DESCRIPTION
Title of Invention
DISPLAY UNIT
Technical Field
[OOOI] The present technology relates to a display unit capable of performing
two-dimensional display (planar display) and three-dimensional display (stereoscopic
display).
Background Art
[0002] Display tunits capable of performing three-dimensional display inclade display
units in which it is necessary for a viewer to wear special glasses and display units in
which it is unnecessary for a viewer to wear special glasses. The latter display unit
uses a lenticular lens or a parallax barrier in order to allow a stereoscopic picture to be
visually observed with naked eyes. Picture information is divided into information for
a right eye and information for a left eye by the lenticular lens or the parallax barrier,
and thus different pictures are observed by the right and left eyes. As a result,
three-dimensional display becomes possible.
[0003] Incidentally, in the display unit of glasses system, for example, when picture
display is performed by 120Hz (double speed) driving, a right eye picture and a left eye
picture are mixed at the time of alternately switching the right eye picture and the left
eye picture to generate double image (crosstalk). Therefore, in the display unit of
glasses system, for esample, a method in which picture display is performed by
quad-speed driving, and liquid crystal shutters of 3D glasses are closed during a picture
rewriting period to reduce the crosstalk is employed (for example, NPL 1).
[00041 On the other hand, in the display unit of naked eye system, since 3D glasses
shielding pictures during the pictore rewriting period do not exist, some measilres to
allow the pictures under picture rewiring not to be displayed are necessary. For
example, in PTL 1, a tnethod in which a display region is divided into two upper and
lower regions, and extinction is performed in one region to allow the picture under the
picture rewiring not to be displayed has been disclosed.
Citation list
Non Patent Literature
[0005] NPL I: http://w~~v.sony.jp/CorporateCruise/Press/201009/10-0907/ -
Patent Literature
[0006] PTL 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No.
2010-243580
Summary of Invention
[0007] However, when a region under picture rewriting exists in the both regions, it is
disadvantageously difficult to prevent occurrence of the crosstalk by the method
described in PTL 2.
[0008] It is desirable to provide a display unit capable of preventing occurrence of
crosstalk.
[0009] According to an embodiment of the present technology, there is provided a
display unit including: a display panel having a plurality of pixels; a backlight capable
of partially illuminating the display panel; and a drive circuit configured to drive the
display panel and the backlight. The drive circuit synchronizes scanning of the display
panel with scatining of partial illumination light beams of the backlight to allow the
display panel to display a three-dirneosiotial picture.
[OOIO] In the display unit according to the embodiment of the present technology,
when the three-dimensional picture is displayed on the display panel, the scanning of
the display panel is synchronized with the scanning of the partial illt~mination light
beams of the backlight. As a result, it is possible to put the region under picture
rewiring into a non-display state surely.
[001 I] In the display unit according to the emboditnellt of the present technology, the
region under the picture rewriting is put into a non-display state surely. Therefore, it is
possible to prevent occurrence of crosstalk.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0012] [FIG./l] FIG. 1 is a diagram illi~strating an exalnple of a transmitting and
receiving system of a television broadcasting signal according to an embodiment of the
present technology.
[FIG. 21 FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrati~lga n example of a fimctional block of a receiver
in FIG. 1.
[FIG. 31 FIG. 3 is a sectional diagram illustrating an example of a structure of a
display section in the receiver it1 FIG. I .
[FIG. 41 FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an example of arrangement of light
source in FIG. 3.
.-
[FIG. 51 FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a configuration of the
light source in FIG. 3.
[FIG. 61 FIG. 6 is a sectional diagram illustrating an example of a structure of a light
modulation device in FIG. 3.
[FIG. 71 FIG. 7 is a plan view illustrating an example of a structure of a lower
electrode in FIG. 6.
[FIG. 81 FIG. 8 is a sectiot~ald iagram illustrating another example of the structure of
the light tnodt~latiod~eiv ice in FIG. 3.
[FIG. 91 FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating an example of a structure of a lower
electrode in FIG. 8.
[FIG. 101 FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating an example of a structure of an upper
electrode in FIG. 6 and FIG. 8.
[FIG. 111 FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram for explaining an exanlple of a function of a
light modulation layer in FIG. 6 and FIG. 8.
[FIG. 121 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram for explaitling another example of the
fi~nctiono fthe light tnodulation layer in FIG. 6 and FIG. 8.
[FIG. 131 FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a function of a
backlight in FIG. 3.
[FIG. 141 FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an example of relationship
between polarizatiot~ direction of illumination light and a polarization axis of a
polarization plate on a lower side of a display panel.
[FIG. 151 FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating another example of the
relationship between the polarization direction of the illumination light and the
polarization axis of the polarization plate on the lower side of the display panel.
[FIG. 161 FIG. 16 is a diagratn illustrating an example of relationship behveen
scanning of the display panel and scanning of illumination light beams of a backlight.
[FIG. 171 FIG. 17 is a plan view illustrating at1 example of the scanning of the
illumination light beatns ofthe backlight in FIG. 16.
[FIG. 181 FIG. 18 is a plan view illustrating another example of the scantling of the
illumination light beatns of the backlight in FIG. 16.
[FIG. 191 FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional display state as
viewed from a cross-sectional surface of the receiver.
[FIG. 201 FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional display state as
viewed from a cross-sectional surface of the receiver.
[FIG. 211 FIG. 21 is a sectional diagram illustrating a modification of the structure of
the display section in FIG. 3.
[FIG. 221 FIG. 22 is a sectional diagram illustrating another modification of the
structure of the display section in FIG. 3.
[FIG. 231 FIG. 23 is a plan view illustrating a modification of the structure of the
lower electrode in FIG. 6.
[FIG. 241 FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating another example of a structure of a
light guide plate in FIG. 3.
[FIG. 251 FIG. 25 is a plan view illustrating an example of scanning of illumination
light beams of a backlight when the light guide plate in FIG. 24 is used.
[FIG. 261 FIG. 26 is a diagram illttstrating another exanlple of the scanning in FIG.
16.
[FIG. 271 FIG. 27 is a plan view illustrating an example of scanning of linear
illumination light beams in three-dimensional display.
[FIG. 281 FIG. 28 is a plan view illustrating an example of the scanning following
FIG. 28.
[FIG. 291 FIG. 29 is a plan view illustrating another modification of the structure of
the lower electrode in FIG. 6.
[FIG. 301 FIG. 30 is a plan vie\\, illustrating another example of the scanning of the
linear illumination light beams in three-dimensional display.
[FIG. 311 FIG. 31 is a plan view illustrating an example of the scanning following
FIG. 30.
[FIG. 321 FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram of an example of a three-ditnensiooal
display state as viewed from the cross-sectional surface of the receiver.
[FIG. 331 FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating another exaniple of the scanning in FIG.
14.
[FIG. 341 FIG. 34 is a plan view illustrating an example of the scanning of the
illumination light beams of the backlight in FIG. 33.
[FIG. 351 FIG. 35 is a plan view illustrating another example of tlie scanning of the
illumination light beams of the backlight in FIG. 33.
Description of Etnboditnents
[0013] An etnbodi~nelit for carlying out tlie present invention will be described in
detail below with reference to drawings. Note that description will be given in tlie
following order.
1. Embodiment -
An exatilple in which scanning of illutninatioll light beams of a backlight is
sytichronized with scannitig of a display panel
2. Modifications
An example in which pixel columns are time-divisionally driven
An exa~iiplein which a picture signal is written two times
[0014]
(Configuration of Transmitting attd Receiving Systetn of Televisioii Broadcasting
Signal)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a transmitting
and receiving system of a television broadcasting signal 100A, including a receiver 200,
according to an embodiment of the technology. The transmitting and receiving system
may include, for esample, a tra~wnitter 100 contigt~red to transniit a television
broadcasting signal through wired communicatio~i (sucli as cable TV) or wireless
communication (such as terrestrial digital waves and satellite waves), and the receiver
200 configured to receive the television broadcasting signal from tlie transmitter 100
through the above-described wired or wireless co~iimunication.
[0015] The television broadcasting signal IOOA contains picture data for
two-dimensional display (planar display) or picture data for three-ditnensional display
(stereoscopic display). In this case, the picture data for two-dimensional display
indicates hvo-dimensional picture data not containing perspective information.
Moreover, the picture data for three-dimensional display indicates hvo-dimensional
picture data containing perspective itiforination, and the picture data for
three-dimensional display iticludes a plurality of pieces of two-dimensional picture data
with different perspectives. For exatnple, the transmitter 100 may be a televisioti
broadcasting signal transmitter placed in a broadcast station, or a server on the Internet.
[OO 161 (Functional Block of Receiver 200)
FIG. 2 is a block.diagram illustrating a configuration exatnple of the receiver
200. For example, the receiver 200 tnay be a television connectable to the
above-described wired or wireless cotnmunication. The receiver 200 tnay include, for
example, an antenna tertninal 201, a digital tuner 202, a demultiplexer 203, an
arithmetic circuit 204, atid a tlietnory 205. In addition, the receiver 200 tiiay include,
for example, a decoder 206, a picture signal processing circuit 207, a graphic generation
circuit 208, a panel drive circuit 209, a display panel 210, a backlight 21 1, an audio
signal processing circuit 212, an audio amplifier circuit 213, and a speaker 214.
Furthermore, the receiver 200 may include, for example, a remote control (hereinafter,
referred to as "remote control") reception circuit 215, and a remote control transmitter
216.
[0017] The antenna terminal 201 is a tertninal receiving a television broadcasting
signal received by a receiving antenna (not illustrated). For exatnple, the digital tuner
202 tiiay process the television broadcasting signal input to the antenna terminal 201,
attd output a predetermined transport streatn correspotiding to a channel selected by a
user. For example, the detnitltipleser 203 may extract a partial transpot-t stream (TS)
correspotiding to the chanaei selected by the user, from the transport stream obtained in
the digital tuner 202.
[0018] The arithmetic circuit 204 controls operation of each section in the receiver
200. For example, the arithmetic circuit 204 tnay store the partial TS obtained in the
demultiplexer 203 in the memory 205, or transmit the partial TS read from the lnelnory
205 to the decoder 206. In addition, for example, the arithmetic circuit 204 may
transmit a control signal 204A specifying two-dimensional display or three-dimensional
display to the picture signal processing circuit 207 and the backlight 211. The
arithmetic circuit 204 sets the above-described control signal 204A, based on, for
example, setting information stored in the memory 205, predetermined information
itlcluded in the partial TS, or setting infonnation input from the remote control
reception circuit 215.
[0019] For example, the memoly 205 may hold setting information of the receiver 200
and performs data management. For example, the memory 205 may be capable of
holding the partial TS obtained it1 the demultiplexer 203 and setting information s~icha s
a display method.
[0020] For exatnple, the decoder 206 may perfortn decode processing on pictltre
packetized elementary stream (PES) packets included in the partial TS that is obtained
in the demultiplexer 203, to obtain picture data. Moleover, for example, the decoder
206 may perform decode processing on audio PES packets incloded it1 the partial TS
that is obtained in the detnc~ltiplexer2 03, to obtain audio data. In this case, the picture
data indicates picture data for two-dimensional display or picture data for
three-diniensional display.
[0021] For example, the picture signal processing circuit 207 and the graphic
generation circuit 208 may perform multi-image processing, superimposing processing
of graphics data, and the like, as necessary, on the picture data obtained in the decoder
206.
[0022] In the case where a signal specifying three-dimensional display is input as the
control signal 204A from the arithmetic circuit 204 and the picture data input from the
decoder 206 is picture data for three-dimensional display, for example, the picture
signal processing circuit 207 may create one piece of t\vo-dimensional picture data with
use of a plurality of pieces of two-dimensional picture data with different perspectives
that are contained in the picture data for three-dimensional display input from the
decoder 206, and select the created two-dimensional picture data as picture data to be
outpot to the graphic generation circuit 208. For example, in the case where the
picture data for three-dimensional display contains hvo pieces of two-dimensional
picture data with different perspectives, the picture signal processing circuit 207 may
perform processing, for each row, to alternately arrange the two pieces of
two-dimensional picture data in a horizontal.direction, and thus create one piece of
picture data in which the two pieces of two-dimensional picture data are alternately
arranged in the horizontal direction. Likewise, for example, in the case where the
picture data for three-di~nensional display contains four pieces of hvo-dimensional
picture data with different perspectives, the pich~re signal processing circuit 207 may
perfornl processing, for each row, to arrange the four pieces of two-dimensional picture
data one by one periodically in the horizontal direction, and thus create one piece of
picture data in which the four pieces of two-dimensional picture data are arranged one
by one periodically in the horizontal direction.
[0023] In the case where a signal specifying two-dimensional display is inpot as the
control signal 204A from the arithmetic circuit 204 and the picture data input from the
decoder 206 is picture data for three-ditnensional display, for example, the picture
signal processing circuit 207 may select one piece of picture data of a plurality of pieces
of two-dimensional picture data with different perspectives contained in the picture data
for three-ditnensionai display that is input from the decoder 206, as picture data to be
oatput to the graphic generation circuit 208. In the case where a signal specifying
two-dimensional display as the control signal 204A is input from the arithmetic circuit
204 and the picture data input from the decoder 206 is picture data for two-dimensional
display, for example, the picture signal processing circuit 207 tnay select the picture
data for two-dimensional display input fi.0111 the decoder 206, as picture data to be
output to the graphic generation circuit 208.
[0024] For example, the graphic generation circuit 208 may generate an user interface
(U1) screen used in screen display. .For example, the panel drive circuit 209 may drive
the display panel 210, based on the picture data output fioln the graphic generation
circuit 208.
[0025] The panel drive circuit 209 performs active matrix driving on each of the
pixels included in the display pallel 210 to display an image based on the picture data on
the display panel 210. The panel drive circuit 209 outputs picture siguals (V1 to V4.
described later) for one pixel row corresponding to the picture data, to the respective
data lines of the display panel 210 in response to (in synchronization with) a
synchronization signal included in the control signal 204A, and accordingly the panel
drive circuit 209 perfonns writing to the respective pixels to be selected. Note that
writing indicates that a voltage corresponding to a display signal is applied to a pixel
circuit. Further, the panel drive circuit 209 sequentially applies a selection signal to
the plurality of scan lines in response to (in synchronization with) the synchronization
signal included in the control signal 204A, and accordingly sequentially selects the
respective pixel rows.
[0026] The configurations of the display panel 210 and the backlight 21 1 will be
described later. For example, the audio signal processing circuit 212 may perform
processing such as DIA conversion on audio data obtained in the decoder 206. For
example, the audio amplifier circuit 213 may amplify an audio signal output fio~nth e
audio signal processing circuit 212 to supply the amplified audio signal to the speaker
214.
[0027] For example, the remote control reception circuit 215 may receive a remote
control signal tra~lsrnitted fi0111 the remote control transmitter 216, and supply the
received remote co~~trosli gnal to the arithmetic circuit 204. For example, the
arithmetic circuit 204 may control each section in the receiver 200 according to the
remote control signal.
[0028] (Cross-Sectional Structure of Receiver 200)
FIG. 3 illt~strates an example of a cross-sectional structure of the display
section in the receiver 200. Note that FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the
cross-sectional structure, and actual dimensions and actual shapes are not limited to the
illustrated dimensions and the illustrated shapes. Tile receiver 200 it~cludetsh e display
panel 210 and the backlight 21 1 disposed behind the display panel 210.
[0029] The display pallel 210 includes a plurality of. pixels arranged
two-ditnensionally, and displays a picture when the respective pixels or specific pixels
are driven. For example, the display panel 210 may be a transmissive liquid crystal
display (LCD) panel in which the respective pixels or specific pixels are driven in
response to a picture signal, and tnay have a structure in which a liquid crystal layer is
sandwiched between a pair of transparent substrates. The display panel 210 may
include, for exa~nple,a polarization plate, a transparent substrate, pixel electrodes, an
alignment film, a liquid crystal layer, an alignment film, a con1mon electrode, a color
filter, a transparent substrate, and a polarization plate in order from the backlight 21 1
side.
[0030] Note that the polarization plate on the backlight 21 1 side corresponds to a
polarization plate 210B (see FIG. 14) described later, and the polarization plate on a
picture display surface side corresponds to a polarization plate 210C (see FIG. 14)
described later. Moreover, a section (more specifically, a stacked sectiotl configured
of tlie transparent substrate, the pixel electrodes, the aligntnent film, the liqnid crystal
layer, the alig~ltnetit filin, the conulion electrode, the color filter, and the transparent
substrate) sandwiched by the pair of polarization plates in the display panel 210
corresponds to a liquid crystal panel 210A (see FIG. 14) described later.
[0031] The transparent substrate is formed of a substrate trausparent to visible light,
such as plate glass. Note that, although trot illustrated, tlie transparent substrate on the
backlight 21 1 side is provided with an active drive circuit including thin filtn transistors
(TFTs) electrically connected to the pixel electrodes, wirings, and the like. For
example, the pixel electrode and the common electrode may be formed of indium tin
oxide (ITO). The pixel electrodes are two-dimensionally arranged on the transparent
substrate, and each of the pixel electrodes functions as an electrode for each pixel. On
the other hand, the common electrode is formed over a surface on the color filter, and
fi~nctionsa s a commoti electrode facing the respective pixel electrodes. The alignment
filtn may be formed of, for example, a polymer material such as polyitnide, and
performs alig~imenot n a liqoid crystal.
100321 For example, the liquid crystal layer may be formed of a liquid crystal of
vertical alignment (VA) mode, hvisted nematic (TN) mode, 01. super twisted nematic
(STN) mode, and has a fitnction of changing a direction of a polarization axis of emitted
light fro111 the backlight 21 1 for each pixel, in response to a voltage applied from a drive
circuit (not illustrated). Note that changing arrangement of the liquid crystal in
multiple steps allo\vs adjustment of the direction of a transmission axis for each pixel in
multiple steps. The color filter is configured by arranging color filters that separate
light having passed through the liquid crystal layer into three primary colors of red (R),
green (G), and blue (b), or color filters that separate the light into four colors of R, G, B,
and white (W), so as to correspond to the arrangement of the pixel electrodes.
[0033] The polarization plate is a kind of an optical shutter, and allows only light
(polarized light) that oscillates in a certain direction to pass therethrough. Note that
the polarization plate may be an absorption type polarization element absorbing light
(polarized light) that oscillates in a direction other than the transmission axis, and may
be preferably a reflective polarization eleme~itr eflecting the light toward the backlight
21 1 side in terms of luminance improvement. The two polarization plates are arranged
so that respective polarization axes are different ftom each other by 90 degrees.
Accordingly, the emitted light from the backlight 21 1 passes through the polarization
plates through tlie liquid crystal layer, or is shielded by the polarization plates.
[0034] For example, the backlight 211 tnay illuminate the display panel 210 from the
backside thereof, and may include a light guide plate 10, a light source 20 disposed oti a
side surface of the light guide plate 10, a light tnodulation device 30 and a reflector 40
that are arranged behind tlie light guide plate 10, and a drive circuit 50 driving the light
modulation device 30. Note that the light guide plate 10 corresponds to a specific
example of "first transparelit substrate" or "second transparent substrate" of the
technology. -.
[0035] The light guide plate 10 guides light from tlie light source 20, which is
disposed on the side surface of the light guide plate 10, to a top surface of the light
guide plate 10. The liglit guide plate 10 may have a shape corresponding to the display
panel 210 disposed on the top surface of tlie light guide plate 10, for example, a
rectangular parallelepiped shape enclosed by a top surface, a bottom surface, and side
surfaces. Note that, in the following description, the side surface receiving the light
from tlie light source 20 of the side surfaces of the light guide plate 10 is referred to as a
light incident surface IOA. Note that, when the luminance is unifonnized through
modulation of a voltage to be applied to the backlight 211, a flat light guide plate not
subjected to patterning !nay be used as the light guide plate 10. For example, the light
guide plate 10 may ~naitily contain a transparent thermoplastic resin such as a
polycarbonate resin (PC) and an acrylic resin (polymethyl tnethacrylate (PMMA)).
100361 The light source 20 is a linear light source, and for example, tnny be
configured of a hot cathode fluorescent lamp (HCFL), a cold cathode fluorescent lamp
(CCFL), or a plurality of light e~nittingd iodes (LEDs) arranged in line. When the light
source 20 is configured of a plurality of LEDs, all of the LEDs tnay be preferably white
LEDs in ternis of efficiency, thickness reduction, atid uniformity. Incidentally, for
exaoiple, tlie light source 20 may include red LEDs, green LEDs, and blue LEDs. The
light source 20 may be provided on only one side surface of the light guide plate 10 (see
FIG. 3 and (A) of FIG. 4), or may be provided on two side surfaces (see (B) of FIG. 4),
on three side surfaces, or 011 all side surfaces of the light guide plate 10. 111 addition, in
the case where the light source 20 is provided on three side surfaces or all side surfaces,
only the light sources 20 provided on two side surfaces that are opposed to each other
may be turned on only when partial lighting is performed, and the all light sources 20
may be turned on when entire lighting is perfonned.
[0037] For example, as illustrated in (A) of FIG. 5, the light source 20 may be
configured of a linear light source 21 and a reflective mirror 22. For example, the
linear light source 21 may be configirred of HCFL or CCFL. The reflective mirror 22
reflects, toward the light incident surface IOA, light traveling toward the direction not
directly entering the light incident surface IOA, of 'the light emitted fiom the linear light
source 21. For example, as illustrated in (B) or (C) of FIG. 5, the light source 20 may
be configured by arranging a plurality of point light sources 23 in line. Each of the
point light sources 23 emits light toward the light incident surface IOA, and may be
config~~reodf , for example, a light emitti~lge let~le~hlta ving an emission spot on a
surface facing the light incident surface 10A. Examples of such a light emitting
element may include an LED and a laser diode (LD). In terms of efficiency, thickness
reduction, and uniformity, each of the point light sources 23 may be preferably a white
LED. Note that the plurality of point light sources 23 included in the light source 20
may include, for example, red LEDs, green LEDs, and blue LEDs.
[0038] For example, as illustrated in (B) and (C) of FIG. 5, the plorality of point light
sources 23 may be provided two by two or more on respective comtllon substrates 24.
In this case, a light source block 25 is configured of one substrate 24 and the plurality of
point light sources 23 provided on the substrate 24. For example, the substrate 24 may
be a circuit board provided with a wiring that electrically connects the point light
sources 23 to the drive circuit SO, and each of the point light sources 23 is mounted on
the circuit board. The respective point light sources 23 provided on the common
substrate 24 (tlie respective point light sources 23 in the light source block 25) are
collectively (non-independently) driven by the drive circuit 50, and for example,
although not illustrated, may be connected to one another in parallel or in series. In
addition, tlie point light sources 23 provided on different substrates 24 (the point light
sources 23 in the respective light source blocks 25) may be independently driven by the
drive circuit 50. At this time, for example, as illustrated in (C) of FIG. 5, the point
light sources 23 provided on the different substrates 24 (the point light sources 23 in the
respective light source blocks 25) may be connected to different current paths.
[0039] The reflector 40 allows light leaking from the back of the light guide plate 10
through the light modulation device 30 to return to the light guide plate 10 side, and for
example, nlay have a fi~nction of reflection, diffusion, and scattering. This niakes it
possible to efficiently utilize the emitted light froin the light source 20, and contributes
to itnprove~nent of front luniinaoce. For example, the reflector 40 may be fornled of
foamed polyethylene terephthalate (PET), an evaporated silver film, a multilayer
reflective film, white PET, or the like. Note that, for esample, the reflector 40 may be
omitted as necessary, as will be described later.
[0040] In the present embodiment, the light modolation device 30 is provided inside
the light guide plate 10. The light modulation device 30 is closely adhered to the light
guide plate 10 without an air layer in between, and may be bonded to the light guide
plate 10 with, for example, an adhesive layer (not illustrated) in between. For example,
as illostrated in FIG. 6, the liglit modulation device 30 may be configured by arranging
a transparent substrate 31, a lower electrode 32, an alignment film 33, a light
modnlation layer 34, an aligntiient film 35, an upper electrode 36, and a transparent
substrate 37 in order frotn the reflector 40 side.
[0041] The transparent snbstrates 3 1 and 37 support the light niodulation layer 34, and
are each typically formed of a substrate transparent to visible light, such as a glass plate
and a plastic film. The lower electrode 32 and tlie upper electrode 36 generate an
electric field in the light modulation layer 34 when a voltage is applied. The lower
voltage 32 is an electrode provided on the transparent substrate 31 side in relation to the
light modulation layer 34, and the upper electrode 36 .is.an..electrode provided on the
transparent substrate 37 side in relation to the light modulation layer 34. Note that the
lower electrode 32 corresponds to a specific example of "first electrode", and the upper
electrode 36 corresponds to a specific example of "second electrode".
[0042] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the lower electrode 32 is configured of a
-.-. plurality of partial electrodes 32A. ' Ehchfbf the plurality of partial electrodes 32A has a
strip shape extending in one direction in the plane (in a direction parallel to the light
incident st~rface 10A). A specific number of partial electrodes 32A (hereinafter,
referred to as "partial electrodes 328") among the plurality of partial electrodes 3 2ar~e
used to generate linear illumination light beams when three-dicnensional display is
performed in the receiver 200. Note that the partial electrode 3213 corresponds to a
specific example of "first partial electrode". A plurality of partial electrodes 32A other
than the partial electrodes 32B out of the plurality of partial electrodes 32A (hereinafter,
referred to as "partial electrodes 32C") are used, together with the partial electrodes 32A,
to generate a planar illumination light beam when two-dimensional display is performed
in the receiver 200. In other words, when the two-dimensional display is perfor~ned in
the receiver 200, all of the partial electrodes 32A are used to generate the planar
illumination light beam. Note that the partial electrode 32C corresponds to a specific
esanlple of "second partial electrode".
100431 One partial electrode 32B and a plurality of partial electrodes 32C are regarded
as one group, and a plorality of partial electrode groups are arranged in the arrange~nent
direction (in the direction orthogonal to the light incident surface IOA). FIG. 7
illustrates a case where one partial electrode 3213 and two partial electrodes 32C are
regarded as one group and a plurality of partial electrode groups are arranged in the
arrangement direction; I~owever the breakdown of the partial electrode group is not
limited to the illustration of FIG. 7. For example, the partial electrode group may be
configured of one partial electrode 32B and one partial electrode 32C, or tnay be
configured of one partial electrode 32B and three or more partial ekctfodes 32C.
[0044] The above-described partial electrode groups are arranged with a pitch PI (a
pitch equal to or close to a pixel pitch for performing three-dimensional display)
corresponding to a pixel pitch for performing three-dimensional display in the receiver
200. In addition, likewise, the plurality of partial electrodes 32B are also arranged
witlibthe pitch P1 (a pitch equal to or close tci a pixel pitch for perfortfling
three-dimensional display) corresponding to the pixel pitch for performing
three-dimensional display in the receiver 200. A width of the partial electrode 32B is
stnaller than a width of the pixel in the display panel 210. The width of the partial
electrode 32B may be preferably equal to or smaller than (the width of the pixel it1 the
display panel 210 -the thickness of the light rnodulatioll layer 34 x 2).
[0045] Note that, when the partial electrode group is co~lfigured of one partial
electrode 32B and the plurality of partial electrodes 32C, a width of the partial electrode
32C inay be preferably equal to the widtll of the partial electrode 32B. In addition,
when the partial electrode group is configured of one partial electrode 32B and one
partial electrode 32C, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the width of the
partial electrode 32C may be larger than the width of the partial electrode 32B, or
although not ill~lstrated,m ay be equal to the width of the partial electrode 32B.
[0046] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the upper electrode 36 is configured of a
plurality of partial electrodes 36A. Each of the plurality of partial electrodes 36A has a
strip shape extending in a directio~li ntersecting (or o~-thogonatlo ) the partial electrode
32A. When the light source 20 is config~~reodf a plurality of light source blocks 25,
the pi~lralityo f partial electrodes 36A is provided one by one or ~nultipleb y multiple in
regions facing the respective light source blocks 25. Incidentally, in the followillg
description, for convenience, it is assumed that the partial electrodes 36A are provided
one by one in regions facing the respective light source blocks 25.
[0047] The lower electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36 are each formed of a
transparent conductive film (for example, an IT0 film). Note that the lower electrode
32 and the upper electrode 36 may be formed of an indium zinc oxide (IZO), a metal
nanowire, a carbon nanotube, graphene, or the like.
[0048] When the lower electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36 are viewed from the
normal direction of the light ~nodulation device 30, sections bf the light tnodt~lation
device 30 corresponding to parts where the lower electrode 32 and the upper electrode
36 face each other configure light tnodulation cells 30a and 30b (see FIG. 6). The
light modulation cell 30a is a section of the light modulation device 30 corresponding to
a part where the partial electrode 328 and the partial electrode 36A face each other, and
the light modulation cell 30b is a section of the light modulation device 30
corresponding to a part where the pa~lial electrode 32C and the partial electrode 36A
face each other. The light modulation cell 30a and the light ~nodulation cell 30b are
adjacent to each other.
[0049] Each of the light tnodulation cells 30a and 30b is separately and independently
driven by application of a predeterniined voltage to the partial electrode 32A and the
partial electrode 36A, and exhibits transparency (optical transparency) or scattering
property with respect to the light from the light source 20, depending on magnitude of a
potential difference applied to the partial electrode 32A and the partial electrode 36A.
Note that the transparency and the scattering property will be described in detail in the
description of the light inodolation layer 34.
[0050] For example, the alignment films 33 and 35 may align a liquid crystal and a
monomer used for the light modulation layer 34. The kinds of the alignment film rnay
inclt~de,f or exa~nple,a vertical align~nentf ill11 and a horizontal alignment film, and in
the present entboditnent, the horizoittal alignment film is used for the alignment films
33 and 35. Examples of the horizontal align~nentf ihn may include, for example, an
alignment film for~ned through rubbing treatment otl polyimide, polyamidimide,
polyvinyl alcohol, and the like, and an alignment fill11 provided with a groove shape by
transcription, etching, or the like. In addition, examples of the horizontal alignment
film may include, for example, an aligntnent film formed thro~~gohbl ique deposition of
an inorganic material such as silicon oxide, a diamond-like carbon align~nent film
formed through ion beatn irradiation, and an alignment film provided with electrode
pattern slits.
[0051] Moleover, it is sufficient for both the vertical align~nenft ihn and the horizontal
alignment film to have a function of aligning the liquid crystal and the monomer, and
reliability in repeated application of a voltage desired for a typical liquid crystal display
is unnecessary. This is because the reliability by voltage application after device
fabrication is determined by an interface between polymerized monomer and the liquid
crystal. Moreover, for example, the liquid crystal and the monomer used for the light
modulation layer 34 [nay be alioived to be aligned also by application ofan electric field
or a magnetic field betwveen the lower electrode 32 and the npper electrode 36 even
when an align~nent fihn is not used. In other words, ultraviolet irradiation during
application of an electric field or a nlagnetic field between the lower electrode 32 and
the upper electrode 36 enables fixing of alignment state of the liquid crystal and the
lnonolner in voltage-applied state. When a voltage is used for formation of the
alignment film, electrodes (nay be separately fowled for alignment and for driving, or
dual-frequency liquid crystal it1 which the syrlibol of dielectric anisotropy is inverted by
frequency may be used as a liquid crystal inaterial. Moreover, when a magnetic field
is used for fomlation of the alignment film, a material having large magnetic
susceptibility anisotropy may be preferably used as the alignment film, and for example,
a material having a large number of benzene rings may be preferably used.
LO0521 The light modulation layer 34 exhibits, depending on the magnitude of the
electric field, scattering property or transparency to the light from the light source 20.
The light modulation layer 34 exhibits transparency to the light from the light source 20
when the electric field is relatively small, and exhibits scattering property to the light
from the light source 20 when the electric field is relatively large. For example, as
illustrated in FIG. 6, the light modulation layer 34 may be a composite layer containing
a bulk 34A and a plurality of micro pa^-ticles 34B dispersed in the bulk 34A. The bulk
34A and the microparticle 34B have optical anisotropy.
[0053] (A) of FIG. I I schematically illustrates an exatnple of the alignment state it1
the micropal-ticle 348 when the potential difference is not applied between the lower
electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36 (hereinafter, simply referred to as "doring
no-potential-difference application"). Note that illustratio~o~f the alignment state it1
the bulk 34A is omitted in (A) of FIG. 11. As used herein, the wording "during
no-potential difference application" is a concept that encompasses a time period when a
potential difference that is smaller than the potential difference allowing the light
~nodulation layer 34 to exhibit scattering property and allows the light rnodulatio~l layer
34 to exhibit transparency is applied.
[0054] (B) of FIG. 11 illustrates an exatnple of an index ellipsoid representing
refractive index anisotropy of each of the bulk 34A and the microparticle 34B during
no-potential-difference application. The index ellipsoid represents a refractive index
of linear polarized light entering from various directions by a tensor ellipsoid, and
geometrically represents a refractive index through observation of a cross-sectional
surface of the ellipsoid from an entering direction of the light. (C) of FIG. 1 I
schematically illustrates an example of a state where light L1 traveling toward the front
direction and light L2 traveling toward obbq~ie direction pass through the light
modulatio~la~y er 34 during no-potential-difference application.
[0055] (A) of.FIG. 12 schematically illustrates an example of the aligntnent state in
the microparticle 34B when the potential difference is applied between the lower
electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36 (hereinafter, simply referred to as "during
potential-difference application"). Note that illustration of the alignment state in the
bulk 34A is omitted in (A) of FIG. 12. As used herein, the wording "during
potential-differelice application" refers to a time period when the potential difference
allowing the light modulation layer to exhibit scattering property is applied.
[0056] (B) of FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the index ellipsoid representing
refractive index anisotropy of each of the bulk 34A and the microparticle 34B during
potential-difference application. (C) of FIG. 12 schematically illustrates an example of
a state where the light L1 traveling toward the front direction and the light L2 traveling
toward the oblique direction are scattered in the light tnodulation layer 34, during
potential-difference application.
[0057] For example, as illustrated in (A) and (B) of FIG. 11, the bulk 34A and the
microparticle 34B have configuration in which a direction of an optical axis AX1 of the
bulk 34A and a direction of an optical axis AX2 of the microparticle 34B are coincident
with (parallel to) each other during no-potential-difference application. Incidentally,
the optical axes AX1 and AX2 each indicate a line parallel to a traveling direction of a
light beam having a fixed regactive index irrespective of polarization direction. In
addition, it is unnecessaly for the direction of the optical axis AX1 and the direction of
the optical axis AX2 to constantly coincide with each other, and the direction of tlie
optical axis AX1 may be deviated in some degree from the direction of the optical axis
AX2 due to, for example, manufacturing error.
[0058] Moreover, for example, tlie micropatticle 348 tnay have a configuration in
which the optical axis AX2 is parallel to the light incident surface 10A of the light guide
plate 10 during no-potential-differelice application. Further; for example, the
lnicraparticie 34B may have a configoration in which the optical axis AX2 intersects the
surfaces of the transparent substrates 31 and 37 at a slight angle 01 during
no-potetltial-difference application (see (E3) of FIG. 11). Note that the angle 01 will be
described in detail in description of a material forming the microparticle 34B;- ..
[0059] On the other hand, for example, the bulk 34A may have a configuratiotl it1
which the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A is fixed irrespective of potential difference
application between the lower electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36. Specifically,
for example, as illustrated in (A) and (B) of FIG. 11 and (A) and (B) of FIG. 12, the
bulk 34A lnay have a configuratiotl in which the optical-axis' AX1 of the bulk 34A is^ . -=
parallel to the light incident surface 10A of the light guide plate 10 as well as intersects
the stirfaces of the tratisparetlt substrates 31 and 37 at the predetermined angle 01. In
other words, the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34.4 is parallel to the optical axis AX2 of
the microparticle 34B during no-potential-difference application.
[0060] Note that it is unnecessary for the optical axis AX2 to be constantly parallel to
the light incident surface 10A as well as to constantly intersect the surfaces of the
transparent substrates 31 and 37 at the angle 01, and the optical axis AX2 rnay intersect
the surfaces of the transparent substrates 31 and 37 at an angle slightly different from
the angle 01 due to, for example, manufacturing error. In addition, it is unnecessary
for the optical axes AX1 and AX2 to be constantly parallel to the light incident surface
IOA, and the optical axes AX1 and AX2 may intersect the light incident surface 10A at
a srnall angle due to, for example, tnanufacturing error.
[0061] At this time, it may be preferable that an ordinary refractive index of the bulk
34A be equal to that of the tnicroparticle 348, and an extraordinary refractive index of
the bulk 34A be equal to that of the microparticle 34B. In this case, for example, as
illustrated in ( A ) o f FIG. 11, during no-potential-difference application, refractive index
difference is substantially eliminated in various directions including the fiont direction
and the oblique direction, and high transparency (light transparency) is obtainable.
Therefore, for example, as illustrated it1 (C) of FIG. 1 1 , the light LI traveling toward the
front direction and the light L2 traveling toward the oblique direction are not scattered
in the light tilodulation layer 34, and pass through the light tnodulation layer 34. As a
result, for example, as illustrated in (A) and (B) of FIG. 13, light L from the light source
20 (light from the oblique direction) is totally reflected by an upper interface and a
lower interface of a transparent region (a transmissive region 30A) of the light
modulation layer 34, and lutninance of the transtnissive region 30A (luminance of black
display) is decreased as compared with the case where light is uniformly emitted from
the entire surface (alternate long and short dash line in (B) of FIG. 13). Note that %"
profile of front luminance in (B) of FIG. 13 is obtained by providing a diffi~sers heet 60
on the light guide plate 10 and performing measurement through the diffuser sheet 60.
[0062] Note that the top surface of the light guide plate 10 that is one of interfaces of
the transmissive region 30A is in contact with a clearance existing between the display
panel 210 and the light guide plate 10, and tlie clearance may be prefe~ablyf illed with a
tnaterial having a refractive index lower than that of the top surface of the light guide
plate 10. Although the layer formed of such a low-refractive-index tnaterial is
typically air, the layer tnay be an adhesive agent or a bonding agent fortlied of a
low-refractive-index material.
[0063] For example, as illustrated in (A) and (B) of FIG. 12, during
potential-difference application, the bulk 34A and the tnicroparticle 34B may have a
configuration in which the direction of the optical axis AX1 is different from (intersects
or is substantially orthogonal to) the direction of the optical axis AX2. Moreover, for
example, during potential-difference application, the tnicroparticle 348 tnay have a
configuration in which the optical axis AX2 of the micropar-ticle 34B is parallel to the
light incident surface 10A of the light guide plate 10 as well as intersects tlie surfaces of
the transparent substrates 3 1 and 37 at an angle 82 (for example, 90 degrees) larger than
the angle 81. Note that the angle 82 will be described in detail in description of a
tnaterial forming tlie microparticle 34B.
[0064] Therefore, during potential-difference application, in the light modulation layer
34, the refractive index is increased in various directions illcluding the front direction
and the oblique direction, and higher scattering property is obtainable. Accordingly,
for example, as illustrated in (C) of FIG. 12, the light L1 traveling toward the front
directiou and the light L2 traveling toward the oblique direction is scattered in the light
modulation layer 34. As a result, for example, as illustrated in (A) of FIG. 13, the light
L fro111 the light source 20 (the light from the oblique direction) passes through the
upper iuterface and the lower iuterface ofthe region exhibiting the scattering property
(the scattering region 30B) of the light modulation layer 34, and the light that has
passed to the reflector 40 side is reflected by the reflector 40 and then passes through
the light modulation device 30. Consequently, the lu~ninance of the scattering region
30B is extre~nelyh igh as compared with the case where light is unifonnly emitted from
the entire surface (alternate long and short dash line in (B) of FIG. 13), and lutninance
of partial white display (luminance enhancement) is increased by a decreased amount of
the luminance of the transmissive region 30A.
[0065] Incidentally, the ordinary refractive index of the bulk 34A tnay be slightly
different from tliat of the microparticle 34B due to, for example, manufacturing error,
and for example, the difference therebetween may be preferably 0.1 or less, and more
preferably 0.05 or less. In addition, the extraordinary refractive index of the bulk 34A
may also be slightly different from that of the microparticle 34B dtre to, for example,
tnanufacturing error, and for example, the difference therebehveen may be preferably
0.1 or less, and more preferably 0.05 or less.
LO0661 In addition, the difference in refractive index (Anp = the extraordinary
refractive index uep - the ordinary refractive index no?) of the bulk 34A and the
difference in refractive index (A~L= the extraordillary refractive iudex n e -~ the
ordinary refractive index no^) of the ~nicroparticle 34B tnay be preferably as large as
possible, preferably 0.05 or more, and more preferably 0.1 or more, and still more
preferably 0.15 or tnore. This is because when the difference in refractive index of
each of the bulk 34.4 and the microparticle 348 is large, the scattering power of the
light tnodulation layer 34 is increased to easily disrupt light guiding condition, and the
light from the light guide plate 10 is easily extracted.
[0067] Moreover, a response speed to the electric field of tlie bulk 34A is different
frorn that of the ~nicropa~ticl3e4 B. The bulk 34A may have, for example, a streaky
structure, a porous structure, or a rod-like stroctore, that has a response speed lower than
that of the microparticle 348. For example, the bulk 34A may be formed of a polymer
niaterial obtained through polytnerization of a low-molecular monomer. For example,
the bulk 34A may be formed by polptnerizing a material (for example, monomer) that is
aligned along the alignnient direction of the microparticle 34B or the alignnient
direction of the alignment filtns 33 and 35 and has alignment property and
polymerizability, by heat or light or both.
[0068] For example, the streaky structure, the porous stroctitre, or the rod-like
structure of the bulk 34A may have a long axis in a direction that is parallel to tlie light
incident sccrface IOA of the light guide plate 10 and intersects the s~~rfaccosf tlie
transparent substrates 31 and 37 at the slight angle Ol. When the bulk 34A has the
streaky structare, an average size of the streaky tissue in a short axis direction may be
preferably 0.1 1.~1o1r more and 10 1u1n or less, and tiiore preferably 0.2 lun or more and
2.0 1.1111 or less, in terms of improving scattering property of guided light. When the
average size of the streaky tissue in tlie short axis direction is 0.1 pni or Inore and 10 pin
or less, the scattering power in the light modulation device 30 is substantially eqoivalent
ill a visible region of 380 to 780 Inn both inclusive. Therefore, only increase or
decrease of light of a specific wavelength conipooent does not occur in the plane, and
thus balance in tlie visible region is achieved in the plane. When the average size of
the streaky tissue in the slio~at xis direction is smaller than 0.1 pln or larger than 10 pm,
the scattering power of thc light ~nodulation device 30 is low irrespective of the
wavelength, and thus it is difficult for the light modulation device 30 to fi~nction as a
light tiiodulation device.
[0069] Moreover, in terms of reducing wavelength dependency of scattering, the
average size ofthe streaky tissue in the short axis direction tnay be preferably 0.5 pin or
more atid 5 pn or less, and more preferably within a range of 1 to 3 ptn both inclusive.
In such a case, when the light emitted frotom the light source 20 repeatedly passes
through the bulk 34A in the light modulation device 30 during propagation of the light
in the light guide plate 10, the wavelength dependency of the scattering in the bulk 34A
is suppressed. The size of the streaky tissue is observable under a polarizing
microscope, a cotifocal microscope, at1 electron microscope, and tlie like.
[0070] On the other hand, for example, the microparticle 34B may contain a liquid
crystal niaterial mainly, atid have a response speed sufficiently higher than that of the
bulk 34A. The liquid crystal material (a liquid crystal molecule) contained in the
lnicroparticle 34B tnay be, for example, a rod-like molecule. As tlie liquid crystal
molecule contained in the tnicroparticle 34B, a liquid crystal molecule having positive
dielectric constant anisotropy (so-called positive liquid crystal) may be preferably osed.
[0071] In this example, during no-potential-difference application, in the microparticle
34B, the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecule is parallel to the optical axis
AXI. At this tiole, the long axis of the liquid crystal tnolecule in the microparticle
34B is parallel to the light incident surface 10A of the light guide plate 10 and intersects
the surfaces of the transparent substrates 31 and 37 at the slight angle 01. In other
words, the liquid crystal molecule in the micropa~~tic3le4 8 is aligned in a state of being
inclined at the angle 01 in a plane parallel to the light incident surface 10A of the light
guide plate 10 during no-potential-difference application. The angle 01 is a so-called
pretilt angle, and for exaniple may be preferably 0.1 degree or tnore and 30 degrees or
less. The angle 01 may be tnore preferably 0.5 degree or tnore and 10 degrees or less,
and still more preferably 0.7 degree or more and 2 degrees or less. There is a tendency
for scattering to decrease in efficiency due to reasons described below when the angle
81 is large. In addition, the azitnuth in which the liquid crystal stands up during
potential-difference application is varied when the angle 01 is excessively small. For
example, the liquid crystal may even stand op in an azimuth changed by 180 degrees
(reversed tilt). Accordingly, the refractive index difference of the microparticle 34B
and that of the bulk 34A are not efficiently used, and thus there is a tendency of
decrease in scattering efficiency and in luminance.
.. . [0072] Moreover, duringpotential-difference application, in the niicroparticle 34B,
the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecule intersects or is orthogonal to (or is
substantially orthogonal to) the optical axis AXI. At this time, the long axis of the
liquid crystal molecule in the nlicroparticle 348 is parallel to the light incident surface
IOA of the light guide plate 10 and intersects the surfaces of the transparent substrates
3 1 and 37 at the angle 02 (for example, 90 degrees) larger than the angle 0 1. In other
words, the liquid crystal molecule in the microparticle 34B is aligned in a state of being
inclined by the angle 02 in the plane parallel to the light incident surface 10A of the
light guide plate 10 or in a state of erecting at the angle 02 (= 90°), during
potential-difference application.
[0073] As the above-described monomer having the alignment property and the
polymerizability, although a inaterial that has optical anisotropy and is capable of being
combined with a liquid crystal is sufficient, in the present embodiment, a low-molecular
monorner to be cured by ultraviolet ray tnay be preferable. Since it may be preferable
that the direction of optical anisotropy of the liquid crystal coincide with the direction of
the optical anisotropy of the material (polymer ~naterial)f ormed through poly~nerization
of the low-~nolecular monomer in the state of no-potential-difference application, the
liquid crystal and the lo\\!-molecalar rnonolner may be preferably aligned in the same
direction before oltraviolct caring. In the case where a liquid crystal is used as the
microparticle 34B, when the liquid crystal is a rod-like molecule, it rnay be preferable
that the shape of the tnonotner material to be used also have a rod-like shape. As
described above, it may be preferable to use a material having both polymerizability and
liquid crystallinity as a monotner material, and the Inaterial may preferably contain, as a
polylnerizable functional group, one or more functional groups selected frotn the group
of an ac~ylateg roup, a methaclylate group, an acryloyloxy group, a methacryloyloxy
group, a vinyl ether group, and an epoxy gronp. These functional groups tnay be
polymerized by irradiation of an i~ltravioletr ay, an infrared ray, or an electron beam, or
heating. To suppress deterioration in alignment degree at the titne of illtraviolet
irradiation, a polyfi~nctionalizedl iquid crystal nlaterial may be added. When the bulk
34A has the above-described streaky structure, bifin~ctional liquid-crystalline monomer
may be preferably used as a raw material of the bulk 34A. Moreover, tnonof~~nctional
monomer may be added in order to adjust tempetature exhibiting liquid crystalinity or
tri- or more-functional monomer [nay be added in order to improve crosslink density, to
the raw material of the bulk 34A.
[0074] Incidentally, as described above, dt~ring no-potential-difference application,
the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A and the optical axis AX2 of the microparticle 340
both have a component of the respective optical axes mainly in the same direction.
During no-potential-difference application, as illustrated in FIG. 14, both the optical
axes AX1 and AX2 face in the satne direction, for example, in a rubbing direction of the
align~nenfti ltns 33 and 35. 111 addition, during no-potential-difference application, the
optical axes AX1 and AX2 are parallel to or substantially parallel to the light incident
surface 10A as illustrated in FIG. 14. fur the^; during no-potential-difference
application, the optical axes AX1 and AX2 are parallel to or substantially parallel to the
transparent st~bstrate 31 as illt~strated in FIG. 14. In other words, during
no-potential-difference application, the optical axes AX1 and AX2 ronghly face in the
Y-axis direction in FIG. 14.
[0075] Fullher, during no-potential-difference application, the optical axes AX1 and
AX2 have a coniponent of the respective optical axes mainly in a direction parallel to a
transmission axis AXlO of a polarization plate 210B on the backlight 21 1 side. During
no-potential-difference application, the optical axes AX1 and AX2 face in the direction
parallel to the trans~nission axis AX10, for exatnple, as illustrated in FIG. 14. The
trans~nissiona xis AX10 faces in the rubbing direction of tlie alignment filtns 33 and 35,
for example, as illustrated in FIG. 14. Note that a transtnission axis AX11 of tlie
polarization plate 210C on the picture display surface side is orthogonal to the
transmission axis AXlO of the polarization plate 210B on the backlight 211 side.
[0076] Moreover, as described above, during potential-difference application, the
optical axis AX1 faces in the direction same as or substantially same as the direction
during no-potential-difference application. During potential-difference application, the
optical axis AX1 contains the coniponent of the optical axis mainly in tlie direction
parallel to the transmission axis AX10 of the polarization plate 210B, and for exatnple,
as illustrated in FIG. 15, the optical axis AX1 faces in the direction parallel to the
transtiiission axis AXIO. During potential-difference application, for esa~nple, tlie
optical axis AX1 is parallel to or substantially parallel to the light incident surface 10A,
and fi~l.theris parallel to or substantially parallel to the transparent substrate 3 1.
[0077] On the other hand, during potential-difference application, the optical axis
AX2 is displaced in a predeter~nined direction due to influence of an electric field
generated by the potential difference that is applied to the lower electrode 32 and the
upper electrode 36. For example, during potential-difference application, the optical
axis AX2 intersects or is ortliogonal to (or sttbstantially orthogonal to) the transparent
substrate 31 as illustrated in FIG. 15. In other words, the optical axis AX2 is displaced
(namely, stands up) in a direction where an angle formed by the optical axis AX2 and a
nortnal of the transparent substrate 31 is decreased, by the potential difference
application to the lower electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36. At this time, the
optical axis AX2 is o~thogonalt o or substantially orthogonal to the optical axis AX1,
and is orthogonal to or substantially orthogonal to the transparent substrate 31.
[0078] For example, the drive circuit 50 may control the magnitude of the potential
difference applied to a pair of electrodes (the partial electrode 32A and the partial
electrode 36A) in each of the light modulation cells 30a and 30b so that the optical axis
AX2 of the microparticle 34B is parallel to or substantially parallel to the optical axis
AX1 of the bulk 34A ia the light modulatiotl cell 30b and the optical axis AX2 of the
microparticle 34Bintersects or is orthogonal to the optical anis-AX1 of the bulk 34A in -
the light modulatiotl cell 30a. Moreover, for example, the drive circuit 50 may control
the magnitude of the potential difference applied to the pair of electrodes (the partial
electrode 32A and the partial electrode 36A) in each of the light modalation cells 30a
and 30b so that the optical axis AX2 of the microparticle 34B intersects or is orthogonal
to the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A in each of the light modulation cells 30a and
30b. In other words, the drive circuit 50 allows the directions of the optical axes AXI
and AX2 of the bulk 34A and the microparticle 34B to coi~lcide (or st~bstantially
coil~cide)\\ ,it11 each other or to be different from each other (or be orthogonal to each
other) through electric field control.
[0079] When receiving a signal specifying three-dimensional display as the control
signal 204A, the drive circuit 50 allows the backlight 21 1 to output a plurality of linear
illumination light beams. More specifically, the drive circuit 50 applies a potential
difference allo\ving the light modtilation layer 34 to exhibit scattering property, to the
light modulatiort cell 30a including the partial electrode 32B, and applies a potential
difference allo\ving the light modulation layer 34 to exhibit transparency, to the light
~nodulatiotc~e ll 30b including the partial electrode 32C. In other words, the drive
circuit 50 controls the magnitude of the potential difference applied to the pair of
electrodes (the partial electrode 32A and the partial electrode 36A) in each of the light
modulation cells 30a and 30b so that the optical axis AX2 of the micropa~ticle 34B
intersects the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A in each of the light modulation cells 30a
included in the backlight 21 1 and the optical axis AX2 of the microparticle 34B is
parallel to the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A in each of the light modulation cells
30b incltided in the backlight 21 1.
[0080] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of relationship between scanning of the display
palre1 210 and scanning of illumination light beams of the backlight 211 in
three-dimensional display. As iilostrated in (A) of FIG. 16, the panel drive circuit 209
- - sequentially scans the pixel rowvs from a first pixel row to an n-th pixel row, and applies,
to the respective pixel rows, a pictare signal for one pixel row including a plurality of
two-dimensional picture signals with different perspectives. At this time, the panel
drive circuit 209 seqoentially applies the picture signals V1, V2, V3, and V4 for each
one fiame period (IF).
[0081] On the other hand, as illustrated in (B) of FIG. 16, the drive circ~tit 50
perfonns scanning of linear illumination light beams Lz (partial illumination light
beams) of the backlight 21 1 in synchronization with the scanning of the display panel
210. More specifically, the drive circuit 50 drives the light modulatio~ld evice 30 in
synchronization with the output of the selection signal to the display panel 210, to
generate the plurality of scattering regions 30B in regions of the light lnodulatioll layer
34 corresponding to the pixel row that is selected by the selection signal, and allows the
display panel 210 to display a three-dimensional image with use of the linear
illumination light beams Lz (illumination light beams) output from the respective
scattering regions 308.
[0082] After a predeterniined period is elapsed fioln a time selected by the selection
signal, the drive circuit 50 generates the plurality of scattering regions 300 (or the linear
illumination light beams Lz) in regions corresponding to the pixel row that is selected
by the selection signal. In this case, "predetermined period" indicates a period AT
from start time of pictt~re signal application until the alignment of the liquid crystal
become stable and a picture according to the picture signal is allowed to be displayed, as
illustrated in FIG. 16. The drive circuit 50 generates the plurality of scattering regions
308 (or the linear illumination light beams Lz) in regions corresponding to the pixel
row that is selected by the selectiotl signal, dt~ringa period after the predetermined
period is elapsed from a time selected by the selection signal until a time selected by a
next selection signal.
[0083] (A) to (C) of FIG. 17 scbetnatically illustrate an example of the scanning of the
linear illurninatiotl light beams Lz (illumination light beams) of the backlight 21 1 in
three-dimensional display. (A) to (C) of FIG. 18 schematically illustrate another
example of the scanning of the linear illumination light beams Lz (illumination light
beams) of the backlight 21 1 it1 three-dimensional display. As illustrated in (A) to (C)
of FIG. 17, the drive circuit 50 applies a drive voltage (a voltage generating an electric
field in the light modulation layer 34) to the partial electrode 36A corresponding to the
pixel row that is selected by the selectio~sl ignal, in a state of turni~lgo n the entire light
source 20. At this time, the drive circuit 50 applies a coinmon fixed voltage (for
example, a groond potential) to the partial electrodes 36A corresponding to pixel rows
that are not selected by the selection signal, and the partial electrodes 32B, as well as
pltts the partial electrodes 32C into a floating state.
[0084] Incideatally, in (A) to (C) of FIG. 17, "ON" indicates that the drive voltage is
applied to the partial electrode 36A, and "OFF" indicates that a common fixed voltage is
applied to the partial electrode 36A. In addition, in (A) to (C) of FIG. 17, the light
source 20 may be configured of a single linear light source, or may be configured of the
plurality of light source blocks 25.
[0085] Moreover, \$,hen the light source 20 is configured of the plurality of light
source blocks 25, for example, as illustrated in (A) to (C) of FIG. 18, the drive circuit 50
tilrns of the light source block 25 corresponding to the pixel row that is selected by the
selection signal, and applies the drive voltage (the voltage generating an electric field in
tlie light modulatio~i layer 34) to the pattial electrode 36A corresponding to the pixel
row that is selected by the selection signal. At this titne, the drive circuit 50 applies a
colntnon fixed voltage (for example, the ground voltage) to the partial electrodes 36A
corresponding to pixel rows that are not selected by the selectio~sl ignal, and the partial
electrodes 328, as well as puts the partial electrodes 32C illto a floating state. In such
a case, it is possible to suppress the consumed power low by an atnount of non-lighting
parts of the light source 20.
[0086] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a cross-sectional structure of a patt where the
plurality of linear illtl~nination light beatns Lz (illumination light beams) is emitted in
(A) to (C) of FIG. 17 and (A) to (C) of FIG. 18. In three-dimensional display, for
example, tlie panel drive circuit 209 drives four pisels 210-1 to 210-4 of the display
panel 210 as one three-dimensional pixel 210D. At this time, for exatnple, the drive
circuit 50 may for111 one scattering region 30B in each three di~nensional pixel 210D,
and may allow the linear illt~mination light beatns Lz to enter the respective pixels
210-1 to 210-4 at different incident angles. Accordingly, each of the linear
illumination light beams Lz enters, at tlie substantially tlie same angle, tlie pixel located
in a positiotl comlnon to the respective three-dimensional pixels 210D (for example, in
FIG. 19, 210-1, 210-2, 210-3, and 210-4). As a resolt, from the pixel located in a
positio~i conilnon to the respective three-ditnensional pixels 210D, picture light
modulated by the pixel is emitted at the predetermined angle. At this time, for
example, a vietver may view picture light fro111 tlie pixel 2 10-3 with his right eye, and at
the same time, the viewer may vie\\< picttlre light from the pixel 210-2 with his left eye.
In other words, tlie vie~verv iews pictures with different parallaxes by his right and left
eyes. As a result, tlie viewer perceives display of a three-dimensional picture (a
stereoscopic picture) on the display panel 210.
[0087] When receiving a signal specifying two-dimensional display as the control
signal 204A, the drive circuit 50 allocvs the backlight 21 1 to output a planar illumination
light beam. More specifically, the drive circuit 50 applies a potential difference
allowing tlie light tnodulation layer 34 to exhibit scattering propesty, to each of the light
modulation cells 30a and 30b. 111 other words, the drive circuit 50 controls the
magnitude of the potential difference applied to the pair of electrodes (the partial
electrode 32A and the partial electrode 36A) in each of the light modulation cells 30a
and 30b so that the optical axis AX2 of the microparticle 34B intersects or is orthogonal
to (or s~~bstantialolyrt hogonal to) the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A in eacli of the
light modulatioti cells 30a and 30b included in the backlight 21 1. For example, the
drive circuit 50 applies the voltage generating an electric field in the light modulation
layer 34 incloded in eacli of the light modulation cells 30a and 30b, as well as applies a
common fixed voltage (for example, the ground voltage) to the partial electrodes 32A.
[0088] Note that, when receiving a signal specifying t\\,o-dimensional display as the
control signal 204A as well as receiving a signal relating to pictore data, the drive
circuit 50 tnay allow the backlight 21 1 to emit a plaaar illumination light beam (for
exa~iiple, a planar illumination light beam partially dark in plane) having luminance
distribution correspotlding to the pictuie data. Incide~ltally, in this case, the upper
electrode 36 may be preferably arranged ill a layout corresponding to the pixels of the
display panel 210. When tlie upper electrode 36 is arranged in tlie layout
corresponding to the pixels of the display panel 210, the drive circuit 50 applies,
according to tlie picture data, a potential difference allowi~igth e light modulation layer
to exhibit scattering property, to some of the light modulation cells 30a and 30b, and a
potential difference allowing the light modulation layer 34 to exhibit tra~isparency, to
the other of the light modulation cells 30a and 30b.
[0089] Nest, f~mctioos and effects of the backlight 21 1 of the present embodiment
will be described.
[0090] In tlie backlight 21 1 of the present enibodiment, in three di~iiensionald isplay,
the voltage is applied to tlie pair of electrodes (the partial electrode 32A and tlie pa~tial
electrode 36A) in each of the light tnodulation cells 30a and 30b so that the optical axis
AX2 of the ~nicroparticle 348 intersects or is orthogonal to (or substantially orthogonal
to) the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A in each of the light tnodulation cells 30a and
the optical axis AX2 of the niicroparticle 34B is parallel to or substantially parallel to
the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A in each of the light lnodulatioti cells 30b.
Accordingly, in the light niodulation device 30, each of the light modulation cells 30a
becomes the scattering region 30B, and each of the light modulation cells 30a becomes
the translnissive region 30A. As a t~sultt,l ie liglit that has been emitted from the light
source 20 and has entered the liglit guide plate 10 passes through the transtnissive
region 30A of the light modulation device 30, and is scattered in the scattering region
308 of the light modulation device 30 (FIG. 19). Light that has passed through the
bottom surface of the scattering region 308 of the scattered light is reflected by the
reflector 40 to return to the light guide plate 10 again, and then is emitted from the top
surface of the backlight 21 1. In addition, light traveling toward the top surface of the
scattering region 30B of the scattered liglit passes thro~~gthhe light guide plate 10, and
then is emitted from the top surface of the backlight 21 1. As described above, in
three-dimensional display, light is scarcely emitted from the top surface of tlie
transniissive region 30A and light is etnitted from tlie top surface of tlie scattering
region 308. In this way, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 19, tlie plurality of linear
illumination light beanis Lx may be emitted in the front direction.
[0091] As a result, each of the linear illumination light beams eniitted in the front
direction enters the back surface of the display panel 210. Therefore, for example,
when two-ditnensional picture data for three-dimensional display is generated by the
picture signal processing circuit 207 so that each pisel row becomes three-dimensional
pixel 2lOA in the pixel arrangetilent corresponding to each of the linear illumination
liglit beams, each of the linear illt~minationli ght beam enters, at the substantially same
angle, the pixel located in a position common to the respective three-dimensional pixels
210A (for example, in FIG. 19, pixels 210-1, 210-2, 210-3, and 210-4). As a result,
from the pixel located in a position common to the respective three-dimensional pixels
210A, picture light modulated by the pixel is emitted at the predetermined angle. At
this time, a viewer views pictures with different parallaxes by his right and left eyes.
Thus, the viewer perceives display of a three-dimensional picture (a stereoscopic
picture) on the display panel 210.
[0092] Moreover, in the backlight 21 1 of the present embodiment, the voltage is
applied to the pair of electrodes (the partial electrode 32A and the partial electrode36A)
in each of the light modulation cells 30a and 30b so that the optical axis AX2 of the
microparticle 34B intersects or is orthogonal to (or substantially orthogonal to) the
optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A in each of the light modulation cells 30a and 30b, in
two-dimensional display. Accordingly, the light that has been emitted fron~th e light
source 20 and has entered the light guide plate 10 is scattered in the scattering region
30B that is formed in the entire light modulation device 30 (FIG. 20). Light that has
passed through the bottom surface of the scattering region 30B of the scattered light is
reflected by the reflector 40 to return to the light guide plate 10 again, and then is
emitted from the top surface of the backlight 21 1. In addition, light traveling toward
the top surface of the scattering region 30B of the scattered light passes through the
light guide plate 10, and then is emitted from the top surface of the backlight 21 1. As
described above, in two-dimensional display, for example, light may be emitted from
the entire top surface of the light modulation device 30, and a planar illumination light
beam may be emitted in the front direction.
[0093] As a result, the planar illurnination light beam emitted in the front direction
enters the back surface of the display panel 210. Accordingly, for esa~nple, when
two-dimensional picture data for two-dimensional display corresponding to each pixel
210B is generated by the picture signal processing circuit 207, the planar illumination
light beam enters each of the pixels 210B from all angles, and picture light modulated
by each of the pixels 210B is emitted from each of the pixels 210B. At this time, the
viewer views the same picture by both eyes, and thus the viewer perceives display of a
-two-dimensional picture (a planar picture) on the display panel 210. . ...
[0094] Moreover, in the present embodiment, when the light modulation layer 34
exhibits the scattering property, the bulk 34A having low electric-field responsiveness
has a component of the optical axis AX1 mainly in a direction parallel to the
transmission axis AXlO of the polarization plate 210B, and tlie tnicroparticle 34B
having high electric-field responsiveness has the optical--axis AX2 in a direction that : -:
intersects or is orthogonal to (or substantially ortliogonal to) the optical axis AX1 of the
bulk 34A and inte~sects or is orthogonal to (or substantially orthogonal to) tlie
transparent substrate 31. Accordingly, tlie polarization axis of the light emitted from
the backlight 21 1 has a main component in the direction parallel to the transmission axis
AXlO of the polarization plate 218, and thus the light of the backlight 21 1 is allowed to
enter the liquid crystal panel 210A more efficiently as compared with the case where
non-polarized light with the same luminance is emitted from the backlight 21 1.
Therefore, even in the case \\?here three-dimensional display is performed with use of
the smaller number of pixels than that in two-dimensional display, three-dimensional
display with high display luminance is allowed to be performed. In addition,
two-dimensional display with high display.luminaace is also allowed to be performed.
[0095] Incidentally, in the present embodiment, when a three-dimensional picture is
displayed on the display panel 210, the scanning of the display panel 210 is
syncllronized with the scanning of the linear illumination light beams Lz (partial
illutiiination light bea~i~os)f the backlight 21 1. Accordingly, it is possible to put the
region under picture rewriting into a non-display state surely. As a result, it is possible
to prevent occurrence of crosstalk.
[0096] Other effects of the receiver 200 according to the present embodi~ilentw ill be
described below.
[0097] Typically, the PDLC is formed by mixing a liquid crystal material and an
isotropic low-molecular material and causing phase separation by ultraviolet irradiation,
drying of a solvent, etc., and the PDLC is a composite layer in which microparticles of *
the liquid crystal material are dispersed in a polymer material. The liquid crystal
material in the composite layer exhibits scattering property because the liquid clystal
material face in random directions during no-potential-difference application; however
the liquid crystal material aligns in an electric field direction during potential-difference
application. Accordingly, the liquid crystal material in the composite layer exhibits
high transparency in the front direction (in the normal direction of the PDLC) when the
ordinary refractive index of the liquid crystal material is equal to the refractive index of
the polymer material. However, in the liquid crystal material, in the oblique direction,
difference between the extraordinary refractive index of the liquid crystal material and
the refractive index of the polymer material is remarkable, and this results in expression
of scattering property in the oblique direction even when transparency is expressed in
the front direction.
[0098] Usually, a light modulation device using the PDLC freqc~entlyh as a structure
in which the PDLC is sandwiched between two glass plates that each have a front
surface provided with a transparent conductive film. When light obliqoely enters,
from the air, the light modillation device having the above-described structure, the light
that has entered the light modulation device in the oblique direction is refracted due to
difference in refractive index between the air and the glass plate, and enters the PDLC at
a s~nallear ngle. Therefore, in such a light modulation device, large scattering does not
occur. For example, when light enters the light modulation device from the air at an
aogle of 80 dcgrces, the entering aogle of the light to the PDLC may be decreased to
about 40 degrees by refraction at the glass interface.
[0099] However. in an edge light system using a light guide plate, since light enters
through the light guide plate, the light crosses the PDLC at a large angle of about 80
degrees. Therefore, the difference between the extraordinary refractive index of the
liquid crystal material and the refractive index of the polymer material is large, atid
further the light crosses the PDLC at larger angle, and optical path subjected to
scattering is also increased accordingly. For example, when microparticles of a liquid
ciystal material that has an ordina~y refractive itidex of 1.5 and an extraordinary
refractive index of 1.65 are dispersed in a polymer material having a refractive index of
1.5, difference in refractive index is not generated in the front direction (the normal
direction of the PDLC); however the difference in refractive index is increased ici the
oblique direction. Therefore, this prevents the scattering property in the oblique
direction from being decreased so that viewing angle characteristics are deteriorated.
Further, when an optical film s~lcha s a diffuser filtii is provided on the light guide plate,
obliquely-leaked light is diffused also in the front direction by the diffuser film or the
like. Therefore, light leakage in tlie front direction is increased and the modulation
ratio in the front direction is lowered.
[0100] On the other hand, in tlie present embodiment, since the bulk 34A and the
~nicropa~lic3le4 B are formed to mainly contain respective optical anisotropic materials,
the scattering property is decreased and the transparency is improved in the oblique
direction. For example, when the bulk 34A and the microparticle 348 are configured
to mainly contain respective optical anisotropic ~naterials whose ordinary refractive
itidices are equal to each other and whose extraordinary refractive indices are also equal
to each other, and in a region where a potential difference is not applied behveen the
lower electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36, the directions of the optical axes thereof
coincide or s~ibstatttially coincide with each other. Therefore, difference in refractive
index is decreased or eli~iiinated in all directions including tlie front direction (tlie
normal direction of the light modulation dcvice 30) and the obliqoe direction, and
higher transparency is obtainable. As a result, light lcakagc in a region where a
viewing angle is large is allowed to be decreased or substantially eliminated, and
viewing angle characteristics are allowed to be improved.
[OIOI] For example, when a liquid crystal that has an ordina~yre fractive index of 1.5
and an extraordinary refractive index of 1.65 and a liquid clystalline monomer that has
an ordinary refractive index of 1.5 and an extraordinary refractive index of 1.65 are
mixed and the liquid crystalline tnononler is polymerized in a state where the liqnid
crystal and the liquid crystalline monomer are aligned by the alignment film or an
electric field, the optical axis of the liquid crystal coincides with the optical axis of a
polymer formed through polymerization of the liquid crystalline monomer. As a result,
since the refractive indices are coincident with each other in all directions, in such a
case, a state with higher transparency is achievable and the viewing angle characteristics
are further improved.
[0102] In addition, in the present embodiment, for example, as illustrated in (A) and
(B) of FIG. 13, the lnminance of the transmissive region 30A (the luminance of black
display) is lower than that in the case where light is nnifonuly emitted fro111 the entire
surface (alternate long and short dash line in (B) of FIG. 13). On the other hand, the
luminance of the scattering region 308 is extremely higher than that in the case where
light is uniformly emitted from the entire surface (alternate long and short dash line in
(B) of FIG. 13), and the luminance of partial white display (luminance enhance~nent)is
increased by a decreased amount of the ii~tninanceo f the transmissive region 30A.
[0103] Incidentally, the luminance enhancement is a technique to enhance luminance
when partial white display is performed, as cotnpared with the case of entire white
display. This is a technique generally used for CRT, PDP, and the like. In a liquid
crystal display, however, a backlight unifomily emits light as a whole irrespective of an
image so that partial enhancement of luminance is difficult. Incidentally, when the
backlight is configi~red as an LED backlight in which a plurality of LEDs are
two-dimensionally arranged, the LEDs are allowed to be partially tunled off. 111 such a
case, however, diffbsion light from a dark region where the LEDs are turned off is
absent, and thus the luniinance is lowered as compared with the case where all of the
LEDs are turned on. In addition, although it is possible to increase the luminance by
increasing a carrent flowing through the LEDs partially turned on, in such a case, large
current flows through the LEDs in an extremely short time, and thus issues are remained
in terms of load and reliability of circuits.
[0104] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, since the bulk 34A and the
microparticle 34B are formed to mainly contain respectiveoptical anisotropic materials,
the scattering property in the oblique direction is suppressed and leakage of light from
tlie light guide plate in a dark state is soppressed. Therefore, the light is guided from a
partial dark region to a partial bright region so that Itnninance enhancement is
achievable without increasing power supplied to the backlight 21 1.
[0105] Moreover, in the present embodiment, in a region where a potential difference
is not applied between tlie lower electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36, the optical
axis AX2 of the inicroparticle 34B is parallel to the light incident surface IOA of the
light guide plate 10, and intersects the surfaces of the transparent substrates 31 and 37 at
the slight angle 01. Specifically, the liquid crystal ~nolecule contained in the
tnicroparticle 34B is aligned in a state of being inclined at the angle 01 in a plane
parallel to tlie light incident surface IOA (in a state of being provided with a pretilt
angle). Therefore, during potential-difference application, the liquid crystal material
contained in the microparticle 34B does not stand up in raodoin directions, and stands
up in the plane parallel to the light incideiit surface IOA. At this time, the optical axis
AX1 of the bulk 34A intersects or is orthogonal to (or substantially orthogonal to) the
optical axis AX2 of the microparticle 348 in the plane parallel to tlie light incident
surface 10A. In this case, of the light entering the light guide plate 10 from the light
incident surface IOA, light oscillating perpendict~lar to the transparent substrate 31 is
affected by a difference between the extraordinary refractive index of the microparticle
348 and the ordinaty refractive index of the bulk 34A. At this time, since the
difference between the extraordinary refiactive index of the microparticle 34B and the
ordinary refractive index of the bolk 34.4 is large, the scattering efficiency of the light
oscillating perpendicular to the transparent substrate 31 is increased. On the other
hand, the light oscillating parallel to the transparent substrate 31 is affected by the
difference between the ordinary refractive index of the microparticle 34B and the
extraordinary refractive index of the bulk 34A. At this titne, since the difference
between the ordinary refractive index of the microparticle 34B and the extraordinary
refractive index of the bulk 34A is also large, the scattering efftciency of the light
oscillating parallel to the transparent substrate 31 is also increased. Accordingly, light
propagating through the region where a potential difference is applied between the
lo\ver electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36 contains a large amount of oblique
component. For example, when an acryl light guide plate is used as the light guide
plate 10, the light in the region where a potential diffetrnce is applied between the lower
electrode 32 and the upper electrode 36 propagates the region at an angle of 41.8
degrees or more. As a result, the refractive index difference is increased in all
directions including the oblique direction, and high scattering property is obtained, and
thus display luminance is allowed to be improved. In addition, it is possible to fullher
improve the display lt~n~inancdeu e to the effect of the above-described luminance
enhancement.
[0106] Incidentally, for example, \\?hen the optical axis AX1 of the bulk 34A and the
optical axis AX2 of the microparticle 34B are arranged perpendicular to the light
incident surface IOA of the light guide plate 10 doring no-potential-difference
application, and the liquid crystal material contained in the tnicroparticle 348 is adapted
to stand up in a plane perpendicular to the light incident snrface 10A during
potential-difference application, as with the case described above, the light oscillating
perpendicular to the transparent substrate 31 is affected by the difference between the
extraordinary refractive index of the ~nicroparticle3 48 and the ordinary refractive index
of the bulk 34A. However, the light oscillating parallel to the transparent substrate 31
is affected by the difference between the ordina~yr efractive index of the micropaiticle
34B and the ordinaly refractive index of the bulk 34A. 111 this case, the difference
hetween the ordina~y refractive index of the microparticle 34B and the ordinary
refractive index of the bulk 34A is zero or substantially zero. Therefore, of the light
entering the light guide plate 10 from the light incident surface 10A, the light oscillating
perpendicular to the transparent substrate 3 1 is largely affected by the refractive index
difference as with the case described above, whereas the light oscillating palallel to the
transparent substrate 31 is free or si~bstantially free froin influence of the refractive
index difference. As a result, the scattering efficiency of the light oscillating
perpendicular to the transparent substrate 3 1 is increased, but the scattering efficiency of
the light oscillating parallel to the transparent substrate 31 is lolv or zero. Therefore,
when the optical axes AX1 and AX2 are arranged perpendicular to the light incident
surface 10A, the scattering efficiency is lower than that in the case where the optical
axes AX1 and AX2 are arranged parallel to the light incident surface 10A. As a result,
the luminance extracted from the light guide plate 10 is lower than that of the light
modulation device 30 of the present embodiment.
[O107] As described above, in the present e~ubodiment, the display luminance is
allowed to be improved while light leakage in a region where the viewing angle is large
is decreased or substantially eliminated. As a result, tnodulation ratio in the front
direction is allowed to be high.
[0108] R. Modifications>
(First Modification)
In the above-described embodiment, the light modulation device 30 is provided
inside the light guide plate 10. I-iowever, for exatnple, as illustrated in FIG. 21, the
light modulation device 30 may be closely bonded to the top surface of the light guide
plate 10 without an air layer in between. Moreover, for example, as illustrated in FIG.
22, the light modulation device 30 may be closely bonded to a backside (a bottom
surface) of the light guide plate 10 without an air layer in between.
[O 1091 (Second Modification)
In the above-described embodiment and the modification thereof, the upper
electrode 36 is configured of the plurality of partial electrodes 36A. However, for
example, as illustrated in FIG. 23, the upper electrode 36 tnay be a solid film (a planar
electrode)-formed over the entire surface. In this case, when tlie light source 20 is
configured of the plurality of light source blocks 25, tlie light guide plate 10 may
preferably enhance directivity of tlie light from the light source blocks 25. For
example, as illustrated in (A) and (B) ofFIG. 24, the light guide plate 10 may preferably
have a plurality of strip-shaped projections 1 I on the upper surface or the bottom
surface thereof. In addition, although not illustrated, for exatnple, tlie light guide plate
10 may have the plurality of strip-shaped projections 11 in the light guide plate 10.
Moreover, the inside of the light guide plate 10 may be hollow or tilay be detisely
packed.
101 101 The projections 11 each exteud in tlie directiou parallel to the ~iorrnal of the
light incidence surface IOA, and for example, as illustrated in (A) and (B) of FIG. 24,
the projections 11 may be formed sc~ccessivelyfr om one side surface of the light guide
plate 10 to the other side surface facing that side surface. A cross-sectio~ial surface in
an arrangement direction of each of the projections 11 tnay have, for example, a
rectangular shape, a trapezoidal shape, or a tria~igulars hape. When tlie cross-sectional
surface in the arrangement direction of each of the projections 11 has a rectangular
shape, a rectilinear propagation property of light is extremely high, and the light guide
plate 10 having such projections I I is suitable for a large-scale backlight. Wlien the
cross-sectional surface in the arrangement direction of each of the projections I 1 has a
trapezoidal shape, processing of a die used to form each of the projections I I by
injection molding, extrusion molding, heat-press molding, or the like is easy, and mold
releasability in molding is high, and yields and molding speed are allowed to be
improved due to a reduction in errors.
[Ol 1 11 (A) to (C) of FIG. 25 schematically illustrate an example of the scanni~lgo f the
linear illumi~lationl ight beams Lz (the illumination light beams) of the backlight 211 in
three-dimensional display. In this example, it is assumed that the light source 20 is
configured of the plurality of light source blocks 25. For example, the drive circuit 50
may turn on only the light source block 25 corresponding to-the pixel row that is
selected by the selection signal, and apply the drive voltage (the voltage generating an
electric field in the light modolation layer 34) to each of the partial electrodes 32B. At
this time, the drive circuit 50 applies a common fixed voltage (for example, the ground
voltage) to the partial electrodes 32C and the upper electrodes 36.
[OL 121 As described above, in the present modification, when a three-dimensional
picture is displayed on the display panel 210, the light source block 25 is selectively
driven, instead of selectively driving the partial electrode 36A, to perfom) the scanning
of the linear illumination light beams Lz (the partial illumination light beams) in
synchronization with the scanning of the display panel 210. Therefore, it is possible to
put a region under picture rewriting into a non-display state surely. As a result, it is
possible to prevent occurrence of crosstalk.
[OI 131 (Third Modification)
It1 the above-described embodiment and the modifications thereof, whet1 one
piece of two-dimensional picture data is created with use of the plurality of pieces of
two-dimensional picture data \\,it11 different perspectives that are contained in the
pictore data for three-di~nensionald isplay input from the decoder 206, the picture signal
processing circuit 207 lnay create two-dimensional picture data corresponding to tile
three-dimensional pixel 210D at a normal position (hereinafter, referred to as
"two-ditnetlsional pictitre data in A line") and two-dimensional picture data
corresponding to the three-dimensional pixel 210D at a position that is shifted from the
three-dimensional pixel 2IOD at the normal position by a half pitch in the row direction
(hereinafter, referred to as "two-dimensional picture data in B line"). In this case, for
example, as illustrated in (A) of FIG. 26, the panel drive circuit 209 alternately outputs,
in every IF, a picture signal corresponding to the two-dimensional picture data in the A
line and a picture signal corresponding to the hvo-dimensional picture data in the B line
to the respective data lines.
[0014] Further, in this case, as illustrated in (B) of FIG. 26, the drive circuit 50
outputs, in every IF, the linear illumi~~atioling ht beams Lz (the partial illumination light
beams) altertlately to the three-dimensional pixel 2100 at the normal position and to the
three-dimensional pixel 210D at the position that is shifted from the three-dimensional
pixel 210D at the nomlal position by the half pitch in the row direction. Therefore, the
drive circuit 50 generates at1 image with double resolution, as compared with the case
where an image of one frame is generated in 1F.
[OI 151 To achieve such driving by the drive circuit 50, for example, it is necessary for
the drive circuit 50 to perform the following. For example, fi~stt,h e drive circuit 50
lnay perform scanning in a state where the scattering region 308 (the linear illamination
light beam Lz) at the position corresponding to the three-dimensional pixel 210D at the
normal position during first IF, and then performs scantling in a state where the
scattering region 30B (the linear illumination light beam Lz) at the position
corresponding to the three-dimeasional pixel 210D at the position that is shifted from
the three-din~ensional pixel 210D at the normal position by the half pitch in the row
direction during next IF.
[OII6] (A) to (C) of FIG. 27 and (A) to (C) of FIG. 28 sche~natically illustrate at1
example of the scanning of the linear illumination light beams Lz (the illumination light
beams) of the backlight 21 1 in three-dimensional display. The drive circuit 50 applies
the drive voltage (the voltage generating an electric field in the light tnodulation layer
34) to the partial electrode 36A corresponding to the pixel row that is selected by the
selection signal, in a state where the entire light source 20 is tllrtled on. At this time,
during first IF, the drive circuit 50 applies a colnmoll fixed voltage (for example, the
grolltld potential) to the partial electrodes 36A corresponding to the pixel rows that are
not selected by the selection signal, and the partial electrodes 32B, as well as puts the
partial electrodes 32C into a floating state. Further, during next IF, the drive circuit 50
applies a colntiion fixed voltage (for example, the ground potetitial) to the pattial
electrodes 36A corresponditlg to pixel raws that are not selected by the selection signal,
and the partial electrodes 32C, as well as puts the partial electrodes 32B into a floating
state.
[0117] Incidentally, in (A) to (C) of FIG. 27 and (A) to (C) of FIG. 28, "ON" i~tdicates
that the drive voltage is applied to the partial electrode 36A, and "OFF" indicates that a
cotnmotl fixed voltage is applied to the partial electrode 36A. In addition, in (A) to
(C) of FIG. 27 and (A) to (C) of FIG. 28, the light source 20 tnay be configured of a
single linear light source, or may be configtired of the plurality of light source blocks
25.
[0118] Moreover, to achieve the above-described driving by the drive circuit 50, for
example, as illustrated in FIG. 29, the partial electrodes 32B and the partial electrodes
32C lnay be preferably arranged alternately in the arrangetnent direction. Note that,
when driving described below by the drive circuit 50 is achieved, for example, as
illlistrated in FIG. 29, the partial electrodes 32B and the partial electrodes 32C may be
preferably arranged alterilately in the arrangetnent direction.
[OI 191 (A) to (C) of FIG. 30 and (A) to (C) of FIG. 3 I schematically illustrate another
exa~npleo f the scaoni~igo f the linear illuniination light beallis Lz (the illurnitlation light
beams) of the backlight 21 1 in three-dimensional display. When the light source 20 is
configured of the plurality of light source blocks 25, for example, the drive circuit 50
may turn on only the light source block 25 corresponding to the pixel row that is
selected by the selection signal, and apply the drive voltage (the voltage generating an
electric field in the light modulation layer 34) to the partial electrode 36A corresponding
to the pixel row that is selected by the selection signal. At this time, during first IF,
the drive circuit 50 applies a common fixed voltage (for example, the ground voltage) to
the partial electrodes 36A corresponding to pixel rows that are not selected by the
selection signal, and the partial electrodes 32B, as well as puts the partial electrodes
32C into a floating state. Further, during next IF, the drive circuit 50 applies a
common fixed voltage (for example, the ground potential) to the partial electrodes 36A
corresponding to the pixel rows that are not selected by the selection signal, and the
partial electrodes 32C, as well as puts the partial electrodes 32B into a floating state.
111 such a case, the consutned power is allowed to be suppressed low by an amount of
non-lighting pails of the light source 20.
[O120] (A) of FIG. 32 illustrates an example of a cross-sectional structure of a pait
where the plurality of linear illumination light beam Lz (the illu~nination light beams)
is emitted in (A) to (C) of FIG. 27 and (A) to (C) of FIG. 30. (B) of FIG. 32 illustrates
an exa~ample of a cross-sectional structure of a part where the plurality of linear
illumination light beams Lz (the illumination light beams) is emitted in (A) to (C) of
FIG. 28 and (A) to (C) of FIG. 3 1.
[Of211 In three-dimensional display, for example, the panel drive circuit 209 may
drive the four pixels 210-1 to 210-4 of the display panel 210 as one three-dimensional
pixel 210D. At this time, for example, the drive circuit 50 may fonn one scattering
region 30B for each three-dimensional pixel 210D, and may allow the linear
illumination light beams Lz to enter the respective pixels 210-1 to 210-4 at different
incident angles. Accordingly, each of the linear illumination light beams Lz enters, at
the substantially same angle, the pixel located in a position colntnon to the respective
three-dimensioi~al pixels 210D (for example, in (A) and (B) of FIG. 32, 210-1, 210-2,
210-3, or 210-4). As a result, froin the pixel located in a position common to the
respective three-dirnensiotial pixels 210D, pichlre light modulated by the pixel is
emitted at tlie predetermined angle. At this time, for example, during first IF, a viewer
inay view picture light frotn tlie pixel 210-3 with his right eye, and at the same time, the
viewer inay view picture light frotn the pixel 210-2 with his left eye. Further, for
example, during next IF, the viewer may view picture light froin the pixel 210-3 that
has been located at the position of the pixel 210-4 in the first 1F with his right eye, and
at the saine time, the viewer tnay view picture light from the pixel 210-2 that has been
located at the position of the pixel 210-3 in the first 1F with.his left eye. In other
words, the viewer views the pictures with different parallaxes with resolutio~tlw o times
larger than the resolution in the above-described embodiment, with his right and left
eyes. As a result, the viewer perceives display of a three-dimensional picture (a
stereoscopic picture) with extremely high resolution on the display panel 210.
[0122] Incidentally, in the present modification, when a three-dimensional picture is
displayed on the display panel 210, the scanning of the linear illumination light beallis
Lz (the partial illumination light beanis) is perfortiled in synchronization with the
scanning of the display panel 210. Therefore, it is possible to put a region under
picture rewriting into a non-display state surely. As a result, it is possible to prevent
occurrence of crosstalk.
[0123] (Fourth Modification)
In the above-described embodiment and the modifications thereof, when one
piece of two-dimensional picture data is created with use of the plurality of pieces of
two-dimensional picture data with different perspectives that are contained in the
picture data for three-dimensional display input from the decoder 206, the picture signal
processing circuit 207 tnap output the t\vo-dimensional picture data twice during 1F
period. In this case, for example, as illustrated in (A) of FIG. 33, the panel drive
circuit 209 outpots the same picture sigtial to the respective data lines in the first half
and the last half in the IF period. At this time, for example, the drive circuit 50 rnay
turn on only the light source block 25 corresponding to the pixel row that is selected by
the selection signal, and apply the drive voltage (the voltage generating an electric field
in the light modulation layer 34) to the partial electrode 36A corresponding to the pixel
row that is selected by the selection signal.
[0124] (A) to (C) of FIG. 34 schetnatically illustrate an example ofthe scanning of the
linear illumination light beams Lz (the illu~niuationl ight beams) of the backlight 21 1 in
three-dimensional display. (A) to (C) of FIG. 35 schelnatically illustrate another
_ example of the scanning of the linear illttt~iinationl ight beams Lz (the illumination light
bea~ns)o f the backlight 21 1 in three-dimensional display. As illustrated in (A) to (C)
of FIG. 34, the drive circuit 50 applies the drive voltage (the voltage generating an
electric field in the light modulation layer 34) to the pattial electrode 36A corresponding
to the pixel row that is selected by the selection signal. At this time, the drive circuit
50 applies the drive voltage during a titne period from the first half of the IF period to a
titne not exceeding a start time of the next IF period. Further, at this time, the drive
circuit 50 applies a conunon fixed voltage (for example, the ground potential) to the
partial electrodes 36A corresponding to the pixel ro\vs that are not selected by the
selection signal, and the partial electrodes 328, as well as puts the partial electrodes
32C into a floating state.
[O125] Moreover, when the light source 20 is configured of the plurality of light
source blocks 25, for exatnple, as illustrated in (A) to (C) ofFIG. 35, the drive circuit 50
may turn on only the light source block 25 corresponding to the pixel row that is
selected by the selection signal, and apply the drive voltage (the voltage generating an
electric field in the light modulation layer 34) to the partial electrode 36A corresponding
to the pixel row that is selected by the selection signal. At this time, the drive circuit
50 applies the drive voltage during a time period fro111 the first half of the IF period
until a time 11ot exceeding the start time of the next IF period. In addition, the drive
circuit 50 turns on the light source block 25 corresponding to the pixel ro\v that is
selected by the selection signal, during a time period after a predetermined period is
elapsed from the titne selected by the selection signal until a time that is selected by a
. . second selection signal (a selection signal applied at the start time of the next IF period)
Fwther, at this time, the drive circ~~5i0t applies a common fixed voltage (for example,
the ground potential) to the partial electrodes 36A corresponding to the pixel rows that
are not selected by the selection signal, and the partial electrodes 328, and puts the
partial electrodes 32C into a floating state. In this case, the consumed power is
allowed to be suppressed low by an amount of non-lighting parts of the light source 20.
[0126] Moreover, for example, the present technology may be configured as follows.
(1) A display unit including:
a display panel having a plurality of pixels;
a backlight capable of partially illuminating the display panel; and
a drive circuit configured to drive the display panel and the backlight, wherein
the drive circuit synchronizes scanning of the display panel with scanning of
partial illumination light beanis of the backlight to allow the display panel to display a
three-di~nensionalp icticre.
(2) The display unit according to (I), wherein
the backlight includes
a first transparent substrate and a second transparent substrate that are
disposed to face each other with a distance in behveen,
a light source configured to apply light to an end surface of the first
transparent substrate or an end surface of the second transparent substrate,
a light modulation layer provided in a clearance behveen the first
transparent substrate and the second transparent substrate, and exhibiting
scattering property or transparency to the light from the light source depending
on magnitude of an electric field, and
an electrode configured to generate the electric field in the light
modulation layer when a voltage is applied,
the drive circuit outputs a picture signal for one pixel row including a plurality
of hvo-dimensional picture signals with different perspectives, to the display panelrand
outputs a selection signal to sequentially select pixel row, to the display panel, and
the drive circuit drives the light moditlation layer in syl~chronizationw ith the
output of the selection signal to the display panel, to generate a plurality of scattering
regions that exhibit scattering property to the light from the light source in a region
- corresponding to-a pixel row that is selected by the selection signal in the light =
modulation layer, and allows the display panel to display the three-dimensional picture
with use of illumination light beatns emitted from the respective scattering regions.
(3) The display unit according to (2), wherein the drive circuit generates the
plorality of scattering regions in a region correspollditlg to the pixel row selected by the
selection signal after a predetertnined period is elapsed fiotil a time selected by the
selection signal.
(4) The display unit according to (3), wherein the drive circuit generates the
plurality of scattering regions in a region corresponding to the pixel row selected by the
selection signal during a time period after a predeterti~ined period is elapsed fro111 a time
selected by the selection signal until a time selected by a next selection signal.
(5) The display utlit according to (3), wherein the drive circuit generates the
plurality of scattering regions in a regiotl corresponding to the pixel row selected by the
selectiott signal during a time period after a predetermined period is elapsed from a time
selected by the selectioll signal until a time selected by a next selection signal.
(6) The display unit accordiog to any one of (3) to (5), wherein
the light source is configured of a plurality of light source blocks arranged in
line, atid
the drive circuit tarns on the light source blocks corresponding to the pixel row
selected by the selection signal after a predetermined period is elapsed from a time
selected by the selection signal.
(7) The display unit according to (4), wherein
the light source is configured of a plurality-of light source blocks arranged in -~ ..
line, and
the drive circuit turns on tbe light source blocks correspot~dingto the pixel row
selected by the selection signal during a time period after a predeter~ni~lepde riod is
elapsed from a time selected by the selection signal until a time selected by a next
. selection signal. . . . ~ - ~.
(8) The display unit according to (5), wherein
the light source is configured of a plurality of light source blocks arranged in
line, and
the drive circuit turns on the light source blocks correspo~tdingto the pixel row
selected by the selection signal during a time period after a predetermined period is
elapsed from a time selected by the selection signal until a time selected by a second
selectio~si~g nal.
(9) The display unit according to any one of (2) to (8), wherein
the electrode includes a first electrode and a second electrode, the first
electrode being provided on a side closer to the first transparent substrate than the light
modulation layer, and the second electrode being provided on a side closer to the second
transparent substrate than the light modulation layer,
the first electrode is configured of a plurality of partial electrodes each
extending in a directiot~ parallel to a scanning direction of partial illumination light
beams of the backlight,
the second electrode is configured of a plurality of partial electrodes each
extending in a direction intersecting the scan~ii~d~iregc tion of the partial illumination
light beams of the backlight, and
the drive circuit drives a first partial electrode to generate the plt~rality of
scattering regions, the first partial electrode corresponding to a part of the plurality of
partial electrodes configuring tlie second electrode.
(10) The display unit according to (9), wherein the drive circ~~aipt plies a
common fixed voltage to a second partial electrode and the first electrode, and applies a
voltage that generates an electric field in the light modulation layer, to tlie first partial
electrode to generate the plurality of scattering regions, the second partial electrode
being the partial electrodes other than the first partial electrode out of the plurality of
partial electrodes configuring the second electrode. -
(1 1) The display unit according to (9), wherein
tlie light source is configured of a plurality of light source blocks arranged in
line, and
the drive circuit turns on a first light source block to emit illtunination light
beams f?01i1 the respective scattering regions, the first light source block corresponding
to the first partial electrode ottt ofthe plurality of light source blocks.
(12) The display unit according to (lo), wherein
the light source is configured of a plurality of light source blocks arranged it1
line, and
the drive circuit turns on a first light source block and turns off a second light
source block to elnit illumination light beams from the respective scattering regions, the
first light source block corresponding to the first partial electrode oitt of the plurality of
light source blocks, acid the second light source block being light source blocks other
than the first light source block out of the plurality of light source blocks.
[O127] This applicatio~i is based tipon and claims the benefit of priority of the
Japanese Patent Application No. 201 1-220229 filed it1 tlie Japati Patent Office on
October 4, 201 1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
CLAIMS
1. A display 11tlit comprising:
a display panel having a plurality of pixels;
a backlight capable of partially illuminating the display panel; and
a drive circuit configured to drive the display panel and the backlight, whereitl
the drive circuit synchronizes scanning of the display panel with scanning of
partial illumination light beams of the backlight to allow the display panel to display a
three-dimensional picture.
2. The display unit according to claim 1, wherein
the backlight includes
a first transparent substrate and a second transparent substrate that are
disposed to face each other with a distance in behveen,
a light source configured to apply light to an end sorface of the first
transparent substrate or an end surface of the second transparent substrate,
a light ~nodi~latiolna yer provided in a clearance behveen the first
transparent substrate and the second transparent substrate, and exhibiting
scattering property or transparency to the light from the light source depending
on magnitude of an electric field, and
an electrode configured to generate the electric field in the light
modulation layer when a voltage is applied,
the drive circuit outputs a picture signal for one pixel row including a plurality
of t1t.o-dime~~sionapli ctore signals with different perspectives, to the display panel, and
outputs a selection signal to sequetltially select pixel row, to the display panel, and
the drive circuit drives the light modulation layer in synchronization with the
output of the selection signal to the display panel, to generate a plurality of scattering
regions that exhibit scattering property to the light from the light source in a region
corresponding to a pixel row that is selected by the selectioti signal in the light
~nodulation layer, and allows the display panel-to display the three-dimensional picture
with use of illumination light beams emitted from the respective scattering regions.
3. The display unit according to claitn 2, wherein the drive circuit generates tlie
plurality of scattering regions in a region corresponding to the pixel row selected by the
selection signal after a predeter~iiined period is elapsed=hm a time selected by the
selection signal.
4. The display unit according to claitn 3, wherein the drive circuit generates tlie
plurality of scattering regions in a region corresponding to the pixel row selected by the
selection signal during a time period after a predetermined period is elapsed fro111 a time
selected by tlie selection signal ~ ~ ~ai timi le selected by a next selection signal.
5. The display unit according to claim 3, \vilerein the drive circuit generates the
plurality of scattering regiolls in a region corresponding to the pixel row selected by the
selection signal during a time period after a predetermined period is elapsed from a time
selected by the selection signal until a time selected by a next selectio~si ignal.
6. The display unit according to claim 3, wherein
the light source is configured of a plurality of light source blocks arranged in
line, and
the drive circuit turns on tlie light source blocks correspo~idiiigto the pixel row
selected by the selectio~i signal after a predetermined period is elapsed from a time
selected by tlie selection signal.
7. The display unit according to claitn 4, wherein
the light source is configured of a plurality of light source blocks arranged in
line, and -
the drive circuit turns on the light source blocks corresponding to the pixel row
selected by the selection signal during a time period after a predetermined period is
elapsed from a time selected by the selection signal until a time selected by a next
selection signal.
8. The display unit according to clainl 5, wherein
the light source is configured of a plt~rality of light source blocks arranged in
line, and
the drive circuit turns on the light source blocks corresponding to the pixel row
selected by the selection signal during a time period after a predetermined period is
elapsed from a time selected by the selection signal t~ntil a time selected by a second
selection signal.
9. The display 11nit according to claitn 2, wherein
the electrode includes a first electrode and a second electrode, the first
electrode being provided on a side closer to the first transparent substrate than the light
modulation layer, and the second electrode being provided on a side closer to the second
transparent substrate than the light nlodulatio~l layer,
the first electrode is configured of a plurality of partial electrodes each
extending in a direction parallel to a scanning direction of partial illumination light
beams of the backlight,
the second electrode is configured of a plurality of partial electrodes each
estetlding in a direction intersecting the scanning direction of the partial illumination
light beams of the backlight, and
tlic drive circuit drives a first partial electrode to generatc the plurality of
scattering regions, the first partial electrode corresponding to a part of the plurality of
partial electrodes configuringthe second electrode. . .~
10. The display unit according to claiin 9, \\,hereill the drive circuit applies a
common fixed voltage to a second partial electrode and the first electrode, and applies a
voltage that gc~ieratesa n electric field ill tl~eli ght motlulation layer, to tlic first partial
electrode to generate the plurality of scattering regions, the second partial electrode
being the partial electrodes other than the first pai-tial electrode out of the plurality of
partial electrodes configuritig the second electrode.
1 I . The displap unit according to claim 9, whereill
the light source is cotifigured of a plurality of liglit source blocks arranged in
line, and
the drive circuit turns on a first light source block to emit ill~~~iiinatiliognh t
beams fro111 the respective scattering regions, the first light source block corresponding
to the first partial electrode out of the plurality of light source blocks. .
12. The display unit according to clai111 10, wherein
the light source is configured of a plurality of light source blocks arranged in
line, and
the drive circuit turns on a first light source block and turns off a second light
source block to elnit illutiiit~ation light beams from the respective scattering regions, the
first liglit source block corresponding to the first partial clectrodc out of the plurality of
light source blocks, and the second light source block being light source blocks other
than the first liglit source block out of the plurality of liglit source blocks.