JP2009258741A - Illumination apparatus and projection-type image display - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an illumination apparatus and a projection-type image display which suppresses an increase in cost of the entire apparatus, even when light beams of four colors or more are utilized. <P>SOLUTION: The projection-type image display 100 includes: a light source 10 configured to emit red component light, green component light, blue component light and yellow component light; a liquid crystal panel 30R configured to modulate the red component light; a liquid crystal panel 30G configured to modulate the green component light; a liquid crystal panel 30B configured to modulate the blue component light; a cross dichroic cube 60 configured to combine light beams emitted from the liquid crystal panels 30R, 30G and 30B; and a projection lens unit 110 configured to project light combined by the cross dichroic cube 60. The projection-type image display 100 includes a polarization state adjusting element 30Ye configured to modulate the yellow component light and the yellow component light emitted from the polarization state adjusting element 30Ye enters a certain liquid crystal panels, which is any one of the liquid crystal panels 30R, 30G and 30B. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an illumination device and a projection display apparatus that use fourth color component light in addition to red component light, green component light, and blue component light.

  Conventionally, it has three light modulation elements corresponding to light of three colors, a cross dichroic cube that combines light emitted from the three light modulation elements, and a projection unit that projects light combined by the cross dichroic cube Projection-type image display devices are known.

  Here, the cross dichroic cube has three light incident surfaces on which light is incident and one light emitting surface from which light is emitted. Accordingly, when the light incident on the cross dichroic cube has three colors, the projection display apparatus need only have one cross dichroic cube.

  On the other hand, for the purpose of improving color reproducibility and luminance, a projection display apparatus using four or more colors of light has been proposed. For example, a projection display apparatus improves color reproducibility and brightness by using orange, yellow, or cyan in addition to three colors of red, green, and blue (for example, Patent Document 1). .

JP 2002-287247 A (Claim 1, Claim 4, FIG. 1, etc.)

  Here, when the projection display apparatus has four or more colors of light, it is not possible to synthesize four or more colors of light with one cross dichroic cube. Therefore, the projection display apparatus needs to have a plurality of dichroic cubes (or cross dichroic cubes).

  For example, when four colors of light are required to be combined, the projection display apparatus obtains two combined lights obtained by combining the two colors of light, and further combines the two combined lights. Four colors of combined light are acquired. Note that the projection display apparatus may acquire combined light of three colors by acquiring combined light of three colors and combining the combined light and one color of light. The projection display apparatus may acquire four colors of combined light by acquiring combined light in which two colors of light are combined and combining the combined light and the two colors of light.

  Here, the optical path length from each light modulation element corresponding to light of four colors or more to the projection means needs to be the same. In addition, it is necessary to provide a plurality of dichroic cubes (or cross dichroic cubes) between the light modulation element and the projection unit. Accordingly, the back focus of the projection unit becomes long.

  As a result, since the projection means used in the projection display apparatus using three colors of light cannot be diverted, the cost of the projection display apparatus increases as a whole.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problem, and an illumination device that can suppress an increase in the cost of the entire device even when four or more colors of light are used. An object is to provide a projection display apparatus.

  One feature of the present invention is that a first light modulation element (for example, a liquid crystal panel 30R) that modulates first component light, a second light modulation element (for example, a liquid crystal panel 30G) that modulates second component light, A color that combines light emitted from a third light modulation element (for example, the liquid crystal panel 30B) that modulates the third component light, and the first light modulation element, the second light modulation element, and the third light modulation element. An illumination device (illumination unit 120) including a combining unit (cross dichroic cube 50), including a fourth color light modulation element (polarization state adjustment element 30Ye) that modulates fourth color component light, and the fourth color light The fourth color component light emitted from the modulation element is incident on any one of the first light modulation element, the second light modulation element, and the third light modulation element. To do.

  According to this feature, the polarization state adjusting element adjusts the polarization state of the fourth color component light and transmits the light. The fourth color component light emitted from the polarization adjustment element is incident on any one of the first light modulation element, the second light modulation element, and the third light modulation element. That is, the fourth color component light is superimposed on the superimposed component light and supplied to the color synthesis unit. Accordingly, even when the fourth color component light is used in addition to the first component light, the second component light, and the third component light, there are three types of light incident on the color composition unit. As a result, there is no need to change the design of the projection means, and an increase in the cost of the entire apparatus can be suppressed.

  Further, since the fourth color component light is projected while being superimposed on the superimposed component light, the luminance of the image projected by the projection unit on the screen or the like is improved.

  Another feature of the present invention is that a light source (for example, the light source 10) that emits first component light, second component light, third component light, and fourth color component light, and a first component that modulates the first component light. A light modulation element (for example, liquid crystal panel 30R), a second light modulation element (for example, liquid crystal panel 30G) that modulates the second component light, and a third light modulation element (for example, liquid crystal panel 30G) that modulates the third component light A liquid crystal panel 30B), a color synthesis unit (cross dichroic cube 50) that synthesizes light emitted from the first light modulation element, the second light modulation element, and the third light modulation element, and the color synthesis unit. A projection-type image display device (projection-type image display device 100) provided with projection means (projection lens unit 110) for projecting the synthesized light, and a fourth color light modulation element for modulating the fourth color component light (Polarization state adjusting element 30Ye) The fourth color component light emitted from the fourth color light modulation element is transmitted to any one of the first light modulation element, the second light modulation element, and the third light modulation element. The gist is incident.

  In the other features described above, a light source (eg, light source 10) that emits light including first component light, second component light, third component light, and fourth color component light, and at least first component light and second light. You may further provide the color separation means (for example, mirrors 21 and 23) which isolate | separates the light which the said light source emits into component light and 3rd component light.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an illumination apparatus and a projection display apparatus that can suppress an increase in cost of the entire apparatus even when four or more colors of light are used.

1 is a diagram showing an outline of a projection display apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the illumination unit 120 which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the RGB color reproduction range which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is an image figure which shows an example of the resolution of the liquid crystal panel which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the function of the projection type video display apparatus 100 concerning 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the color signal which concerns on 1st Embodiment, and a display color. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the illumination unit 120 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the illumination unit 120 which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the illumination unit 120 which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the illumination unit 120 which concerns on 5th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the illumination unit 120 which concerns on 6th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the illumination unit 120 which concerns on 7th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the illumination unit 120 which concerns on 8th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the illumination unit 120 which concerns on 9th Embodiment. It is an enlarged view of the mirror 323 which concerns on 9th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the structure of liquid crystal panel 30G which concerns on 10th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the structure of the liquid crystal panel 30 which concerns on 11th Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the light which the light source 10 (UHP lamp) emits.

  Hereinafter, a projection display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals.

  However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic and ratios of dimensions and the like are different from actual ones. Therefore, specific dimensions and the like should be determined in consideration of the following description. Moreover, it is a matter of course that portions having different dimensional relationships and ratios are included between the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
(Outline of projection display device)
Hereinafter, an outline of the projection display apparatus according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a projection display apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the projection display apparatus 100 includes a projection lens unit 110, and projects the image light enlarged by the projection lens unit 110 onto a screen 200. As will be described later, the projection display apparatus 100 uses yellow component light as fourth color component light in addition to red component light, green component light, and blue component light.

(Schematic configuration of lighting unit)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the illumination unit according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the illumination unit 120 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 2, it should be noted that a fly-eye lens that homogenizes the light emitted from the light source 10 and a PBS (Polarized Beam Splitter) that aligns the polarization direction of the light emitted from the light source 10 are omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the illumination unit 120 includes a light source 10, a plurality of liquid crystal panels 30 (a liquid crystal panel 30R, a liquid crystal panel 30G, a liquid crystal panel 30B, and a liquid crystal panel 30Ye), and a cross dichroic cube 60. Note that although the projection lens unit 110 is illustrated in FIG. 2, it should be noted that the projection lens unit 110 is not included in the illumination unit 120.

  The light source 10 is a UHP lamp that emits white light. That is, the light emitted from the light source 10 includes at least red component light, green component light, blue component light, and yellow component light.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 3, the yellow component light is light that can reproduce colors outside the color range (RGB color reproduction range) in which red component light, green component light, and blue component light can be reproduced. In a projection display apparatus using three colors of light, yellow component light is light that is removed in the process of color separation.

  As will be described later, the liquid crystal panel 30R modulates the red component light in accordance with the red input signal. A pair of polarizing plates (not shown) are provided on the light incident side and the light emitting side of the liquid crystal panel 30R.

  Similarly, the liquid crystal panel 30G modulates green component light according to the green input signal, and the liquid crystal panel 30B modulates blue component light according to the blue input signal. A pair of polarizing plates (not shown) are provided on the light incident side and the light emitting side of the liquid crystal panel 30G and the liquid crystal panel 30B.

  On the other hand, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye emits yellow component light according to the modulation amount (yellow signal) controlled according to the contribution calculated based on the red input signal, the green input signal, and the blue input signal. Modulate. A polarizing plate (not shown) may be provided on at least one of the light incident side and the light emitting side of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  The light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye enters the liquid crystal panel 30R (specific light modulation element). That is, the liquid crystal panel 30R is provided on the optical path of the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye until the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye enters the cross dichroic cube 60.

  It should be noted that the control of the modulation amount of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is control of the amount of yellow component light transmitted through the liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  It is preferable that the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is substantially imaged on the liquid crystal panel 30R. For example, between the liquid crystal panel 30Ye and the liquid crystal panel 30R, a relay lens (a lens 86, a lens 87, and a lens 83) or the like is disposed on the optical path of the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye, thereby emitting from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. It is possible to form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30R. Here, it should be noted that the approximate imaging is a concept including imaging.

  Here, the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is different from the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the liquid crystal panel 30B. FIG. 4A is an image diagram illustrating an example of the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the liquid crystal panel 30B. FIG. 4B is an image diagram showing an example of the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the liquid crystal panel 30B have a high resolution in order to display a high-definition image on the screen 200. On the other hand, the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is mainly used as illumination light. Therefore, it is preferable that the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is lower than the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the liquid crystal panel 30B so that the light utilization efficiency is not reduced by the electrodes provided in the liquid crystal panel. Moreover, since it is only necessary to adjust the amount of yellow component light for each target area, it is sufficient that the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is low.

  Note that the low resolution is a concept including that the liquid crystal panel 30Ye does not have the resolution. Therefore, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye does not have to be configured so that the modulation amount can be controlled for each of the plurality of regions, and may have a configuration in which only the modulation amount on the entire surface is controlled.

  The resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye may be the same as the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the liquid crystal panel 30B.

  The cross dichroic cube 60 combines light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the liquid crystal panel 30B. That is, the cross dichroic cube 60 combines the red component light and the yellow component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30R, the green component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the blue component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30B. The cross dichroic cube 60 emits combined light (image light) including red component light, green component light, blue component light, and yellow component light to the projection lens unit 110 side.

  As described above, the projection lens unit 110 projects the combined light (image light) combined by the cross dichroic cube 60 onto the screen 200.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the illumination unit 120 includes a plurality of mirror groups (mirrors 21 to 27). The mirror 21 is a dichroic mirror that transmits blue component light and reflects other light including red component light, green component light, and yellow component light. The mirror 22 is a mirror that reflects blue component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30B. The mirror 23 is a dichroic mirror that reflects green component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30G and transmits other light including red component light and yellow component light. The mirror 24 is a dichroic mirror that reflects red component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30R and transmits other light including yellow component light. The mirror 25 is a mirror that reflects yellow component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. The mirror 26 is a mirror that reflects yellow component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30R. The mirror 27 is a dichroic mirror that transmits light (yellow component light) emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye and reflects red component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30R.

  Here, the mirror 21, the mirror 23, and the mirror 24 constitute color separation means for separating light emitted from the light source 10 into red component light, green component light, blue component light, and yellow component light.

  The illumination unit 120 has a plurality of lens groups (lenses 41 to 43, lenses 81 to 87). The lens 41 is a condenser lens that collimates the blue component light reflected by the mirror 22 so that the liquid crystal panel 30B is irradiated with the blue component light. The lens 42 is a condenser lens that collimates the green component light reflected by the mirror 23 so that the liquid crystal panel 30B is irradiated with the green component light. The lens 43 is a condenser lens that makes the red component light transmitted through the mirror 23 substantially parallel light so that the liquid crystal panel 30R is irradiated with the red component light. Similarly, the lens 43 is a condenser lens that converts yellow component light transmitted through the mirror 23 into substantially parallel light so that the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is irradiated with yellow component light.

  The lenses 81 to 83 are relay lenses that cause the red component light that has been substantially collimated by the lens 43 to approximately form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30R. The lens 81, the lens 84, and the lens 85 are relay lenses that cause yellow component light, which has been made substantially parallel light by the lens 43, to form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. The lens 86, the lens 87, and the lens 83 are relay lenses that cause yellow component light to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30R while suppressing expansion of yellow component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  The illumination unit 120 includes a phase difference plate 50 that rotates the polarization direction of yellow component light by 90 °. Specifically, the phase difference plate 50 rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light, which has the same polarization direction as that of the red component light, to emit the yellow component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30R.

  Here, when the polarization direction of the yellow component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is different from the polarization direction of the red component light incident on the liquid crystal panel 30R, the yellow light is applied by the polarizing plate provided on the incident side of the liquid crystal panel 30R. Component light is blocked.

  Therefore, whether or not to apply a voltage to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is controlled by the relationship between the voltage application state and the polarization rotation. In the following, the first type liquid crystal panel that rotates the polarization direction with no voltage applied, and does not rotate with the voltage applied, and the polarization direction with no voltage applied. The second type liquid crystal panel that rotates the polarization direction in a state where a voltage is applied without applying voltage will be described as an example.

(1) Case where the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is the first type (1-1) Case where the phase difference plate 50 is not provided When the yellow component light is turned off, no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. Accordingly, since the liquid crystal panel 30Ye rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light, the polarization direction of the yellow component light is different from the polarization direction of the red component light. That is, the yellow component light is shielded by the polarizing plate provided on the incident side of the liquid crystal panel 30R.

  In order to turn on yellow component light, a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. Accordingly, since the liquid crystal panel 30Ye does not rotate the polarization direction of the yellow component light, the polarization direction of the yellow component light becomes the same as the polarization direction of the red component light.

(1-2) Case in which the phase difference plate 50 is provided When the yellow component light is turned off, a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. Accordingly, after the phase difference plate 50 rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye does not rotate the polarization direction of the yellow component light, so the polarization direction of the yellow component light is different from the polarization direction of the red component light. It will be. That is, the yellow component light is shielded by the polarizing plate provided on the incident side of the liquid crystal panel 30R.

  When the yellow component light is turned on, no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. Accordingly, after the phase difference plate 50 rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye further rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light, so that the polarization direction of the yellow component light is changed to the polarization direction of the red component light. Be the same.

(2) Case where the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is the second type (2-1) Case where the phase difference plate 50 is not provided When the yellow component light is turned off, a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. Accordingly, since the liquid crystal panel 30Ye rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light, the polarization direction of the yellow component light is different from the polarization direction of the red component light. That is, the yellow component light is shielded by the polarizing plate provided on the incident side of the liquid crystal panel 30R.

  When the yellow component light is turned on, no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. Accordingly, since the liquid crystal panel 30Ye does not rotate the polarization direction of the yellow component light, the polarization direction of the yellow component light becomes the same as the polarization direction of the red component light.

(2-2) Case in which the phase difference plate 50 is provided When the yellow component light is turned off, no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. Accordingly, after the phase difference plate 50 rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye does not rotate the polarization direction of the yellow component light, so the polarization direction of the yellow component light is different from the polarization direction of the red component light. It will be. That is, the yellow component light is shielded by the polarizing plate provided on the incident side of the liquid crystal panel 30R.

  In order to turn on yellow component light, a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. Accordingly, after the phase difference plate 50 rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye further rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light, so that the polarization direction of the yellow component light is changed to the polarization direction of the red component light. Be the same.

  Here, Table 1 is a table showing the relationship between the above-described voltage application state and polarization rotation.

(Function of projection display device)
Hereinafter, functions of the projection display apparatus according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing functions of the projection display apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

  The projection display apparatus 100 includes a control unit 130 including a signal receiving unit 210 and a modulation amount control unit 220.

  The signal reception unit 210 receives each color signal (red input signal, green input signal, and blue input signal). For example, the signal reception unit 210 acquires each color signal from a color separation block that separates the color signal from the video signal.

  The modulation amount control unit 220 controls the modulation amounts of the liquid crystal panels 30 (the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, the liquid crystal panel 30B, and the liquid crystal panel 30Ye) based on the color signals acquired from the signal receiving unit 210.

  Specifically, the modulation amount control unit 220 inputs the red input signal to the liquid crystal panel 30R without changing. Similarly, the modulation amount control unit 220 inputs the green input signal to the liquid crystal panel 30G without changing, and inputs the blue input signal to the liquid crystal panel 30B without changing. On the other hand, the modulation amount control unit 220 calculates the contribution of yellow component light based on the red input signal, the green input signal, and the blue input signal, and generates a yellow signal to be input to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. .

  Here, the modulation amount control unit 220 calculates a representative luminance value for each target region based on the red input signal, the green input signal, and the blue input signal. The representative value of the luminance is a minimum luminance value, a maximum luminance value, an average luminance value, or the like. Subsequently, the modulation amount control unit 220 determines the amount of yellow component light superimposed on the video according to the representative value of luminance, and controls the modulation amount (that is, the value of the yellow signal) of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  For example, in the case where each color signal is expressed in an 8-bit series, for example, when the representative value of luminance is 255, the value of the yellow signal is the maximum value (ie, 255). On the other hand, when the representative value of luminance is 128, the value of the yellow signal is half of the maximum value (that is, 128).

  Therefore, when the image displayed on the screen 200 is black, the representative value of the luminance is 0, and thus the value of the yellow signal is also 0. On the other hand, when the image displayed on the screen 200 is white, the representative value of the luminance is 255, and thus the value of the yellow signal is also 255. As a result, when the image displayed on the screen 200 is white, the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is added to the light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30R. Brightness is improved.

  The above-described target area is an area provided on the liquid crystal panel 30Ye according to the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. That is, the target area is each area that is irradiated with light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye on the liquid crystal panel 30R. The size of the target area can be changed according to the accuracy of adjusting the luminance of the video displayed on the screen 200. The change of the size of the target area may be performed by hardware such as replacement of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye or may be performed by software such as control change of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  Note that the balance of the luminance of the video displayed on the screen 200 due to the individual determination of the yellow signal value between one target region and another target region adjacent to the one target region. In the case where the deterioration occurs, the value of the yellow signal in one target region is preferably determined in consideration of the value of the yellow signal in the other target region.

  Next, the relationship between the color of the video displayed on the target area and the color component light used for reproducing the video displayed on the target area will be described.

  Specifically, the amount of each color component light (that is, the modulation amount of each liquid crystal panel 30) is controlled according to the color of the video displayed on the target area. As shown in FIG. 6, when the image displayed on the target area is white, all of red component light, green component light, blue component light, and yellow component light are used. When the image displayed on the target area is black, all of red component light, green component light, blue component light, and yellow component light are not used.

  When the image displayed on the target area is red, only red component light is used. Similarly, when the video displayed on the target area is green, only the green component light is used, and when the video displayed on the target area is blue, only the blue component light is used. .

  When the image displayed on the target area is yellow on the front surface, yellow component light is incident on the liquid crystal panel 30R, so that only yellow component light cannot be used, so that yellow is mixed with red. Therefore, red component light and green component light are used without using yellow component light. Needless to say, yellow component light may be used as long as the yellow color balance can be maintained.

(Function and effect)
According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, yellow component light (fourth color component light) emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye enters the liquid crystal panel 30R. That is, the yellow component light is superimposed on the red component light and supplied to the cross dichroic cube 60. Accordingly, even when yellow component light is used in addition to red component light, green component light and blue component light, there are three types of light incident on the cross dichroic cube 60 (including red component light and yellow component light). Light, green component light and blue component light). As a result, it is not necessary to change the design of the projection lens unit 110, and an increase in the cost of the entire apparatus can be suppressed.

  Further, since the yellow component light is superimposed on the red component light and supplied to the cross dichroic cube 60, the brightness of the image projected on the screen 200 by the projection lens unit 110 is improved.

  According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is lower than the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the liquid crystal panel 30B. Accordingly, the use efficiency of yellow component light used as illumination light is increased because the use efficiency of yellow component light is suppressed from being reduced by the electrodes provided on the liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the yellow signal (the modulation amount of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye) is controlled based on the red input signal, the green input signal, and the blue input signal. Thus, it is possible to appropriately improve the brightness of the image without losing the color balance of the image projected on the screen 200.

  According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the yellow component light whose amount of light is controlled for each target region is substantially imaged on the liquid crystal panel 30R, and thus the entire image projected on the screen 200 is displayed. The brightness can be improved appropriately.

  According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, since yellow component light is incident on the liquid crystal panel 30R that modulates red component light, compared to a case where yellow component light is incident on another liquid crystal panel, The life of the liquid crystal panel and the polarizing plate can be extended. In order to extend the life of the liquid crystal panel and the polarizing plate, the cooling power of a device (liquid cooling device or air cooling device) for cooling them may be strengthened.

  Here, since the energy of the blue component light is generally high, it should be noted that the lifetime of the liquid crystal panel 30B may be shortened when yellow component light is incident on the liquid crystal panel 30B in addition to the blue component light. is there. Since the amount of light (heat amount) of the green component light is generally high, it should be noted that the lifetime of the liquid crystal panel 30G may be shortened when yellow component light enters the liquid crystal panel 30G in addition to the green component light. is there.

  According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the illumination unit 120 includes a lens 84 to a lens 87, a liquid crystal panel 30Ye, and a phase difference as a general configuration of a three-plate projection display apparatus. It has the structure which added the board 50. FIG. That is, since it is possible to use a configuration close to the configuration of the three-plate projection display apparatus, the optical design load of the illumination unit 120 can be reduced.

[Second Embodiment]
The second embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, differences between the above-described first embodiment and the second embodiment will be mainly described.

  Specifically, in the first embodiment described above, the phase difference plate 50 is provided on the optical path of yellow component light before entering the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. On the other hand, in 2nd Embodiment, the phase difference plate 50 is provided on the optical path of the yellow component light after radiate | emitting from liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

(Schematic configuration of lighting unit)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the illumination unit according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the illumination unit 120 according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 7, it should be noted that the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the phase difference plate 50 is provided on the side where yellow component light is emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. The retardation film 50 is preferably provided in the vicinity of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  Here, when the polarization direction of the yellow component light whose polarization direction is aligned with that of the red component light is rotated by 90 ° by the liquid crystal panel 30Ye, and the yellow component light is emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye, the retardation plate 50 is The polarization direction of yellow component light is rotated by 90 °. Thus, the phase difference plate 50 further rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light whose polarization direction is rotated by 90 ° by the liquid crystal panel 30Ye by 90 °. That is, the phase difference plate 50 returns the polarization direction of yellow component light to the original polarization direction, and aligns the polarization direction of yellow component light with the polarization directions of red component light, green component light, and blue component light.

[Third Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, differences between the first embodiment and the third embodiment described above will be mainly described.

  Specifically, in the first embodiment described above, the yellow component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye enters the liquid crystal panel 30R. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the yellow component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye enters the liquid crystal panel 30G (specific light modulation element).

(Schematic configuration of lighting unit)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the illumination unit according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the illumination unit 120 according to the third embodiment. In FIG. 8, it should be noted that the same components as those in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the illumination unit 120 includes a plurality of mirror groups (mirrors 121 to 127). The mirror 121 is a dichroic mirror that transmits blue component light and green component light and reflects other light including red component light and yellow component light. The mirror 122 is a dichroic mirror that transmits blue component light and reflects green component light. The mirror 123 is a mirror that reflects blue component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30B. The mirror 124 is a dichroic mirror that reflects yellow component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30Ye and transmits red component light. The mirror 125 is a dichroic mirror that transmits yellow component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye and reflects green component light reflected by the mirror 122 toward the liquid crystal panel 30G. The mirror 126 and the mirror 127 are mirrors that reflect and guide red component light to the liquid crystal panel 30R side.

  Here, the mirror 121, the mirror 122, and the mirror 124 constitute color separation means that separates light emitted from the light source 10 into red component light, green component light, blue component light, and yellow component light.

  Thus, in the second embodiment, the yellow component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye enters the liquid crystal panel 30G.

  The illumination unit 120 has a plurality of lens groups (lens 141 to 143, lens 181 to lens 190). The lens 141 and the lens 142 are condenser lenses that make red component light, green component light, and blue component light substantially parallel light so that each liquid crystal panel 30 is irradiated with red component light, green component light, and blue component light. is there. The lens 143 is a condenser lens that converts yellow component light into substantially parallel light so that the yellow component light is irradiated onto the liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  The lenses 181 to 183 are relay lenses that cause blue component light to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30B. The lens 181, the lens 184, and the lens 185 are relay lenses that cause green component light to be substantially imaged on the liquid crystal panel 30G. The lens 186, the lens 187, and the lens 185 are relay lenses that guide yellow component light to the liquid crystal panel 30G side and substantially image yellow component light on the liquid crystal panel 30G while suppressing expansion of yellow component light. The lenses 188 to 190 are relay lenses that cause red component light to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30R.

(Function and effect)
According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment, yellow component light is superimposed on green component light and supplied to the cross dichroic cube 60. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately improve the luminance of the image without losing the color balance considering the relative visibility. Here, it should be noted that the color range that humans feel green is wider than the color range that humans feel red or blue. Therefore, even if yellow component light is superimposed on green component light, the color balance considering the relative visibility is not easily lost.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, differences between the above-described third embodiment and the fourth embodiment will be mainly described. Specifically, the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment described above differ in the method of separating and synthesizing each color component light.

(Schematic configuration of lighting unit)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the illumination unit according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the illumination unit 120 according to the fourth embodiment. In FIG. 9, it should be noted that the same components as those in FIG.

  The illumination unit 120 has a plurality of mirror groups (mirrors 321 to 328). The mirror 321 is a dichroic mirror that transmits blue component light and reflects other light including red component light, green component light, and yellow component light. The mirror 322 is a mirror that reflects blue component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30B. The mirror 323 is a dichroic mirror that reflects green component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30G and transmits other light including red component light and yellow component light. Accordingly, the mirror 323 transmits the yellow component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye to the liquid crystal panel 30G side. The mirror 324 is a dichroic mirror that reflects red component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30R and transmits yellow component light. The mirror 325 is a mirror that reflects red component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30R. The mirror 326 is a mirror that reflects yellow component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. The mirror 327 and the mirror 328 are mirrors that reflect and guide light (yellow component light) emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye toward the liquid crystal panel 30G.

  Here, the mirror 321, the mirror 323, and the mirror 324 constitute color separation means for separating light emitted from the light source 10 into red component light, green component light, blue component light, and yellow component light.

  The illumination unit 120 includes a plurality of lens groups (lenses 241 to 243, lenses 281 to 290). The lens 241 and the lens 242 are condenser lenses that collimate the green component light and the blue component light so that the respective liquid crystal panels 30 are irradiated with the green component light and the blue component light. The lens 243 is a condenser lens that makes the red component light substantially parallel so that the liquid crystal panel 30R is irradiated with the red component light. The lens 243 is a condenser lens that converts yellow component light into substantially parallel light so that the yellow component light is irradiated onto the liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  The lenses 281 to 283 are relay lenses that cause red component light to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30R. The lens 281, the lens 284, and the lens 285 are relay lenses that cause yellow component light to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. The lenses 286 to 290 and the lens 242 are relay lenses that guide yellow component light to the liquid crystal panel 30G side and substantially image yellow component light on the liquid crystal panel 30G while suppressing expansion of yellow component light. The yellow component light is substantially imaged by the lens 286 to the lens 288, and then substantially imaged again by the lens 289, the lens 290, and the lens 242.

(Function and effect)
According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment, the illumination unit 120 includes a mirror 326 to a mirror 328, a liquid crystal panel 30Ye, and a phase difference as a general configuration of a three-plate projection display apparatus. It has the structure which added the board 50. FIG. That is, since it is possible to use a configuration close to the configuration of the three-plate projection display apparatus, the optical design load of the illumination unit 120 can be reduced.

[Fifth Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, differences between the above-described fourth embodiment and the fifth embodiment will be mainly described. Specifically, the fourth embodiment and the fifth embodiment described above differ in the method of separating and synthesizing each color component light.

(Schematic configuration of lighting unit)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the illumination unit according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the illumination unit 120 according to the fifth embodiment. In FIG. 10, it should be noted that the same components as those in FIG. 9 described above are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the illumination unit 120 includes a cross dichroic mirror 61 instead of the above-described mirror 324 and mirror 326.

  The cross dichroic mirror 61 reflects red component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30R and reflects yellow component light toward the liquid crystal panel 30Ye (mirror 327).

  Here, the mirror 321, the mirror 323, and the cross dichroic mirror 61 constitute color separation means for separating light emitted from the light source 10 into red component light, green component light, blue component light, and yellow component light.

(Function and effect)
According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment, since the cross dichroic mirror 61 is used in place of the mirror 324 and the mirror 326, the illumination unit 120 can be reduced in size as compared with the fourth embodiment. Can do.

[Sixth Embodiment]
The sixth embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, differences between the above-described fourth embodiment and the sixth embodiment will be mainly described. Specifically, in the fourth embodiment described above, a transmissive liquid crystal panel is used as the liquid crystal panel (liquid crystal panel 30Ye) that modulates yellow component light. In contrast, in the sixth embodiment, a reflective liquid crystal panel (LCOS) is used as a liquid crystal panel that modulates yellow component light.

(Schematic configuration of lighting unit)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the illumination unit according to the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the illumination unit 120 according to the sixth embodiment. In FIG. 11, it should be noted that the same components as those in FIG. 9 described above are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the illumination unit 120 includes a liquid crystal panel 31Ye, a narrow-band phase difference plate 51, and a cross mirror 62.

  The liquid crystal panel 31Ye is a reflective liquid crystal panel that modulates yellow component light and reflects the modulated yellow component light. In addition, it is preferable that the resolution of liquid crystal panel 31Ye is lower than the resolution of liquid crystal panel 30R, liquid crystal panel 30G, and liquid crystal panel 30B similarly to liquid crystal panel 30Ye.

  The narrow band phase difference plate 51 rotates the polarization direction of light of a predetermined wavelength band by 90 °. Specifically, the narrowband phase difference plate 51 changes the polarization direction of yellow component light when the polarization directions of red component light, green component light, blue component light, and yellow component light are aligned with P polarization. Rotate 90 °. On the other hand, when the polarization directions of the red component light, the green component light, the blue component light, and the yellow component light are aligned with the S-polarized light, the narrow band phase difference plate 51 has the red component light, the green component light, and the blue component light. The polarization direction of component light (other than yellow component light) is rotated by 90 °.

  The cross mirror 62 reflects the green component light to the liquid crystal panel 30G side, reflects the dichroic mirror surface 62a that transmits the red component light, and reflects the S-polarized yellow component light to the liquid crystal panel 31Ye side, and the P-polarized yellow A PBS mirror surface 62b that transmits component light to the liquid crystal panel 30G side.

  The liquid crystal panel 31Ye rotates the S-polarized yellow component light incident on the liquid crystal panel 31Ye by 90 ° and emits the P-polarized yellow component light to the cross mirror 62 side.

  The illumination unit 120 includes a plurality of lens groups (lenses 241 to 244, lenses 281 to 283).

  The lenses 241 to 243 are condenser lenses that convert the red component light, the green component light, and the blue component light into substantially parallel light so that each liquid crystal panel 30 is irradiated with red component light, green component light, and blue component light. is there. The lens 244 is a condenser lens that converts yellow component light into substantially parallel light so that the yellow component light is irradiated onto the liquid crystal panel 31Ye.

  The lenses 281 to 283 are relay lenses that cause red component light to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30R. The lenses 244 and 242 are relay lenses that guide yellow component light to the liquid crystal panel 30G side and substantially image yellow component light on the liquid crystal panel 30G while suppressing expansion of yellow component light.

[Seventh Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a seventh embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, differences between the above-described fourth embodiment and the seventh embodiment will be mainly described.

  Specifically, in the fourth embodiment described above, the optical element that separates the red component light and the yellow component light is a dichroic mirror (mirror 324) that separates the combined light into each color component light according to the wavelength of the color component light. ).

  In contrast, in the seventh embodiment, the optical element that separates the red component light and the yellow component light is a polarization separation element that separates the combined light into each color component light according to the polarization direction of the color component light. Accordingly, in the seventh embodiment, either the red component light or the yellow component light is present on the optical path of the combined light before the combined light including the red component light and the yellow component light enters the polarization separation element. A polarization rotation element for changing one polarization state is provided.

(Schematic configuration of lighting unit)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the illumination unit according to the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the illumination unit 120 according to the seventh embodiment. In FIG. 12, it should be noted that the same components as those in FIG. 9 described above are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the seventh embodiment, it should be noted that the light emitted from the light source 10 is aligned with the S-polarized light before entering the mirror 321.

  As illustrated in FIG. 12, the illumination unit 120 includes a polarization separation element 424 instead of the mirror 324. A polarization rotation element 510 is provided between the mirror 323 and the polarization separation element 424 on the optical path of the combined light including red component light and yellow component light. In the seventh embodiment, it should be noted that the above-described retardation plate 50 is not particularly provided.

  The polarization rotation element 510 rotates the polarization direction of one of red component light and yellow component light (yellow component light in the seventh embodiment) by approximately 90 °. Specifically, the polarization rotation element 510 converts the polarization direction of yellow component light from S-polarized light to P-polarized light.

  The polarization separation element 424 separates combined light including red component light and yellow component light into red component light and yellow component light according to the polarization direction of the color component light. Specifically, the polarization separation element 424 reflects S-polarized red component light and guides the red component light to the liquid crystal panel 30R side. On the other hand, the polarization separation element 424 transmits the P-polarized yellow component light emitted from the polarization separation element 424 and guides the yellow component light to the liquid crystal panel 30Ye side.

  Here, the lens 241 and the lens 242 are condenser lenses that collimate the green component light and the blue component light so that the liquid crystal panel 30 is irradiated with the green component light and the blue component light. The lens 243 is a condenser lens that forms an image of the red component light and the yellow component light on the polarization rotation element 510 so that the red component light and the yellow component light are irradiated to the polarization rotation element 510. That is, the polarization rotation element 510 is provided at a position (image plane) where the red component light and the yellow component light substantially form an image.

  The lenses 281 to 283 are relay lenses that cause red component light emitted from the polarization rotation element 510 to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30R. The lens 281, the lens 284, and the lens 285 are relay lenses that cause yellow component light emitted from the polarization rotation element 510 to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. The lenses 286 to 290 and the lens 242 are relay lenses that guide yellow component light to the liquid crystal panel 30G side and substantially image yellow component light on the liquid crystal panel 30G while suppressing expansion of yellow component light. That is, the liquid crystal panel 30G is provided at a position (image plane) where the green component light and the yellow component light are substantially imaged. The yellow component light is substantially imaged by the lens 286 to the lens 288, and then substantially imaged again by the lens 289, the lens 290, and the lens 242.

(Function and effect)
According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the seventh embodiment, the optical element that separates the red component light and the yellow component light is the polarization separation element 424 that separates each color component light according to the polarization direction of the color component light. It is. This makes it possible to easily increase the color purity of the red component light and suppress the occurrence of color unevenness, compared to the case where a dichroic mirror that separates each color component light according to the wavelength band of the color component light is used. Can do.

  In particular, in the case where the red component light and the yellow component light are separated, the wavelength band of the red component light and the wavelength band of the yellow component light are close to each other. Therefore, in the dichroic mirror, a part of the yellow component light is a red component. It should be noted that there is a high probability of being mixed with light. When a part of yellow component light is mixed with red component light, the red component light changes to vermilion, but the human eye is sensitive to the change from red component light to vermilion (Mac Adam's ellipse). Although it is conceivable to increase the amount of change (gradation) in the cutoff wavelength that is changed according to the incident position on the dichroic mirror, it is difficult to manufacture a dichroic mirror with a large gradation.

  Therefore, it is very useful to use the polarization separation element 424 for separating red component light and yellow component light.

[Eighth Embodiment]
The eighth embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, differences between the above-described seventh embodiment and the eighth embodiment will be mainly described.

  Specifically, although not particularly mentioned in the seventh embodiment described above, in the eighth embodiment, stray light (S) superimposed on the red component light on the optical path of the red component light separated by the polarization separation element 424. A light shielding means for shielding the polarized yellow component light) is provided. Similarly, a light blocking unit that blocks stray light (P-polarized red component light) superimposed on the yellow component light is provided on the optical path of the yellow component light separated by the polarization separation element 424.

  Here, since it is difficult to align the polarization direction of the color component light completely to one polarization direction, it should be noted that stray light may be generated even if the polarization direction is aligned using the polarization separation element 424 or the like. Should.

(Schematic configuration of lighting unit)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the illumination unit according to the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the illumination unit 120 according to the eighth embodiment. In FIG. 13, it should be noted that the same components as those in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the illumination unit 120 has a color filter 521 that blocks stray light (S-polarized yellow component light) superimposed on the red component light on the optical path of the red component light separated by the polarization separation element 424. Is provided. Similarly, a color filter 522 that blocks stray light (P-polarized red component light) superimposed on the yellow component light is provided on the optical path of the yellow component light separated by the polarization separation element 424.

  The color filter 521 is an optical element that transmits red component light and blocks other color component light (S-polarized yellow component light). Similarly, the color filter 522 is an optical element that transmits yellow component light and blocks other color component light (P-polarized red component light).

  Note that only one of the color filter 521 and the color filter 522 may be provided.

  Further, the light shielding means for shielding stray light is not limited to the color filter. Specifically, a color filter film that transmits only red component light is vapor-deposited on the lens surface of a lens (for example, lens 282 or lens 283) provided on the optical path of red component light separated by the polarization separation element 424. May be. Similarly, a color filter film that transmits only yellow component light is formed on the lens surface of a lens (for example, any one of lenses 284 to 290) provided on the optical path of yellow component light separated by the polarization separation element 424. It may be vapor deposited. Further, a polarizing plate that cuts an unnecessary polarization direction incident on the polarization rotation element 510 may be provided on the light incident side of the polarization rotation element 510.

(Function and effect)
According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the eighth embodiment, the stray light (S-polarized yellow component light) superimposed on the red component light and the stray light (P-polarized red component light) superimposed on the yellow component light are The color filter 521 and the color filter 522 are cut. Therefore, the color purity of red component light and yellow component light can be increased.

[Ninth Embodiment]
The ninth embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, differences between the above-described seventh embodiment and the ninth embodiment will be mainly described.

  Specifically, in the ninth embodiment, the number of lenses provided on the optical path of yellow component light separated by the mirror 323 is different from that in the seventh embodiment. The position where the liquid crystal panel 30Ye and the polarization rotation element 510 are provided will be described in detail.

(Schematic configuration of lighting unit)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the illumination unit according to the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the illumination unit 120 according to the ninth embodiment. In FIG. 14, it should be noted that the same components as those in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the illumination unit 120 includes a plurality of lens groups (lenses 241 to 243, lenses 281 to 287).

  Here, the lens 241 and the lens 242 are condenser lenses that collimate the green component light and the blue component light so that the liquid crystal panel 30 is irradiated with the green component light and the blue component light. The lens 243 is a condenser lens that forms an image of the red component light and the yellow component light on the polarization rotation element 510 so that the red component light and the yellow component light are irradiated to the polarization rotation element 510. That is, the polarization rotation element 510 is provided at a position (image plane) where the red component light and the yellow component light substantially form an image.

  The lenses 281 to 283 are relay lenses that cause red component light emitted from the polarization rotation element 510 to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30R. The lens 281, the lens 284, and the lens 285 are relay lenses that cause yellow component light emitted from the polarization rotation element 510 to substantially form an image on the liquid crystal panel 30Ye. The lens 286, the lens 287, and the lens 242 are relay lenses that guide yellow component light to the liquid crystal panel 30G side and substantially image yellow component light on the liquid crystal panel 30G while suppressing expansion of yellow component light. In other words, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is provided at a position (image plane) where yellow component light substantially forms an image. The liquid crystal panel 30G is provided at a position (image plane) where the green component light and the yellow component light are substantially imaged.

  In the ninth embodiment, it is assumed that after each color component light is substantially imaged, each color component light is again substantially imaged by passing each color component light through a set of three relay lenses. Should be noted. It should be noted that each of the color component lights is approximately imaged in a state where the upper and lower sides and the left and right sides are determined by the three relay lenses (second lens) constituting one set.

  Here, in the ninth embodiment, the mirror 323 converts the combined light including green component light (superimposed component light) and yellow component light (and red component light) into yellow component light (and red component light) and green component light ( It is a dichroic mirror that separates into (superimposed component light). The mirror 323 includes a first incident surface 323a on which combined light including green component light (superimposed component light) and yellow component light is incident, and a second incident surface 323b on which yellow component light separated by the mirror 323 is incident again. Have.

  In the relay optical system from when the yellow component light is separated by the mirror 323 to when the yellow component light is incident on the second incident surface 323b again, a relay lens that inverts the upper, lower, left, and right image planes of the yellow component light an even number of times A group is provided. On the other hand, this relay optical system is provided with a mirror group that inverts the left and right sides of the image surface of yellow component light an odd number of times.

  Specifically, the yellow component light incident on the first incident surface 323 a forms a substantially image on the polarization rotation element 510. The left and right sides of the image plane of yellow component light that is substantially imaged on the polarization rotation element 510 are reversed by the mirror 326 (first left-right reversal). The top and bottom and left and right of the image plane of the yellow component light that is substantially imaged on the polarization rotation element 510 is inverted by the lens 284 of the pair of relay lenses (lens 281, lens 284, and lens 285). Upside down and left and right inverted). The left and right sides of the image plane of yellow component light that is substantially imaged on the polarization rotation element 510 are inverted by the mirror 327 (second horizontal inversion). The left and right sides of the image plane of yellow component light that is substantially imaged on the polarization rotation element 510 are inverted by the mirror 328 (third inversion). The top and bottom and the left and right of the image plane of the yellow component light that is substantially imaged on the polarization rotation element 510 are inverted by the lens 287 of the pair of relay lenses (lens 286, lens 287, and lens 242) (second time). Top / bottom and left / right flip).

  Thus, the position where the yellow component light beam is incident on the first incident surface 323a is substantially equal to the position where the yellow component light beam is incident again on the second incident surface 323b.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 15, the yellow component light beam (L ₂ ) is incident at the position (P ₂ ) where the yellow component light beam (L ₂ ) is incident on the first incident surface 323a. It is substantially equal to the position (P ₂ ) where the light re-enters the surface 323b. Similarly, the position where the light flux of the yellow component light _{(L 3)} is incident on the first incident surface 323a _{(P 3),} the position where the light flux of the yellow component light _{(L 3)} is again incident on the second incident face 323b (P ₃ ) It is almost equal to. The position where the light flux of the yellow component light _{(L 1)} is incident on the first incident surface 323a _{(P 1)} is, the light flux of the yellow component light _{(L 1)} is positioned to be incident again on the second incident face 323b _{(P 1} Of course, it is substantially equal to.

(Function and effect)
According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the ninth embodiment, the polarization rotation element 510 is provided at a position (image plane) where the yellow component light substantially forms an image, and the liquid crystal panel 30Ye includes the polarization rotation element 510. Is provided at a position (image plane) at which the yellow component light emitted from the lens substantially again forms an image. That is, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye and the polarization rotation element 510 are provided at positions where the dispersion angle of yellow component light becomes small and the in-plane illuminance distribution becomes uniform. Therefore, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye and the polarization rotation element 510 can be reduced in size.

  Here, generally, since the cutoff wavelength is shifted according to the incident angle of the color component light, the gradation is formed on the first incident surface 323a of the mirror 323 (dichroic mirror) so that the cutoff wavelength is gradually changed. Is provided. In the ninth embodiment, the position (first time) at which the yellow component light beam is incident on the first incident surface 323a is substantially the same as the position (second time) at which the yellow component light beam is incident on the second incident surface 323b again. equal.

  Therefore, even when the mirror 323 (dichroic mirror) is provided with gradation, the loss of yellow component light can be reduced. That is, the amount of yellow component light guided to the liquid crystal panel 30G is reduced because the position where the yellow component light beam passes the first time is different from the position where the yellow component light beam passes the second time. Can be suppressed.

[Tenth embodiment]
Hereinafter, a tenth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, differences between the above-described embodiments and the tenth embodiment will be mainly described.

  Specifically, although not particularly mentioned in each of the above-described embodiments, in the tenth embodiment, a mechanism for shielding the yellow component light by the liquid crystal panel 30G in a case where the yellow component light is turned off will be described in detail. In the tenth embodiment, it should be noted that the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is not provided with a polarizing plate from the viewpoint of cost reduction.

  In the following, it should be noted that among the above-described embodiments, the tenth embodiment will be described along the ninth embodiment.

(Configuration of light modulation element)
The configuration of the light modulation element in the tenth embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B are diagrams illustrating the configuration of a liquid crystal panel 30G according to the tenth embodiment.

  As shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the liquid crystal panel 30G (specific light modulation element) includes a liquid crystal main body 31G, a polarizing plate 32G, and a polarizing plate 33G.

  The liquid crystal main body 31G modulates the color component light by rotating the polarization direction of the color component light transmitted through the polarizing plate 32G.

  The polarizing plate 32G is provided on the light incident side of the liquid crystal main body 31G, transmits color component light of one polarization direction (S-polarized light in the tenth embodiment), and transmits the other polarization direction (tenth embodiment). Then, the P-polarized color component light is shielded.

  The polarizing plate 33G is provided on the light emitting side of the liquid crystal main body 31G, transmits color component light of other polarization directions (P-polarized light in the tenth embodiment), and transmits one polarization direction (tenth embodiment). Then, the color component light of S-polarized light is shielded.

  As shown in FIG. 16A, in the case where the yellow component light is turned on, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye adjusts the polarization direction of the yellow component light so that the yellow component light is transmitted through the polarizing plate 32G. That is, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye adjusts the polarization direction of the yellow component light so that the polarization direction of the green component light incident on the liquid crystal main body 31G is aligned with the polarization direction of the yellow component light. Taking the ninth embodiment described above as an example, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye converts P-polarized yellow component light into S-polarized yellow component light.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 16B, in the case where the yellow component light is turned off, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye adjusts the polarization direction of the yellow component light so that the yellow component light is shielded by the polarizing plate 32G. To do. That is, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye adjusts the polarization direction of the yellow component light so that the polarization direction of the yellow component light is substantially orthogonal to the polarization direction of the green component light incident on the liquid crystal main body 31G. Taking the ninth embodiment described above as an example, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye transmits P-polarized yellow component light as it is.

  As shown in FIG. 16B, in the case where the green component light (specific color component light) is turned off, the liquid crystal main body 31G does not rotate the polarization direction of the green component light, and does not rotate the S-polarized green. The component light is transmitted as it is. Therefore, the green component light emitted from the liquid crystal main body 31G is shielded by the polarizing plate 33G.

  Here, the liquid crystal panel 30G may be a first type liquid crystal panel or a second type liquid crystal panel. In the tenth embodiment, in the case where the green component light is turned off, the green component light is shielded by the polarizing plate 33G, and in the case where the yellow component light is turned off, the yellow component light may be shielded by the polarizing plate 32G. .

  In the tenth embodiment, the case where yellow component light is superimposed on green component light and applied to the liquid crystal panel 30G has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, the tenth embodiment may be applied to a case where yellow component light is superimposed on blue component light and applied to the liquid crystal panel 30B.

(Function and effect)
According to the projection display apparatus 100 according to the tenth embodiment, in the case where the green component light is turned off, the green component light is shielded by the polarizing plate 33G, and in the case where the yellow component light is turned off, the polarizing plate 32G. The yellow component light is shielded.

  Generally, when turning off the color component light, the color component light is shielded by a polarizing plate provided on the light emitting side. In other words, not only when the green component light is turned off, but also when the yellow component light is turned off, it is common to shield the yellow component light by the polarizing plate 33G.

  In the tenth embodiment, since the polarizing plate that blocks yellow component light is the polarizing plate 32G provided on the light incident side, discoloration due to heat of the polarizing plate 33G provided on the light emitting side can be suppressed. .

[Eleventh embodiment]
Hereinafter, an eleventh embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the eleventh embodiment, the configuration of the liquid crystal panel 30 described above will be described in detail.

(Configuration of light modulation element)
The configuration of the light modulation element in the eleventh embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the liquid crystal panel 30 (particularly, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye or the liquid crystal panel 31Ye) in the eleventh embodiment. FIG. 17 is a view of the liquid crystal panel 30 as viewed from the light incident surface (or light emitting surface) side of the liquid crystal panel 30.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the liquid crystal panel 30 includes a plurality of segments 131 and a plurality of transparent electrodes 132.

  The segments 131 are arranged in a matrix and can be regarded as four regions (region A to region D).

  In the region (region A and region B) provided in the upper half of the liquid crystal panel 30, the area of the segment 131 becomes smaller as the position of the segment 131 becomes upward. On the other hand, in the region (region C and region D) provided in the lower half of the liquid crystal panel 30, the area of the segment 131 becomes smaller as the position of the segment 131 becomes lower.

  On the other hand, in a region (region A and region D) provided in the left half of the liquid crystal panel 30, a transparent electrode 132 is provided on the left side of each segment 131. In a region (region B and region C) provided in the right half of the liquid crystal panel 30, a transparent electrode 132 is provided on the right side of each segment 131.

  Here, the segment 131-1 to the segment 131-4 will be described as examples, and the configuration of each segment 131 will be described in more detail.

  The area of the segment 131-2 provided on the upper side of the segment 131-1 is smaller than the area of the segment 131-1 by the width of the transparent electrode 132-1 connected to the segment 131-1.

  The area of the segment 131-3 provided on the upper side of the segment 131-2 is smaller than the area of the segment 131-2 by the width of the transparent electrode 132-2 connected to the segment 131-2. That is, the area of the segment 131-3 is smaller than the area of the segment 131-1 by the width of the transparent electrode 132-1 and the transparent electrode 132-2.

  The area of the segment 131-4 provided on the upper side of the segment 131-3 is smaller than the area of the segment 131-3 by the width of the transparent electrode 132-3 connected to the segment 131-3. That is, the area of the segment 131-4 is smaller than the area of the segment 131-1 by the width of the transparent electrode 132-1 to the transparent electrode 132-3.

  The transparent electrode 132 is made of a transparent member and is connected to each segment 131. In addition, the transparent electrode 132 is provided in a space that is vacated by reducing the area of the segment 131.

  In a region (region A and region B) provided in the upper half of the liquid crystal panel 30, the transparent electrode 132 is connected to an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) (not shown) provided on the upper side of the liquid crystal panel 30. In the region (region C and region D) provided in the lower half of the liquid crystal panel 30, the transparent electrode 132 is connected to an FPC (not shown) provided on the lower side of the liquid crystal panel 30.

  In the eleventh embodiment, the case where the FPC is provided above and below the liquid crystal panel 30 is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, FPCs may be provided on the left and right sides of the liquid crystal panel 30. In this case, needless to say, the configuration shown in FIG.

(Function and effect)
According to the liquid crystal panel 30 according to the eleventh embodiment, it is not preferable to route the transparent electrode 132 in the thickness direction of the liquid crystal panel 30, that is, the transparent electrode 132 can be routed in the light incident surface (light emitting surface). In a preferred case, the space where the transparent electrode 132 is provided can be efficiently reduced. That is, the proportion of each segment 131 in the liquid crystal panel 30 increases, and the modulation effect by each segment 131 can be sufficiently obtained.

  By using the transparent electrode 132 as an electrode connected to each segment 131, it is possible to suppress a decrease in light utilization efficiency due to the electrode.

  Since the FPCs are provided above and below the liquid crystal panel 30, the length of the transparent electrode 132 is shortened, so that the electrical resistance of the transparent electrode 132 can be reduced and the width of the transparent electrode 132 can be reduced. .

[Utilization of yellow component light]
Hereinafter, utilization of yellow component light will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining light emitted from the light source 10 (UHP lamp) described above. Here, the amount of light is derived by the product of the energy of light emitted from the light source 10 and the relative visibility.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the relative visibility tends to decrease as the wavelength band corresponding to the green component light reaches its peak and the shorter wavelength (blue component light) side and longer wavelength (red component light) side. Accordingly, it is assumed that the energy of light emitted from the light source 10 such as a UHP lamp has peaks in this order around 440 nm (blue component light), 550 nm (green component light), and 580 nm (yellow component light). However, the amount of light emitted from the light source 10 is the largest in the wavelength band corresponding to the green component light. Further, the amount of light emitted from the light source 10 is large in a wavelength band corresponding to yellow component light, next to a wavelength band corresponding to green component light.

  Thus, it can be seen that the yellow component light greatly contributes to the light quantity of the image in terms of the energy of the light emitted from the light source 10 and the relative visibility.

  Accordingly, there has been proposed a projection display apparatus configured to use yellow component light that has not been conventionally used. For example, there is a projection display device that does not use a color filter that blocks yellow component light (for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-137289), and a four-plate projection display device (for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-287247). Proposed.

  In each of the embodiments described above, light intensity is increased by using yellow component light, and a decrease in color reproducibility is suppressed by using the liquid crystal panel 30Ye (or the liquid crystal panel 31Ye). Further, since the yellow component light emitted from the liquid crystal panel 30Ye (or the liquid crystal panel 31Ye) is irradiated to the other liquid crystal panels 30, the back focus of the projection lens unit 110 does not become longer than before.

[Other Embodiments]
Although the present invention has been described with reference to the above-described embodiments, it should not be understood that the descriptions and drawings constituting a part of this disclosure limit the present invention. From this disclosure, various alternative embodiments, examples and operational techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the fourth color component light is yellow component light, but is not limited to this. The fourth color component light may be cyan component light, magenta component light, or the like.

  In the embodiment described above, the fourth color component light is a single color component light, but is not limited to this. The fourth color component light may be a plurality of color component lights.

  In the embodiment described above, the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is lower than the resolutions of the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the liquid crystal panel 30B, but is not limited thereto. The resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye may be equal to the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30R, the liquid crystal panel 30G, and the liquid crystal panel 30B. Further, the resolution of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is “1”, that is, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye may not have the resolution.

  In the above-described embodiment, the phase difference plate 50 that rotates the polarization direction of the yellow component light by 90 ° is on the optical path of the yellow component light before the yellow component light is superimposed on the red component light (or green component light). However, the present invention is not limited to this. A narrow-band phase plate that rotates only the polarization direction of yellow component light by 90 ° may be provided on the optical path of the combined light emitted from the cross dichroic cube 60.

  In the ninth embodiment described above, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is provided at a position where the image plane of yellow component light is formed. However, as shown in the eleventh embodiment, the liquid crystal panel 30Ye has a resolution. The liquid crystal panel 30Ye may be provided at a position slightly deviated (about several mm) from the position where the image plane of yellow component light is formed. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of line-shaped unevenness corresponding to the transparent electrode 132 or the like in the projected image due to the transparent electrode 132 or the like (including a general metal electrode).

  When the transparent electrode 132 is provided on the liquid crystal panel 30Ye, line unevenness (moire) may occur due to diffraction of the yellow component light emitted from the segment 131 and the yellow component light transmitted through the transparent electrode 132. is there. In addition, when the vertical axis and the horizontal axis of the liquid crystal panel 30Ye are parallel to the vertical axis and the horizontal axis of the other liquid crystal panel 30, the line unevenness (moire) becomes remarkable. Accordingly, the transparent electrode 132 provided on the liquid crystal panel 30Ye is provided so as to be parallel to the oblique axis of the other liquid crystal panel 30 so as not to be parallel to the vertical axis and the horizontal axis of the other liquid crystal panel 30. It is preferable.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Light source, 21-27 ... Mirror, 30 ... Liquid crystal panel, 31 ... Liquid crystal panel 31, 41-43 ... Lens, 50 ... Phase difference plate, 51 ... Narrow Band phase difference plate, 60 to 61 ... Cross dichroic cube, 62 ... Cross mirror, 81 to 87 ... Lens, 100 ... Projection type image display device, 110 ... Projection lens unit, 120 ..Illumination unit 121-127 ... mirror 130 ... control unit 141-143 ... lens 181-190 ... lens 200 ... screen 210 ... signal receiving unit 220 ... modulation amount control unit, 241 to 244 ... lens, 281 to 290 ... lens, 321 to 328 ... mirror

Claims (3)

A first light modulation element that modulates first component light; a second light modulation element that modulates second component light; a third light modulation element that modulates third component light; the first light modulation element; A lighting device including a second light modulation element and a color combining unit that combines the light emitted from the third light modulation element;
A fourth color light modulation element for modulating the fourth color component light;
The fourth color component light emitted from the fourth color light modulation element is incident on any one of the first light modulation element, the second light modulation element, and the third light modulation element. A lighting device characterized by that. A light source that emits first component light, second component light, third component light, and fourth color component light, a first light modulation element that modulates the first component light, and a first light modulator that modulates the second component light. A color that combines light emitted from the two light modulation elements, the third light modulation element that modulates the third component light, the first light modulation element, the second light modulation element, and the third light modulation element A projection display apparatus comprising: a combining unit; and a projection unit that projects the light combined by the color combining unit,
A fourth color light modulation element for modulating the fourth color component light;
The fourth color component light emitted from the fourth color light modulation element is incident on any one of the first light modulation element, the second light modulation element, and the third light modulation element. A projection display apparatus characterized by the above. The projection display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
A light source that emits light including first component light, second component light, third component light, and fourth color component light;
Color separation means for separating light emitted from the light source into at least first component light, second component light, and third component light;
A projection display apparatus, further comprising:

Images