The panel 200a can display an image with the highest resolution, the panel 200b can display an image with a lower resolution than the panel 200a, and the panel 200c can display an image with a lower resolution than the panel 200b. The configurations of the panels 200a, 200b, and 200c will be described later. Note that the number of types of panels 200 is not limited to three, and may be two or four or more.

[0018] Any combination of panels 200 may be used in the display device 1. In the example shown in Fig. 1, seven panels 200 are arranged in order from the left side of the figure (the -X direction side): panel 200c, panel 200b, panel 200a, panel 200a, panel 200b, panel 200c, and panel 200c.

[0019] As shown in Figures 2 to 4, each panel 200a includes a first support member 11, a plurality of first light-emitting elements 21, a plurality of first conductive portions 31, a plurality of second conductive portions 32, a plurality of third conductive portions 33, a plurality of fourth conductive portions 34, a plurality of fifth conductive portions 35, a first drive circuit 51, one first light adjustment member 61, an insulating covering member 71, an anisotropic connecting member 72, a connecting member 73, and a protective member 74.

[0020] The plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 include a first light-emitting element 21B that emits light of a first color, a first light-emitting element 21G that emits light of a second color, and a first light-emitting element 21R that emits light of a third color. The first color is, for example, blue, the second color is, for example, green, and the third color is, for example, red.

[0021] The first light-emitting element 21B is, for example, an LED (light-emitting diode) whose peak wavelength of emitted light is in the range of 430 nm to 480 nm. The first light-emitting element 21G is, for example, an LED whose peak wavelength of emitted light is in the range of 500 nm to 580 nm. The first light-emitting element 21R is, for example, an LED whose peak wavelength of emitted light is in the range of 600 nm to 780 nm.

[0022] The panel 200b includes a second support member 12, a plurality of second light-emitting elements 22, a plurality of first conductive parts 31, a plurality of second conductive parts 32, a plurality of third conductive parts 33, a plurality of fourth conductive parts 34, a plurality of fifth conductive parts 35, a second drive circuit 52, one first light adjustment member 61, an insulating covering member 71, an anisotropic connecting member 72, a connecting member 73, and a protective member 74.

[0023] The plurality of second light-emitting elements 22 include a second light-emitting element 22B that emits light of a first color, a second light-emitting element 22G that emits light of a second color, and a second light-emitting element 22R that emits light of a third color. The configuration of the second light-emitting element 22B is the same as the configuration of the first light-emitting element 21B, the configuration of the second light-emitting element 22G is the same as the configuration of the first light-emitting element 21G, and the configuration of the second light-emitting element 22R is the same as the configuration of the first light-emitting element 21R. Note that "same configuration" means manufactured based on the same design, and unavoidable manufacturing process errors and variations in material composition are included in the scope of "same." Components with the same configuration have the same target performance; for example, the peak wavelength of emitted light from light-emitting elements with the same configuration is in the same range.

[0024] The panel 200c includes a third support member 13, a plurality of third light-emitting elements 23, a plurality of first conductive parts 31, a plurality of second conductive parts 32, a plurality of third conductive parts 33, a plurality of fourth conductive parts 34, a plurality of fifth conductive parts 35, a third drive circuit 53, one first light adjustment member 61, an insulating covering member 71, an anisotropic connecting member 72, a connecting member 73, and a protective member 74.

[0025] The plurality of third light-emitting elements 23 include a third light-emitting element 23B that emits light of a first color, a third light-emitting element 23G that emits light of a second color, and a third light-emitting element 23R that emits light of a third color. The configuration of the third light-emitting element 23B is the same as the configuration of the first light-emitting element 21B, the configuration of the third light-emitting element 23G is the same as the configuration of the first light-emitting element 21G, and the configuration of the third light-emitting element 23R is the same as the configuration of the first light-emitting element 21R.

[0026] The outer shapes of the panels 200a, 200b, and 200c are substantially the same as one another, at least in a plan view. Note that "substantially the same outer shape" means that the panels are interchangeable, and that even if they are interchanged, the size of the image display area of ​​the display device 1 does not change and the connection with the flexible wiring 300 is not affected. For example, one of the panels may have a notch or a serial number or the like printed thereon. Therefore, the panels 200a, 200b, and 200c are interchangeable. However, as described below, the arrangement density of the first light-emitting elements 21 on the panel 200a is higher than the arrangement density of the second light-emitting elements 22 on the panel 200b, and the arrangement density of the second light-emitting elements 22 on the panel 200b is higher than the arrangement density of the third light-emitting elements 23 on the panel 200c.

[0027] The configuration of the second support member 12 and the third support member 13 is, for example, the same as the configuration of the first support member 11. At least in a plan view, the outer shape of the first support member 11 is the same as the outer shape of the second support member 12 and also the outer shape of the third support member 13. The configuration of the second drive circuit 52 and the third drive circuit 53 is the same as the configuration of the first drive circuit 51. "The same configuration of the drive circuits" means that the physical structure of the drive circuits, for example, the shapes, arrangements, and connections of the elements and wiring included in the drive circuits, are the same, but the stored data may be different.

[0028] Furthermore, the panels 200a, 200b, and 200c have the same configurations of the first conductive portion 31, the second conductive portion 32, the third conductive portion 33, the fourth conductive portion 34, the fifth conductive portion 35, the first light adjustment member 61, the covering member 71, the anisotropic connecting member 72, the connecting member 73, and the protective member 74. Note that some of these components may not be provided.

[0029] Below, common parts of panel 200a, panel 200b, and panel 200c will be described. In the following description, panel 200a will be used as an example, but the same applies to panels 200b and 200c. Furthermore, panels 200a, 200b, and 200c will also be collectively referred to as simply "panel 200." The first light-emitting elements 21B, 21G, and 21R will also be collectively referred to as "first light-emitting elements 21." The same applies to the second light-emitting element 22 and the third light-emitting element 23. The first light-emitting element 21, the second light-emitting element 22, and the third light-emitting element 23 will also be collectively referred to simply as "light-emitting elements."

[0030] The shape of the first support member 11 is, for example, a rectangular plate with the second direction Y as the longitudinal direction, the first direction X as the lateral direction, and the third direction Z as the thickness direction. Note that the term "rectangle" here refers not only to a quadrangle with right-angled corners, but also to a shape with chamfered corners. A shape with chamfered corners includes a shape in which two orthogonal sides are connected via a curve, a shape in which two orthogonal sides are connected via an oblique straight line, and the like. The first support member 11 is translucent. The first support member 11 is formed of, for example, glass. The first support member 11 may be a flexible substrate that is both translucent and flexible.

[0031] An image forming area 15 is defined on the upper surface of the first support member 11, i.e., on the area on the +Y direction side of the surface on the +Z direction side. A wiring connection area 16 is defined on the end of the upper surface of the first support member 11 on the -Y direction side. The first drive circuit 51 is disposed between the image forming area 15 and the wiring connection area 16 on the first support member 11, and is spaced apart from the image forming area 15 and the wiring connection area 16 in the second direction Y.

[0032] In the image forming region 15, a plurality of element regions 17 and a plurality of wiring regions 18 are alternately arranged along the first direction X. Each element region 17 and each wiring region 18 is shaped like a strip with the second direction Y as its longitudinal direction. In the image forming region 15, element regions 17 are arranged at both ends in the first direction X. Therefore, the number of wiring regions 18 is one less than the number of element regions 17. For example, 50 element regions 17 and 49 wiring regions 18 are provided. Note that, for simplification, FIG. 3 shows only three element regions 17 and two wiring regions 18.

[0033] In each element region 17, the first light-emitting elements 21B, 21G, and 21R are repeatedly arranged in a line along the second direction Y. One first light-emitting element 21B, one first light-emitting element 21G, and one first light-emitting element 21R arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction Y constitutes a first unit 25. Note that the first unit 25 may be composed of one or two of the first light-emitting elements 21B, 21G, and 21R, or may be composed of four or more first light-emitting elements 21. The first unit 25 may include two or more of any of the first light-emitting elements 21B, 21G, and 21R.

[0034] Similarly, in panel 200b, one second light-emitting element 22B, one second light-emitting element 22G, and one second light-emitting element 22R arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction Y constitutes second unit 26. In panel 200c, one third light-emitting element 23B, one third light-emitting element 23G, and one third light-emitting element 23R arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction Y constitutes third unit 27.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 5 , each of the first light-emitting elements 21 has a light-extraction surface 21a, an electrode-forming surface 21b, and multiple side surfaces 21c. The "light-extraction surface" refers to the main surface from which light is emitted from the light-emitting element, but not all of the light needs to be emitted from the light-extraction surface. For example, a small amount of light may also be emitted from the side surfaces 21c. The light-extraction surface 21a faces the first support member 11. The electrode-forming surface 21b is located on the opposite side of the light-extraction surface 21a. The side surfaces 21c connect the light-extraction surface 21a and the electrode-forming surface 21b. In one example, the light-extraction surface 21a is square, and the electrode-forming surface 21b is square and smaller than the light-extraction surface 21a. There are four side surfaces 21c, each of which is trapezoidal. Note that the shapes of the light-extraction surface 21a, the electrode-forming surface 21b, and the side surfaces 21c may be rectangular.

[0036] Each first light-emitting element 21 has a semiconductor portion 21d, a first electrode 21e, and a second electrode 21f. The semiconductor portion 21d includes a p-type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and an n-type semiconductor layer. The first electrode 21e and the second electrode 21f are arranged spaced apart from each other on the electrode formation surface 21b. The first electrode 21e is electrically connected to the p-type semiconductor layer of the semiconductor portion 21d, and the second electrode 21f is electrically connected to the n-type semiconductor layer of the semiconductor portion 21d. The first light-emitting element 21 may have an insulating layer covering a region of the electrode formation surface 21b excluding the first electrode 21e and the second electrode 21f, as well as the side surface 21c.

[0037] The structure of the semiconductor portion 21d may be a structure having a single active layer such as a double heterostructure or a single quantum well structure (SQW), or a structure having a group of active layers such as a multiple quantum well structure (MQW). The semiconductor portion 21d can emit visible light or ultraviolet light. The semiconductor portion 21d can emit visible light ranging from blue to red. Examples of semiconductor laminates including such a light emitting layer include In ｘ Al ｙ Ga １－ｘ－ｙN (0≦x, 0≦y, x+y≦1). The semiconductor portion 21d can include at least one light-emitting layer (active layer) capable of emitting light. For example, the semiconductor portion 21d may have a structure including one or more light-emitting layers between an n-type semiconductor layer and a p-type semiconductor layer, or may have a structure in which a structure including an n-type semiconductor layer, a light-emitting layer, and a p-type semiconductor layer in that order is repeated multiple times. When the semiconductor stack includes multiple light-emitting layers, the light-emitting layers may have different peak wavelengths or may have light-emitting layers with the same peak wavelength. Note that the same peak wavelength may have a variation of, for example, several nanometers. The combination of such light-emitting layers can be appropriately selected. For example, when the semiconductor stack includes two light-emitting layers, the light-emitting layers can be selected from combinations such as blue light and blue light, green light and green light, red light and red light, ultraviolet light and ultraviolet light, blue light and green light, blue light and red light, or green light and red light. Furthermore, the light-emitting layer may include multiple active layers with different peak wavelengths or multiple active layers with the same peak wavelength.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6 , one first conductive portion 31 is disposed in each element region 17. The first conductive portion 31 is a wiring extending in the second direction Y and contains, for example, copper (Cu). The first conductive portion 31 may be formed of a material having electrical conductivity and translucency, such as ITO (Indium-Tin-Oxide). The first conductive portion 31 is located on the +Z direction side of the first light-emitting element 21 disposed in the same element region 17 and overlaps with the first light-emitting element 21 in a plan view. The covering member 71 and the protective member 74 are not shown in FIG. 6 .

[0039] The first conductive portions 31 are electrically connected to the first electrodes 21e of the first light-emitting elements 21 that overlap with them in a planar view via the third conductive portions 33. For example, one first conductive portion 31 arranged in each element region 17 is electrically connected to the first electrodes 21e of all the first light-emitting elements 21 arranged in this element region 17. In the entire panel 200a, the multiple third conductive portions 33 extend in the first direction X and connect the multiple first electrodes 21e to the multiple first conductive portions 31, respectively.

[0040] A plurality of second conductive portions 32 are arranged in each wiring region 18. The plurality of second conductive portions 32 extend in the second direction Y on the first support member 11 and are electrically connected to the second electrodes 21f of the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 via fourth conductive portions 34. The plurality of fourth conductive portions 34 extend in the first direction X and connect the plurality of second electrodes 21f to the plurality of second conductive portions 32, respectively. The second conductive portions 32 include, for example, copper. The second conductive portions 32 may be formed of a material having conductivity and translucency, such as ITO. The third conductive portion 33 and the fourth conductive portion 34 include, for example, aluminum (Al).

[0041] As a result, as shown in Figure 7, the first electrodes 21e of the multiple first light-emitting elements 21 arranged in each element region 17 are commonly connected to a single first conductive portion 31 arranged in the same element region 17, and the second electrodes 21f are individually connected to mutually different second conductive portions 32 arranged in the wiring region 18 adjacent to this element region 17.

[0042] Furthermore, the second electrodes 21f of the first light-emitting elements 21 that are arranged in different element regions 17 and that are at the same position in the second direction Y are connected to a common second conductive portion 32 via a common fourth conductive portion 34. The first conductive portion 31 and the second conductive portion 32 are electrically connected to the first drive circuit 51. For example, the first electrode 21e is an anode electrode of the first light-emitting element 21, and the second electrode 21f is a cathode electrode of the first light-emitting element 21.

[0043] The third conductive portion 33 and the fourth conductive portion 34 may be arranged to cover the side surface of the first light-emitting element 21. This causes the light emitted from the first light-emitting element 21 to be reflected by the third conductive portion 33 and the fourth conductive portion 34, thereby improving the light extraction efficiency.

[0044] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 8 , the first light adjustment member 61 is positioned on the upper surface of the first support member 11 around the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21. The first light adjustment member 61 is made of a light-absorbing resin material or metal material. For example, the first light adjustment member 61 can be made of an insulating resin material such as acrylic, polyimide, or siloxane. Light absorption can be imparted by adding a black pigment such as carbon black or graphite to these resins. Having light absorption means that the reflectance of the first light adjustment member 61 is 0% or more and 50% or less, more preferably 0% or more and 40% or less, at the emission peak wavelength of the light-emitting element.

[0045] In this embodiment, the first light adjustment member 61 has a plurality of openings 61a. Each first unit 25 is disposed in each opening 61a. Therefore, the first light adjustment member 61 is not disposed between the first support member 11 and the first light-emitting element 21. Furthermore, the first light adjustment member 61 is not disposed between the first light-emitting element 21B and the first light-emitting element 21G belonging to each first unit 25, and between the first light-emitting element 21G and the first light-emitting element 21R.

[0046] The covering member 71 is disposed on the first support member 11 and covers the first light-emitting element 21, the third conductive portion 33, and the fourth conductive portion 34. The covering member 71 is made of an insulating material, for example, an insulating inorganic material. The linear expansion coefficient of the covering member 71 is greater than the linear expansion coefficient of the first support member 11. The covering member 71 is, for example, a white light-reflecting member. The covering member 71 has a first surface 71a disposed opposite the first support member 11 and a second surface 71b located on the opposite side of the first surface 71a. The covering member 71 is formed of, for example, a white resin. The covering member 71 may contain a light-reflecting material. Examples of light-reflecting materials include titanium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, zirconium oxide, aluminum oxide, and aluminum nitride.

[0047] The third conductive portion 33 and the fourth conductive portion 34 are disposed on the first surface 71 a side (lower side) of the covering member 71 and extend in the first direction X. The first conductive portion 31 and the second conductive portion 32 are disposed on the second surface 71 b side (upper side) of the covering member 71 and extend in the second direction Y.

[0048] 4 , in the panel 200a, a first support member 11, a covering member 71, and a protective member 74 are stacked in this order from the −Z direction side to the +Z direction side. The light-emitting element, the third conductive portion 33, the fourth conductive portion 34, and the first light adjustment member 61 are disposed between the first support member 11 and the covering member 71. The first conductive portion 31, the second conductive portion 32, the anisotropic connection member 72, and the first drive circuit 51 are disposed between the covering member 71 and the protective member 74.

[0049] The first drive circuit 51 is disposed on the first support member 11 and drives the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21. The second drive circuit 52 is disposed on the second support member 12 and drives the plurality of second light-emitting elements 22. The third drive circuit 53 is disposed on the third support member 13 and drives the plurality of third light-emitting elements 23. The first drive circuit 51, second drive circuit 52, and third drive circuit 53 included in the display device 1 are electrically connected to each other. As described above, the first drive circuit 51, second drive circuit 52, and third drive circuit 53 have the same configuration.

[0050] 2 and 9, the first drive circuit 51 has a conversion unit 51c, a storage unit 51d, and a current output unit 51e. The second drive circuit 52 has a conversion unit 52c, a storage unit 52d, and a current output unit 52e. The third drive circuit 53 has a conversion unit 53c, a storage unit 53d, and a current output unit 53e.

[0051] The first drive circuit 51 is electrically connected to at least one first light-emitting element 21 among the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 via at least one first conductive portion 31 among the plurality of first conductive portions 31 and at least one second conductive portion 32 among the plurality of second conductive portions 32. For example, the first drive circuit 51 is electrically connected to all of the first light-emitting elements 21. The first drive circuit 51 is, for example, an IC (integrated circuit) chip. Note that the first drive circuit 51 may be composed of multiple chips. The first drive circuit 51 is electrically connected to the plurality of first conductive portions 31 and the plurality of second conductive portions 32 via anisotropic connection members 72.

[0052] The anisotropic connecting member 72 contains a conductive material. For example, the conductive material is sandwiched between the first driving circuit 51 and the first conductive portion 31 so as to contact both, thereby electrically connecting the first driving circuit 51 and the first conductive portion 31 via the conductive material. The anisotropic connecting member 72 includes, for example, an anisotropic conductive paste and an anisotropic conductive film. By using the anisotropic connecting member 72, it is easier to reduce the thickness compared to when an isotropic connecting member such as solder is used for joining, and short-circuiting is less likely to occur even when the first conductive portion 31 and the second conductive portion 32 are spaced apart. Note that, instead of the anisotropic connecting member 72, an isotropic connecting member may be used as the member electrically connecting the first driving circuit 51 and the fifth conductive portion 35.

[0053] The first drive circuit 51 is connected to the fifth conductive portion 35 via an anisotropic connecting member 72. In the wiring connection region 16, the fifth conductive portion 35 is connected to a wiring 302 of the flexible wiring 300 via a connecting member 73. The wiring 302 extends in the first direction X. Note that an isotropic connecting member may be used as the member electrically connecting the first drive circuit 51 and the fifth conductive portion 35, in addition to the anisotropic connecting member 72.

[0054] The protective member 74 is disposed on the covering member 71, and covers the first conductive portion 31, the second conductive portion 32, the third conductive portion 33, the fourth conductive portion 34, the anisotropic connecting member 72, and the first drive circuit 51. The protective member 74 does not cover the connecting member 73 or the flexible wiring 300.

[0055] Next, differences between the panels 200a, 200b, and 200c will be described. The panels 200a, 200b, and 200c differ from one another in the arrangement density of light-emitting elements.

[0056] 2, in the panel 200a, the first units 25 are periodically arranged along the first direction X and the second direction Y. As described above, the first unit 25 is composed of one first light-emitting element 21B, one first light-emitting element 21G, and one first light-emitting element 21R arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction Y.

[0057] In the panel 200b, the second units 26 are periodically arranged along the first direction X and the second direction Y. As described above, the second unit 26 is composed of one second light-emitting element 22B, one second light-emitting element 22G, and one second light-emitting element 22R arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction Y. The arrangement density of the second units 26 in the panel 200b is lower than the arrangement density of the first units 25 in the panel 200a.

[0058] In the panel 200c, the third units 27 are periodically arranged along the first direction X and the second direction Y. As described above, the third unit 27 is composed of one third light-emitting element 23B, one third light-emitting element 23G, and one third light-emitting element 23R arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction Y. The arrangement density of the third units 27 in the panel 200c is lower than the arrangement density of the second units 26 in the panel 200b.

[0059] In the example shown in FIG. 2 , two first units 25 are arranged in the first region R1 on the first support member 11 of the panel 200a. Therefore, six first light-emitting elements 21 are arranged in the first region R1. On the other hand, one second unit 26 is arranged in the second region R2 on the second support member 12 of the panel 200b. Therefore, three second light-emitting elements 22 are arranged in the second region R2. The second region R2 is congruent with the first region R1. That is, the shape and area of ​​the second region R2 are equal to the shape and area of ​​the first region R1. Furthermore, the position of the second region R2 on the second support member 12 is relatively the same as the position of the first region R1 on the first support member 11. Thus, the arrangement density of the second light-emitting elements 22 on the panel 200b is, for example, ½ times the arrangement density of the first light-emitting elements 21 on the panel 200a.

[0060] The ratio of the arrangement density of the first light-emitting elements 21 to the arrangement density of the second light-emitting elements 22 is not limited to the above example. It is sufficient that n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2) adjacent first light-emitting elements 21 are arranged in the first region R1 on the first support member 11, and 1 to (n-1) second light-emitting elements 22 are arranged in the second region R2 on the second support member 12. In the above example, n is 2. When one second light-emitting element 22 is arranged in the second region R2, it is preferable that the maximum brightness of the second light-emitting element 22 is n times the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element 21. This allows the maximum brightness to be approximately the same between panels.

[0061] 2, four first units 25 are arranged in the fourth region R4 on the first support member 11 of the panel 200a. Therefore, twelve first light-emitting elements 21 are arranged in the fourth region R4. Meanwhile, one third unit 27 is arranged in the fifth region R5 on the third support member 13 of the panel 200c. Therefore, three third light-emitting elements 23 are arranged in the fifth region R5. The fifth region R5 is congruent with the fourth region R4. Furthermore, the position of the fifth region R5 on the third support member 13 is relatively the same as the position of the fourth region R4 on the first support member 11. Thus, the arrangement density of the third light-emitting elements 23 on the panel 200c is, for example, ¼ times the arrangement density of the first light-emitting elements 21 on the panel 200a.

[0062] The ratio between the arrangement density of the first light-emitting elements 21 and the arrangement density of the third light-emitting elements 23 is not limited to the above example. It is sufficient that m (m is an integer greater than n) adjacent first light-emitting elements 21 are arranged in the first region R4 on the first support member 11, and 1 to (m-1) third light-emitting elements 23 are arranged in the fifth region R5 on the third support member 13. In the above example, m is 4. When one third light-emitting element 23 is arranged in the fifth region R5, it is preferable that the maximum luminance of the third light-emitting element 23 is m times the maximum luminance of the first light-emitting element 21.

[0063] Next, the primary panel and secondary panel will be described. The panel 200 arranged at one end of the display device 1 is also referred to as the "primary panel," and the other panel or panels 200 are also referred to as "secondary panels." The first drive circuit 51, second drive circuit 52, and third drive circuit 53 (hereinafter collectively referred to as "drive circuits") of all panels 200 are bus-connected via flexible wiring 300.

[0064] The distinction between primary and secondary panels is independent of the distinction between panels 200a, 200b, and 200c described above. The primary panel may be any of panels 200a, 200b, and 200c. Figure 1 shows an example in which the primary panel is panel 200c.

[0065] 9 shows the third drive circuit 53 of the primary panel 200c and the second drive circuit 52 of one secondary panel 200b arranged next to the primary panel 200c. As shown in Fig. 9, image data D1 in the first format is input from outside the display device 1 via flexible wiring 300 to a conversion unit 53c of the third drive circuit 53 of panel 200c, which is the primary panel. The conversion unit 53c converts the image data D1 in the first format into image data D2 in the second format and outputs the image data D2 to a storage unit 53d. The storage unit 53d temporarily holds the image data D2 for all panels 200 and outputs the portion of the image data D2 to be displayed on the secondary panel to the flexible wiring 300.

[0066] A first potential V1 and a second potential V2 are supplied to the current output unit 53e. The first potential V1 is higher than the second potential V2. The current output unit 53e applies the first potential V1 to the first conductive unit 31. Furthermore, the current output unit 53e controls the magnitude of the current input from the second conductive unit 32 and / or the time for which the current is passed, based on image data D2 stored in the memory unit 53d. In this way, the third drive circuit 53 of the primary panel controls the light emission of the multiple third light-emitting elements 23 of the primary panel.

[0067] Image data D2 is input via flexible wiring 300 to conversion unit 52c of second drive circuit 52 of panel 200b, which is the secondary panel. Conversion unit 52c captures the portion of this image data D2 to be displayed by panel 200b, to which second drive circuit 52 is provided, and stores it in memory unit 52d. Current output unit 52e controls the emission of multiple light-emitting elements of panel 200b based on the image data D2 stored in memory unit 52d. The same applies to the other secondary panels.

[0068] In this way, image data D1 in the first format input from outside the display device 1 is supplied only to the third drive circuit 53 of the primary panel, and image data D2 in the second format output from the primary panel is supplied to the drive circuit of the secondary panel. The memory unit of each secondary panel stores only the portion of image data D2 flowing through flexible wiring 300 that corresponds to that panel.

[0069] The conversion unit 53c of the primary panel may be connected to an external memory 400 provided outside the display device 1. In this case, the image data D2 converted by the conversion unit 53c may be temporarily stored in the external memory 400, and then the image data D2 corresponding to each panel 200 may be sequentially read from the external memory 400 to the storage unit 53d, and sequentially output from the storage unit 53d to the flexible wiring 300. This allows the capacity of the storage unit 53d of the primary panel to be reduced.

[0070] Next, the operation of the display device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a high-resolution panel in the display device according to this embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a medium-resolution panel in the display device according to this embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in the display device according to this embodiment. In FIGS. 10 to 12, the pixels of each panel 200 are shown in a matrix of 8 rows and 8 columns, with pixels in which light-emitting elements are arranged being shown in white and pixels in which no light-emitting elements are arranged being shown in gray. The same applies to similar figures described below.

[0071] As shown in Fig. 10 , in panel 200a, first units 25 are arranged in all pixels. As shown in Fig. 11 , in panel 200b, second units 26 are arranged in every other pixel along the first direction X and the second direction Y. In panel 200b, the positions of the second units 26 in the second direction Y differ from each other in two pixel columns that are adjacent to each other in the first direction X and extend in the second direction Y. As shown in Fig. 12 , in panel 200c, third units 27 are arranged in every third pixel along the first direction X and the second direction Y. In panel 200c, the positions of the third units 27 in the second direction Y differ from each other in four pixel columns that are adjacent to each other in the first direction X and extend in the second direction Y. Note that, for simplicity of the following description, it is assumed that one light-emitting element is arranged in each unit.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, image data input from outside the display device 1 is distributed to each panel 200 via flexible wiring 300 by bus address connection.

[0073] 9, image data D1 in the first format is input from outside the display device 1 to the third drive circuit 53 of the primary panel via flexible wiring 300. The image data D1 corresponds to one image to be displayed by the display device 1.

[0074] The conversion unit 53c of the primary panel converts the image data D1 in the first format into image data D2 in the second format. At this time, the conversion unit 53c adds address data corresponding to each panel 200 to the image data D2. The conversion unit 53c then outputs the image data D2 to the storage unit 53d.

[0075] The storage unit 53d of the primary panel references the address data and outputs the portion of the image data D2 to be displayed by the primary panel to the current output unit 53e, and outputs the remaining portion to the flexible wiring 300. Note that the storage unit 53d of the primary panel may output all of the image data D2 to the flexible wiring 300.

[0076] At least a portion of image data D2 is input to the drive circuits of secondary panels other than the primary panel from third drive circuit 53 of the primary panel via flexible wiring 300. The conversion unit of each secondary panel retrieves the portion of image data D2 to be displayed by that panel 200 based on the address data included in image data D2, and stores it in the memory unit.

[0077] 3 and 10, in the panel 200a, the first drive circuit 51 selects the first conductive units 31 one by one and applies a first potential V1 to them, and controls the current flowing through the plurality of second conductive units 32 based on the image data D2. As a result, the first drive circuit 51 scans the element regions 17 from scanning lines s1 to s8, while controlling the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 arranged in each element region 17 via the data lines d1 to d8.

[0078] That is, first, the eight first light-emitting elements 21 connected to the scanning line s1 are controlled by the data lines d1 to d8 to emit light, and then the eight first light-emitting elements 21 connected to the scanning line s2 are controlled by the data lines d1 to d8 to emit light. In this way, the element regions 17 corresponding to the scanning lines s1 to s8 emit light sequentially. At this time, the time taken for the first drive circuit 51 to scan each scanning line is defined as T, and the maximum value of the current flowing through each first light-emitting element 21 is defined as I.

[0079] 11 , in panel 200b, the second drive circuit 52 selects two first conductive units 31 at a time and applies a first potential V1 to each of them, thereby controlling the current flowing through the plurality of second conductive units 32 based on image data D2. As a result, the second drive circuit 52 simultaneously scans scanning lines s1 and s2, while controlling the second light-emitting elements 22 corresponding to scanning lines s1 and s2 via data lines d1 to d8. Next, the second drive circuit 52 simultaneously scans scanning lines s3 and s4, while controlling the second light-emitting elements 22 corresponding to scanning lines s3 and s4 via data lines d1 to d8.

[0080] In this way, the second drive circuit 52 scans two scanning lines at a time, and the time for one scan is 2T. The maximum value of the current flowing through each second light-emitting element 22 is I. The time during which the second light-emitting element 22 emits light is 2T, which is twice the time T during which the first light-emitting element 21 emits light. Therefore, as seen by the user, the maximum brightness of the second light-emitting element 22 is twice the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element 21.

[0081] 12, in panel 200c, third drive circuit 53 selects four first conductive units 31 at a time, applies first potential V1 to each of them, and controls the current flowing through multiple second conductive units 32 based on image data D2. As a result, third drive circuit 53 simultaneously scans scanning lines s1 to s4, while controlling third light-emitting elements 23 corresponding to scanning lines s1 to s4 via data lines d1 to d8. Next, third drive circuit 53 simultaneously scans scanning lines s5 to s8, while controlling third light-emitting elements 23 corresponding to scanning lines s5 to s8 via data lines d1 to d8.

[0082] In this way, the third drive circuit 53 scans four scanning lines at a time, and the time for one scan is 4T. The maximum value of the current flowing through each third light-emitting element 23 is I. The time during which the third light-emitting element 23 emits light is 4T, which is four times the time T during which the first light-emitting element 21 emits light. Therefore, as seen by the user, the maximum brightness of the third light-emitting element 23 is four times the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element 21.

[0083] In this way, the first light-emitting element 21, the second light-emitting element 22, and the third light-emitting element 23 of each panel 200 are driven to emit light at a predetermined brightness. As shown in Fig. 4, light emitted from each light-emitting element passes through the first support member 11 and the mounting substrate 100 and is emitted in the -Z direction from the display device 1. Each panel 200 displays a part of an image, and the display device 1 as a whole displays one image.

[0084] In addition, an external memory 400 may be connected to the conversion unit 53c of the primary panel, and the image data D2 converted by the conversion unit 53c may be temporarily stored in the external memory 400, after which the external memory 400 may sequentially output the image data D2 corresponding to each panel 200 to the storage unit 53d.

[0085] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described. The display device 1 according to this embodiment displays an image by controlling and lighting up a plurality of self-luminous light-emitting elements. This allows for higher light utilization efficiency and reduced power consumption compared to when images are displayed using a liquid crystal panel.

[0086] 1 , any number of panels 200a, 200b, and 200c can be arranged in any order in the first direction X in the display device 1. This allows the panels 200a to be arranged in positions where high resolution display is required, and the panels 200c to be arranged in positions where lower resolution is sufficient, in accordance with the image to be displayed by the display device 1. As a result, the resolution of each part of the display device 1 can be adjusted in accordance with the image to be displayed, and the cost of the display device 1 can be reduced.

[0087] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the maximum values ​​of the currents flowing through the first light-emitting element 21, the second light-emitting element 22, and the third light-emitting element 23 can be all set to I. This allows the first light-emitting element 21, the second light-emitting element 22, and the third light-emitting element 23 to use light-emitting elements of the same specification.

[0088] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in a plan view, one of the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 is arranged overlapping one of the plurality of first conductive portions 31, and this one first light-emitting element 21 is electrically connected to this one first conductive portion 31. By arranging the first light-emitting element 21 and the first conductive portion 31 overlapping each other in this way, heat generated from the first light-emitting element 21 can be dissipated via the first conductive portion 31, thereby improving heat dissipation and enabling the first support member 11 to be made smaller. Furthermore, by connecting the overlapping first conductive portion 31 and the first light-emitting element 21, the third conductive portion 33 can be shortened.

[0089] 4 and 8, in this embodiment, a first light adjustment member 61 having light absorption properties is disposed around the light-emitting element. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of external light that enters the mounting substrate 100 from the −Z direction and passes through the mounting substrate 100 and the first support member 11 reaching the first conductive portion 31 and the second conductive portion 32. As a result, it is possible to reduce the influence of external light reflected by the first conductive portion 31 and the second conductive portion 32 on the image.

[0090] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in each first unit 25, the first light-emitting elements 21B, 21G, and 21R are arranged along the second direction Y. This allows the element region 17 to be miniaturized in the first direction X, and provides more space in the wiring region 18. Furthermore, it is easier to connect the multiple first light-emitting elements 21 belonging to each first unit 25 to a common first conductive part 31. In this specification, "the first light-emitting elements 21B, 21G, and 21R are arranged along the second direction Y" means that at least a portion of each of the first light-emitting elements 21B, 21G, and 21R is located on a straight line along the second direction Y.

[0091] The arrangement of the first light-emitting elements 21 in the first unit 25 is not limited to this, and three first light-emitting elements 21 may be arranged in a triangle, four first light-emitting elements 21 may be arranged in two rows and two columns, or multiple first light-emitting elements 21 may be stacked in the third direction Z. The same applies to the second unit 26 and the third unit 27.

[0092] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, an example has been shown in which the first light adjustment member 61 is provided around the light-emitting element, but it is not necessary to provide the first light adjustment member 61. In this case, if the first conductive portion 31, the second conductive portion 32, etc. are made of a transparent material and the covering member 71 and the protective member 74 are also made of a transparent material, the entire display device 1 can be made translucent.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example has been shown in which the first drive circuit 51 passively controls each first light-emitting element 21 via the first conductive portion 31 and the second conductive portion 32, but the method of controlling the light-emitting elements is not limited to this. For example, a transistor may be provided for each light-emitting element, and the first drive circuit 51 may actively control each light-emitting element.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example has been shown in which light-emitting elements that emit blue light, light-emitting elements that emit green light, and light-emitting elements that emit red light are provided, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, all of the light-emitting elements may be made to emit blue light, and part of this blue light may be converted into green light and red light by a wavelength conversion member containing a phosphor, and each color of light may be selected by a color filter.

[0095] <First Modification of First Embodiment> Fig. 13 is a diagram showing one panel in a display device according to this modification. As shown in Fig. 13, the display device according to this modification is provided with a panel 200d in addition to panels 200a, 200b, and 200c. The outer shape of panel 200d is substantially the same as the outer shape of panel 200a.

[0096] In panel 200d, fourth units 28 are arranged in every third pixel along the first direction X and the second direction Y. In panel 200d, the positions of the fourth units 28 in the second direction Y are different from each other in three pixel columns that are adjacent to each other in the first direction X and extend in the second direction Y. Therefore, the arrangement density of the fourth light-emitting elements in panel 200d is, for example, ⅓ times the arrangement density of the first light-emitting elements 21 in panel 200a.

[0097] Each fourth unit 28 may be provided with one fourth light-emitting element that emits blue light, one fourth light-emitting element that emits green light, and one fourth light-emitting element that emits red light. However, in the following description, it is assumed that each fourth unit 28 is provided with one fourth light-emitting element. The configuration of each fourth light-emitting element is the same as the configuration of each first light-emitting element 21. In addition, the panel 200d is provided with a fourth drive circuit. The configuration of the fourth drive circuit is the same as the configuration of the first drive circuit 51.

[0098] In panel 200d, the fourth drive circuit selects three first conductive units 31 at a time and applies a first potential V1 to each of them, thereby controlling the current flowing through the plurality of second conductive units 32 based on image data D2. As a result, the fourth drive circuit simultaneously scans scanning lines s1 to s3, while controlling the fourth light-emitting elements corresponding to scanning lines s1 to s3 via data lines d1 to d8. Next, the fourth drive circuit simultaneously scans scanning lines s4 to s6, while controlling the fourth light-emitting elements corresponding to scanning lines s4 to s6 via data lines d1 to d8.

[0099] In this way, the fourth drive circuit scans three scanning lines at a time, and the time for one scan is 3T. The maximum value of the current flowing through each fourth light-emitting element is I. The time during which the fourth light-emitting element emits light is 3T, which is three times the time T during which the first light-emitting element 21 emits light. Therefore, from the user's perspective, the maximum brightness of the fourth light-emitting element is three times the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element 21. This allows the maximum brightness of panel 200d to be approximately the same as that of panel 200a.

[0100] According to this modification, a display device more suitable for the image to be displayed can be configured by providing four types of panels 200. The configuration, operation, and effects of this modification other than those described above are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0101] <Second Modification of First Embodiment> Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a medium-resolution panel in a display device according to this modification. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing another medium-resolution panel in a display device according to this modification. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to this modification.

[0102] This modification is different from the first modification of the first embodiment in the arrangement of the light-emitting elements in the panels 200b, 200c, and 200d. As shown in Fig. 10, the arrangement and operation of the first light-emitting element 21 in the panel 200a are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 14 , the arrangement density of the second units 26 in the panel 200b is half the arrangement density of the first units 25 in the panel 200a. In the first direction X, the second units 26 are arranged in every other pixel. In the second direction Y, the second units 26 are arranged in all pixels in a certain pixel column, but not in all pixels in the adjacent pixel column. In the panel 200b, the second drive circuit 52 simultaneously scans two scanning lines at a time. Alternatively, the second drive circuit 52 scans every other scanning line. In the example shown in FIG. 14 , the second drive circuit 52 scans scanning lines s1, s3, s5, and s7. The time for selecting each scanning line is 2T.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 15 , the arrangement density of the fourth units 28 in the panel 200d is ⅓ times the arrangement density of the first units 25 in the panel 200a. In the first direction X, the fourth units 28 are arranged in every third pixel. In the second direction Y, the fourth units 28 are arranged in every pixel in a certain pixel column, but not in every pixel in the two adjacent pixel columns. In the panel 200d, the fourth drive circuit simultaneously scans three scanning lines. Alternatively, the fourth drive circuit scans every third scanning line. In the example shown in FIG. 15 , the fourth drive circuit scans scanning lines s1, s4, and s7. The time for selecting each scanning line is 3T.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 16 , the arrangement density of the third units 27 in the panel 200c is ¼ times the arrangement density of the first units 25 in the panel 200a. In the first direction X, the third units 27 are arranged in every third pixel. In the second direction Y, the third units 27 are arranged in all pixels in a certain pixel column, but not in all pixels in the three adjacent pixel columns. In the panel 200c, the third drive circuit 53 simultaneously scans four scanning lines. Alternatively, the third drive circuit 53 scans every third scanning line. In the example shown in FIG. 16 , the third drive circuit 53 scans scanning lines s1 and s5. The time for selecting each scanning line is 4T.

[0106] This modification can also provide the same effects as the first modification of the first embodiment. The configuration, operation, and effects of this modification other than those described above are the same as those of the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0107] <Third Modification of First Embodiment> Fig. 17 is a diagram showing a medium-resolution panel in a display device according to this modification. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing another medium-resolution panel in a display device according to this modification. Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to this modification.

[0108] This modification is different from the first modification of the first embodiment in the arrangement of the light-emitting elements in the panels 200b, 200c, and 200d. As shown in Fig. 10, the arrangement and operation of the first light-emitting element 21 in the panel 200a are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0109] 17 , the arrangement density of the second units 26 in panel 200b is half the arrangement density of the first units 25 in panel 200a. In the first direction X, the second units 26 are arranged in all pixels in a given pixel row, but not in all pixels in the adjacent pixel row. In the second direction Y, the second units 26 are arranged in every other pixel.

[0110] In panel 200b, the second drive circuit 52 scans the scanning lines one by one. The time it takes for the second drive circuit 52 to select each scanning line is defined as T. The second drive circuit 52 also controls the second units 26 via every other data line d1, d3, d5, and d7. The maximum value of the current flowing through each second light-emitting element 22 is defined as 2I. This makes the maximum brightness of the second light-emitting element 22 twice that of the first light-emitting element 21. As a result, the maximum brightness can be made approximately the same between panels 200a and 200b.

[0111] 18 , the arrangement density of the fourth units 28 in panel 200d is ⅓ times the arrangement density of the first units 25 in panel 200a. In the first direction X, the fourth units 28 are arranged in all pixels in a certain pixel row, but not in all pixels in the two pixel rows adjacent thereto. In the second direction Y, the fourth units 28 are arranged in every third pixel.

[0112] In panel 200d, the fourth drive circuit also scans each scanning line one by one. The time it takes for the fourth drive circuit to select each scanning line is defined as T. The fourth drive circuit also controls the fourth unit 28 via every third data line d1, d4, and d7. The maximum value of the current flowing through each fourth light-emitting element is defined as 3I. As a result, the maximum brightness of the fourth light-emitting element is three times the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element 21.

[0113] 19 , the arrangement density of the third units 27 in the panel 200c is ¼ times the arrangement density of the first units 25 in the panel 200a. In the first direction X, the third units 27 are arranged in all pixels in a certain pixel row, but not in all pixels in the three pixel rows adjacent thereto. In the second direction Y, the third units 27 are arranged in every third pixel.

[0114] In panel 200c, the third drive circuit 53 also scans the scanning lines one by one. The time it takes for the third drive circuit 53 to select each scanning line is defined as T. The third drive circuit 53 also controls the third units 27 via every third data line d1, d5. The maximum value of the current flowing through each third light-emitting element 23 is defined as 4I. As a result, the maximum brightness of the third light-emitting element 23 is four times the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element 21.

[0115] According to this modification, the scanning of panels 200b, 200c, and 200d can be the same as the scanning of panel 200a. This simplifies the driving of the display device. The configuration, operation, and effects of this modification other than those described above are the same as those of the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0116] <Fourth Modification of First Embodiment> Fig. 20 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to this modification. As shown in Fig. 20, this modification differs from the first modification of the first embodiment in the arrangement of the third light-emitting element 23 in panel 200c. The arrangement of the light-emitting elements in panels 200a, 200b, and 200d is the same as that in the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0117] The arrangement density of the third units 27 in the panel 200c of this modified example is ¼ times the arrangement density of the first units 25 in the panel 200a. In the first direction X, the third units 27 are arranged in every other pixel in a certain column, and in the adjacent column, the third units 27 are not arranged in any pixels. In the second direction Y, the third units 27 are arranged in every third pixel in each pixel column. In two pixel columns adjacent to each other in the first direction X, the positions of the third units 27 in the second direction Y are different from each other. In the example shown in FIG. 20 , in the columns corresponding to the scanning lines s1, s3, s5, and s7, the third units 27 are arranged in the rows corresponding to the data lines d1 and d5, and in the columns corresponding to the scanning lines s2, s4, s6, and s8, the third units 27 are arranged in the rows corresponding to the data lines d3 and d7.

[0118] The third drive circuit 53 scans the scanning lines two at a time. The time during which the third drive circuit 53 selects each scanning line is set to 2T. The third drive circuit 53 also controls the third units 27 via every other data line d1, d3, d5, and d7. The maximum value of the current flowing through each third light-emitting element 23 is set to 2I. As a result, the third light-emitting element 23 emits light for 2T with a maximum current of 2I, so that the maximum luminance of the third light-emitting element 23 is four times that of the first light-emitting element 21. As a result, the maximum luminance can be made approximately the same between the panels 200a and 200c. The configuration, operation, and effects of this modification other than those described above are the same as those of the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0119] <Fifth Modification of First Embodiment> Fig. 21 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to this modification. As shown in Fig. 21, this modification differs from the first modification of the first embodiment in the arrangement of the third light-emitting element 23 in panel 200c. The arrangement of the light-emitting elements in panels 200a, 200b, and 200d is the same as that in the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0120] The arrangement density of the third units 27 in the panel 200c of this modified example is ¼ times the arrangement density of the first units 25 in the panel 200a. In the first direction X, the third units 27 are arranged in every other pixel in a given pixel row, but are not arranged in any pixels in the adjacent pixel row. In the second direction Y, the third units 27 are arranged in every other pixel in a given pixel column, but are not arranged in any pixels in the adjacent pixel column.

[0121] 21 , in pixel columns corresponding to scanning lines s1, s3, s5, and s7, the third units 27 are arranged in pixel rows corresponding to data lines d1, d3, d5, and d7, and no third units 27 are arranged in pixel columns corresponding to scanning lines s2, s4, s6, and s8.

[0122] The third drive circuit 53 scans the scanning lines two at a time. Alternatively, the third drive circuit 53 scans every other scanning line. The time during which the third drive circuit 53 selects each scanning line is set to 2T. The third drive circuit 53 also controls the third units 27 via every other data line d1, d3, d5, and d7. The maximum value of the current flowing through each third light-emitting element 23 is set to 2I. As a result, the third light-emitting element 23 emits light for 2T with a maximum current of 2I, so that the maximum luminance of the third light-emitting element 23 is four times the maximum luminance of the first light-emitting element 21. Other than the above, the configuration, operation, and effects of this modification are the same as those of the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0123] <Sixth Modification of First Embodiment> Fig. 22 is a diagram showing a low-resolution panel in a display device according to this modification. As shown in Fig. 22, this modification differs from the first modification of the first embodiment in the arrangement of the third light-emitting element 23 in panel 200c. The arrangement of the light-emitting elements in panels 200a, 200b, and 200d is the same as that in the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0124] The arrangement density of the third units 27 in the panel 200c of this modified example is ¼ times the arrangement density of the first units 25 in the panel 200a. In the first direction X, the third units 27 are arranged in every third pixel in each pixel row. In the second direction Y, the third units 27 are arranged in every other pixel in a certain pixel column, and are not arranged in any pixels in the adjacent pixel column.

[0125] Furthermore, among the pixel columns in which the third units 27 are arranged, the positions at which the third units 27 are arranged are different in pixel columns adjacent to each other in the first direction X. In the example shown in Fig. 22, in the pixel column corresponding to the scanning lines s1 and s5, the third units 27 are arranged in pixel rows corresponding to the data lines d1, d3, d5, and d7, and in the pixel column corresponding to the scanning lines s3 and s7, the third units 27 are arranged in pixel rows corresponding to the data lines d2, d4, d6, and d8.

[0126] The third drive circuit 53 scans two scanning lines at a time. Alternatively, the third drive circuit 53 scans every other scanning line. The time during which the third drive circuit 53 selects each scanning line is set to 2T. The third drive circuit 53 also controls the third units 27 via all data lines d1 to d8. The maximum value of the current flowing through each third light-emitting element 23 is set to 2I. As a result, the third light-emitting element 23 emits light for 2T with a maximum current of 2I, so the maximum luminance of the third light-emitting element 23 is four times the maximum luminance of the first light-emitting element 21. As a result, the maximum luminance can be made approximately the same between panels 200a and 200c.

[0127] The third drive circuit 53 can also scan four scanning lines at a time. In this case, the time during which the third drive circuit 53 selects each scanning line is set to 4T. The third drive circuit 53 controls the third units 27 via all data lines d1 to d8. The maximum value of current flowing through each third light-emitting element 23 is set to I. As a result, the third light-emitting element 23 emits light for 4T at the maximum current of I, so that the maximum luminance of the third light-emitting element 23 is four times the maximum luminance of the first light-emitting element 21. As a result, the maximum luminance can be made approximately the same between the panels 200a and 200c. The configuration, operation, and effects of this modification other than those described above are the same as those of the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0128] <Seventh Modification of First Embodiment> Fig. 23 is a partially enlarged plan view showing a display device according to this modification, and Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXIV-XXIV shown in Fig. 23.

[0129] 23 and 24 , in a display device 1a according to this modification, a panel 200a is provided with reflective members 75 that cover each of the first light-emitting elements 21. In the display device 1a, a plurality of openings 61e are provided in the first light adjustment member 61, and one first light-emitting element 21 and one reflective member 75 are arranged in each opening 61e. The reflective members 75 are arranged between the first light-emitting element 21 and the first light adjustment member 61, and between the first light-emitting element 21 and the covering member 71. Note that the reflective members 75 may be arranged to cover the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21.

[0130] The reflective member 75 is formed of a material having light reflectivity and insulating properties, such as a white resin material. In plan view, the reflective member 75 may or may not overlap the via 31 a of the first conductive portion 31.

[0131] According to this modification, the provision of the reflecting member 75 improves the light extraction efficiency. Furthermore, since the incidence of light emitted from the first light-emitting element 21 on the covering member 71 can be reduced, for example, it is no longer necessary to impart light-reflecting properties to the material of the covering member 71 in order to improve the light extraction efficiency. This increases the options for the covering member 71. For example, the covering member 71 may be formed from a transparent resin.

[0132] When a unit consisting of a plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 is arranged within the opening of the first light adjustment member 61, a plurality of reflecting members 75 may be arranged so as to cover each of the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 located within the opening, or a single reflecting member 75 may be arranged so as to integrally cover the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21. Other configurations, operations, and effects of this modified example are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0133] <Eighth Modification of First Embodiment> Fig. 25 is a plan view showing a display device according to this modification. Note that, for the sake of simplicity, Fig. 25 shows only three panels, but the display device according to this modification may include four or more panels.

[0134] 25 , in the display device 1b according to this modification, the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 provided on the panel 200a include a first light-emitting element 21B that emits light of a first color, a first light-emitting element 21G that emits light of a second color, and a first light-emitting element 21R that emits light of a third color. As described above, the first color is, for example, blue, the second color is, for example, green, and the third color is, for example, red. Therefore, the panel 200a is capable of full-color display.

[0135] On the other hand, the plurality of second light-emitting elements 22 provided on panel 200b include second light-emitting elements 22B that emit light of a first color and second light-emitting elements 22G that emit light of a second color, but do not include second light-emitting elements that emit light of a third color. Similarly, the plurality of third light-emitting elements 23 provided on panel 200c include third light-emitting elements 23B that emit light of a first color and third light-emitting elements 23G that emit light of a second color, but do not include third light-emitting elements that emit light of a third color. Therefore, panels 200b and 200c provide two-color display.

[0136] According to this modification, the cost of the display device 1b can be reduced by not providing light-emitting elements of unnecessary colors depending on the content of the image to be displayed. Note that the two colors displayed on the panels 200b and 200c are not limited to blue and green. Furthermore, the two colors displayed on the panel 200b may be different from the two colors displayed on the panel 200c. Other than the above, the configuration, operation, and effects of this modification are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0137] 26 is a plan view showing a display device according to this modification. As shown in FIG. 26, in a display device 1c according to this modification, the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 provided on a panel 200a include a first light-emitting element 21B that emits light of a first color, a first light-emitting element 21G that emits light of a second color, and a first light-emitting element 21R that emits light of a third color. Therefore, the panel 200a is capable of full-color display.

[0138] On the other hand, the plurality of second light-emitting elements 22 provided on panel 200b include second light-emitting elements 22B that emit light of a first color, but do not include second light-emitting elements that emit light of a second color, or second light-emitting elements that emit light of a third color. Similarly, the plurality of third light-emitting elements 23 provided on panel 200c include third light-emitting elements 23B that emit light of the first color, but do not include third light-emitting elements that emit light of a second color, or third light-emitting elements that emit light of a third color. For this reason, panels 200b and 200c provide monochrome display.

[0139] According to this modification, the cost of the display device 1c can be further reduced by configuring some panels to display in a single color depending on the content of the image to be displayed. The color displayed on the panels 200b and 200c is not limited to blue. The color displayed on the panel 200b may be different from the color displayed on the panel 200c. Furthermore, the panel 200a may display in three colors, the panel 200b may display in two colors, and the panel 200c may display in a single color.

[0140] The color of light emitted by each light-emitting element is not limited to blue, green, or red, but may be blue-green or yellow, for example. For example, yellow light may be a color generated by combining green and red light. The color of light emitted by the light-emitting element may also be white. White light may also be generated by overlaying a yellow phosphor on blue light, or by combining blue and yellow light, or by combining blue, green, and red light. Other than the above, the configuration, operation, and effects of this modified example are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0141] Second Embodiment Fig. 27 is a plan view showing a display device according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 27, the display device 2 according to this embodiment includes a panel 200e and a panel 200f. The panels 200e and 200f are adjacent to each other in the first direction X. Note that the display device 2 may include other panels, but for the sake of simplicity, only two panels, the panel 200e and the panel 200f, will be described in this embodiment.

[0142] The display device 2 includes a first support member 11, a second support member 12, a plurality of first light-emitting elements 21, and a plurality of second light-emitting elements 22. The panel 200e includes the first support member 11, the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21, and a plurality of second light-emitting elements 22. The panel 200f includes the second support member 12 and the plurality of second light-emitting elements 22. At least in a plan view, the outer shape of the first support member 11 is the same as the outer shape of the second support member 12.

[0143] A first support member 11 is disposed on the panel 200e. A first zone Z1 and a second zone Z2 are defined on the first support member 11. In the first direction X, the second zone Z2 is disposed between the first zone Z1 and the second support member 12. A plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 are disposed on the first zone Z1. A plurality of second light-emitting elements 22 are disposed on the second zone Z2. A second support member 12 is disposed on the panel 200f. A plurality of second light-emitting elements 22 are disposed on the second support member 12.

[0144] In the first region R1 on the first zone Z1 of the first support member 11, n adjacent first light-emitting elements 21 (n is an integer greater than or equal to 2) are arranged. In the second region R2 on the second support member 12, 1 to (n-1) second light-emitting elements 22 are arranged. In the third region R3 on the second zone Z2 of the first support member 11, the number of second light-emitting elements 22 is less than the number of first light-emitting elements 21 arranged in the first region R1 and equal to or greater than the number of second light-emitting elements 22 arranged in the second region R2. The first region R1, the second region R2, and the third region R3 are congruent with one another. Furthermore, the position of the second region R2 on the second support member 12 is relatively the same as the position of the first region R1 on the first support member 11.

[0145] In the example shown in FIG. 27 , four first units 25 are arranged in the first region R1. Because one first unit 25 includes three first light-emitting elements 21, twelve first light-emitting elements 21 are arranged in the first region R1. That is, the above n is 12. One second unit 26 is arranged in the second region R2. Because one second unit 26 includes three second light-emitting elements 22, three second light-emitting elements 22 are arranged in the second region R2. Two second units 26 are arranged in the third region R3. Therefore, six second light-emitting elements 22 are arranged in the third region R3.

[0146] As a result, the arrangement density of the second light-emitting elements 22 in the third region R3 is (1 / 2) times the arrangement density of the first light-emitting elements 21 in the first region R1, and the arrangement density of the second light-emitting elements 22 in the second region R2 is (1 / 4) times the arrangement density of the first light-emitting elements 21 in the first region R1.

[0147] According to this embodiment, a second zone Z2 is set between the first zone Z1 and the second support member 12, and the resolution of the second zone Z2 is set lower than the resolution of the first zone Z1 but equal to or higher than the resolution of the second support member 12, thereby providing a gradation in the resolution of the displayed image along the first direction X. This reduces the sense of incongruity caused by abrupt changes in resolution within the image.

[0148] Furthermore, the boundary between the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 can be made less noticeable by shifting the boundary between the first support member 11 and the second support member 12. Other configurations, operations, and effects of this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0149] 28 is a plan view showing a display device according to this embodiment. In the display device 3 according to this embodiment, all of the panels 200 are high-resolution panels 200a. However, the first drive circuit 51 of each panel 200 displays an image at the resolution required for that panel 200.

[0150] For example, one panel 200 displays images at the inherent high resolution of panel 200a. Another panel 200 displays images at the same medium resolution as panel 200b. Yet another panel 200 displays images at the same low resolution as panel 200c. When one panel 200 displays images at a resolution lower than the inherent resolution of panel 200a, some of the first units 25 in that panel 200 may not be used.

[0151] In other words, in the display device 3, if the panel 200a that displays images at high resolution includes a first support member 11, a plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 arranged on the first support member 11, and a first drive circuit 51 that is arranged on the first support member 11 and drives the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21, and the panel 200a that displays images at low resolution includes a second support member, a plurality of second light-emitting elements arranged on the second support member, and a second drive circuit that is arranged on the second support member and drives the plurality of second light-emitting elements, the resolution of the image that the second drive circuit causes the plurality of second light-emitting elements to display is lower than the resolution of the image that the first drive circuit 51 causes the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 to display. The configuration of the first drive circuit 51 is the same as the configuration of the second drive circuit, and the first drive circuit 51 and the second drive circuit are connected.

[0152] According to this embodiment, panels of the same specification can be used for all panels 200, making it easy to rearrange the panels 200. Other configurations, operations, and effects of this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0153] Fourth Embodiment Fig. 29 is a plan view showing a display device according to this embodiment, and Fig. 30 is a diagram showing the operation of the display device according to this embodiment.

[0154] 29 , the display device 4 according to this embodiment includes a panel 200g and a panel 200h. The panels 200g and 200h are adjacent to each other in the first direction X. Although the display device 4 may include other panels, in this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, only two panels, the panel 200g and the panel 200h, will be described.

[0155] The display device 4 includes a first support member 11, a second support member 12, a plurality of first light-emitting elements 21, a plurality of second light-emitting elements 22, a first drive circuit 51, and a second drive circuit 52. At least in a plan view, the outer shape of the first support member 11 is the same as the outer shape of the second support member 12.

[0156] A first support member 11 is disposed on the panel 200g. A first zone Z1 and a second zone Z2 are defined on the first support member 11. In the first direction X, the second zone Z2 is disposed between the first zone Z1 and the second support member 12. A plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 are disposed on the first zone Z1. A plurality of second light-emitting elements 22 are disposed on the second zone Z2. A first drive circuit 51 is disposed on the first support member 11, and drives the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 disposed in the first zone Z1 and the plurality of second light-emitting elements 22 disposed in the second zone Z2.

[0157] A second support member 12 is disposed on the panel 200h. A plurality of second light-emitting elements 22 are disposed on the second support member 12. A second drive circuit 52 is disposed on the second support member 12 and drives the plurality of second light-emitting elements 22 disposed on the second support member 12. The arrangement density of the first light-emitting elements 21 in the first zone Z1, the arrangement density of the second light-emitting elements 22 in the second zone Z2, and the arrangement density of the second light-emitting elements 22 on the second support member 12 are all the same.

[0158] 30 , the resolution of the image that the first drive circuit 51 causes the second light-emitting elements 22 in the second zone Z2 to display is lower than the resolution of the image that the first drive circuit 51 causes the plurality of first light-emitting elements 21 in the first zone Z1 to display. The first drive circuit 51 may not cause some of the second light-emitting elements 22 to emit light.

[0159] Furthermore, the resolution of the image that the second drive circuit 52 causes the second light-emitting elements 22 on the second support member 12 to display is equal to or lower than the resolution of the image that the first drive circuit 51 causes the second light-emitting elements 22 on the second zone Z2 to display. The second drive circuit 52 may not cause some of the second light-emitting elements 22 to emit light.

[0160] 30, on panel 200g, the resolution of the second zone Z2 is 1 / 2 times the resolution of the first zone Z1, and the resolution of panel 200h is 1 / 4 times the resolution of the first zone Z1 of panel 200g. As a result, the display device 4 displays a high-resolution image in the first zone Z1 of panel 200g, a medium-resolution or low-resolution image in the second zone Z2, and a low-resolution image on panel 200h.

[0161] As with the second embodiment, this embodiment also allows for a gradation in the resolution of the displayed image. This reduces the sense of incongruity caused by abrupt changes in resolution within the image. Furthermore, by shifting the boundary between the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 from the boundary between the first support member 11 and the second support member 12, the boundary between the first support member 11 and the second support member 12 can be made less noticeable. Other configurations, operations, and effects of this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0162] Fifth Embodiment Fig. 31 is a plan view showing a display device according to this embodiment. Fig. 32 is a diagram showing the operation of the display device according to this embodiment. In Fig. 32, the same reference numerals are assigned to image data that are input at the same timing. Specifically, the reference numerals "A", "B", "C", ... "P" are assigned in order of earliest input timing.

[0163] 31 and 32 , in the display device 5 according to this embodiment, multiple panels 200 are connected in a daisy chain. That is, image data D1 is input only to the first drive circuit 51 of the first-stage panel 200. The conversion unit 51c of the first drive circuit 51 of the first-stage panel 200 converts the image data D1 into image data D2 and inputs it into the first-stage memory cell of the storage unit 51d. When new image data D2 is input, the storage unit 51d moves the image data D2 that was previously stored to the memory cell one stage later, and outputs the image data D2 that was stored in the memory cell of the final stage to the first drive circuit 51 of the second-stage panel 200.

[0164] In the first drive circuit 51 of the second or subsequent panel 200, when image data D2 is input from the previous panel 200, the image data D2 is input to the first memory cell of the storage unit 51d, the image data D2 stored up to that point is moved to the memory cell one stage later, and the image data D2 stored in the memory cell of the final stage is output to the first drive circuit 51 of the next subsequent panel 200. In this way, the image data D2 input to and converted by the first panel 200 is sent to the subsequent panels 200 in sequence.

[0165] When the image data D2 is input to all memory cells of the storage units 51d of all panels 200, the current output units 51e of each panel 200 pass current to each light-emitting element based on the image data D2 stored in the respective storage units 51d, causing each light-emitting element to emit light. As a result, the display device 5 displays an image.

[0166] According to this embodiment, by daisy-chaining a plurality of panels 200, it is not necessary to store all of the image data D2 in the storage unit 51d of the first panel 200. This allows the capacity of the storage unit 51d of the first panel 200 to be the same as the capacity of the storage units 51d of the other panels 200. Alternatively, it is not necessary to use an external memory 400. As a result, the cost of the display device 5 can be reduced. Other configurations, operations, and effects of this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0167] Sixth Embodiment This embodiment and its modifications are examples in which the display device 1 according to the first embodiment is used in a transport vehicle, for example, an automobile. Note that instead of the display device 1 according to the first embodiment, a display device according to any of the modifications of the first embodiment or any of the second to fifth embodiments may be used. Fig. 33 is a diagram showing the inside of a transport vehicle according to this embodiment. Fig. 34 is a diagram showing an image displayed by the display device according to this embodiment.

[0168] As shown in Fig. 33 , a transportation vehicle 500 according to this embodiment is, for example, an automobile. The transportation vehicle 500 may be an automobile capable of automatic driving. A steering wheel 501 is provided in the driver's seat of the transportation vehicle 500. A main display 502 is provided on the passenger seat side of the steering wheel 501. Virtual control buttons 503 are displayed in the air to the sides of the steering wheel 501. A sub-display 504 is provided above the steering wheel 501. A head-up display (HUD) 506 may be displayed further above the sub-display 504, below a windshield 505.

[0169] The display device 1 is used as at least one of the sub-display 504 and the HUD 506. When the display device 1 is used as the sub-display 504, it is placed in a position where it can be directly seen by the user. The user is, for example, the driver of the traffic vehicle 500. When the display device 1 is used as the HUD 506, it is not placed in a position where it can be directly seen by the user, but is placed in a position where light emitted from the display device 1 reaches the user's eyes after being reflected by the bottom of the windshield 505. Alternatively, a light-transmitting display device is embedded in the bottom of the windshield 505.

[0170] The main display 502 is, for example, a touch panel using a liquid crystal display device. The main display 502 displays, for example, map information provided by a navigation system, location information of the transportation vehicle 500, information about the indoor environment such as air conditioning, and information about auxiliary devices such as audio. Furthermore, when the transportation vehicle 500 is being driven autonomously, the main display 502 may display images unrelated to the transportation vehicle 500, such as an internet browser, an arbitrary work screen, or entertainment content such as a video.

[0171] As shown in Fig. 34, at least one of the sub-display 504 and the HUD 506 displays an image IM1 using the display device 1. The image IM1 is, for example, information that supports the driving of the traffic vehicle 500. The image IM1 has, for example, a high-definition area Ra, a medium-definition area Rb, and a low-definition area Rc set therein. The high-definition area Ra is displayed by the panel 200a of the display device 1. The medium-definition area Rb is displayed by the panel 200b. The low-definition area Rc is displayed by the panel 200c.

[0172] The high-resolution area Ra displays, for example, text information or a portion of a map. In the example shown in FIG. 34, information about the next intersection is displayed. The medium-resolution area Rb displays, for example, numbers. In the example shown in FIG. 34, the current speed and legal speed limit of the traffic vehicle 500 are displayed. The low-resolution area Rc displays, for example, icons and symbols. In the example shown in FIG. 34, the remaining battery level, whether or not there are incoming emails, and whether or not there are incoming phone calls are displayed.

[0173] The image IM1 may have a white background and letters, numbers, symbols, etc. displayed in black or color. However, to reduce power consumption, it is preferable to display the background in black and the letters, numbers, symbols, etc. in white or color. When displaying in color, a full-color display using all of red, green, and blue may be used, or only some of the colors may be used. For example, in the high-definition region Ra and the medium-definition region Rb, a full-color display using all of red, green, and blue may be used, and in the low-definition region Rc, only blue and green light-emitting elements may be provided, and an image may be displayed using only green and blue without the red light-emitting element. In this way, by configuring each panel 200 according to the image IM1, the cost of the display device 1 can be reduced.

[0174] According to this embodiment, power consumption can be reduced because the display device 1 is used as the sub-display 504 or the HUD 506. Furthermore, because the sub-display 504 or the HUD 506 is disposed above the steering wheel 501, the amount of change in the focal length of the eyes can be reduced when the user alternates between looking at the view ahead of the traffic vehicle 500 and the sub-display 504 or the HUD 506. This reduces the burden on the user.

[0175] If the sub-display 504 or the HUD 506 is disposed above the steering wheel 501, sunlight that has passed through the windshield 505 may be irradiated onto the display device 1, potentially causing the display device 1 to become hot. In this embodiment, LEDs are used as the light-emitting elements of the display device 1, which has higher heat resistance than display devices that use liquid crystal. Therefore, even if the sub-display 504 or the HUD 506 is disposed above the steering wheel 501, failure due to sunlight is unlikely to occur. Other configurations, operations, and effects of this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0176] <First Modification of the Sixth Embodiment> Figure 35 is a diagram showing the rear of a traffic vehicle according to this modification. As shown in Figure 35, a traffic vehicle 500a according to this modification uses a display device 1 in the lower part of a rear shield 507 and in a brake lamp 508. A light-transmitting display device may be provided in the rear shield 507. An image IM2 containing a message for following vehicles, such as a beginner's mark and the text "Kid's in Car," is displayed on the rear shield 507. The brake lamp 508 displays a gauge indicating the amount of brake depression.

[0177] According to this modification, the beginner mark is displayed only when the driver is a beginner, and the "Kid's in Car" character string is displayed only when there is a child in the vehicle. This makes display easier than attaching and detaching a sticker. Note that the content of the image IM2 displayed on the rear shield 507 is not limited to the above example. For example, when the transportation vehicle 500a is being driven autonomously, an advertisement may be displayed on the entire surface of the rear shield 507.

[0178] Furthermore, according to this modification, by using a gauge display for the brake lamp 508, the driver of the following vehicle can be informed of the amount of brake application. This allows the driver of the following vehicle to determine the degree of deceleration of the traffic moving object 500a, thereby improving safety. The configuration, operation, and effects of this modification other than those described above are the same as those of the sixth embodiment.

[0179] <Second Modification of Sixth Embodiment> Fig. 36 is a diagram showing the front of a traffic vehicle according to this modification, and Fig. 37 is a cross-sectional view showing the windshield of the traffic vehicle according to this modification.

[0180] As shown in Fig. 36, when the traffic vehicle 500b according to this modification is operating autonomously, an image IM3 indicating that the traffic vehicle 500b is operating autonomously is displayed on the windshield 505. For example, the word "Auto" is displayed with turquoise blue as the text or background color. This alerts people around the traffic vehicle 500b.

[0181] As shown in FIG. 37 , a base material 510 is provided in the front shield 505 of a traffic vehicle 500b. An exterior display device 1g is provided on the exterior side of the traffic vehicle 500b as viewed from the base material 510, and a cover layer 511 is provided on the exterior side of the display device 1g. An interior display device 1h is provided on the interior side of the traffic vehicle 500b as viewed from the base material 510, and a cover layer 512 is provided on the interior side of the display device 1h. The base material 510 is a plate material that can be switched between a transparent state and an opaque state, and is formed, for example, from an electrochromic material. It is preferable to use translucent display devices for the display devices 1g and 1h. The cover layers 511 and 512 are made of a translucent material, for example, glass plates.

[0182] As a result, when the transportation vehicle 500b is manually driven, the base material 510 is made transparent and the display devices 1g and 1h are turned off. Alternatively, the image IM1 shown in FIG. 34 may be displayed at the bottom of the in-vehicle display device 1h.

[0183] On the other hand, when the transportation vehicle 500b is operated automatically, the base material 510 is made opaque, and the exterior display device 1g displays the image IM3. When there are passengers inside the transportation vehicle 500b, the interior display device 1h may display an image desired by the passengers, such as an internet browser, a work screen, or entertainment content such as a video.

[0184] According to this modification, various images can be individually displayed to people around the traffic vehicle 500b and passengers inside the vehicle by providing display devices inside and outside the windshield 505. The configuration, operation, and effects of this modification other than those described above are the same as those of the sixth embodiment.

[0185] The above-described embodiments and their modifications are examples of realizing the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and modifications. For example, the present invention also includes the addition, deletion, or modification of some components or steps in the above-described embodiments and modifications. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and modifications can be implemented in combination with each other.

[0186] The present invention includes the following aspects.

[0187] (Supplementary Note 1) A display device comprising: a first support member; a second support member; a plurality of first light-emitting elements arranged on the first support member; and a plurality of second light-emitting elements arranged on the second support member, wherein the outer shape of the first support member is the same as the outer shape of the second support member, wherein n (n is an integer of 2 or more) adjacent first light-emitting elements are arranged in a first region on the first support member, and wherein 1 to (n-1) of the second light-emitting elements are arranged in a second region on the second support member, the second region is congruent with the first region, and the position of the second region on the second support member is relatively the same as the position of the first region on the first support member.

[0188] (Appendix 2) The display device described in Appendix 1 further comprises: a first drive circuit arranged on the first support member and driving the plurality of first light-emitting elements; and a second drive circuit arranged on the second support member and driving the plurality of second light-emitting elements, wherein the configuration of the first drive circuit is the same as the configuration of the second drive circuit, and the first drive circuit and the second drive circuit are connected.

[0189] (Supplementary Note 3) A display device comprising: a first support member; a second support member; a plurality of first light-emitting elements; and a plurality of second light-emitting elements, wherein an outer shape of the first support member is the same as an outer shape of the second support member, the first support member is defined with a first zone and a second zone disposed between the first zone and the second support member, wherein n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2) adjacent first light-emitting elements are disposed in a first region on the first zone, wherein 1 to (n-1) of the second light-emitting elements are disposed in a second region on the second support member, wherein a number of the second light-emitting elements arranged in a third region on the second zone is less than the number of the first light-emitting elements disposed in the first region and is equal to or greater than the number of the second light-emitting elements disposed in the second region, the first region, the second region, and the third region are congruent with one another, and wherein a position of the second region on the second support member is relatively the same as a position of the first region on the first support member.

[0190] (Supplementary Note 4) A display device comprising: a first support member; a second support member; a plurality of first light-emitting elements arranged on the first support member; a plurality of second light-emitting elements arranged on the second support member; a first drive circuit arranged on the first support member and driving the plurality of first light-emitting elements; and a second drive circuit arranged on the second support member and driving the plurality of second light-emitting elements, wherein the resolution of an image displayed by the second drive circuit on the plurality of second light-emitting elements is lower than the resolution of an image displayed by the first drive circuit on the plurality of first light-emitting elements.

[0191] (Supplementary Note 5) The display device according to Supplementary Note 4, wherein the first drive circuit has the same configuration as the second drive circuit, and the first drive circuit and the second drive circuit are connected to each other.

[0192] (Supplementary Note 6) A display device comprising: a first support member; a second support member; a plurality of first light-emitting elements; a plurality of second light-emitting elements; a first drive circuit arranged on the first support member; and a second drive circuit arranged on the second support member, wherein the first support member is defined with a first zone and a second zone arranged between the first zone and the second support member, the plurality of first light-emitting elements are arranged on the first zone, and the plurality of second light-emitting elements are arranged on the second zone and on the second support member, wherein a resolution of an image that the first drive circuit causes the second light-emitting elements on the second zone to display is lower than a resolution of an image that the first drive circuit causes the plurality of first light-emitting elements to display, and a resolution of an image that the second drive circuit causes the second light-emitting elements on the second support member to display is equal to or lower than a resolution of an image that the first drive circuit causes the second light-emitting elements on the second zone to display.

[0193] (Supplementary Note 7) The display device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 4 to 6, wherein an outer shape of the first support member is the same as an outer shape of the second support member.

[0194] (Appendix 8) A display device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 7, wherein the plurality of first light-emitting elements are arranged in a matrix along a first direction and a second direction, and the first support member and the second support member are arranged in the first direction.

[0195] (Supplementary Note 9) The display device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of first light-emitting elements include the first light-emitting element that emits light of a first color, the first light-emitting element that emits light of a second color, and the first light-emitting element that emits light of a third color, and wherein first units each consisting of one first light-emitting element that emits light of the first color, one first light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, and one first light-emitting element that emits light of the third color are periodically arranged along a first direction and a second direction, and the plurality of second light-emitting elements include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the first color, the second light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, and the second light-emitting element that emits light of the third color, and wherein second units each consisting of one second light-emitting element that emits light of the first color, one second light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, and one second light-emitting element that emits light of the third color are periodically arranged along the first direction and the second direction.

[0196] (Supplementary Note 10) The display device described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of first light-emitting elements include the first light-emitting element that emits light of a first color, the first light-emitting element that emits light of a second color, and the first light-emitting element that emits light of a third color, and the plurality of second light-emitting elements include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the first color and the second light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, and does not include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the third color.

[0197] (Appendix 11) The display device described in any one of Appendices 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of first light-emitting elements include the first light-emitting element that emits light of a first color, the first light-emitting element that emits light of a second color, and the first light-emitting element that emits light of a third color, and the plurality of second light-emitting elements include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the first color, and do not include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, or the second light-emitting element that emits light of the third color.

[0198] (Supplementary Note 12) The display device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein one second light-emitting element is arranged in the second region, and the maximum luminance of the second light-emitting element is n times the maximum luminance of the first light-emitting element.

[0199] (Appendix 13) A display device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 3, further comprising: a third support member; and a plurality of third light-emitting elements arranged on the third support member; the external shape of the third support member is the same as the external shape of the first support member; m adjacent first light-emitting elements (m is an integer greater than n) are arranged in a fourth region on the first support member; 1 to (m-1) third light-emitting elements are arranged in a fifth region on the third support member; the fifth region is congruent with the fourth region; and the position of the fifth region on the third support member is relatively the same as the position of the fourth region on the first support member.

[0200] (Appendix 14) A display device as described in Appendix 13, wherein one second light-emitting element is arranged in the second region, one third light-emitting element is arranged in the fifth region, the maximum brightness of the second light-emitting element is n times the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element, and the maximum brightness of the third light-emitting element is m times the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element.

[0201] (Supplementary Note 15) The display device according to Supplementary Note 13 or 14, wherein n is 2 and m is 4.

[0202] (Supplementary Note 16) The display device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 13 to 15, wherein the first support member, the second support member, and the third support member are each provided in plurality and arranged in a row along the first direction.

[0203] The present invention can be used, for example, in a display device for a transportation vehicle.

[0204] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1g, 1h, 2, 3, 4, 5 Display device 11 First support member 12 Second support member 13 Third support member 15 Image forming area 16 Wiring connection area 17 Element area 18 Wiring area 21, 21B, 21G, 21R First light emitting element 21a Light extraction surface 21b Electrode formation surface 21c Side surface 21d Semiconductor portion 21e First electrode 21f Second electrode 22, 22B, 22G, 22R Second light emitting element 23, 23B, 23G, 23R Third light emitting element 25 First unit 26 Second unit 27 Third unit 28 Fourth unit 31 First conductive portion 31a Via 32 Second conductive portion 33 Third conductive portion 34 Fourth conductive portion 35 Fifth conductive portion 51 First drive circuit 51c Conversion unit 51d Memory unit 51e Current output unit 52 Second drive circuit 52c Conversion unit 52d Memory unit 52e Current output unit 53 Third drive circuit 53c Conversion unit 53d Memory unit 53e Current output unit 61 First light adjustment member 61a, 61e Opening 71 Covering member 71a First surface 71b Second surface 72 Anisotropic connecting member 73 Connecting member 74 Protective member 75 Reflecting member 100 Mounting substrate 200, 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, 200e, 200f, 200g, 200h Panel 300 Flexible wiring 301 Insulating base 302 Wiring 400 External memory 500, 500a, 500b Transportation vehicle 501 Steering wheel 502 Main display 503 Control button 504 Sub-display 505 Front shield 507 Rear shield 508 Brake lamp 510 Base material 511, 512 Cover layer d1 to d8 Data lines D1, D2 Image data IM1, IM2, IM3 Image Ra High-definition area Rb Medium-definition area Rc Low-definition area R1 First area R2 Second area R3 Third area R4 Fourth area R5 Fifth area s1 to s8Scanning line X First direction Y Second direction Z Third direction Z1 First zone Z2 Second zone

Claims

1. A display device comprising: a first support member; a second support member; a plurality of first light-emitting elements arranged on the first support member; and a plurality of second light-emitting elements arranged on the second support member, wherein the outer shape of the first support member is the same as the outer shape of the second support member, wherein n (n is an integer of 2 or greater) adjacent first light-emitting elements are arranged in a first region on the first support member, and 1 to (n-1) second light-emitting elements are arranged in a second region on the second support member, the second region is congruent with the first region, and the position of the second region on the second support member is relatively the same as the position of the first region on the first support member.

2. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first drive circuit arranged on the first support member for driving the plurality of first light-emitting elements; and a second drive circuit arranged on the second support member for driving the plurality of second light-emitting elements, wherein the configuration of the first drive circuit is the same as the configuration of the second drive circuit, and the first drive circuit and the second drive circuit are connected.

3. A display device comprising: a first support member; a second support member; a plurality of first light-emitting elements; and a plurality of second light-emitting elements, wherein the outer shape of the first support member is the same as the outer shape of the second support member, the first support member is defined with a first zone and a second zone arranged between the first zone and the second support member, wherein n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2) adjacent first light-emitting elements are arranged in a first region on the first zone, wherein 1 to (n-1) of the second light-emitting elements are arranged in a second region on the second support member, wherein the number of second light-emitting elements arranged in a third region on the second zone is less than the number of first light-emitting elements arranged in the first region and is equal to or greater than the number of second light-emitting elements arranged in the second region, the first region, the second region, and the third region are congruent with one another, and wherein the position of the second region on the second support member is relatively the same as the position of the first region on the first support member.

4. A display device comprising: a first support member; a second support member; a plurality of first light-emitting elements arranged on the first support member; a plurality of second light-emitting elements arranged on the second support member; a first drive circuit arranged on the first support member and driving the plurality of first light-emitting elements; and a second drive circuit arranged on the second support member and driving the plurality of second light-emitting elements, wherein the resolution of an image displayed by the second drive circuit on the plurality of second light-emitting elements is lower than the resolution of an image displayed by the first drive circuit on the plurality of first light-emitting elements.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein the configuration of the first drive circuit is the same as the configuration of the second drive circuit, and the first drive circuit and the second drive circuit are connected to each other.

6. A display device comprising: a first support member; a second support member; a plurality of first light-emitting elements; a plurality of second light-emitting elements; a first drive circuit arranged on the first support member; and a second drive circuit arranged on the second support member, wherein the first support member is defined with a first zone and a second zone arranged between the first zone and the second support member, the plurality of first light-emitting elements are arranged on the first zone, and the plurality of second light-emitting elements are arranged on the second zone and on the second support member, wherein the resolution of an image displayed by the first drive circuit on the second light-emitting elements on the second zone is lower than the resolution of an image displayed by the first drive circuit on the plurality of first light-emitting elements, and the resolution of an image displayed by the second light-emitting elements on the second support member by the second drive circuit is equal to or lower than the resolution of an image displayed by the second light-emitting elements on the second zone by the first drive circuit.

7. The display device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the outer shape of the first support member is the same as the outer shape of the second support member.

8. A display device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of first light-emitting elements are arranged in a matrix along a first direction and a second direction, and the first support member and the second support member are arranged in the first direction.

9. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of first light-emitting elements include the first light-emitting element that emits light of a first color, the first light-emitting element that emits light of a second color, and the first light-emitting element that emits light of a third color, and wherein first units each consisting of one first light-emitting element that emits light of the first color, one first light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, and one first light-emitting element that emits light of the third color are periodically arranged along the first direction and the second direction, and the plurality of second light-emitting elements include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the first color, the second light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, and the second light-emitting element that emits light of the third color, and wherein second units each consisting of one second light-emitting element that emits light of the first color, one second light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, and one second light-emitting element that emits light of the third color are periodically arranged along the first direction and the second direction.

10. A display device described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of first light-emitting elements include the first light-emitting element that emits light of a first color, the first light-emitting element that emits light of a second color, and the first light-emitting element that emits light of a third color, and the plurality of second light-emitting elements include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the first color and the second light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, but do not include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the third color.

11. A display device described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of first light-emitting elements include the first light-emitting element that emits light of a first color, the first light-emitting element that emits light of a second color, and the first light-emitting element that emits light of a third color, and the plurality of second light-emitting elements include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the first color, but do not include the second light-emitting element that emits light of the second color, or the second light-emitting element that emits light of the third color.

12. A display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one second light-emitting element is arranged in the second region, and the maximum luminance of the second light-emitting element is n times the maximum luminance of the first light-emitting element.

13. A display device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a third support member; and a plurality of third light-emitting elements arranged on the third support member, wherein the external shape of the third support member is the same as the external shape of the first support member, wherein m adjacent first light-emitting elements (m is an integer greater than n) are arranged in a fourth region on the first support member, and wherein 1 to (m-1) third light-emitting elements are arranged in a fifth region on the third support member, wherein the fifth region is congruent with the fourth region, and wherein the position of the fifth region on the third support member is relatively the same as the position of the fourth region on the first support member.

14. A display device as described in claim 13, wherein one second light-emitting element is arranged in the second region, one third light-emitting element is arranged in the fifth region, the maximum brightness of the second light-emitting element is n times the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element, and the maximum brightness of the third light-emitting element is m times the maximum brightness of the first light-emitting element.

15. The display device according to claim 13, wherein n is 2 and m is 4.

16. The display device according to claim 13, wherein a plurality of the first support members, second support members, and third support members are provided, and are arranged in a line along the first direction.

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