JPS62109003A - Photoconductor for conversion of surface light source - Google Patents
Photoconductor for conversion of surface light sourceInfo
- Publication number
- JPS62109003A JPS62109003A JP60250317A JP25031785A JPS62109003A JP S62109003 A JPS62109003 A JP S62109003A JP 60250317 A JP60250317 A JP 60250317A JP 25031785 A JP25031785 A JP 25031785A JP S62109003 A JPS62109003 A JP S62109003A
- Authority
- JP
- Japan
- Prior art keywords
- light
- light source
- source conversion
- light guide
- propagating
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Landscapes
- Liquid Crystal (AREA)
- Planar Illumination Modules (AREA)
- Light Guides In General And Applications Therefor (AREA)
Abstract
Description
【発明の詳細な説明】
（産業上の利用分野）
本発明は、面光源変換用導光体に関するものでおり、特
に点光源または線光源を用いて面光源を構成することの
できる面光源変換用導光体に関するものである。Detailed Description of the Invention (Industrial Application Field) The present invention relates to a light guide for surface light source conversion, and in particular, a light guide for surface light source conversion that can configure a surface light source using a point light source or a line light source. The present invention relates to a light guide for use.
ざらに詳しく言えば、点光源または線光源から放射され
た光を、多数の反射部または屈折部から放散させて、多
数の点状あるいは線状の光源を構成し、全体として面光
源を構成することのできる面光源変換用導光体に関する
ものである。To put it in more detail, light emitted from a point or line light source is diffused from a number of reflecting or refracting parts to form a number of point or line light sources, and the whole forms a surface light source. This invention relates to a light guide for converting a surface light source.
（従来の技術）
近年、各種表示装置の表示デバイスとして、液晶表示装
置（以下、ＬＣＤという）が広く用いられている。(Prior Art) In recent years, liquid crystal display devices (hereinafter referred to as LCDs) have been widely used as display devices for various display devices.
周知のように、このＬＣＤは自己発光形デバイスではな
いので、該ＬＣＤを暗所で使用できるようにするために
は、何らかの形で照明用の光源（バックライト）を準備
する必要がおる。As is well known, this LCD is not a self-luminous device, so in order to be able to use the LCD in a dark place, it is necessary to provide some form of illumination light source (backlight).
そこで従来のＬＣＤにおいては、該ＬＣＤの背後に、光
源を配置したり、あるいは、ＬＣＤの背後に反射板を置
き、その前方に光源を配置したりする必要がおった。Therefore, in conventional LCDs, it is necessary to place a light source behind the LCD, or to place a reflective plate behind the LCD and a light source in front of it.
（発明が解決しようとする問題点）
上記した従来の技術は、次のような問題点を有していた
。(Problems to be Solved by the Invention) The above-described conventional techniques had the following problems.
前記光源は、線光源または点光源でおるから、ＬＣＤの
全体を均一に照明することができない。Since the light source is a line light source or a point light source, it is not possible to uniformly illuminate the entire LCD.
この結果、ＬＣＤの表示内容が極めて見にくくなると共
に、該ＬＣＤの商品価値が低下するという問題点があっ
た。As a result, there are problems in that the displayed content on the LCD becomes extremely difficult to see and the commercial value of the LCD decreases.
また、線光源または点光源を複数個設けたり、あるいは
フレネルレンズ等を設けたりして近似的に面光源を得よ
うとする場合においては、該光源の製作費が増大したり
、当該しＣＤを用いた表示装置の、特にその厚みが大き
くなってしまったりするという問題点もあった。In addition, when trying to obtain an approximate surface light source by providing multiple line light sources or point light sources, or by providing a Fresnel lens, the production cost of the light source increases, and the CD There was also a problem that the thickness of the display device used became large.
本発明は、前述の問題点を解決するためになされたもの
である。The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems.
（問題点を解決するための手段および作用）前記の問題
点を解決するために、本発明は、透明で、かつ板状の光
伝搬部材と、前記光伝搬部材の両面に配置され、前記光
伝搬部材内部を伝搬する光を該光伝搬部材内へ反射させ
る第１および第２の反射部材とにより、光伝搬手段を構
成し、ざらに点光源あるいは線光源から放射された光が
前記光伝搬部材を伝搬する際に、その光の少なくとも一
部が、前記光伝搬手段から多数の点光源あるいは線光源
を以て面状に放散ざれるように、前記光伝搬手段に多数
の反則部または屈折部を形成するという手段を講じたも
のでおる。(Means and operations for solving the problems) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a transparent and plate-like light propagation member, and a light propagation member disposed on both sides of the light propagation member, A light propagating means is constituted by a first and a second reflecting member that reflects the light propagating inside the light propagating member into the light propagating member, and the light emitted from the point light source or the line light source is roughly reflected in the light propagating member. The light propagation means is provided with a large number of refracting parts or refracting parts so that at least a part of the light is diffused in a planar manner from the light propagation means to a large number of point light sources or line light sources when propagating through the member. This means that we have taken steps to form the
そして、この結果、点光源おるいは線光源を用いて面光
源を構成することができるという作用効果を生じざぜた
点に特徴がおる。As a result, the present invention is characterized in that a point light source or a line light source can be used to form a surface light source.
（実施例） 以下に図面を参照して、本発明の詳細な説明する。(Example) The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.
第２図は本発明の第１の実施例の概略斜視図、第３図は
第２図の平面図、第４図は第２図をＣ−Ｃ線で切断した
概略断面図、第１図は第４図に示された面光源変換用導
光体１０の拡大図である。FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a plan view of FIG. 2, FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the surface light source conversion light guide 10 shown in FIG. 4. FIG.
なお、第２，３図においては、図を見易くするために、
集光板５は省略されている。In addition, in Figures 2 and 3, in order to make the figures easier to read,
The light condensing plate 5 is omitted.
各々の図において、第１の反射部材２および第２の反射
部材３（クラッド＠）は、各々透明であり、かつ比較的
屈折率の小ざい材料により構成されている。光伝搬部材
１（コア層）も透明部材でおるが、その材料は、前記第
１の反射部材２および第２の反射部材３に比べて屈折率
が大きくなるように選択されている。In each figure, the first reflective member 2 and the second reflective member 3 (clad@) are each transparent and made of a material with a relatively low refractive index. The light propagation member 1 (core layer) is also a transparent member, but its material is selected so that its refractive index is larger than that of the first reflection member 2 and the second reflection member 3.
前記第１の反則部材２および第２の反射部材３は、前記
光伝搬部材１の両側の面にそれぞれ固着されている。前
記光伝搬部材１、第１の反射部材２および第２の反射部
材３は、面光源変換用導光体１０を構成している。The first anti-fouling member 2 and the second reflecting member 3 are fixed to both sides of the light propagation member 1, respectively. The light propagation member 1, the first reflection member 2, and the second reflection member 3 constitute a light guide 10 for surface light source conversion.
前記面光源変換用導光体１０の側面には線光源４が配置
されている。そして、前記線光源４の周囲には、該線光
源４から放射される光が効率良く光伝搬部材１の側面か
ら該光伝搬部材１内に入射されるように、集光板５が配
置されている。A linear light source 4 is arranged on the side surface of the surface light source conversion light guide 10. A light condensing plate 5 is arranged around the linear light source 4 so that the light emitted from the linear light source 4 is efficiently incident into the light propagating member 1 from the side surface of the light propagating member 1. There is.
前記第１の反射部材２には、前記線光源４とほぼ平行に
、スリット２Ａが複数設けられている。The first reflecting member 2 is provided with a plurality of slits 2A substantially parallel to the linear light source 4.
前記スリット２Ａは、前記光伝搬部材１が露出するよう
に、かつ該光伝搬部材１の露出面９が光拡散効果を得る
ことができるように形成されているまた、前記スリット
２八間のピッチＰは、第３図から明らかなように、前記
線光源４から遠ざかるにつれて狭くなるように設定され
ている。このスリット２Ａからは、第５図に関して後述
するように、前記線光源４から放射され、光伝搬部材１
内を伝搬する光が漏れる。すなわち、前記スリット２Ａ
の各々は線光源として作用する。The slits 2A are formed so that the light propagation member 1 is exposed and the exposed surface 9 of the light propagation member 1 can obtain a light diffusion effect. As is clear from FIG. 3, P is set to become narrower as the distance from the linear light source 4 increases. From this slit 2A, the light is emitted from the linear light source 4, and the light propagating member 1
The light propagating inside leaks. That is, the slit 2A
Each acts as a line light source.
第５図は、光伝搬部材１内を伝搬する光がスリット２Ａ
から漏れる様子を説明するための図でおり、第１図と同
様の図である。第５図において、第１図と同一の符号は
、同一または同等部分をあられしている。なお、この第
５図においては、図を見易くするために、断面を示すハ
ツチングは、省略されている。FIG. 5 shows that the light propagating inside the light propagation member 1 is transmitted through the slit 2A.
This is a diagram similar to FIG. 1, and is a diagram for explaining how the liquid leaks. In FIG. 5, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 1 represent the same or equivalent parts. Note that, in FIG. 5, hatching indicating a cross section is omitted to make the figure easier to read.
第５図において、光源から矢印六方向に放射された光は
、光伝搬部材１に入射する。In FIG. 5, light emitted from a light source in six directions of arrows enters the light propagation member 1. In FIG.
光伝搬部材１内を伝搬した光が、露出面９へ達すると、
第５図の矢印Ｂで示したように、前記光は拡散し、スリ
ン（〜２Ａへ漏れる。このスリット２Ａへ漏れてきた光
は、図示されるように面光源変換用導光体１０の外部へ
と進行する。When the light propagated within the light propagation member 1 reaches the exposed surface 9,
As shown by the arrow B in FIG. 5, the light is diffused and leaks to the slit 2A. progress to.
すなわち、本発明の第１の実施例においては、線光源４
を点灯することにより、光伝搬部材１の、第１の反射部
材２に形成されたスリット２Ａに対応する露出面９が発
光する。That is, in the first embodiment of the present invention, the linear light source 4
By lighting up, the exposed surface 9 of the light propagation member 1 corresponding to the slit 2A formed in the first reflection member 2 emits light.
この場合、露出面９から放射される光量は、該露出面９
が線光源４から遠ざかるほど少なくなるが、前述したよ
うにスリット２Ａ間のピッチＰは、線光源４から遠ざか
るほど狭くなるように設定されているので、面光源変換
用導光体１０表面から放射される光量を、マクロ的にほ
ぼ均一にすることができる。In this case, the amount of light emitted from the exposed surface 9 is
The distance from the linear light source 4 decreases, but as mentioned above, the pitch P between the slits 2A is set to become narrower as the distance from the linear light source 4 increases. The amount of light emitted can be made almost uniform macroscopically.
以上の説明によ”る本発明の第１の実施例においては、
線光源４の発光により光伝搬部材１内を伝搬する光が、
当該面光源変換用導光体１０の側面のうち、線光源４と
対向しない３つの側面（第３図に示されたＬｌ、Ｌ２お
よびＬ３）から漏洩するおそれがあるので、該側面に、
光を光伝搬部材１内に反射させることのできる部材を配
置したり、あるいは反射用塗料を塗布したりしても良い
。In the first embodiment of the present invention according to the above explanation,
The light propagating within the light propagation member 1 due to the light emission from the linear light source 4 is
Among the side surfaces of the surface light source conversion light guide 10, there is a risk of leakage from the three side surfaces (Ll, L2, and L3 shown in FIG. 3) that do not face the line light source 4.
A member capable of reflecting light may be disposed within the light propagation member 1, or a reflective paint may be applied.
また、スリット２Ａは、第１の反射部材２に形成される
ものとして説明したが、特にこれのみに限定されること
はなく、第２の反射部材３に形成されても良いし、また
、第１の反射部材２および第２の反射部材３の両方に形
成されても良い。Further, although the slit 2A has been described as being formed in the first reflecting member 2, it is not limited to this, and may be formed in the second reflecting member 3, or the slit 2A may be formed in the second reflecting member 3. It may be formed on both the first reflecting member 2 and the second reflecting member 3.
第１の反射部材２および第２の反射部材３の両方にスリ
ット２Ａを形成すれば、面光源変換用導光体１０の両面
から光が放射されることになる。If the slits 2A are formed in both the first reflecting member 2 and the second reflecting member 3, light will be emitted from both sides of the surface light source conversion light guide 10.
また、前記第１の反射部材２および第２の反射部材３は
、光伝搬部材１よりも小さな屈折率を有する透明部材で
おるものとして説明したが、光伝搬部材１と対向すφ面
が反射面でおる鏡状の部材でおっても良い。Furthermore, although the first reflecting member 2 and the second reflecting member 3 have been described as being made of transparent members having a smaller refractive index than the light propagating member 1, the φ surface facing the light propagating member 1 is reflective. It may be covered with a mirror-like member that covers the surface.
ざらに、面光源変換用導光体１０から放射される光をほ
ぼ均一化するために、スリット２Ａは、線光源４から遠
ざかるにつれてそのピッチが狭くなるように形成される
ものとして説明したが、そのピッチを等しくしておいて
、線光源４から遠ざかるにつれて各スリット２Ａの幅を
広くするようにしても良い。Roughly speaking, in order to substantially uniformize the light emitted from the surface light source conversion light guide 10, the slits 2A have been described as being formed so that the pitch becomes narrower as the distance from the linear light source 4 increases. The pitch may be made equal, and the width of each slit 2A may be made wider as the distance from the linear light source 4 increases.
さらにまた、スリブ１〜２Ａは、線光源４にほぼ平行と
なるように、ずなわら、光伝搬部材１内を伝搬する光の
伝搬方向と、はぼ垂直となるように形成されるものとし
て説明したが、この第１の実施例においては、光伝搬部
材１の露出面９から光が漏れるのでおるから、スリット
２Ａは、光伝搬部材１内を伝搬する光の伝搬方向と平行
となるように形成されても良いことは当然でおる。この
場合、線光源４から遠ざかるにつれて、スリット２Ａか
ら漏れる光の光量が小さくなるので、面光源変換用導光
体１０から放射される光をほぼ均一化するために、スリ
ット２Ａの幅を線光源４から遠ざかるにつれて広くした
り、おるいは、線光源４から遠ざかるにつれてスリット
２Ａの本数を多くしたりしても良い。Furthermore, the ribs 1 to 2A are formed so as to be approximately parallel to the linear light source 4 and approximately perpendicular to the propagation direction of the light propagating within the light propagation member 1. As described above, in this first embodiment, since light leaks from the exposed surface 9 of the light propagation member 1, the slit 2A is arranged parallel to the propagation direction of the light propagating inside the light propagation member 1. It goes without saying that it may be formed as follows. In this case, as the distance from the linear light source 4 increases, the amount of light leaking from the slit 2A decreases, so in order to make the light emitted from the surface light source conversion light guide 10 almost uniform, the width of the slit 2A is adjusted to Alternatively, the number of slits 2A may be increased as the distance from the linear light source 4 increases.
また、スリット２Ａは帯状であるものとして説明したが
、単なる穴でおっても良い。Moreover, although the slit 2A has been described as having a band shape, it may be a simple hole.
つぎに、この第１の実施例の他の変形例を、第２ないし
第６の実施例に関して述べる。Next, other modifications of the first embodiment will be described with respect to the second to sixth embodiments.
第６図は本発明の第２の実施例の概略平面図でおる。FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of a second embodiment of the invention.
この第６図に示された光源４４は、前記第１の実施例に
おいて示された線光源４と異なり点光源゛である。前記
点光源４４は、面光源変換用導光体２０の所定の切欠部
２ＯＡに配置される。The light source 44 shown in FIG. 6 is a point light source, unlike the linear light source 4 shown in the first embodiment. The point light source 44 is arranged in a predetermined notch 2OA of the surface light source conversion light guide 20.
第１の反射部材１２には、前記点光源４４の発光部を中
心とする円弧状のスリット２Ａが、複数形成されている
。前記スリット２Ａ間のピッチは、点光源４４からの距
離が大となるにつれて狭くなるように設定されている。A plurality of arc-shaped slits 2A are formed in the first reflecting member 12, with the light emitting portion of the point light source 44 as the center. The pitch between the slits 2A is set to become narrower as the distance from the point light source 44 increases.
このように、本発明では、線光源だけでなく点光源を用
いても、面光源変換用導光体の第１の反射部材の表面を
発光させることができる。As described above, in the present invention, the surface of the first reflecting member of the surface light source conversion light guide can be caused to emit light by using not only a line light source but also a point light source.
第７図は本発明の第３の実施例の概略断面図でおり、第
４図と同様の図である。第７図において、第４図と同一
の符号は、同一または同等部分を市られしている。FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view of a third embodiment of the present invention, and is similar to FIG. 4. In FIG. 7, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 4 indicate the same or equivalent parts.
この第７図に示された本発明の第３の実施例は、第４図
との対比から明らかなように、面光源変換用導光体３０
の、線光源４と対向する側面が、第２の反射部材３の表
面に対して鋭角となるように形成されている。As is clear from the comparison with FIG. 4, the third embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 7 has a light guide 30 for surface light source conversion.
The side surface facing the linear light source 4 is formed at an acute angle with respect to the surface of the second reflecting member 3.
この結果、光伝搬部材１°の、線光源４と対向する部分
１Ａの面積が゛、第４図に示された第１の実施例よりも
大きく−なるので、光伝搬部材１内に入射される光量が
多くなり、スリブｌ〜２Ａ、すなわち光伝搬部材１の露
出面９から放射される光量が増加する。As a result, the area of the portion 1A of the light propagation member 1° facing the linear light source 4 becomes larger than that of the first embodiment shown in FIG. The amount of light emitted from the ribs 1 to 2A, that is, the exposed surface 9 of the light propagation member 1 increases.
なお、面光源変換用導光体３０の、線光源４と対向する
側面は、第１の反射部材２の表面に対して鋭角となるよ
うに形成されても良い。Note that the side surface of the surface light source conversion light guide 30 facing the linear light source 4 may be formed at an acute angle with respect to the surface of the first reflecting member 2.
第８図は本発明の第４の実施例の概略平面図で−あり、
第３図と同様の図である。第８図において、第３図と同
一の符号は、同一または同等部分をあられしている。FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view of a fourth embodiment of the present invention,
It is a figure similar to FIG. 3. In FIG. 8, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 3 represent the same or equivalent parts.
この第８図に示された本発明の第４の実施例は、第３図
との対比から明らかなように、面光源変換用導光体４０
の、４つの側面のうちの２つの側面（この例においては
互いに隣合う２側面）に、線光源４および３４が配置さ
れている。As is clear from the comparison with FIG. 3, the fourth embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 8 has a surface light source conversion light guide 40.
The linear light sources 4 and 34 are arranged on two of the four side surfaces (in this example, two side surfaces adjacent to each other).
また第１の反射部材３２には、前記線光源４および３４
と平行に、すなわち互いに交差するようにスリット２Ａ
が形成され、さらに該スリット２八間のピッチは、前記
線光源４および３４から遠ざかるにつれて狭くなるよう
に設定されている。The first reflecting member 32 also includes the linear light sources 4 and 34.
The slits 2A are parallel to each other, that is, they intersect with each other.
are formed, and the pitch between the slits 28 is set to become narrower as the distance from the linear light sources 4 and 34 increases.
以上の構成による本発明の第４の実施例において、線光
源３４の光量が線光源４の光量とほぼ等しい場合には、
面光源変換用導光体４０の第１の反射部材３２から放射
される光の但は、線光源として符号４で示される線光源
のみを使用した場合の約２倍となる。In the fourth embodiment of the present invention having the above configuration, when the light amount of the linear light source 34 is approximately equal to the light amount of the linear light source 4,
However, the amount of light emitted from the first reflecting member 32 of the surface light source conversion light guide 40 is approximately twice as much as when only the linear light source indicated by reference numeral 4 is used as the linear light source.
なお、この第４の実施例においては、線光源は、四角形
の光伝搬部材の２辺部に互いに隣合うように配置される
ものとして説明されているが、本発明は特にこれのみに
限定されず、互いに対向するように配置されても良い。Although the fourth embodiment describes that the linear light sources are arranged adjacent to each other on two sides of a rectangular light propagation member, the present invention is not particularly limited to this. Alternatively, they may be arranged so as to face each other.
また、３つ以上の光源が配置されても良い。Moreover, three or more light sources may be arranged.
また、当該面光源変換用導光体４０の平面輪郭形状が第
８図に示されたような矩形以外の形状でおる場合、すな
わち、三角形、五角形、円形等の形状でおる場合にも、
この第４の実施例に関して説明したように、複数の光源
を配置することができる。Furthermore, even when the planar contour shape of the surface light source conversion light guide 40 is a shape other than a rectangle as shown in FIG. 8, that is, a shape such as a triangle, a pentagon, or a circle,
As described with respect to this fourth embodiment, multiple light sources can be arranged.
ざらにまた、その光源は、線光源であるものとして説明
したが、第２の実施例（第６図）に関して説明したよう
に、点光源で必っても良いことば当然である。Furthermore, although the light source has been described as being a line light source, it is of course possible to use a point light source as described in connection with the second embodiment (FIG. 6).
第９図は本発明の第５の実施例の概略断面図であり、第
４，７図と同様の図である。第９図において、第４，７
図と同一の符号は、同一または同等部分をあられしてい
る。FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and is similar to FIGS. 4 and 7. In Figure 9, the 4th and 7th
The same reference numerals as in the figures refer to the same or equivalent parts.
第９図の面光源変換用導光体５０は、第４図に示された
面光源変換用導光体１０を同一方向に２枚重ねたものと
同一である。The surface light source conversion light guide 50 shown in FIG. 9 is the same as the surface light source conversion light guide 10 shown in FIG. 4, which is stacked in the same direction.
この場合、第９図に示されているように、一方の第１の
反射部材２に形成されるスリット２Ａが、使方の第１の
反射部材２に形成されるスリン１〜２Ａの間に配置され
るようにすれば、実質的にスリット２Ａの配列密度が高
くなるので、面光源変換用導光体５０から放射される光
の量を多くすることができると共に、光の均一性を高め
ることもできる。なあ、面光源変換用導光体は、３枚以
上重ねられても良い。In this case, as shown in FIG. 9, the slit 2A formed in one first reflecting member 2 is between the slits 1 and 2A formed in the first reflecting member 2 being used. By arranging the slits 2A, the arrangement density of the slits 2A becomes substantially higher, so that the amount of light emitted from the surface light source conversion light guide 50 can be increased, and the uniformity of the light can be improved. You can also do that. Note that three or more light guides for surface light source conversion may be stacked.
第１０図は本発明の第６の実施例の概略断面図であり、
第１図と同様の図でおる。第１０図において、第１図と
同一の符号は、同一または同等部分をあられしている。FIG. 10 is a schematic sectional view of a sixth embodiment of the present invention,
It is a diagram similar to Figure 1. In FIG. 10, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 1 represent the same or equivalent parts.
第１０図において、第２の反射部材５３は、図示されな
い他の装置の一部を構成する部材でおり、どのような材
料により形成されても良いが、その表面は、第１の反射
部材２と同様に、透明でがっ光伝搬部材１よりも屈折率
の小さい材料でコーティングされている。また、前記第
２の反射部材５３は、その表面が、光が反射するように
鏡面加工されたものでおっても良い。In FIG. 10, the second reflecting member 53 is a member that constitutes a part of another device not shown, and may be formed of any material, but its surface is similar to that of the first reflecting member 2. Similarly, it is coated with a material that is transparent and has a lower refractive index than the light propagating member 1. Further, the surface of the second reflecting member 53 may be mirror-finished to reflect light.
前記第２の反射部材５−３の表面には、第１の反射部材
２が固着ざ机た光伝搬部材１が配置される。The light propagation member 1 to which the first reflection member 2 is fixed is arranged on the surface of the second reflection member 5-3.
そして、前記第１の反射部材２にはスリン１〜２Ａが形
成される。Surins 1 to 2A are formed on the first reflective member 2.
以上の構成を有する本発明の第６の実施例においても、
前記スリット２Ａに対して直角な方向に光が進行するよ
うに、面光源変換用導光体６ｏの側面、すなわち光伝搬
部材１の側面に対して光を照射（矢印へ方向）すれば、
その光は、第１ないし第５の実施例と同様に光伝搬部材
１内を伝搬し、そして各々の露出面９から照射される。Also in the sixth embodiment of the present invention having the above configuration,
If light is irradiated (in the direction of the arrow) to the side surface of the surface light source conversion light guide 6o, that is, the side surface of the light propagation member 1, so that the light travels in a direction perpendicular to the slit 2A,
The light propagates within the light propagation member 1 similarly to the first to fifth embodiments, and is irradiated from each exposed surface 9.
つぎに、前記第１ないし第６の実施例におけるスリット
２Ａと異なる構成のスリットを有する面光源変換用導光
体を説明する。Next, a light guide for surface light source conversion having a slit having a different configuration from the slit 2A in the first to sixth embodiments will be described.
第１２図は本発明の第７の実施例の概略斜視図、第１３
図は第１２図をＧ−Ｇ線で切断した概略断面図、第１１
図は第１３図に示された面光源変換用導光体７０の拡大
図である。FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the present invention;
The figure is a schematic sectional view taken along the line G-G of Figure 12, and Figure 11.
The figure is an enlarged view of the surface light source conversion light guide 70 shown in FIG. 13.
なあ、第１２図においては、第２図と同様に、図を見易
くするために、集光板５は省略されている。Incidentally, in FIG. 12, similarly to FIG. 2, the light condensing plate 5 is omitted to make the figure easier to see.
第１１図ないし第１３図における光伝搬部材１、第１の
反射部材２および第２の反射部材３゛は、前記第１の実
施例と同様に、透明部材でおり、かつ、光伝搬部材１の
屈折率は、第１の反射部材２および第２の反射部材３の
それよりも大きい。The light propagation member 1, the first reflection member 2, and the second reflection member 3'' in FIGS. 11 to 13 are transparent members, as in the first embodiment, and the light propagation member 1 The refractive index of is larger than that of the first reflective member 2 and the second reflective member 3.
面光源変換用導光体７０のスリット３Ａは、第１ないし
第６の実施例に示された面光源変換用導光体１０ないし
６０のスリット２Ａの形成位置とは異なる位置に形成さ
れている。The slit 3A of the surface light source conversion light guide 70 is formed at a position different from the formation position of the slit 2A of the surface light source conversion light guide 10 to 60 shown in the first to sixth embodiments. .
すなわち、前記面光源変換用導光体１０ないし６０のス
リット２Ａが、光伝搬部材１の両面に配置された反射部
材のうち、光の放射方向側に配置された第１の反射部材
２に形成されているのに対し、この第７の実施例におけ
る面光源変換用導光体７０のスリット３Ａは、光の放射
方向と反対側の第２の反射部材３に形成されている。That is, the slits 2A of the surface light source conversion light guides 10 to 60 are formed in the first reflecting member 2 arranged on the light radiation direction side among the reflecting members arranged on both sides of the light propagation member 1. In contrast, the slit 3A of the surface light source conversion light guide 70 in this seventh embodiment is formed in the second reflecting member 3 on the opposite side to the light radiation direction.
また、前記スリット３Ａの断面は、光伝搬部材１内を伝
搬する光の平均的な伝搬方向く第１１図においては矢印
へ方向）に対して所定の傾斜を有するように形成されて
いる。Further, the cross section of the slit 3A is formed to have a predetermined inclination with respect to the average propagation direction of light propagating within the light propagation member 1 (in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 11).
そして、ざらに前記スリン１〜３Ａは、第２の反射部材
３のみならず、該第２の反射部材３から光伝搬部材１内
部へ達するように形成されている。Roughly speaking, the sulins 1 to 3A are formed to reach not only the second reflecting member 3 but also from the second reflecting member 3 to the inside of the light propagation member 1.
なあ、このスリット３Ａは、前記第１の実施例における
スリット２Ａと同様に面光源変換用導光体７０の端面に
配置された線光源４とほぼ平行に、かつその各々のピッ
チが、前記線光源４から遠ざかる程小さくなるように形
成されている。Incidentally, like the slit 2A in the first embodiment, this slit 3A is approximately parallel to the linear light source 4 disposed on the end surface of the surface light source conversion light guide 70, and the pitch of each slit is equal to the linear light source 4. It is formed so that it becomes smaller as the distance from the light source 4 increases.
第１４図は、面光源変換用導光体７０の光伝搬部材１内
を伝搬する光が、第１の反射部材２の表面から外部へ漏
れる様子を説明するための図であり、第１１図と同様の
図である。第１４図において、第１１図と同一の符号は
、同一または同等部分を必られしている。なお、この第
１４図においては、図を見易くするために、断面を示す
ハツチングは省略されている。FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining how light propagating within the light propagation member 1 of the surface light source conversion light guide 70 leaks to the outside from the surface of the first reflecting member 2, and FIG. This is a similar diagram. In FIG. 14, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 11 indicate the same or equivalent parts. Note that, in FIG. 14, hatching indicating a cross section is omitted to make the figure easier to read.
第１４図において、近似的に矢印Ａで示される方向から
光伝搬部材１へ照射される光は、光伝搬部材１と、第１
の反射部材？および第２の反射部材３との境界面で反射
されながら、該光伝搬部材１内を伝搬する。In FIG. 14, light irradiated onto the light propagation member 1 from the direction approximately indicated by arrow A is transmitted to the light propagation member 1 and the first
Reflective material? The light propagates within the light propagating member 1 while being reflected at the interface with the second reflecting member 3.
ここで、その光の一部が光伝搬部材１内に形成されたス
リット３Ａに達すると、該スリット３Ａに達した光の一
部は、該スリット３Ａで反射され（矢印り方向）、その
残りは該スリット３Ａを透過する。すなわち、前記光伝
搬部材１内に形成されたスリン１〜３Ａは、ハーフミラ
−的な効果を奏する。Here, when a part of the light reaches the slit 3A formed in the light propagation member 1, a part of the light that has reached the slit 3A is reflected by the slit 3A (in the direction of the arrow), and the rest passes through the slit 3A. That is, the rings 1 to 3A formed in the light propagation member 1 have a half-mirror-like effect.
したがって、前記スリット３Ａで矢印り方向に反射され
た光が、光伝搬部材１と第１の反射部材２との境界面、
および第１の反射部材２の表面に対して所要の入射角−
で入射されるように、スリット３Ａの、光の伝搬方向Ａ
に対する角度θを設定すれば、前記スリン１〜３Ａで矢
印り方向に反射された光は、第１の反射部材２から面光
源変換用導光体７０の外部へ抜は出ることになる。Therefore, the light reflected in the direction of the arrow by the slit 3A is transmitted to the interface between the light propagating member 1 and the first reflecting member 2,
and the required angle of incidence with respect to the surface of the first reflecting member 2 -
The propagation direction A of the light of the slit 3A is such that the light is incident at
By setting the angle θ with respect to the surface light source, the light reflected in the direction of the arrow by the Surins 1 to 3A will be emitted from the first reflecting member 2 to the outside of the surface light source conversion light guide 70.
このように、スリット３Ａで反射され、面光源変換用導
光体７Ｑの外部へ扱は出る光の量は、反則したスリット
３Ａの位置が光源（第１２図の線光源４）から遠ざかる
程小さくなるが、前述したように、スリット３Ａが、そ
のピッチＰが線光源４から遠ざかる程小さくなるように
形成されることにより、第１の反射部材２の表面からマ
クロ的にほぼ均一の光量の光を得ることができる。In this way, the amount of light reflected by the slit 3A and emitted to the outside of the surface light source conversion light guide 7Q becomes smaller as the position of the offending slit 3A is farther away from the light source (line light source 4 in FIG. 12). However, as described above, by forming the slits 3A so that the pitch P becomes smaller as the distance from the linear light source 4 increases, a macroscopically uniform amount of light is emitted from the surface of the first reflecting member 2. can be obtained.
なお、第１２図においては、スリット３Ａは、線光源４
と平行に帯状に形成されるように描かれているが、本実
施例は、特にこれのみに限定されず、複数の針穴状の穴
であっても良い。In addition, in FIG. 12, the slit 3A is the line light source 4.
Although the holes are depicted as being formed in a belt shape in parallel with the hole, the present embodiment is not limited to this, and may be formed in the form of a plurality of pinhole-like holes.
第７の実施例においても、第１の実施例の変形例と同様
に、光源として点光源を用いると共に、スリット３Ａを
該光源を中心として円弧状に形成したり（第６図の第２
の実施例）、面光源変換用導光体の光入射部分、すなわ
ち線光源４と対向する部分を鋭角に形成して、光伝搬部
材１内に入射される光の量を増大させたり（第７図の第
３の実施例）、光源を複数配置すると共に、スリット３
Ａを各光源から放射される光に対して垂直となるように
形成して光量を増大させたり（第８図の第４の実施例）
、おるいは面光源変換用導光体を複数枚重ねて光量を増
大させたり（第９図の第５の実施例）しても良い。In the seventh embodiment, as in the modification of the first embodiment, a point light source is used as the light source, and the slit 3A is formed in an arc shape with the light source as the center (see Fig. 6).
example), the light incident part of the light guide for surface light source conversion, that is, the part facing the line light source 4, is formed at an acute angle to increase the amount of light incident into the light propagation member 1 (the part facing the linear light source 4). 7), a plurality of light sources are arranged, and the slit 3
A can be formed perpendicular to the light emitted from each light source to increase the amount of light (fourth embodiment in Fig. 8).
Alternatively, the amount of light may be increased by stacking a plurality of light guides for surface light source conversion (the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 9).
また、第２の反射部材３は、第１の反射部材２と同様に
、光信Ｌｒ？部材１よりも小さな屈折率を有する透明部
材でおるものとしたが、鏡等の手段で市っても良い。Further, like the first reflecting member 2, the second reflecting member 3 has a light source Lr? Although it is assumed that the transparent member has a smaller refractive index than the member 1, it may be covered with a mirror or other means.
ざらに、第１の反射部材２および第２の反射部材３を共
に透明部材とするときは、スリット３Ａを第２の反射部
材３側と第１の反則部材２側との両方に形成しても良い
。この結果、光伝搬部材１内を伝搬する光は、面光源変
換用導光体８０の両側の而から放射される。Roughly speaking, when the first reflective member 2 and the second reflective member 3 are both transparent members, the slits 3A are formed on both the second reflective member 3 side and the first fouling member 2 side. Also good. As a result, the light propagating within the light propagation member 1 is radiated from both sides of the surface light source conversion light guide 80.
ざらにまた、スリット３Ａは、第２の反射部材３の表面
から光伝搬部材１内に達するように形成されるものとし
て説明したが、光伝搬部材１にのみ形成されても良い。Furthermore, although the slit 3A has been described as being formed so as to reach into the light propagation member 1 from the surface of the second reflection member 3, it may be formed only in the light propagation member 1.
すなわち、光伝搬部材１および第２の反射部材３を固着
した後にスリット３Ａを形成するときは、必然的に第２
の反射部材３にもスリットが形成されてしまうが、前記
光伝搬部材１および第２の反射部材３の固着工程前にス
リットを形成するようにすれば、該スリットは光伝搬部
材１のみに形成されることができる。That is, when forming the slit 3A after fixing the light propagation member 1 and the second reflection member 3, the second
However, if the slit is formed before the process of fixing the light propagation member 1 and the second reflection member 3, the slit will be formed only in the light propagation member 1. can be done.
第１５図は、本発明の第８の実施例を示す概略断面図で
あり、第１４図と同様の図でおる。この第８の実施例は
、前記第７の実施例のざらに他の変形例である。第１５
図において、第１４図と同一の符号は、同一または同等
部分をあられしている。FIG. 15 is a schematic sectional view showing an eighth embodiment of the present invention, and is similar to FIG. 14. This eighth embodiment is a slightly different modification of the seventh embodiment. 15th
In the figure, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 14 represent the same or equivalent parts.
第１５図から明らかなようにスリブ１〜間のピッチＰは
、光源（図示せず）からの距離にかかわりなく一定であ
るが、該スリットの、光伝搬部材１に対する切込みは、
前記光源から遠ざかる程深くなっている。As is clear from FIG. 15, the pitch P between the slits 1 is constant regardless of the distance from the light source (not shown), but the cut of the slits into the light propagation member 1 is
The depth increases as the distance from the light source increases.
この結果、光伝搬部材１内を伝搬する光を面光源変換用
導光体８０の外側へ反射させるためのスリットの反射面
の面積、すなわら光伝搬部材１内に形成されたスリット
の面積は、光源に近い側のスリン１〜３Ｂよりも光源か
ら遠い側のスリット３Ｃの方が大きくなる。As a result, the area of the reflective surface of the slit for reflecting the light propagating within the light propagating member 1 to the outside of the light guide 80 for surface light source conversion, that is, the area of the slit formed within the light propagating member 1 The slits 3C on the side far from the light source are larger than the slits 1 to 3B on the side closer to the light source.
したがって、この第８の実施例においても、前記第７の
実施例と同、様に、第１の反射部材２の表面からマクロ
的にほぼ均一の光量の光を得ることができる。Therefore, in this eighth embodiment, as in the seventh embodiment, it is possible to obtain a macroscopically substantially uniform amount of light from the surface of the first reflecting member 2.
第１６図は、本発明の第９の実施例を示す概略断面図で
あり、第１９．０図と同様の図である。この第９の実施
例は、゛前記第７の実施例のざらに伯の変形例である。FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a ninth embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram similar to FIG. 19.0. This ninth embodiment is a slightly modified example of the seventh embodiment.
第１６図において、＠１１図と同一の符号は、同一また
は同等部分をあられしている。In FIG. 16, the same symbols as in FIG. @11 represent the same or equivalent parts.
第１６図において、第２の反射部材９３は、第１０図に
示された第２の反射部材５３と同様に、図示されない他
の装置の一部を構成する部材であり、どのような材料に
より形成されても良いが、その表面は、第１の反射部材
２と同様に、透明でかつ光伝搬部材１よりも屈折率の小
さい材料でコーティングされている。また、前記第２の
反射部材９３は、その表面が光が反射するように鏡面加
工されたものであっても良い。In FIG. 16, like the second reflective member 53 shown in FIG. 10, the second reflecting member 93 is a member constituting a part of another device not shown, and is made of any material. However, like the first reflecting member 2, its surface is coated with a material that is transparent and has a smaller refractive index than the light propagating member 1. Further, the second reflecting member 93 may have a mirror-finished surface so as to reflect light.
前記第２の反射部材９３の表面には、スリット９３△が
形成された光伝搬部材１が、該スリット９３Ａが形成さ
れた側が第２の反射部材９３に当接するように固着され
、そして、ざらに該光伝搬部材１には、第１の反射部材
２が固着されている。The light propagating member 1 having a slit 93 Δ formed thereon is fixed to the surface of the second reflecting member 93 so that the side on which the slit 93 A is formed is in contact with the second reflecting member 93 , and the light propagating member 1 has a rough surface. A first reflecting member 2 is fixed to the light propagating member 1.
このような構成を有する第９の実施例においても、面光
源変換用導光体９０の側面から矢印へ方向に光を照射す
れば、該光は光伝搬部材１内を伝搬し、そして該光の一
部は各スリット９３Ａで反射されて、第１の反射部材２
の表面から放射される。Even in the ninth embodiment having such a configuration, if light is irradiated in the direction of the arrow from the side surface of the surface light source conversion light guide 90, the light propagates within the light propagation member 1, and the light A part of it is reflected by each slit 93A, and a part of it is reflected by the first reflecting member 2.
is emitted from the surface of
なお、スリット９３Ａを光伝搬部材１に形成する代わり
に、第２の反射部材９３に、前記スリット９３Ａに相当
するような反射部材を形成しておいて、光伝搬部材１を
蒸着等により第２の反射部材９３に固着、形成するよう
にしても良い。Note that instead of forming the slit 93A in the light propagation member 1, a reflection member corresponding to the slit 93A is formed in the second reflection member 93, and the light propagation member 1 is attached to the second reflection member 93 by vapor deposition or the like. It may be fixed and formed on the reflective member 93 of.
第１７図は、本発明の第１０の実施例を示す概略断面図
で必り、第１５図と同様、図を見易くするためにハツチ
ングは施されていない。この第１０の実施例は、前記第
１５図に示された第８の実施例の変形例でおる。第１７
図において、第１５図と同一の符号は、同一または同等
部分をあられしている。FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a tenth embodiment of the present invention, and like FIG. 15, hatching is not provided for ease of viewing. This tenth embodiment is a modification of the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 15. 17th
In the figure, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 15 represent the same or equivalent parts.
第１７図において、面光源変換用導光体１００のスリッ
ト２Ｂは、第１５図に示されたスリット３Ｂと同様に、
光伝搬部材１内を、伝搬する光の平均的な進行方向Ａに
対して、所定の角度で形成されているが、その形成は、
第１５図に示されたスリット３Ｂが形成された面とは逆
の面、すなわち面光源変換用導光体１００の、前記スリ
ット２Ｂにより光が反射される、該第１の反射部材２が
配置された側の面から行なわれている。In FIG. 17, the slit 2B of the surface light source conversion light guide 100 is similar to the slit 3B shown in FIG.
The inside of the light propagation member 1 is formed at a predetermined angle with respect to the average traveling direction A of the light propagating.
The first reflecting member 2, on which the light is reflected by the slits 2B, is arranged on the surface opposite to the surface on which the slits 3B shown in FIG. 15 are formed, that is, on the light guide 100 for surface light source conversion. This is done from the perspective of the person who has been treated.
この第１０の実施例においても、面光源変換用導光体１
００の側面から入射される光は、第１の反射部材２に表
面からほぼ均一に放射されることができる。Also in this tenth embodiment, the surface light source conversion light guide 1
The light incident from the side surface of 00 can be radiated almost uniformly from the surface to the first reflecting member 2.
なお、第１７図においては、スリット２Ｂ間のピッチが
光源（図示せず）からの距離にかかわりなく一定である
かわりに、該光源から遠ざかるにつれて、スリット２Ｂ
の、光伝搬部材１に対する切込み深さが深くなっている
が、第１４図に示された例と同様に、スリッ１〜２Ｂの
深さを光源からの距離にかかわりなく一定とし、スリッ
ト２Ｂ間のピッチを光源から遠ざかるにつれて狭くする
ようにしても良いことは当然でおる。In addition, in FIG. 17, the pitch between the slits 2B is constant regardless of the distance from the light source (not shown), but the pitch between the slits 2B increases as the distance from the light source increases.
The depth of cut into the light propagation member 1 is deep, but similarly to the example shown in FIG. 14, the depth of the slits 1 to 2B is constant regardless of the distance from the light source, It goes without saying that the pitch may be made narrower as the distance from the light source increases.
さて、本発明者は、前述した各実施例に示された面光源
変換用導光体を試作し、その光学的特性を確認した。面
光源変換用導光体の光伝搬部材１としては、０．７３
［ｍｍ］厚のポリメタクリル酸メチル（ＰＭＭＡ）シー
ト、また第１の反射部材２および第２の反射部材３とし
ては、Ｏ，Ｏ’１・［ｍｍ］厚のフッ素樹脂を使用した
。前記ＰＭＭＡシートおよびフッ素樹脂は、共に可撓性
を有している。Now, the present inventor made a prototype of the light guide for surface light source conversion shown in each of the above-mentioned Examples, and confirmed its optical characteristics. As the light propagation member 1 of the light guide for surface light source conversion, 0.73
A polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) sheet with a thickness of [mm] and a fluororesin with a thickness of O, O'1·[mm] were used as the first reflective member 2 and the second reflective member 3. Both the PMMA sheet and the fluororesin have flexibility.
種々の実験の結果、°第１ないし第６の実施例（第１図
ないし第１Ｑ図）に示されたように、スリット２Ａを、
光伝搬部材１の表面が露出するように、かつ該露出面が
光拡散効果を有するように、ある程度の幅をもつよ、う
に形成して、該第１の反−射部材２から光が放射される
ように面光源変換用導光体を構成するよりも、第７ない
し第１０の実施例（第１１図ないし第１７図）に示され
たように、スリットを、光伝搬部材１内部に切込むよう
に、かつその切込み部分が光伝搬部材１内を伝搬する光
の平均的な進行方向Ａに対して所定の角度で傾斜するよ
うに形成して、前記切込み部分で光伝搬部材１内を伝搬
する光を反射させて、第１の反射部材２から光が放射さ
れるように面光源変換用導光体を構成”した方が、放射
される光の光量が多くなることが確認された。As a result of various experiments, as shown in the first to sixth embodiments (Figs. 1 to 1Q), the slit 2A was
The light propagating member 1 is formed to have a certain width so that the surface thereof is exposed and the exposed surface has a light diffusion effect, so that light is emitted from the first reflecting member 2. Rather than constructing a light guide for surface light source conversion, as shown in the seventh to tenth embodiments (FIGS. 11 to 17), a slit is formed inside the light propagation member 1. The cut portion is formed such that the cut portion is inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the average traveling direction A of light propagating within the light propagation member 1, and the cut portion is formed so that the cut portion is inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the average traveling direction A of light propagating within the light propagation member 1. It has been confirmed that the amount of emitted light increases when the surface light source conversion light guide is configured to reflect the light propagating through the first reflecting member 2 and emit the light from the first reflecting member 2. Ta.
また、第７ないし第９の実施例においては、スリットと
、光の伝搬方向Ａとのなす角度−一すなわち、第２の反
射部材３の厚みが一定であるとするならば、スリットと
第２の反射部材３とのなす角度θ（第１４．１５図）が
、３０度ないし６０度の範囲にある場合（望ましくは４
５度）に、第１の反射部材２から放射される光の量が多
くなることも確認された。In addition, in the seventh to ninth embodiments, if the angle between the slit and the light propagation direction A is -1, that is, the thickness of the second reflecting member 3 is constant, then the angle between the slit and the second When the angle θ (Fig. 14.15) with the reflective member 3 is in the range of 30 degrees to 60 degrees (preferably 4 degrees).
It was also confirmed that the amount of light emitted from the first reflecting member 2 increases when the angle is 5 degrees).
さて、第１１図および第１４図ないし第１７図において
は、スリット３Ａ、３Ｂ、３Ｃ，９３Ａ。Now, in FIG. 11 and FIGS. 14 to 17, the slits 3A, 3B, 3C, and 93A.
２Ｂは、ある幅を有するように描かれているが、単なる
切れ目であっても良い。Although 2B is drawn to have a certain width, it may be a simple cut.
また、前述したすべての実施例において、第１の反射部
材２から放射される光を均一化するために、該第１の反
射部材２の表面にすりガラス等の光拡散素子ｍｌ配置し
ても良い。また、前記光拡散素子を配置するかわりに、
第１の反射部材２の表面に、光拡散処理を行なっても良
い。Furthermore, in all the embodiments described above, in order to make the light emitted from the first reflecting member 2 uniform, a light diffusing element such as frosted glass may be arranged on the surface of the first reflecting member 2. . Moreover, instead of arranging the light diffusing element,
The surface of the first reflective member 2 may be subjected to light diffusion treatment.
ざらにまた、前述した各実施例の技術的思想を拡張して
、光ファイバを板上に密に配列して、該光ファイバにス
リットを設けることによっても、前記各実施例と同様な
構成を得ることができる。Furthermore, the same configuration as each of the above embodiments can be achieved by expanding the technical idea of each of the embodiments described above and arranging optical fibers densely on a plate and providing slits in the optical fibers. Obtainable.
この場合、光ファイバをうず巻状に巻くことにより、導
光体を構成しても良い。In this case, the light guide may be configured by winding the optical fiber in a spiral shape.
また、前述したように、当該面光源変換用導光体を可撓
性を有する材料により構成することにより、光伝搬部材
１内を伝搬する光を任意の曲面から放射することもでき
る。Further, as described above, by forming the light guide for surface light source conversion from a flexible material, the light propagating within the light propagation member 1 can be emitted from any curved surface.
なお、本発明は、ＬＣＤのバックライト用としての適用
にのみに限定されることはなく、各種表示パネルのバッ
クライト、おるいは単なる照明用光源等、種々の光源、
装置に適用可能であることは言うまでもない。Note that the present invention is not limited to application as a backlight for an LCD, and can be applied to various light sources such as a backlight for various display panels, or simply a light source for illumination.
Needless to say, it is applicable to devices.
また、スリットは、光伝搬部材あるいは反射部材の全面
に亘って形成される必要はなく、任意の形状の発光面が
得られるように、その一部分にのみに形成されても良い
ことは当然である。Furthermore, the slit does not need to be formed over the entire surface of the light propagation member or the reflection member, and it is natural that the slit may be formed only in a portion thereof so that a light emitting surface of an arbitrary shape can be obtained. .
（発明の効果）
以上の説明から明らかなように、本発明によれば、つぎ
のような効果が達成される。(Effects of the Invention) As is clear from the above description, according to the present invention, the following effects are achieved.
（１）光伝搬部材、および該光伝搬部材の両面に形成さ
れた反射部材より成る光伝搬手段にスリットを設けたの
で、点光源または線光源から放射された光を、近似的に
任意の形状の面から放射することができる。(1) Since a slit is provided in the light propagation means consisting of a light propagation member and a reflection member formed on both sides of the light propagation member, light emitted from a point light source or a line light source can be roughly shaped into any shape. It can be radiated from the surface of
（２）この結果、例えばＬＣＤを有する表示装置におい
て、その側面に光源が配置された面光源変換用導光体を
、ＬＣＤのバックライト用光源としてＬＣＤの背後に配
置するときは、少なくとも該ＬＣＤが配置された部分の
表示装置の厚みを薄くすることができる。(2) As a result, for example, in a display device having an LCD, when a light guide for surface light source conversion with a light source arranged on its side is arranged behind the LCD as a light source for backlight of the LCD, at least the LCD The thickness of the display device can be reduced in the area where the display device is arranged.
第１図ｔは第４図に示された面光源変換用導光体の拡大
図、第２図は本発明の第１の実施例の概略斜視図、第３
図は第２図の平面図、第４図は第２図をＣ−Ｇ線で切断
した概略断面図、第５図は光伝搬部材内を伝搬する光が
面光源変換用導光体から漏れる様子を説明するための、
第４図に示された面光源変換用導光体の拡大図、第６図
は本発明の第２の実施例の概略平面図、第７図は本発明
の第３の実施例の概略−断・面図、第８図は本発明の第
４の実施例の概略一平面図、第９図は本発明の第５の実
施例の概略断面図、第１０図は本発明の第６の実施例の
概略断面図、第１１図は第１３図に示された面光源変換
用導光体の拡大図、第１２図は本発明の第７の実施例の
概略斜視図、第１３図は第１２図をＧ−Ｇ線で切断した
概略断面図、第１４図は光伝搬部材内を伝搬する光が面
光源変換用導光体から漏れる様子を説明するための、第
１３図に示された面光源変換用導光体の拡大図、第１５
図は本発明の第８の実施例を示す概略断面図、第１６図
は本発明の第９の実施例を示す概略断面図、第１７図は
本発明の第１０の実施例を示す概略断面図である。
１・・・光伝搬部材、２，１２．３２・・・第１の反射
部材、２Ａ、２Ｂ、３Ａ、３Ｂ、３Ｇ、９３Ａ・・・ス
リット、３，５３．９３・・・第２の反射部材、４．３
４・・・線光源、１０，２０，３０，４０゜５０．６０
，７０，８０，９０，１００・・・面光源変換用導光体
、４４・・・点光源
代理人 弁理士 平木通人 外１名
第１図
第２図
第６図
第９図
第１１図
第１２図
第１３図FIG. 1t is an enlarged view of the light guide for surface light source conversion shown in FIG. 4, FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG.
The figure is a plan view of Fig. 2, Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of Fig. 2 taken along line C-G, and Fig. 5 shows the light propagating inside the light propagation member leaking from the light guide for surface light source conversion. To explain the situation,
FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the light guide for converting a surface light source, FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the third embodiment of the present invention. 8 is a schematic plan view of the fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view of the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. 11 is an enlarged view of the light guide for surface light source conversion shown in FIG. 13, FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of the seventh embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a schematic sectional view of the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line GG in FIG. 12, and FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. Enlarged view of the light guide for surface light source conversion, No. 15
The figure is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an eighth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a ninth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a tenth embodiment of the present invention. It is a diagram. 1... Light propagation member, 2, 12. 32... First reflecting member, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 3G, 93A... Slit, 3, 53.93... Second reflection Parts, 4.3
4...Line light source, 10, 20, 30, 40°50.60
, 70, 80, 90, 100... Light guide for surface light source conversion, 44... Point light source agent Patent attorney Michito Hiraki and 1 other person Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 6 Figure 9 Figure 11 Figure 12 Figure 13
Claims (23)
を伝搬する光を該光伝搬部材内へ反射させる第１および
第２の反射部材とを具備し、前記第１および第２の反射
部材の少なくとも一方には、前記光伝搬部材内を伝搬す
る光の一部を前記反射部材外に漏出させるための多くの
切欠部が設けられ、 前記切欠部における光伝搬部材の表面には、光拡散処理
が施されたことを特徴とする面光源変換用導光体。(1) A transparent and plate-shaped light propagation member; and first and second reflectors disposed on both sides of the light propagation member to reflect light propagating inside the light propagation member into the light propagation member. a member, and at least one of the first and second reflecting members is provided with many notches for leaking a part of the light propagating within the light propagating member to the outside of the reflecting member. A light guide for surface light source conversion, characterized in that a surface of the light propagation member in the notch is subjected to a light diffusion treatment.
る前記特許請求の範囲第１項記載の面光源変換用導光体
。(2) The light guide for surface light source conversion according to claim 1, wherein the cutout portion is a band-shaped slit.
請求の範囲第１項記載の面光源変換用導光体。(3) The light guide for surface light source conversion according to claim 1, wherein the cutout is a hole.
は、透明であり、かつ前記光伝搬部材よりも小さな屈折
率を有していることを特徴とする前記特許請求の範囲第
１項ないし第３項のいずれかに記載の面光源変換用導光
体。(4) At least one of the first and second reflective members is transparent and has a smaller refractive index than the light propagation member. The light guide for surface light source conversion according to any one of Item 3.
反射部材は、各々可撓性を有していることを特徴とする
前記特許請求の範囲第１項ないし第４項のいずれかに記
載の面光源変換用導光体。(5) According to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the light propagating member and the first and second reflecting members each have flexibility. The light guide for surface light source conversion described above.
光伝搬部材の単位表面積に対する露出率が光源に近いほ
ど小さくなるように形成されたことを特徴とする前記特
許請求の範囲第１項ないし第５項のいずれかに記載の面
光源変換用導光体。(6) The cutout portion is formed such that the exposure ratio of the exposed surface of the light propagation member to a unit surface area of the light propagation member decreases as it approaches the light source. The light guide for surface light source conversion according to any one of items 1 to 5.
よりも小さな屈折率を有する透明な第１の反射部材と、 前記光伝搬部材の他方の面に配置され、前記光伝搬部材
内部を伝搬する光を該光伝搬部材内へ反射させる第２の
反射部材と、 前記光伝搬部材に形成された多くの切欠部とを具備し、 前記切欠部は、前記光伝搬部材と第１の反射部材との境
界面に、前記光伝搬部材内を伝搬するの一部を前記第１
の反射部材から漏出させるに必要な所要の入射角で入射
させるように傾斜していることを特徴とする面光源変換
用導光体。(7) a transparent plate-shaped light propagation member; a transparent first reflecting member disposed on one surface of the light propagation member and having a smaller refractive index than the light propagation member; and the light propagation member. a second reflecting member disposed on the other surface of the member and reflecting light propagating inside the light propagating member into the light propagating member; and a number of notches formed in the light propagating member. , the cutout part is arranged at the interface between the light propagation member and the first reflection member to direct a part of the light propagating inside the light propagation member to the first reflection member.
1. A light guide for converting a surface light source, characterized in that the light guide is inclined so as to allow the light to enter at a required angle of incidence necessary for the light to leak from the reflecting member.
材の少なくとも一方を貫通していることを特徴とする前
記特許請求の範囲第７項記載の面光源変換用導光体。(8) The light guide for surface light source conversion according to claim 7, wherein the inclined notch passes through at least one of the first and second reflecting members.
とする前記特許請求の範囲第７項あるいは第８項記載の
面光源変換用導光体。(9) The light guide for surface light source conversion according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the inclined notch is a band-shaped slit.
記特許請求の範囲第７項あるいは第８項記載の面光源変
換用導光体。(10) The light guide for surface light source conversion according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the inclined notch is a hole.
されたことを特徴とする前記特許請求の範囲第７項ない
し第１０項のいずれかに記載の面光源変換用導光体。(11) The light guide for surface light source conversion according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the first reflecting member has a surface subjected to light diffusion treatment.
の反射部材は、各々可撓性を有していることを特徴とす
る前記特許請求の範囲第７項ないし第１１項のいずれか
に記載の面光源変換用導光体。(12) the light propagation member and the first and second
The light guide for surface light source conversion according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein each of the reflecting members has flexibility.
た切欠部の、前記光伝搬部材の単位表面積に対する面積
率が光源に近いほど小さくなるように形成されたことを
特徴とする前記特許請求の範囲第７項ないし第１２項の
いずれかに記載の面光源変換用導光体。(13) The inclined notch is formed in such a manner that the area ratio of the notch formed in the light propagating member to a unit surface area of the light propagating member decreases as it approaches the light source. A light guide for surface light source conversion according to any one of claims 7 to 12.
光伝搬部材よりも小さな屈折率を有していることを特徴
とする前記特許請求の範囲第７項ないし第１３項のいず
れかに記載の面光源変換用導光体。(14) The second reflecting member is transparent and has a refractive index smaller than that of the light propagation member. A light guide for surface light source conversion described in .
部材の各々の面に配置され、前記光伝搬部材よりも小さ
な屈折率を有する透明な第１および第２の反射部材と、 前記光伝搬部材に形成された多くの切欠部とを具備し、 前記切欠部は、前記光伝搬部材と第１および第２の反射
部材との境界面に、前記光伝搬部材内を伝搬する光の一
部を、前記第１および第２の反射部材から漏出させるに
必要な所要の入射角で入射させるように傾斜しているこ
とを特徴とする面光源変換用導光体。(15) a transparent plate-shaped light propagation member; transparent first and second reflective members disposed on each surface of the light propagation member and having a smaller refractive index than the light propagation member; a number of notches formed in the light propagating member, the notches are arranged at interfaces between the light propagating member and the first and second reflecting members to prevent the light propagating within the light propagating member. A light guide for converting a surface light source, characterized in that the light guide is inclined so that a part of the light is incident at a required incident angle necessary for leaking from the first and second reflecting members.
部材の少なくとも一方を貫通していることを特徴とする
前記特許請求の範囲第１５項記載の面光源変換用導光体
。(16) The light guide for surface light source conversion according to claim 15, wherein the inclined notch passes through at least one of the first and second reflecting members.
特徴とする前記特許請求の範囲第１５項あるいは第１６
項記載の面光源変換用導光体。(17) Claim 15 or 16, wherein the inclined notch is a band-shaped slit.
A light guide for surface light source conversion as described in .
前記特許請求の範囲第１５項あるいは第１６項記載の面
光源変換用導光体。(18) The light guide for surface light source conversion according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the inclined notch is a hole.
光拡散処理されたことを特徴とする前記特許請求の範囲
第１５項ないし第１８項のいずれかに記載の面光源変換
用導光体。(19) The guide for surface light source conversion according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the first and second reflecting members have surfaces thereof subjected to light diffusion treatment. Light body.
の反射部材は、各々可撓性を有していることを特徴とす
る前記特許請求の範囲第１５項ないし第１９項のいずれ
かに記載の面光源変換用導光体。(20) the light propagation member and the first and second
The light guide for surface light source conversion according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein each of the reflecting members has flexibility.
た切欠部の、前記光伝搬部材の単位表面積に対する面積
率が光源に近いほど小さくなるように形成されたことを
特徴とする前記特許請求の範囲第１５項ないし第２０項
のいずれか記載の面光源変換用導光体。(21) The inclined notch is formed in such a manner that the area ratio of the notch formed in the light propagation member to the unit surface area of the light propagation member becomes smaller as the position approaches the light source. A light guide for surface light source conversion according to any one of claims 15 to 20.
の面の全体に亘つて配置され、 前記クラッドには、前記コア内を伝搬する光の一部を前
記クラッド外へ漏出させるための多くの切欠部が設けら
れ、 前記切欠部におけるコアの表面には、光拡散処理が施さ
れたことを特徴とする面光源変換用導光体。(22) An optical fiber consisting of a core and a cladding is arranged over the entire desired surface, and the cladding has many notches for leaking a part of the light propagating within the core to the outside of the cladding. A light guide for surface light source conversion, characterized in that the surface of the core in the notch is subjected to light diffusion treatment.
の面の全体に亘つて配置され、 前記コアには、多くの切欠部が設けられ、 前記切欠部は、前記コアとクラッドとの境界面に、前記
コア内を伝搬する光の一部を前記クラッドから漏出させ
るに必要な所要の入射角で入射させるように、傾斜して
いることを特徴とする面光源変換用導光体。(23) An optical fiber consisting of a core and a cladding is arranged over the entire desired surface, and the core is provided with many notches, and the notches are located at the interface between the core and the cladding. A light guide for converting a surface light source, characterized in that the light guide is inclined so that a part of the light propagating in the core is incident at a required incident angle necessary for leaking from the cladding.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP60250317A JPH0668563B2 (en) | 1985-11-08 | 1985-11-08 | Light guide for surface light source conversion |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP60250317A JPH0668563B2 (en) | 1985-11-08 | 1985-11-08 | Light guide for surface light source conversion |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| JPS62109003A true JPS62109003A (en) | 1987-05-20 |
| JPH0668563B2 JPH0668563B2 (en) | 1994-08-31 |
Family
ID=17206108
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP60250317A Expired - Lifetime JPH0668563B2 (en) | 1985-11-08 | 1985-11-08 | Light guide for surface light source conversion |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPH0668563B2 (en) |
Cited By (19)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPS6438621U (en) * | 1987-09-02 | 1989-03-08 | ||
| US4929866A (en) * | 1987-11-17 | 1990-05-29 | Mitsubishi Cable Industries, Ltd. | Light emitting diode lamp |
| JPH04134415A (en) * | 1990-09-27 | 1992-05-08 | Nec Corp | Light connection device |
| JPH0470602U (en) * | 1990-10-30 | 1992-06-23 | ||
| JPH0579537U (en) * | 1992-03-25 | 1993-10-29 | 株式会社エンプラス | Surface light source |
| JPH09281340A (en) * | 1996-04-09 | 1997-10-31 | Casio Comput Co Ltd | Light transmission device and its production as well as light source structure formed by using the same |
| JPH11224510A (en) * | 1998-02-09 | 1999-08-17 | Omron Corp | Surface light source device |
| JPH11224519A (en) * | 1998-02-09 | 1999-08-17 | Omron Corp | Surface light source device |
| JP2005140961A (en) * | 2003-11-06 | 2005-06-02 | Fujikura Ltd | Light emitter, method for decomposing or sterilizing contaminant using the light emitter, and method for purifying liquid or gas using the light emitter |
| JP2006000562A (en) * | 2004-06-21 | 2006-01-05 | Sanyo Electric Co Ltd | Air conditioner |
| JP2007507071A (en) * | 2003-09-27 | 2007-03-22 | コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エレクトロニクス エヌ ヴィ | Backlight for 3D display device |
| WO2007074787A1 (en) * | 2005-12-27 | 2007-07-05 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Planar lighting device and liquid crystal display device using same |
| JP2009158201A (en) * | 2007-12-25 | 2009-07-16 | Sharp Corp | Backlight system and liquid crystal display module |
| JP2009276713A (en) * | 2008-05-19 | 2009-11-26 | Alps Electric Co Ltd | Light guide device and method of manufacturing the same |
| JP2010015833A (en) * | 2008-07-03 | 2010-01-21 | Furukawa Electric Co Ltd:The | Optical functional member |
| JP2019032411A (en) * | 2017-08-07 | 2019-02-28 | 株式会社ジャパンディスプレイ | Display device |
| JP2022164672A (en) * | 2018-07-24 | 2022-10-27 | 株式会社ジャパンディスプレイ | Display device |
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPH09167513A (en) * | 1995-12-15 | 1997-06-24 | Kuraray Co Ltd | Surface light source element |
| JP3651238B2 (en) * | 1998-02-27 | 2005-05-25 | オムロン株式会社 | Surface light source device |
| JP3773818B2 (en) * | 2000-07-19 | 2006-05-10 | 三洋電機株式会社 | Bar-shaped light guide, linear illumination device using the same, and planar illumination device using the linear illumination device |
| KR102668143B1 (en) * | 2019-01-03 | 2024-05-24 | 삼성디스플레이 주식회사 | Display device |
-
1985
- 1985-11-08 JP JP60250317A patent/JPH0668563B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Cited By (24)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPS6438621U (en) * | 1987-09-02 | 1989-03-08 | ||
| US4929866A (en) * | 1987-11-17 | 1990-05-29 | Mitsubishi Cable Industries, Ltd. | Light emitting diode lamp |
| JPH04134415A (en) * | 1990-09-27 | 1992-05-08 | Nec Corp | Light connection device |
| JPH0470602U (en) * | 1990-10-30 | 1992-06-23 | ||
| JPH0579537U (en) * | 1992-03-25 | 1993-10-29 | 株式会社エンプラス | Surface light source |
| JPH09281340A (en) * | 1996-04-09 | 1997-10-31 | Casio Comput Co Ltd | Light transmission device and its production as well as light source structure formed by using the same |
| JPH11224510A (en) * | 1998-02-09 | 1999-08-17 | Omron Corp | Surface light source device |
| JPH11224519A (en) * | 1998-02-09 | 1999-08-17 | Omron Corp | Surface light source device |
| JP2007507071A (en) * | 2003-09-27 | 2007-03-22 | コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エレクトロニクス エヌ ヴィ | Backlight for 3D display device |
| JP4861180B2 (en) * | 2003-09-27 | 2012-01-25 | コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エレクトロニクス エヌ ヴィ | Backlight for 3D display device |
| JP2005140961A (en) * | 2003-11-06 | 2005-06-02 | Fujikura Ltd | Light emitter, method for decomposing or sterilizing contaminant using the light emitter, and method for purifying liquid or gas using the light emitter |
| JP2006000562A (en) * | 2004-06-21 | 2006-01-05 | Sanyo Electric Co Ltd | Air conditioner |
| WO2007074787A1 (en) * | 2005-12-27 | 2007-07-05 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Planar lighting device and liquid crystal display device using same |
| US7859610B2 (en) | 2005-12-27 | 2010-12-28 | Panasonic Corporation | Planar lighting and LCD device with a laser light source emitting a linearly-polarized laser beam, optical member to parallelize the beam and a plate-shaped light guide for emitting part of the beam |
| JP2009158201A (en) * | 2007-12-25 | 2009-07-16 | Sharp Corp | Backlight system and liquid crystal display module |
| JP4597186B2 (en) * | 2007-12-25 | 2010-12-15 | シャープ株式会社 | Backlight system and liquid crystal display module |
| JP2009276713A (en) * | 2008-05-19 | 2009-11-26 | Alps Electric Co Ltd | Light guide device and method of manufacturing the same |
| JP2010015833A (en) * | 2008-07-03 | 2010-01-21 | Furukawa Electric Co Ltd:The | Optical functional member |
| JP2019032411A (en) * | 2017-08-07 | 2019-02-28 | 株式会社ジャパンディスプレイ | Display device |
| US11237422B2 (en) | 2017-08-07 | 2022-02-01 | Japan Display Inc. | Display device |
| JP2022164672A (en) * | 2018-07-24 | 2022-10-27 | 株式会社ジャパンディスプレイ | Display device |
| US11747544B2 (en) | 2018-07-24 | 2023-09-05 | Japan Display Inc. | Display device |
| US12013563B2 (en) | 2018-07-24 | 2024-06-18 | Japan Display Inc. | Display device |
| US12013613B2 (en) | 2019-08-22 | 2024-06-18 | Japan Display Inc. | Display device |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JPH0668563B2 (en) | 1994-08-31 |
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