Display apparatus

Abstract

This display apparatus comprises a plurality of pixels that each output light of a respectively corresponding color. The plurality of pixels each include a light-emitting layer and a resonator layer that causes resonance of light of the color of that pixel from among light from the light-emitting layer. In each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes a plurality of structures and at least one resonating part. In each of the plurality of pixels, the plurality of structures and the at least one resonating part are disposed, as a whole, periodically in the planar direction of the resonator layer such that light from the light-emitting layer is trapped in the at least one resonating part.

Description

display device

[0001] This disclosure relates to a display device.

[0002] Various techniques related to optical resonance are known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique using a photonic crystal structure. In a photonic crystal structure, multiple structures (e.g., pores) having different refractive indices from their surroundings are periodically arranged at intervals approximately the same as the resonance wavelength.

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-43918

[0004] Optical resonance technology, which enables higher brightness, higher efficiency, and improved directivity in display devices, is effective in improving performance such as image quality. However, display devices are not specifically discussed in Patent Document 1.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure is to improve the performance of display devices.

[0006] A display device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a plurality of pixels, each of which outputs light of a corresponding color, and each of the plurality of pixels includes a light-emitting layer and a resonator layer that resonates the light of the pixel's color from the light-emitting layer, and in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes a plurality of structures and one or more resonant parts, and in each of the plurality of pixels, the plurality of structures and one or more resonant parts are arranged periodically in the plane direction of the resonator layer as a whole so as to confine the light from the light-emitting layer to one or more resonant parts.

[0007] This is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the display device 1 according to the embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the pixel area 2. This is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the display device 1 according to the first embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example of the effect. This is a diagram showing an example of the effect. This is a diagram showing a comparative example. This is a diagram showing a comparative example. This is a diagram showing a modified example. This is a diagram showing a modified example. This is a diagram showing a modified example. This is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the display device 1 according to the second embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example of the effect. This is a diagram showing a modified example. This is a diagram showing a modified example. This is a diagram showing a modified example. This is a conceptual diagram (1) for explaining the relationship between the normal LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal LN' passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal LN'' passing through the center of the wavelength selection part. This is a conceptual diagram (2) for explaining the relationship between the normal LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal LN' passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal LN'' passing through the center of the wavelength selection part. This is a conceptual diagram (part 3) illustrating the relationship between the normal vector LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal vector LN" passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part. This is a conceptual diagram (part 4) illustrating the relationship between the normal vector LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal vector LN" passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part. This is a conceptual diagram (part 5) illustrating the relationship between the normal vector LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal vector LN" passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part. This is a conceptual diagram (part 6) illustrating the relationship between the normal vector LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal vector LN" passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part. This is a conceptual diagram (No. 7) illustrating the relationship between the normal vector LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal vector LN'' passing through the center of the wavelength selection part. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the first example of the resonator structure. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the second example of the resonator structure. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the third example of the resonator structure. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the fourth example of the resonator structure. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the fifth example of the resonator structure. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the sixth example of the resonator structure. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the seventh example of the resonator structure. This is a front view showing an example of the appearance of a digital still camera. This is a rear view showing an example of the appearance of a digital still camera.This is an external view of a head-mounted display. This is an external view of a see-through head-mounted display. This is an external view of a television system. This is an external view of a smartphone. This is a diagram (1) showing the internal configuration of a car. This is a diagram (2) showing the internal configuration of a car.

[0008] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In each of the following embodiments, the same elements will be denoted by the same reference numerals to avoid redundant descriptions.

[0009] This disclosure will be described in the following order of items: 1. Embodiments 2. First Embodiment 3. Modifications 3.1 Center of gravity of the resonant part 3.2 Pixel unit 3.3 Pixel size 4. Second Embodiment 5. Modifications 6. Further Modifications 7. Other Modifications 7.1 Modification 1 7.2 Modification 2 8. Application Examples 9. Summary

[0010] 1. Figure 1 of the embodiment shows an example of the schematic configuration of the display device 1 according to the embodiment. The XYZ coordinate system is also shown. The X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction (XY plane direction) correspond to the horizontal and vertical directions of the display device 1, in other words, the display surface direction of the display device 1. The Z-axis direction corresponds to the thickness direction of the display device 1, in other words, the front-to-back direction of the display device 1. Figure 1 shows the display device 1 when viewed from above (viewed in the negative Z-axis direction).

[0011] The display device 1 includes a pixel region 2 and a peripheral region 19. The pixel region 2 extends in the direction of the display surface (XY plane direction) of the display device 1. In this example, the pixel region 2 has a rectangular shape.

[0012] Pixel region 2 contains multiple pixels 3 (illustrated here as pixel 3R, pixel 3G, or pixel 3B). The multiple pixels 3 are periodically arranged in a two-dimensional array across the entire pixel region 2. The row direction of the array corresponds to the X-axis direction, and the column direction corresponds to the Y-axis direction. In this example, when viewed from above, each pixel 3 has a hexagonal shape. The multiple pixels 3 are arranged in a delta shape (or honeycomb shape).

[0013] In the following explanation, multiple pixels 3 and pixel regions 2 may be reinterpreted as appropriate, as long as they do not contradict each other.

[0014] Each pixel 3 outputs light of the corresponding color in the positive Z-axis direction. The pixel region 2 includes two or more types of pixels 3 that output light of different colors. In the example shown in Figure 1, three types of pixels 3 are exemplified: pixel 3R which outputs red (R) light, pixel 3G which outputs green (G) light, and pixel 3B which outputs blue (B) light. When pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B are not specifically distinguished, they are simply referred to as pixels 3.

[0015] Note that the light emitted by pixel 3 is not limited to red, green, and blue light. Other examples of light include white (W) light. Also, all pixels 3 may emit light of the same color.

[0016] The peripheral region 19 is a region located around the pixel region 2. In this example, there are four peripheral regions 19, each positioned opposite the sides of the rectangular pixel region 2.

[0017] Various elements are provided in the peripheral region 19. For example, circuits (peripheral circuits) for performing various controls necessary for the operation of the display device 1 are provided in the peripheral region 19. One example of control by the peripheral circuit is the control of the light emission of each pixel 3. For example, the peripheral circuit drives a transistor connected to the light-emitting part in each pixel 3. Terminals used for accessing external devices of the display device 1 may also be provided in the peripheral region 19. For example, a signal for the image to be displayed by the display device 1 is supplied to the peripheral circuit via the terminal. According to this signal, the peripheral circuit controls the light emission of each pixel 3 in the pixel region 2.

[0018] Figure 2 shows an example of the schematic configuration of pixel region 2. A portion of pixel region 2, more specifically the cross-sections of pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B arranged in a row direction (positive X-axis direction), are schematically shown when viewed from the side (in this example, in the negative Y-axis direction).

[0019] The pixel region 2 includes a substrate 4, a reflective layer 5, a regulating layer 6, a resonator layer 7, a lower electrode 9, a light-emitting layer 10, an upper electrode 11, a sealing layer 12, a planarizing layer 13, a color filter layer 14, a lens layer 15, a resin layer 16, and a counter substrate 17. These are collectively referred to as substrates 4 through 17. Substrates 4 through 17 are arranged sequentially in the positive Z-axis direction. Note that the term "layer" may be interpreted to include films, and these terms may be appropriately reinterpreted within a range that does not contradict each other.

[0020] The substrates 4 to the opposing substrate 17 extend in the XY plane direction as their planar direction and have thickness in the Z axis direction. They are present in each of the pixels 3, and therefore each pixel 3 includes substrates 4 to the opposing substrate 17. The pixel 3 located on a substrate 4 to the opposing substrate 17, as viewed from that substrate 3, is also called the corresponding pixel 3.

[0021] The substrate 4 is, for example, a semiconductor substrate. The peripheral circuit elements (transistors, etc.) described earlier are formed on the substrate 4. The reflective layer 5 is provided on the substrate 4 and reflects light from the light-emitting layer 10. The reflective layer 5 is configured to reflect light of at least the corresponding color of the pixel 3. Various known materials such as metals may be used. The adjustment layer 6 is provided between the reflective layer 5 and the resonator layer 7. An example of the material for the adjustment layer 6 is SiO2. The thickness of the adjustment layer 6 (length in the Z-axis direction) defines the distance from the reflective layer 5 to the resonator layer 7, and more specifically, the distance from the reflective layer 5 to the light-emitting layer 10.

[0022] The resonator layer 7 resonates the light of the color of the pixel 3 from the light-emitting layer 10. The resonator layer 7 of each pixel 3 includes a plurality of structures 8 and one or more resonant sections 8d. In the example shown in Figure 2, the resonator layer 7 of each pixel 3 includes one resonant section 8d. In each pixel 3, the plurality of structures 8 and the resonant sections 8d are arranged periodically in the planar direction (XY plane direction) of the resonator layer 7 as a whole, so as to confine the light from the light-emitting layer 10 to the resonant section 8d.

[0023] An example of the resonator layer 7 is a photonic crystal layer. The multiple structures 8 have different refractive indices from other parts of the resonator layer 7 (parts other than the structures 8). An example of the material of the other parts is SiN. The structures 8 may be holes provided in the resonator layer 7. The holes may be air voids (having the same refractive index as air) or may be filled with a material having a lower refractive index than other parts of the resonator layer 7.

[0024] The resonant portion 8d may have the same refractive index as the other parts of the resonator layer 7, more specifically, the parts of the resonator layer 7 other than the structure 8. The material of the resonant portion 8d may be the same material as the parts of the resonator layer 7 other than the structure 8 (e.g., SiN).

[0025] The period of the multiple periodically arranged structures 8 and resonant parts 8d, for example, the spacing between adjacent structures 8 (structure pitch), may be approximately the same size as the resonant wavelength, i.e., on the order of nanometers. Similarly, the size of the structures 8 and resonant parts 8d is also on the order of nanometers. The structures 8 can be, for example, fine columnar structures on the order of nanometers.

[0026] In the resonator layer 7, light having a resonant wavelength cannot exist in the region where the structure 8 is periodically arranged, but can only exist in the resonant portion 8d. The light within the resonator layer 7 is confined to the resonant portion 8d, and the optical resonance effect is obtained.

[0027] Various other known resonator structures besides the photonic crystal structure may be used. Examples of other resonator structures include nanoantenna structures and metasurface structures. These all share with the photonic crystal structure the characteristic of having a structure in which nano-order structures are periodically arranged, and therefore can be applied to the resonator layer 7 of the display device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0028] The lower electrode 9, the light-emitting layer 10, and the upper electrode 11 constitute a self-emitting light-emitting element (light-emitting portion). A specific example of such a light-emitting element is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). In the example shown in FIG. 2, the lower electrode 9, the light-emitting layer 10, and the upper electrode 11 constitute an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode). The light-emitting layer 10 contains an organic material.

[0029] The lower electrode 9 is provided separately and electrically for each pixel 3. The upper electrode 11 is provided in common across a plurality of pixels 3. By individually controlling the potential of the lower electrode 9 for each pixel 3, the light emission of the light-emitting layer 10 can be controlled for each pixel 3. The lower electrode 9 is connected to the peripheral circuit described above via the lower electrode plug 9a. The potential of the lower electrode 9 is controlled by the peripheral circuit via the lower electrode plug 9a. Note that, depending on the arrangement or the like of the lower electrode plug 9a, some of the structures 8 in the resonator layer 7 may be rearranged or removed.

[0030] The sealing layer 12 is provided so as to cover the upper electrode 11. Examples of the material of the sealing layer 12 are resin and the like. The planarization layer 13 is provided so as to cover the sealing layer 12. A material that is easier to planarize than the sealing layer 12 may be selected.

[0031] The color filter layer 14 is provided on the planarization layer 13. The color filter layer 14 includes a color filter that allows light of the color of the pixel 3 to pass through for each pixel 3. The color filter provided in the pixel 3R is referred to as the color filter 14R and is illustrated. The color filter provided in the pixel 3G is referred to as the color filter 14G and is illustrated. The color filter provided in the pixel 3B is referred to as the color filter 14B and is illustrated. Various known materials (for example, resin and the like) suitable for allowing light of the target color to pass through may be used.

[0032] The lens layer 15 is provided on the color filter layer 14. The lens layer 15 includes, for each pixel 3, a lens that directs the light output from that pixel 3 (for example, makes the traveling direction of the light approach the positive Z-axis direction). The lens provided for pixel 3R is referred to as lens 15R and is illustrated. The lens provided for pixel 3G is referred to as lens 15G and is illustrated. The lens provided for pixel 3B is referred to as lens 15B and is illustrated. The lenses 15R, 15G, and 15B are also referred to as on-chip lenses (OCL: On Chip Lens), microlenses, etc.

[0033] The resin layer 16 is provided so as to cover the lens layer 15. The counter substrate 17 is provided on the resin layer 16. The surface on the positive Z-axis side of the counter substrate 17 is referred to as the upper surface 17a and is illustrated.

[0034] In the display device 1 having the above configuration, the light from the light-emitting layer 10 of each pixel 3 finally passes through the color filter layer 14, the lens layer 15, etc., and is output from the upper surface 17a of the counter substrate 17. Here, in each pixel 3, the resonator layer 7 resonates the light from the light-emitting layer 10. By this optical resonance effect, the luminance, color purity, etc. (light-emitting efficiency) of the light output from the pixel 3 can be increased. Also, since the light confined in the resonance portion 8d is extracted and output, the directivity of the light output from the pixel 3 can be improved. The performance of the display device 1 can be improved.

[0035] Problems specific to the display device 1 in which a plurality of pixel regions 2 are arranged periodically can occur. That is, simply arranging the structure 8 and the resonance portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 of each pixel 3 periodically over the entire pixel region 2 causes the positions (positions in the XY plane direction) of the resonance portions 8d in each pixel 3 to become non-uniform due to the difference between the pixel pitch of the display device 1 and the structure pitch of the resonator layer 7. Since the luminance center of gravity within the pixel 3 is different for each pixel 3, non-uniformity such as luminance unevenness occurs, resulting in a decrease in uniformity.

[0036] In some embodiments, the design of the resonator layer 7 may be devised so as to suppress a decrease in uniformity. Below, two types of embodiments will be described in order as the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

[0037] 2. First Embodiment In the first embodiment, the periodic arrangement of the multiple structures 8 and resonant parts 8d of the resonator layer 7 is completed (demarcated) for each pixel 3. The periodic arrangement does not need to be maintained in the boundary regions between adjacent pixels 3.

[0038] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the display device 1 according to the first embodiment. A portion of the pixel region 2 when viewed from above (viewed in the negative Z-axis direction), more specifically the structure 8 and resonant portion 8d of each of the three delta-arranged pixels 3 (in this example, pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B) are schematically shown.

[0039] The center of pixel 3 is referred to as the center 30 and illustrated. When viewed from above, the resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 in each pixel 3 coincides with the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. In the example shown in Figure 3, the resonant portion 8d of pixel 3R coincides with the center 30 of pixel 3R. The resonant portion 8d of pixel 3G coincides with the center 30 of pixel 3G. The resonant portion 8d of pixel 3B coincides with the center 30 of pixel 3B.

[0040] In each pixel 3, multiple structures 8 and resonant parts 8d are periodically arranged such that the resonant part 8d overlaps with the center 30. In the boundary regions between adjacent pixels 3, the periodic arrangement does not need to be maintained (a discontinuous arrangement is acceptable).

[0041] By completing the arrangement of multiple structures 8 and resonant parts 8d for each pixel 3, the luminance centroid for each pixel 3 becomes uniform. This suppresses a decrease in uniformity. Please also refer to Figures 4 and 5 for further explanation.

[0042] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate examples of the effect. Figure 4 schematically shows the brightness of light output by each pixel 3 at each position in the pixel region 2 (each position in the XY plane). Figure 5 schematically shows the display screen. As can be seen, a uniform brightness distribution is obtained throughout the entire pixel region 2, and no brightness unevenness occurs. High uniformity is achieved. A comparative example will also be used to explain.

[0043] Figures 6 to 8 show comparative examples. As shown in Figure 6, in the pixel region 2E of the comparative example, the structure 8 and resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 of each pixel 3 are periodically arranged throughout the entire pixel region 2E. The positions of the resonant portion 8d in each pixel 3 are not aligned, and in many pixels 3, the resonant portion 8d is offset from the center 30.

[0044] Figure 7 schematically shows the brightness of light emitted by each position in the pixel region 2, i.e., each pixel 3. Figure 8 schematically shows the display screen. The brightness distribution is not uniform, and brightness unevenness occurs. In this example, the brightness fluctuates from pixel row to pixel, and dark lines appear along the direction of the pixel row. Linear brightness unevenness, in particular, is easily visible to the user.

[0045] While it is possible to arrange the structure 8 and resonant section 8d in a way that suppresses brightness fluctuations for each pixel row, in that case, the brightness will fluctuate for each pixel row, resulting in dark lines along the pixel row direction. If the structure pitch in the pixel row direction is aligned with the pixel pitch, the structure pitch in the pixel row direction will be the structure pitch in the pixel row direction multiplied by an irrational number (√3 / 2). It is not possible to align the structure pitch with the pixel pitch in the pixel row direction.

[0046] As is clear from the comparison with Figures 4 and 5 described earlier, this embodiment can suppress the decrease in uniformity that may occur in the comparative example described above.

[0047] 3. Modifications Several modifications based on the technology of the first embodiment described above will be explained.

[0048] 3.1 The centroid diagram 9 of the resonant portion is a diagram of a modified example. In each pixel 3, the resonator layer 7 includes two or more resonant portions 8d. The centroid of these resonant portions 8d when viewed from above is referred to as the centroid 80d and is shown in the diagram. The centroid 80d includes the centroids of multiple resonant portions 8d and has an area approximately the same as the area of ​​one structure 8, for example. The position of the centroid of the resonant portion 8d may be the position of the centroid determined geometrically. In this example, there are three resonant portions 8d in each pixel 3. The part containing the centroid of the triangle with these as its vertices corresponds to the centroid 80d.

[0049] When viewed from above, the centroid 80d of each pixel 3 coincides with the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. In the example shown in Figure 9, in pixel 3R, the centroid 80d coincides with the center 30 of pixel 3R. In pixel 3G, the centroid 80d coincides with the center 30 of pixel 3G. In pixel 3B, the centroid 80d coincides with the center 30 of pixel 3B.

[0050] The centroid 80d is the center of resonance in the resonator layer 7 of the pixel 3, and can represent the portion of the pixel 3 where the optical resonance effect is obtained. The centroid 80d can be considered equivalent to the resonant portion 8d when the resonator layer 7 in the pixel 3 contains only one resonant portion 8d. Because this centroid 80d overlaps with the center 30, the luminance centroid of each pixel 3 becomes uniform, and therefore, the decrease in uniformity is suppressed.

[0051] 3.2 Pixel Unit Figure 10 shows a modified example. Two or more pixels 3 that output light of different colors constitute one pixel unit. In this example, three pixels 3, pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B, constitute one pixel unit. The pixel unit can also be called a pixel, and pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B can also be called subpixels.

[0052] Between pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B, the planar layout of the multiple structures 8 and resonant parts 8d in the resonator layer 7 differs from one another. The differences in planar layout include differences in the spacing between the multiple structures 8 (structure pitch) and differences in the area of ​​each structure 8 (structure area).

[0053] For example, the structure pitch and structure area may decrease as the wavelength of light of the corresponding color of pixel 3 decreases. Conversely, the structure pitch and structure area may increase as the wavelength of light of the corresponding color of pixel 3 increases. In the example shown in Figure 10, among pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B, the structure pitch and structure area are largest in pixel 3R and smallest in pixel 3B. The structure pitch and structure area of ​​pixel 3G are somewhere in between.

[0054] In the above configuration, in each pixel 3, one or more resonant parts 8d or their centroids 80d (one resonant part 8d in this example) overlap with the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. The luminance centroid of each pixel 3 becomes uniform, and the decrease in uniformity is suppressed.

[0055] In the above explanation, the example given was that the pixel unit includes one pixel 3R, one pixel 3G, and one pixel 3B. However, the configuration of the pixel unit is not limited to this. The pixel unit may include any two or more pixels 3 that output light of any color. For example, the pixel unit may include one pixel 3R, one pixel 3G, and two pixels 3B. Alternatively, the pixel unit may be configured to include one pixel 3R, one pixel 3G, one pixel 3B, and one pixel 3 that outputs white light. Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, some of the structures 8 in the resonator layer 7 may be rearranged or removed depending on the arrangement of the lower electrode plug 9a, etc.

[0056] 3.3 Pixel Size Figure 11 shows a modified example. Pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B are exemplified as pixels 3 that emit light of different colors from each other. When viewed from above, pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B have different shapes from each other. Differences in shape may include differences in area (size). In this example, the area of ​​pixel 3R is the largest, and the area of ​​pixel 3B is the smallest. The area of ​​pixel 3G is somewhere in between.

[0057] Even in the configuration described above, where each pixel 3 has an unbalanced shape, one or more resonant parts 8d or their centroids 80d (one resonant part 8d in this example) in each pixel 3 overlap with the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. The luminance centroid of each pixel 3 becomes uniform, and the decrease in uniformity is suppressed.

[0058] 4. Second Embodiment In the second embodiment, the structure 8 and resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 of each pixel 3 are arranged periodically over the entire pixel region 2. The resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 does not have to overlap with the center 30 of the pixel 3. Even in this case, the position of the resonant portion 8d relative to the center 30 of each pixel 3 is designed to suppress a decrease in uniformity.

[0059] Figure 12 shows an example of the schematic configuration of the display device 1 according to the second embodiment. A part of the pixel region 2 when viewed from above, more specifically the structure 8 and resonant portion 8d of each of the six pixels 3 arranged in the pixel row direction (X-axis direction), are schematically shown. The structure 8 and resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 of each pixel 3 are arranged periodically over the entire pixel region 2 (this can also be called a solid arrangement). In this example, in each pixel 3, the resonator layer 7 includes one resonant portion 8d.

[0060] The region including the center 30 of pixel 3 is referred to as the central region 31 and is shown in the figure. The central region 31 is the region that includes the structure 8 located closest to the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3 and the structures 8 located next to (around) it, assuming that there is no resonant portion 8d and multiple structures 8 are periodically arranged throughout the entire pixel region 2. In the example shown in Figure 12, if there is no resonant portion 8d, seven structures 8 are arranged in the central region 31, so the region including the group of these seven structures 8 becomes the central region 31.

[0061] In each pixel 3, the resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 overlaps with the central region 31 of the corresponding pixel 3. Specifically, the resonant portion 8d is located in the same position as one of the structures 8 selected from the group of structures 8 that would be placed in the central region 31 if the resonant portion 8d were not present, as described above. It can also be said that the resonant portion 8d is placed in place of that one structure 8.

[0062] The pixel region 2 includes two or more types of pixels 3, each of which has a resonant portion 8d of a resonator layer 7 located at different positions within the central region 31. In the example shown in Figure 12, the resonant portions 8d can be arranged at seven different positions within the central region 31, corresponding to seven groups of structures 8. Therefore, there can be up to seven pixels 3 with resonant portions 8d at different positions within the central region 31.

[0063] In the display device 1 having the above configuration, when viewed from above, the resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 of each pixel 3 does not necessarily coincide with the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. Therefore, it cannot be said that the luminance centroids of each pixel 3 are perfectly uniform among the pixels 3. However, in the pixel region 2, there are two or more types of pixels 3 whose resonant portions 8d are located at different positions in the center region 31. In the example of Figure 7, there are up to seven types of pixels 3. By designing the position of the resonant portion 8d of each pixel 3 so that two or more types of pixels 3 are distributed within the pixel region 2, pixels 3 with different luminance centroids can be distributed within the pixel region 2. As a result, luminance unevenness becomes less noticeable, and the decrease in uniformity is suppressed.

[0064] To give one of the simplest examples, one could simply design the position of the resonant portion 8d of each pixel 3 so that two or more types of pixels 3 are randomly distributed within the pixel region 2. This would result in less noticeable brightness unevenness compared to when the same type of pixels 3 are concentrated in specific locations within the pixel region 2.

[0065] In particular, as a way to address the dark lines mentioned earlier, for example, when viewed from a planar perspective, there may be two or more types of pixels in the same pixel row where the resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 is located at different positions in the pixel row direction (X-axis direction) with respect to the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. This can suppress dark lines that may occur along the pixel row direction (Y-axis direction). Alternatively, there may be two or more types of pixels 3 in the same pixel row where the resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 is located at different positions in the pixel row direction (X-axis direction) with respect to the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. This can suppress dark lines that may occur along the pixel row direction (X-axis direction).

[0066] Figure 13 shows an example of the effect. The brightness of the light output by each position in the pixel region 2, i.e., each pixel 3, is schematically shown. As can be seen, although the brightness differs depending on the position, dark lines like those in the comparative example (Figure 7) described earlier do not occur. The likelihood of brightness unevenness being visible to the user is lower than when dark lines are present.

[0067] Furthermore, in order to further improve visibility, processing such as correcting the brightness of each pixel 3, for example, controlling the light emission of the light-emitting layer 10 of each pixel 3 may be performed. Various known techniques may be used.

[0068] 5. Modifications Similar to the first embodiment described above, there may be two or more resonant portions 8d for each pixel 3, in which case the resonator layer 7 is designed based on their centroids 80d. This will be explained with reference to Figure 14.

[0069] Figure 14 shows a modified example. In each pixel 3, the resonator layer 7 includes two or more resonant portions 8d. The centroids 80d of these resonant portions 8d are also shown.

[0070] When viewed from above, the centroid 80d of each pixel 3 overlaps with the central region 31 of the corresponding pixel 3. The positional relationship between the centroid 80d and the central region 31 can be explained in the same way as the positional relationship between the resonant portion 8d and the central region 31, which was explained earlier with reference to Figure 12. That is, the centroid 80d is located in the same position as one of the structures 8 selected from the group of structures 8 that would be placed in the central region 31 if the resonant portion 8d were not present.

[0071] In the pixel region 2, there are two or more types of pixels 3 whose centroids 80d are located at different positions in the central region 31. The position of the centroid 80d of each pixel 3 is designed so that these two or more types of pixels 3 are distributed within the pixel region 2. Pixels 3 with different luminance centroids are distributed within the pixel region 2, thereby reducing the visibility of luminance unevenness and suppressing a decrease in uniformity.

[0072] To give one of the simplest examples, one could simply design the position of the centroid 80d of each pixel 3 so that two or more types of pixels 3 are randomly distributed within the pixel region 2. This would result in less noticeable brightness unevenness compared to when the same type of pixels 3 are concentrated in a specific location within the pixel region 2.

[0073] In particular, to address the dark lines mentioned earlier, for example, when viewed from a planar perspective, there may be two or more types of pixels in the same pixel row where the centroid 80d of the resonator layer 7 is located at different positions in the pixel row direction, with reference to the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. This can suppress dark lines that may occur along the pixel row direction. Furthermore, there may be two or more types of pixels 3 in the same pixel row where the centroid 80d of the resonator layer 7 is located at different positions in the pixel row direction, with reference to the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. This can suppress dark lines that may occur along the pixel row direction.

[0074] Within the bounds of consistency, the modifications described in the first embodiment may be combined with the second embodiment described above. For example, two or more pixels 3 that output light of different colors may constitute a single pixel unit. The pixels 3 that output light of different colors (for example, pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B) may have different shapes.

[0075] 6. Further Modifications The disclosed technologies are not limited to the embodiments described above. Several further modifications are described below.

[0076] In the above embodiment, the example described was one in which, when viewed from above, each of the multiple pixels 3 has a hexagonal shape and they are arranged in a delta (or honeycomb) configuration. However, the shape and arrangement of the pixels 3 are not limited thereto. For example, the pixels 3 may have a rectangular or square shape, and they may be arranged in a stripe configuration or a square configuration (one example being a Bayer arrangement).

[0077] In the embodiments described so far, the case in which the resonator layer 7 is provided below the light-emitting layer 10 (on the negative Z-axis side), more specifically, between the light-emitting layer 10 and the reflective layer 5, has been described as an example. However, the resonator layer 7 may be provided at any position within the range in which the resonance effect of the resonator layer 7 can be obtained. Several examples will be described with reference to Figures 15 and 16.

[0078] Figures 15 and 16 show modified examples. In the example shown in Figure 15, the resonator layer 7 is located above the light-emitting layer 10 (on the positive Z-axis side), that is, on the opposite side from the reflective layer 5 with the light-emitting layer 10 in between. As an example, the structure 8 is located within the sealing layer 12. In the example shown in Figure 16, the resonator layer 7 is located within the light-emitting layer 10.

[0079] 7. Other Modifications 7.1 Modification 1 As another modification of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a modification concerning the relationship between the normal vector LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part (corresponding to pixel 3 in the previous embodiment), the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens structure (corresponding to lenses 15R, 15G, and 15B in the previous embodiment), and the normal vector LN" passing through the center of the wavelength selection part (corresponding to color filters 14R, 14G, and 14B in the previous embodiment) will be described with reference to Figures 17A to 17G. Figures 17A to 17G are conceptual diagrams for explaining the relationship between the normal vector LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal vector LN" passing through the center of the wavelength selection part.

[0080] In embodiments of this disclosure, the size of the wavelength selection area may be appropriately changed in response to the light emitted from the pixel 3. Furthermore, if a light-absorbing layer (black matrix layer) is provided between the wavelength selection areas of adjacent pixels 3, the size of the light-absorbing layer (black matrix layer) may be appropriately changed in response to the light emitted from the pixel 3. In addition, the size of the wavelength selection area may be determined by the distance (offset amount) d between the normal vector passing through the center of the pixel 3 and the normal vector passing through the center of the wavelength selection area. ０ Depending on the circumstances, it may be changed as appropriate. The planar shape of the wavelength selection section may be the same as, similar to, or different from the planar shape of the lens element.

[0081] For example, as shown in Figure 17A, the normal vector LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal vector LN'' passing through the center of the wavelength selection part, and the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member may be made to coincide. In other words, the distance (offset amount) D between the normal vector passing through the center of the light-emitting part and the normal vector passing through the center of the lens member is... ０ The distance (offset amount) d between the normal vector passing through the center of the light-emitting part and the normal vector passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part. ０ This is equivalent to 0 (zero).

[0082] Also, for example, as shown in FIG. 17B, the normal line LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part and the normal line LN” passing through the center of the wavelength selection part coincide with each other, but the normal line LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part and the normal line LN” passing through the center of the wavelength selection part and the normal line LN’ passing through the center of the lens member do not have to coincide with each other. In other words, D ０ ≠d ０ may be = 0.

[0083] Also, for example, as shown in FIG. 17C, the normal line LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part does not coincide with the normal line LN” passing through the center of the wavelength selection part and the normal line LN’ passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal line LN” passing through the center of the wavelength selection part and the normal line LN’ passing through the center of the lens member may coincide with each other. In other words, D ０ = d ０ may be > 0.

[0084] Also, for example, as shown in FIG. 17D, the normal line LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part does not coincide with the normal line LN” passing through the center of the wavelength selection part and the normal line LN’ passing through the center of the lens member, and the normal line LN’ passing through the center of the lens member may not coincide with the normal line LN passing through the center of the surface of the light-emitting part and the normal line LN” passing through the center of the wavelength selection part. Here, it is preferable that the center of the wavelength selection part (indicated by a black circle in FIG. 17D) is located on the straight line LL connecting the center of the surface of the light-emitting part and the center of the lens member (indicated by a black circle in FIG. 17D). Specifically, the distance from the center of the surface of the light-emitting part in the thickness direction to the center of the wavelength selection part is LL １ , and the distance from the center of the wavelength selection part in the thickness direction to the center of the lens member is LL ２ When this is the case, D ０ > d ０ > 0, and in consideration of manufacturing variations, d ０ : D ０ = LL １ : (LL １ + LL ２ ) is preferably satisfied.

[0085] Furthermore, the stacking relationship between the wavelength tip and the lens member may be reversed. In such a case, for example, as shown in Figure 17E, the normal LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal LN'' passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part, and the normal LN' passing through the center of the lens member may be made to coincide. In other words, D ０ = d ０ It may also be equal to 0.

[0086] Furthermore, for example, as shown in Figure 17F, the normal vector LN passing through the center of the light-emitting part, the normal vector LN'' passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part, and the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member do not coincide, but the normal vector LN'' passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part and the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member may coincide. In other words, D ０ = d ０ It can also be 0.

[0087] Furthermore, as shown in the conceptual diagram Figure 17G, the normal vector LN passing through the center of the surface of the light-emitting part, the normal vector LN'' passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part, and the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member do not coincide, and the normal vector LN' passing through the center of the lens member does not coincide with the normal vector LN passing through the center of the surface of the light-emitting part and the normal vector LN'' passing through the center of the wavelength-selecting part. Here, it is preferable that the center of the wavelength-selecting part is located on the straight line LL connecting the center of the surface of the light-emitting part and the center of the lens member. Specifically, the distance from the center of the surface of the light-emitting part in the thickness direction to the center of the wavelength-selecting part (shown as a black circle in Figure 17G) is LL. １ The distance from the center of the wavelength selection area in the thickness direction to the center of the lens member (shown as a black circle in Figure 17G) is LL ２ When that happens, d ０ >D ０ > 0, and considering manufacturing variations, D ０ :d ０ =LL ２ : (LL １ +LL ２ It is preferable that the following conditions be satisfied.

[0088] 7.2 Modification 2 The subpixel 1100 (corresponding to the pixel 3 in the previous embodiment) used in the display device 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure described above may be configured to have a resonator structure (microcavity structure) that resonates the light generated in the light-emitting layer. The above resonator structure will be described below with reference to Figures 18 to 24. Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a first example of the resonator structure, Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a second example of the resonator structure, and Figure 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a third example of the resonator structure. Furthermore, Figure 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a fourth example of the resonator structure, and Figure 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a fifth example of the resonator structure. Furthermore, Figure 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a sixth example of the resonator structure, and Figure 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a seventh example of the resonator structure.

[0089] (Resonator structure: First example) Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the first example of a resonator structure. In the first example, the first electrode (corresponding to the lower electrode 9 in the previous embodiment) 1202 is formed with a common film thickness in each subpixel 1100. The same applies to the second electrode (corresponding to the upper electrode 11 in the previous embodiment) 1206.

[0090] As shown in Figure 18, a reflector (corresponding to the reflective layer 5 in the previous embodiment) 1401 is placed below the first electrode 1202 of the subpixel 1100, with an optical adjustment layer (corresponding to the adjustment layer 6 in the previous embodiment) 1402 sandwiched in between. A resonator structure is formed between the reflector 1401 and the second electrode 1206, causing the light generated by the organic layer (corresponding to the light-emitting layer 10 in the previous embodiment) 1204 to resonate.

[0091] The reflector 1401 is formed with a common film thickness for each subpixel 1100. The film thickness of the optical adjustment layer 1402 differs depending on the color that the subpixel 1100 is to display. By having optical adjustment layers 1402R, 1402G, and 1402B with different film thicknesses, it is possible to set the optical distance that produces the optimal resonance for the wavelength of light corresponding to the color to be displayed.

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 18, the upper surfaces of the reflectors 1401 for subpixels 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B are aligned. As described above, the thickness of the optical adjustment layer 1402 differs depending on the color that the subpixel 1100 should display, so the position of the upper surface of the second electrode 1206 differs depending on the type of subpixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B.

[0093] The reflector 1401 can be formed using, for example, a metal such as aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), or copper (Cu), or an alloy mainly composed of these metals.

[0094] The optical adjustment layer 1402 can be constructed using inorganic insulating materials such as silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), or silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), or organic resin materials such as acrylic resin or polyimide resin. The optical adjustment layer 1402 may be a single layer or a laminated film of multiple materials. Furthermore, the number of layers may vary depending on the type of subpixel 1100.

[0095] The first electrode 1202 can be formed using, for example, a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), or zinc oxide (ZnO).

[0096] The second electrode 1206 preferably functions as a semi-transparent reflective film. The second electrode 1206 can be formed using magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or a magnesium-silver alloy (MgAg) mainly composed of these, or an alloy containing alkali metals or alkaline earth metals.

[0097] (Resonator structure: Second example) Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a second example of the resonator structure. In this second example as well, the first electrode 1202 and the second electrode 1206 are formed with a common film thickness in each subpixel 1100.

[0098] In the second example as well, a reflector 1401 is placed beneath the first electrode 1202 of the subpixel 1100, with an optical adjustment layer 1402 in between. A resonator structure is formed between the reflector 1401 and the second electrode 1206 to resonate the light generated by the organic layer 1204. Similar to the first example, the reflector 1401 is formed with a common film thickness for each subpixel 1100, while the film thickness of the optical adjustment layer 1402 differs according to the color that the subpixel 1100 should display.

[0099] In the first example shown in Figure 18, the upper surfaces of the reflectors 1401 for subpixels 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B were aligned, while the position of the upper surface of the second electrode 1206 differed depending on the type of subpixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B.

[0100] In contrast, in the second example shown in Figure 19, the upper surface of the second electrode 1206 is arranged to align with the subpixels 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B. In order to align the upper surfaces of the second electrode 1206, the upper surface of the reflector 1401 is arranged differently for the subpixels 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B, depending on the type of subpixel. As a result, the lower surface of the reflector 1401 has a stepped shape depending on the type of subpixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B.

[0101] The materials and other components constituting the reflector 1401, the optical adjustment layer 1402, the first electrode 1202, and the second electrode 1206 are the same as those described in the first example, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0102] (Resonator structure: Third example) Figure 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the third example of the resonator structure. In the third example as well, the first electrode 1202 and the second electrode 1206 are formed with a common film thickness in each subpixel 1100.

[0103] In the third example, the reflector 1401 is positioned below the first electrode 1202 of the subpixel 1100, with the optical adjustment layer 1402 in between. A resonator structure is formed between the reflector 1401 and the second electrode 1206 to resonate the light generated by the organic layer 1204. Similar to the first and second examples, the thickness of the optical adjustment layer 1402 varies depending on the color that the subpixel 1100 should display. And, similar to the second example, the upper surface of the second electrode 1206 is positioned so that it aligns with the subpixels 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B.

[0104] In the second example shown in Figure 19, the lower surface of the reflector 1401 had a stepped shape corresponding to the type of sub-pixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B in order to align the upper surface of the second electrode 1206.

[0105] In contrast, in the third example shown in Figure 20, the film thickness of the reflector 1401 is set to differ depending on the type of sub-pixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B. More specifically, the film thickness is set so that the lower surfaces of the reflectors 1401R, 1401G, and 1401B are aligned.

[0106] The materials and other components constituting the reflector 1401, the optical adjustment layer 1402, the first electrode 1202, and the second electrode 1206 are the same as those described in the first example, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0107] (Resonator structure: 4th example) Figure 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the 4th example of a resonator structure.

[0108] In the first example shown in Figure 18, the first electrode 1202 and the second electrode 1206 of the subpixel 1100 are formed with a common film thickness. A reflector 1401 is placed below the first electrode 1202 of the subpixel 1100, with an optical adjustment layer 1402 in between.

[0109] In contrast, in the fourth example shown in Figure 21, the optical adjustment layer 1402 is omitted, and the film thickness of the first electrode 1202 is set to differ depending on the type of subpixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B.

[0110] The reflector 1401 is formed with a common film thickness for each subpixel 1100. The film thickness of the first electrode 1202 differs depending on the color that the subpixel 1100 is to display. By having the first electrodes 1202R, 1202G, and 1202B have different film thicknesses, it is possible to set the optical distance that produces the optimal resonance for the wavelength of light corresponding to the color to be displayed.

[0111] The materials and other components constituting the reflector 1401, the first electrode 1202, and the second electrode 1206 are the same as those described in the first example, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0112] (Resonator structure: Fifth example) Figure 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the fifth example of a resonator structure.

[0113] In the first example shown in Figure 18, the first electrode 1202 and the second electrode 1206 are formed with a common film thickness in each subpixel 1100. A reflector 1401 is placed below the first electrode 1202 of the subpixel 1100, with an optical adjustment layer 1402 in between.

[0114] In contrast, in the fifth example shown in Figure 22, the optical adjustment layer 1402 was omitted, and instead, an oxide film 1404 was formed on the surface of the reflector 1401. The thickness of the oxide film 1404 was set to differ depending on the type of subpixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B.

[0115] The thickness of the oxide film 1404 varies depending on the color that the subpixel 1100 is to display. By having oxide films 1404R, 1404G, and 1404B with different thicknesses, it is possible to set the optical distance that produces the optimal resonance for the wavelength of light corresponding to the color to be displayed.

[0116] The oxide film 1404 is a film obtained by oxidizing the surface of the reflector 1401, and is composed of, for example, aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, titanium oxide, magnesium oxide, zirconium oxide, etc. The oxide film 1404 functions as an insulating film for adjusting the optical path length (optical distance) between the reflector 1401 and the second electrode 1206.

[0117] The oxide film 1404, which has a different thickness depending on the type of subpixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B, can be formed, for example, as follows.

[0118] First, the container is filled with electrolyte, and the substrate on which the reflector 1401 is formed is immersed in the electrolyte. Then, electrodes are positioned opposite the reflector 1401.

[0119] Then, a positive voltage is applied to the reflector 1401 with the electrode as the reference, and the reflector 1401 is anodized. The thickness of the oxide film formed by anodization is proportional to the voltage value applied to the electrode. Therefore, anodization is performed on each of the reflectors 1401R, 1401G, and 1401B with a voltage corresponding to the type of sub-pixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B applied. This makes it possible to form oxide films 1404 of different thicknesses all at once.

[0120] The materials and other components constituting the reflector 1401, the first electrode 1202, and the second electrode 1206 are the same as those described in the first example, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0121] (Resonator Structure: Sixth Example) Figure 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the sixth example of a resonator structure. In the sixth example, the subpixel 1100 is constructed by stacking a first electrode 1202, an organic layer 1204, and a second electrode 1206. However, in the sixth example, the first electrode 1202 is formed to serve both as an electrode and a reflector. The first electrode (and reflector) 1202 is made of a material having optical constants selected according to the type of subpixel 1100R, 1100G, and 1100B. By different phase shifts caused by the first electrode (and reflector) 1202, it is possible to set an optical distance that produces optimal resonance for the wavelength of light corresponding to the color to be displayed.

[0122] The first electrode (and reflector) 1202 can be made from a single metal such as aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), gold (Au), or copper (Cu), or from an alloy mainly composed of these metals. For example, the first electrode (and reflector) 1202R of the subpixel 1100R can be made of copper (Cu), and the first electrode (and reflector) 1202G of the subpixel 1100G and the first electrode (and reflector) 1202B of the subpixel 1100B can be made of aluminum.

[0123] The materials and other components constituting the second electrode 1206 are the same as those described in the first example, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0124] (Resonator Structure: Seventh Example) Figure 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the seventh example of the resonator structure. The seventh example basically applies the sixth example to subpixels 1100R and 1100G, and the first example to subpixel 1100B. In this configuration as well, it is possible to set the optical distance that produces optimal resonance for the wavelength of light corresponding to the color to be displayed.

[0125] The first electrodes (which also serve as reflectors) 1202R and 1202G used in the sub-pixels 1100R and 1100G can be made from elemental metals such as aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), gold (Au), and copper (Cu), or alloys in which these metals are the main components.

[0126] The materials and other components constituting the reflector 1401B, optical adjustment layer 1402B, and first electrode 1202B used in the subpixel 1100B are the same as those described in the first example, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0127] 8. Examples of Application For example, the technology relating to this disclosure may be applied to the display units of various electronic devices. Therefore, examples of electronic devices to which this technology can be applied will be described below.

[0128] (Specific Example 1) Figure 25A is a front view showing an example of the external appearance of the digital still camera 500, and Figure 25B is a rear view showing an example of the external appearance of the digital still camera 500. This digital still camera 500 is a single-lens reflex type with interchangeable lenses, and has an interchangeable shooting lens unit (interchangeable lens) 512 located approximately in the center of the front of the camera body 511, and a grip portion 513 for the photographer to hold on the left side of the front.

[0129] A monitor 514 is provided on the back of the camera body 511, slightly to the left of the center. An electronic viewfinder (eyepiece) 515 is provided above the monitor 514. The photographer can determine the composition by looking through the electronic viewfinder 515 and visually confirming the light image of the subject guided by the shooting lens unit 512. The display device 1 according to the embodiment of this disclosure can be used as the monitor 514 and the electronic viewfinder 515.

[0130] (Specific Example 2) Figure 26 is an external view of a head-mounted display 600. The head-mounted display 600 has, for example, an eyeglass-shaped display unit 611 and ear hooks 612 on both sides for attachment to the user's head. In this head-mounted display 600, the display device 1 according to the embodiment of this disclosure can be used as the display unit 611.

[0131] (Specific Example 3) Figure 27 is an external view of the see-through head-mounted display 634. The see-through head-mounted display 634 consists of a main body 632, an arm 633, and a lens barrel 631.

[0132] The main body 632 is connected to the arm 633 and the eyeglasses 630. Specifically, the long end of the main body 632 is connected to the arm 633, and one side of the main body 632 is connected to the eyeglasses 630 via a connecting member. The main body 632 may also be directly attached to the head of a person.

[0133] The main body 632 houses a control board for controlling the operation of the see-through head-mounted display 634 and a display unit. The arm 633 connects the main body 632 to the lens barrel 631 and supports the lens barrel 631. Specifically, the arm 633 is connected to the end of the main body 632 and the end of the lens barrel 631, respectively, and fixes the lens barrel 631 in place. The arm 633 also houses signal lines for communicating image-related data provided from the main body 632 to the lens barrel 631.

[0134] The lens barrel 631 projects image light, provided from the main body 632 via the arm 633, through the eyepiece lens towards the eyes of the user wearing the see-through head-mounted display 634. In this see-through head-mounted display 634, the display device 1 according to the embodiment of this disclosure can be used in the display section of the main body 632.

[0135] (Specific Example 4) Figure 28 shows an example of the appearance of a television device 710. This television device 710 has, for example, a video display screen section 711 including a front panel 712 and a filter glass 713, and this video display screen section 711 is configured with a display device 1 according to the embodiment of this disclosure.

[0136] (Specific Example 5) Figure 29 shows an example of the appearance of a smartphone 800. The smartphone 800 has a display unit 802 that displays various information, and an operation unit consisting of buttons, etc. that accept user input. The display unit 802 may be the display device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0137] (Specific Example 6) Figures 30A and 30B show the internal configuration of an automobile having a display device 1 according to the present disclosure as a display device. More specifically, Figure 30A shows the interior of the automobile from the rear to the front, and Figure 30B shows the interior of the automobile from the diagonally rear to the diagonally front.

[0138] The automobile shown in Figures 30A and 30B includes a center display 911, a console display 912, a head-up display 913, a digital rear mirror 914, a steering wheel display 915, and a rear entertainment display 916. Some or all of these displays can be fitted with the display device 1 according to the embodiment of this disclosure.

[0139] The center display 911 is located on the center console 907, facing the driver's seat 901 and the passenger seat 902. Figures 30A and 30B show an example of a horizontally elongated center display 911 extending from the driver's seat 901 to the passenger seat 902, but the screen size and location of the center display 911 are arbitrary. The center display 911 can display information detected by various sensors (not shown). As a specific example, the center display 911 can display images captured by an image sensor, distance images to obstacles in front of or to the side of the vehicle measured by a ToF (Time of Flight) sensor, and the body temperature of passengers detected by an infrared sensor. The center display 911 can be used to display at least one of the following: safety-related information, operation-related information, life logs, health-related information, authentication / identification-related information, and entertainment-related information.

[0140] Safety-related information includes information such as drowsiness detection, distraction detection, detection of mischief by a passenger, seatbelt fastening status, and detection of an unattended occupant. This information is detected, for example, by a sensor (not shown) placed on top of the back of the center display 911. Operation-related information is detected by sensing occupant gestures using sensors. The detected gestures may include the operation of various equipment in the vehicle. For example, the sensors detect the operation of air conditioning equipment, navigation systems, AV (Audio / Visual) systems, lighting systems, etc. Life logs include the life logs of all occupants. For example, life logs include records of each occupant's actions while riding in the vehicle. By acquiring and saving life logs, it is possible to confirm the state of the occupants at the time of an accident. Health-related information is detected by sensing the occupant's body temperature using a temperature sensor and inferring the occupant's health status based on the detected body temperature. Alternatively, the occupant's face may be captured using an image sensor, and the occupant's health status may be inferred from the facial expression captured. Furthermore, the system may engage in automated voice conversations with the occupants and infer their health status based on their responses. Authentication / identification-related information includes keyless entry functions that use sensors for facial recognition, and functions that automatically adjust seat height and position based on facial recognition. Entertainment-related information includes functions that use sensors to detect information on how the occupants operate the AV equipment, and functions that use sensors to recognize the occupants' faces and provide content suitable for the occupants through the AV equipment.

[0141] The console display 912 can be used, for example, to display life log information. The console display 912 is located near the shift lever 908 on the center console 907 between the driver's seat 901 and the passenger seat 902. The console display 912 can also display information detected by various sensors (not shown). In addition, the console display 912 may display an image of the area around the vehicle captured by an image sensor, or it may display an image showing the distance to obstacles around the vehicle.

[0142] The head-up display 913 is virtually displayed behind the windshield 904 in front of the driver's seat 901. The head-up display 913 can be used to display at least one of the following: safety-related information, operation-related information, life logs, health-related information, authentication / identification-related information, and entertainment-related information. Because the head-up display 913 is often virtually positioned in front of the driver's seat 901, it is suitable for displaying information directly related to the operation of the vehicle, such as the vehicle's speed and fuel (battery) level.

[0143] The digital rearview mirror 914 can not only display what is behind the vehicle, but also what is happening to the passengers in the rear seat. By placing a sensor (not shown) on top of the back of the digital rearview mirror 914, it can be used, for example, to display life log information.

[0144] The steering wheel display 915 is positioned near the center of the steering wheel 906 of the automobile. The steering wheel display 915 can be used to display, for example, at least one of safety-related information, operation-related information, life log, health-related information, authentication / identification-related information, and entertainment-related information. In particular, because the steering wheel display 915 is located near the driver's hands, it is suitable for displaying life log information such as the driver's body temperature, or information related to the operation of AV equipment, air conditioning equipment, etc.

[0145] The rear entertainment display 916 is mounted on the back of the driver's seat 901 and the passenger seat 902, and is intended for viewing by rear-seat passengers. The rear entertainment display 916 can be used to display at least one of the following: safety-related information, operation-related information, life logs, health-related information, authentication / identification-related information, and entertainment-related information. In particular, because the rear entertainment display 916 is in front of the rear-seat passengers, it displays information relevant to the rear-seat passengers. For example, it may display information related to the operation of AV equipment or air conditioning equipment, or it may display the results of measurements of the rear-seat passengers' body temperature etc., taken by a temperature sensor (not shown).

[0146] 9. Summary The technology described above can be identified, for example, as follows: One of the disclosed technologies is a display device 1. As described with reference to Figures 1 to 5 and Figures 9 to 16, the display device 1 comprises a plurality of pixels 3, each of which outputs light of a corresponding color. Each of the plurality of pixels 3 includes a light-emitting layer 10 and a resonator layer 7 that resonates the light of the color of the pixel 3 from the light-emitting layer 10. In each of the plurality of pixels 3, the resonator layer 7 includes a plurality of structures 8 and one or more resonant parts 8d. In each of the plurality of pixels 3, the plurality of structures 8 and one or more resonant parts 8d are arranged periodically in the plane direction (XY plane direction) of the resonator layer 7 so as to confine the light from the light-emitting layer 10 to the resonant parts 8d.

[0147] In the display device 1 described above, the resonator layer 7 in each pixel 3 causes the light from the light-emitting layer 10 to resonate. This optical resonance effect can increase the luminous efficiency (brightness, color purity, etc.) and improve the directivity. Therefore, the performance of the display device 1 can be improved.

[0148] As explained with reference to Figures 1 to 3, 9 to 12, and 14 to 16, the resonator layer 7 is a photonic crystal layer, and the multiple structures 8 may have different refractive indices than other parts of the photonic crystal layer, while the resonant portion 8d may have the same refractive index as the other parts. For example, such a photonic crystal layer can be used as the resonator layer 7.

[0149] As explained with reference to Figures 3 and 9 to 11, when viewed in plan view (viewed in the negative Z-axis direction), one or more resonant portions 8d or their centroids 80d of the resonator layer 7 may overlap with the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3 in each of the multiple pixels 3. That is, as shown in Figures 3, 10 and 11, in each of the multiple pixels 3, the resonator layer 7 includes one resonant portion 8d, and when viewed in plan view, one resonant portion 8d of the resonator layer 7 may overlap with the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3 in each of the multiple pixels 3. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 9, in each of the multiple pixels 3, the resonator layer 7 includes two or more resonant portions 8d, and when viewed in plan view, the centroids 80d of two or more resonant portions 8d of the resonator layer 7 may overlap with the center of the corresponding pixel 3 in each of the multiple pixels 3. For example, in this way, the brightness centroid of each pixel 3 can be made uniform, and a decrease in uniformity can be suppressed.

[0150] As explained with reference to Figures 10 and 11, the plurality of pixels 3 include two or more types of pixels 3 (e.g., pixels 3R, 3G, and 3B) that output light of different colors (e.g., red light, green light, and blue light), and the planar layout of the plurality of structures 8 and one or more resonant parts 8d in the resonator layer 7 may differ between different types of pixels 3. For example, the difference in planar layout may include at least one of the difference in structure pitch (arrangement period of the structures 8) and the difference in structure area (area of ​​the structures 8). As shown in Figure 11, when viewed from above, pixels 3 that output light of different colors may have different shapes. For example, even with such various pixel configurations, the luminance centroid of each pixel 3 is uniform, so a decrease in uniformity can be suppressed.

[0151] As explained with reference to Figures 12 to 14, when viewed from above, the multiple structures 8 and one or more resonant parts 8d of each of the multiple pixels 3 are arranged periodically over the entirety of the multiple pixels 3. When viewed from above, in each of the multiple pixels 3, one or more resonant parts 8d or their centroid 80d of the resonator layer 7 overlaps with the central region 31 that includes the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. The multiple pixels 3 may include two or more types of pixels 3 in which one or more resonant parts 8d or centroid 80d of each of the resonator layer 7 are located at different positions in the central region 31. That is, as shown in Figure 12, in each of the multiple pixels 3, the resonator layer 7 includes one resonant part 8d, and when viewed from above, one resonant part 8d of the resonator layer 7 may overlap with the central region 31 of the corresponding pixel 3. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 14, in each of the multiple pixels 3, the resonator layer 7 includes two or more resonant portions 8d, and when viewed from above, the centroids 80d of the two or more resonant portions 8d in each of the multiple pixels 3 may overlap with the central region 31 of the corresponding pixel 3. In such a configuration, a decrease in uniformity can be suppressed by distributing pixels 3 with different luminance centroids within the pixel region 2.

[0152] As explained with reference to Figure 12, etc., the central region 31 may be a region that includes the structure 8 located closest to the center 30 and the structure 8 located next to the structure 8, assuming that there are no resonant parts 8d and multiple structures 8 are periodically arranged over the entirety of the multiple pixels 3. In this case, in each of the multiple pixels 3, one or more resonant parts 8d or centroids 80d of the resonator layer 7 may be located at the same position as one structure 8 selected from the group of structures 8 arranged in the central region 31, assuming that there are no resonant parts 8d and multiple structures 8 are periodically arranged over the entirety of the multiple pixels 3. For example, by such a design method, the resonant parts 8d or centroids 80d can be arranged to overlap with the central region 31.

[0153] For example, multiple pixels 3 are arranged in a two-dimensional array, and when viewed from above, there may be two or more types of pixels 3 in the same pixel row where one or more resonant parts 8d or centroids 80d of the resonator layer 7 are located at different positions in the pixel row direction (X-axis direction) with respect to the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. This can suppress dark lines that may occur along the pixel row direction. Also, as explained with reference to Figures 12 and 14, when viewed from above, there may be two or more types of pixels 3 in the same pixel row where one or more resonant parts 8d or centroids 80d of the resonator layer 7 are located at different positions in the pixel row direction (Y-axis direction) with respect to the center 30 of the corresponding pixel 3. This can suppress dark lines that may occur along the pixel row direction.

[0154] The resonator layer 7 can be provided at various locations within the display device 1. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the resonator layer 7 may be provided between the light-emitting layer 10 and the reflective layer 5. As shown in Figure 15, the resonator layer 7 may be provided on the opposite side of the reflective layer 5, with the light-emitting layer 10 in between. As shown in Figure 16, the resonator layer 7 may be provided within the light-emitting layer 10.

[0155] The effects described in this disclosure are merely illustrative and not limited to those disclosed. Other effects may also occur.

[0156] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, the technical scope of this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. Furthermore, components from different embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate.

[0157] Furthermore, this technology can also take the following configurations: (1) A display device comprising a plurality of pixels, each outputting light of a corresponding color, wherein each of the plurality of pixels includes a light-emitting layer and a resonator layer that resonates the light of the pixel's color from the light-emitting layer, wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes a plurality of structures and one or more resonant parts, wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the plurality of structures and the one or more resonant parts are arranged periodically in the plane direction of the resonator layer as a whole so as to confine the light from the light-emitting layer to the one or more resonant parts. (2) The display device according to (1), wherein the resonator layer is a photonic crystal layer, the plurality of structures have a different refractive index than other parts of the photonic crystal layer, and the one or more resonant parts have the same refractive index as the other parts. (3) The display device according to (1) or (2), wherein, when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the one or more resonant parts of the resonator layer or their centroids overlap with the center of the corresponding pixel. (4) The display device according to (3), wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes one resonant portion, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the one resonant portion of the resonator layer overlaps with the center of the corresponding pixel. (5) The display device according to (3), wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes two or more resonant portions, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the centroids of the two or more resonant portions of the resonator layer overlap with the center of the corresponding pixel. (6) The display device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the plurality of pixels include two or more types of pixels that output light of different colors, and the planar layout of the plurality of structures and the one or more resonant portions in the resonator layer differs from that of pixels of different types. (7) The display device according to (6), wherein the difference in planar layout includes at least one of a difference in structure pitch and a difference in structure area. (8) The display device according to (6) or (7), wherein, when viewed from above, the pixels that emit light of different colors have different shapes from each other.(9) The display device according to any one of (6) to (8), wherein the light of different colors includes red light, green light and blue light. (10) The display device according to (1) or (2), wherein, when viewed from above, the plurality of structures of the resonator layer of each of the plurality of pixels and the one or more resonant parts as a whole are periodically arranged over the entire plurality of pixels, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the one or more resonant parts of the resonator layer or the center of gravity thereof overlaps with a central region including the center of the corresponding pixel, and the plurality of pixels include two or more types of pixels in which the one or more resonant parts or the center of gravity of each of the resonator layers are located at different positions in the central region. (11) The display device according to (10), wherein, in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes one resonant part, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the one resonant part of the resonator layer overlaps with the central region of the corresponding pixel. (12) The display device according to (10), wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes two or more resonant parts, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the centroids of the two or more resonant parts overlap with the central region of the corresponding pixel. (13) The display device according to any one of (10) to (12), wherein the central region is a region that includes the structure located closest to the center and the structure located next to the structure, assuming that there is no one or more resonant parts and the plurality of structures are periodically arranged over the entire plurality of pixels. (14) The display device according to (13), wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the one or more resonant parts or the centroid of the resonator layer is located at the same position as one structure selected from the group of structures located in the central region, assuming that there is no one or more resonant parts and the plurality of structures are periodically arranged over the entire plurality of pixels. (15) The display device according to any one of (10) to (14), wherein the plurality of pixels are arranged in a two-dimensional array, and when viewed from above, there are two or more types of pixels in the same pixel row in which one or more resonant portions or centroids of the resonator layer are located at different positions in the pixel row direction with respect to the center of the corresponding pixel.(16) The display device according to any one of (10) to (15), wherein the plurality of pixels are arranged in a two-dimensional array, and when viewed from above, there are two or more types of pixels in the same pixel row, where one or more resonant parts or centroids of the resonator layer are located at different positions in the pixel row direction with respect to the center of the corresponding pixel. (17) The display device according to any one of (1) to (16), comprising a reflective layer that reflects light from the light-emitting layer, wherein the resonator layer is provided between the light-emitting layer and the reflective layer. (18) The display device according to any one of (1) to (16), comprising a reflective layer that reflects light from the light-emitting layer, wherein the resonator layer is provided on the opposite side of the light-emitting layer from the reflective layer. (19) The display device according to any one of (1) to (16), wherein the resonator layer is provided within the light-emitting layer.

[0158] 1 Display device 2 Pixel area 3 Pixel 3R Pixel 3G Pixel 3B Pixel 4 Substrate 5 Reflection layer 6 Adjustment layer 7 Resonator layer 8 Structure 8d Resonant part 80d Center of gravity part 9 Lower electrode 9a Lower electrode plug 10 Light-emitting layer 11 Upper electrode 12 Sealing layer 13 Planarization layer 14 Color filter layer 14R Color filter 14G Color filter 14B Color filter 15 Lens layer 15R Lens 15G Lens 15B Lens 16 Resin layer 17 Opposing substrate 17a Top surface 19 Peripheral area 30 Center 31 Central area

Claims

1. A display device comprising a plurality of pixels, each outputting light of a corresponding color, wherein each of the plurality of pixels includes a light-emitting layer and a resonator layer that resonates the light of the pixel's color from the light-emitting layer, and in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes a plurality of structures and one or more resonant parts, and in each of the plurality of pixels, the plurality of structures and the one or more resonant parts are arranged periodically in the plane direction of the resonator layer as a whole to confine the light from the light-emitting layer to the one or more resonant parts.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the resonator layer is a photonic crystal layer, the plurality of structures have a different refractive index from other parts of the photonic crystal layer, and one or more resonant parts have the same refractive index as the other parts.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, one or more resonant portions or their centroids of the resonator layer overlap with the center of the corresponding pixel.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes one resonant portion, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the one resonant portion of the resonator layer overlaps with the center of the corresponding pixel.

5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes two or more resonant portions, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the centroids of the two or more resonant portions of the resonator layer coincide with the center of the corresponding pixel.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of pixels include two or more types of pixels that output light of different colors, and the planar layout of the plurality of structures in the resonator layer and the one or more resonant parts differs from that of the different types of pixels.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein the difference in the planar layout includes at least one of a difference in the structural pitch and a difference in the structural area.

8. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, when viewed from above, the pixels that emit light of different colors have different shapes from each other.

9. The display device according to claim 6, wherein the light of different colors includes red light, green light, and blue light.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed from above, the plurality of structures of the resonator layer of each of the plurality of pixels and the one or more resonant parts are arranged periodically over the entire plurality of pixels, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the one or more resonant parts of the resonator layer or the center of gravity thereof overlap with a central region including the center of the corresponding pixel, and the plurality of pixels include two or more types of pixels in which the one or more resonant parts or the center of gravity of each of the resonator layers are located at different positions in the central region.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes one resonant portion, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the one resonant portion of the resonator layer overlaps with the central region of the corresponding pixel.

12. The display device according to claim 10, wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the resonator layer includes two or more resonant portions, and when viewed from above, in each of the plurality of pixels, the centroids of the two or more resonant portions overlap with the central region of the corresponding pixel.

13. The display device according to claim 10, wherein the central region is a region that includes the structure located closest to the center and the structure located next to the structure, assuming that there is no one or more resonant parts and that the plurality of structures are periodically arranged over the entirety of the plurality of pixels.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein in each of the plurality of pixels, the one or more resonant portions or the centroid portion of the resonator layer are located at the same position as one structure selected from a group of structures arranged in the central region, assuming that there are no one or more resonant portions and the plurality of structures are periodically arranged over the entire plurality of pixels.

15. The display device according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of pixels are arranged in a two-dimensional array, and when viewed from above, there are two or more types of pixels in the same pixel row in which one or more resonant portions or centroid portions of the resonator layer are located at different positions in the pixel row direction with respect to the center of the corresponding pixel.

16. The display device according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of pixels are arranged in a two-dimensional array, and when viewed from above, there are two or more types of pixels in the same pixel row, where one or more resonant portions or centroids of the resonator layer are located at different positions in the pixel row direction with respect to the center of the corresponding pixel.

17. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a reflective layer that reflects light from the light-emitting layer, wherein the resonator layer is provided between the light-emitting layer and the reflective layer.

18. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a reflective layer that reflects light from the light-emitting layer, wherein the resonator layer is provided on the opposite side of the light-emitting layer from the reflective layer.

19. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the resonator layer is provided within the light-emitting layer.

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