JP2010023304A - Recycling method of optical element, reusing method of optical element, sorting method of optical element, reusing method of optical element inclusion body, optical element inclusion body, lighting device, and display device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a sorting method of an optical element, a recycling method of an optical element, a reusing method of an optical element which can easily perform the recycling, reusing and sorting of the optical element, an optical element inclusion body, and a display device. <P>SOLUTION: An identifying element 41 is provided on the inclusion member 22 of the optical element inclusion body 2. A recyclable optical element 24 of the optical elements 24 of the inclusion of the optical element inclusion body 2 is specified from the information stored in the identifying element 41. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical element recycling method, an optical element reuse method, an optical element sorting method, an optical element package reuse method, an optical element package, an illumination device, and a display device.

  Conventionally, in a liquid crystal display device, a large number of optical elements are used for the purpose of improving the viewing angle and the luminance. As these optical elements, film-like or sheet-like materials such as a diffusion film and a prism sheet are used.

  FIG. 15 shows a configuration of a conventional liquid crystal display device. The liquid crystal display device includes an illumination device 101 that emits light, a diffusion plate 102 that diffuses the light emitted from the illumination device 101, and a plurality of optical elements that collect and diffuse the light diffused by the diffusion plate 102 103 and a liquid crystal panel 104.

  By the way, with the recent increase in size of image display devices, the weight and size of optical elements tend to increase. When the weight or size of the optical element increases as described above, the optical element is insufficiently rigid, and thus the optical element is deformed. Such deformation of the optical element affects the optical directivity on the display surface and causes a serious problem of luminance unevenness.

  Therefore, it has been proposed to improve the lack of rigidity of the optical element by increasing the thickness of the optical element. However, the liquid crystal display device becomes thick, and the advantages of the thin and lightweight liquid crystal display device are impaired. Accordingly, it has been proposed to improve the lack of rigidity of a sheet-like or film-like optical element by bonding optical elements together with a transparent adhesive (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2005-301147 A

  However, in the technique of Patent Document 1, since the optical elements are bonded together with a transparent adhesive, there is a problem that the liquid crystal display device itself is still thick, although not as much as the improvement method for increasing the thickness of the optical elements. Further, the display characteristics of the liquid crystal display device may be deteriorated by the transparent adhesive.

  In order to solve such problems, the present applicant has made extensive studies to improve the lack of rigidity of the optical element while suppressing the increase in the thickness of the liquid crystal display device or the deterioration of the display characteristics of the liquid crystal display device. As a result, the inventors have proposed an optical element packaging body in which an optical element and a support body are packaged by a packaging member, and a backlight and a liquid crystal display device including the optical element packaging body. (See Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-246293)

  Here, in view of consideration of environmental problems, it is desirable that the optical element package or the optical element that is an inclusion thereof is recycled or reused. For example, it is desirable that the optical element is reused as it is, or after the optical element is dissolved and returned to the raw material state, it is recycled again as an optical element or as another product.

  On the other hand, since some or all of the optical elements are included in the optical element package, it is difficult to distinguish functions, materials, and the like related to the optical element from the outside of the package member. Moreover, the number of optical elements covered by the covering member is not limited to one, and when a plurality of optical elements are included, those that can be reused or recycled depending on the material and configuration of the optical elements, and those that are impossible May be mixed. Therefore, it is necessary to specify an optical element that can be reused or recycled in a reuse or recycling process.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to recycle, reuse, and sort optical elements, and to reuse optical elements, to reuse optical elements, to separate optical elements, and to reuse optical element packages. It is in providing a utilization method, an optical element package, an illumination device, and a display device.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the inventors of the present application are given information on the optical element to the covering member in order to recognize the information about the optical element included in the covering member from the outside of the optical element covering body. It is proposed to provide an identification element. Furthermore, a recycling method, a reuse method, and a separation method of the optical element included in the optical element covering member including the identification element are proposed.

That is, in order to solve the above-described problem, the first invention
Recyclable optical element of one or two or more optical elements and material of the optical element in a covering member of an optical element covering body having one or two or more optical elements and a covering member that covers the optical elements Providing an identification element storing information for identifying
Recognize information by reading information stored in the identification element from the outside,
This is a recycling method for optical elements that is separated and recycled based on recognized information.

The second invention is
A reusable optical element of one or two or more optical elements and a reusable optical element of the optical element covering body including one or two or more optical elements and a covering member that covers the optical elements. Provide an identification element that stores information that identifies the function,
Recognize information by reading information stored in the identification element from the outside,
This is a method of reusing an optical element that sorts and reuses a reusable optical element based on recognized information.

The third invention is
A reusable optical element of one or two or more optical elements and a reusable optical element of the optical element covering body including one or two or more optical elements and a covering member that covers the optical elements. Provide an identification element that stores information that identifies the function,
Recognize information by reading information stored in the identification element from the outside,
Sort reusable optical elements based on information,
This is an optical element recycling method in which a reusable optical element is inspected before or after sorting the reusable optical element, and the optical element is recycled when the optical element cannot be reused.

The fourth invention is:
Of the plurality of optical elements, the recyclable first optical element and the first optical element of the optical element package including a plurality of optical elements and a packaging member that encompasses the optical elements Provided is an identification element storing first information for specifying a material, a second optical element that can be reused among a plurality of optical elements, and second information for specifying a function of the second optical element,
Recognizing the first information and the second information by reading the first information and the second information stored in the identification element from the outside,
This is an optical element separation method for separating the first optical element and the second optical element based on the recognized first information and second information.

The fifth invention is:
Having one or two or more optical elements, and a covering member including the optical elements;
The covering member is provided with an identification element,
The discriminating element is an optical element package that stores information that specifies a recyclable or reusable optical element and its material or function among one or more optical elements.

The sixth invention is:
One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that includes the optical elements, and includes an incident surface and an output surface of light emitted from a light source,
An identification element is provided on the periphery of the covering member on the incident surface side,
The discriminating element stores information specifying the recyclable or reusable optical element of one or more optical elements and the material or function thereof. At least one of the one or more optical elements has a diffusion function. An optical element having
When the light source is lit, the optical element having the diffusing function scatters light to prevent visual recognition of the image of the identification element from the exit surface side of the optical element comprehensive body.

The seventh invention
One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that includes the optical elements, and includes an incident surface and an output surface of light emitted from a light source,
An identification element is provided on the periphery of the covering member on the incident surface side,
The discriminating element stores information specifying the recyclable or reusable optical element of one or more optical elements and the material or function thereof. At least one of the one or more optical elements has a diffusion function. An optical element having
When the light source is turned on, the illumination device includes the optical element package so that the optical element having the diffusing function scatters light and prevents the image of the identification element from being viewed from the exit surface side of the optical element package.

The eighth invention
One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that includes the optical elements, and includes an incident surface and an output surface of light emitted from a light source,
An identification element is provided on the periphery of the covering member on the incident surface side,
The discriminating element stores information specifying the recyclable or reusable optical element of one or more optical elements and the material or function thereof. At least one of the one or more optical elements has a diffusion function. An optical element having
A display device equipped with an optical element package that prevents the visual recognition of the image of the identification element from the exit surface side of the optical element package by scattering the light when the light source is turned on. .

The ninth invention
A display device including a light source, one or more optical elements, and a covering member that covers the optical elements, and an optical element covering body that includes an incident surface and an exit surface for light emitted from the light source. In a part of the display device excluding the inclusion member or the optical element inclusion body,
An identification element storing information indicating that the display device has an optical element package is provided,
Recognize information by reading the information stored in the identification element from the outside,
This is a method of reusing an optical element package that removes the optical element package from the display device based on the recognized information.

The tenth invention is
An illumination device including a light source, one or more optical elements, and a covering member that covers the optical elements, and an optical element covering body that includes an incident surface and an exit surface for light emitted from the light source A part of the lighting device excluding the inclusion member or the optical element inclusion body,
Providing an identification element storing information indicating that the illumination device has an optical element package;
Recognize information by reading the information stored in the identification element from the outside,
This is a method of reusing an optical element package that removes the optical element package from the illumination device based on the recognized information.

The eleventh invention is
A light source;
One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that covers the optical elements, and an optical element covering body that includes an incident surface and an exit surface for light emitted from a light source;
Including
An identification element is provided in a part of the backlight unit excluding the covering member or the optical element covering body,
The identification element is an illumination device in which information indicating that the illumination device has an optical element package is stored.

The twelfth invention
A light source;
One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that covers the optical elements, and an optical element covering body that includes an incident surface and an exit surface for light emitted from a light source;
A display panel;
Including
A discriminating element is provided in a part of the display device excluding the covering member or the optical element covering body,
The identification element is a display device in which information indicating that the display device has an optical element package is stored.

  In the first invention and the second invention, the optical element covering member has a configuration in which one or two or more optical elements are covered by the covering member, so that the optical element is protected by the covering member. Therefore, the optical element that is the inclusion of the optical element package is extremely suitable for reuse or recycling.

  Here, in this specification, the term “recycle” means that the optical element package, the optical element, etc. are melted and returned to the raw material state, and then used again as an optical element or as another product. Means. On the other hand, “reuse” means that the optical element package, the optical element, and the like are reused as they are (or after a predetermined inspection or the like). However, the reuse includes a case where a part of the optical element is punched out and incorporated into a display device having a smaller screen size. In the present specification, unless otherwise specified, the “optical element” means one or more optical elements.

  In the first and second inventions, the recyclable or reusable optical element is preferably formed of a single material. By being formed of a single material, a highly pure raw material can be obtained particularly when recycled. Examples of the single material include polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET, PETE), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), poly Lactic acid (PLA), polypropylene (PP), biaxially oriented polypropylene (OPP), polyamide (PA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS), polyester, ABS resin (ABS), acrylic Examples thereof include a resin (PMMA), a polyacetal resin (POM), and a styrene-butadiene copolymer (SBC).

  Examples of recyclable or reusable optical elements typically include a prism sheet, a non-uniformity sheet, a diffusion sheet, a diffusion plate, and a reflective polarizer, but are not limited thereto. For example, in the case of a prism sheet, as described above, it is desirable that the base portion and the lens portion are integrally formed of a single material.

  In the first invention, when there are a plurality of recyclable optical elements of different materials in the optical element package, the plurality of optical elements may be sorted according to the material. On the other hand, in the second invention, when there are a plurality of reusable optical elements having different functions, the plurality of optical elements may be sorted by function.

  When there are a plurality of optical elements, it is desirable that the optical elements are not bonded to each other with a transparent adhesive as in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-301147). This is because, when they are bonded together, when the optical elements are recycled or reused, it takes time to remove the optical elements, or recycling or reuse becomes impossible.

  The same can be said for the packaging member and the optical element. The covering member and the optical element are preferably in close contact with each other in order to prevent deterioration of optical characteristics due to wrinkles and sagging, but are preferably not bonded with an adhesive or the like from the viewpoint of recycling or reuse.

  Note that the covering member may have an optical function by providing a structure, imparting a shape, adding fine particles, imparting a void, imparting anisotropy, or the like. For example, a light diffusing function, a light condensing function, a reflective polarization function, and a light dividing function can be provided. An optical functional layer having these functions may be laminated on the covering member.

  The optical element package may be separately provided with a support for supporting the optical element. When the optical element is in the form of a sheet or film and the film thickness is thin, it is desirable because rigidity can be ensured by providing a support. As the support, in addition to a transparent plate such as plastic, for example, a support having an optical function such as a diffusion plate can be used. The support having an optical function is included in the optical element of the present invention, and is naturally an object to be recycled or reused.

  In the first and second inventions, in addition to the material and function of the optical element, the identification element is information regarding at least one of the optical element specifications, structure, size, weight, model number, model, manufacturer, manufacturing location, and manufacturing time. It is desirable to store further. In addition, the information stored in the identification element may include any information related to the optical element, the optical element package, and the packaging member.

  As the identification element, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, an IC tag, or the like can be used. The bar code and the two-dimensional code are simple because they can be provided by printing directly on the covering member 22.

  On the other hand, an IC tag has a large amount of information that can be stored and can be written and erased. Therefore, an IC tag is advantageous when storing a lot of information about an optical element or updating information. In addition, since the IC tag can be read from the outside by electromagnetic waves, even if the optical element package is incorporated in a lighting device (for example, a backlight unit of a liquid crystal display) or a display device, The reader / writer device can read and write information.

  The identification element may be provided not only in the covering member but also in an optical element included in the covering member as long as there is no problem in reading information.

  In the second invention, a predetermined inspection may be performed on the reusable optical element when the reusable optical element is separated or before and after. For example, an inspection similar to the manufacturing process of a new optical element such as an inspection of optical characteristics and quality may be performed.

  As in the third invention, when it is determined by inspection that the optical element is not reusable, after undergoing a process such as cutting as necessary, the optical element is melted to produce a raw material, It is also possible to recycle the optical element.

  In the fourth invention, in the optical element package, a recyclable optical element (appropriately referred to as a first optical element) and a reusable optical element (appropriately referred to as a second optical element) are included. When they are mixed, the two can be identified and correctly classified based on the information stored in the identification element.

  In the fifth aspect of the invention, an identification element is provided on the covering member, and the optical element that can be recycled or reused and information that specifies the material or function of the optical element are stored, so that the optical element is recognized from the outside and separated. It becomes easy.

  For example, when recycling an optical element, the optical element can be sorted based on the information by storing information on the material of the optical element in the identification element. On the other hand, when the optical element is reused, for example, by storing information on the function of the optical element in the identification element, the optical element can be sorted based on the information.

  In the sixth to eighth inventions, an image of the discriminating element when viewed from the exit surface side of the optical element package when the light source is turned on, such as a backlight, is substantially It cannot be visually recognized.

  When the optical element package is applied by being incorporated into a backlight unit of a display device, for example, the light emitted from the backlight passes through the pixels of the display panel (for example, a liquid crystal panel) through the optical element package, An image is displayed. Here, if an identification element is provided on the packaging member of the optical element packaging body, the image of the identification element may be displayed by the light emitted from the backlight, or a desired image display may be affected. is there.

  However, as in the sixth to eighth aspects of the present invention, an identification element is provided in the peripheral portion of the covering member on the incident surface side, and an optical element having a diffusing function as at least one of one or more optical elements (hereinafter referred to as “diffusing function”). If appropriately referred to as “optical element”, the image of the identification element when viewed from the exit surface side of the optical element package when the light source such as a backlight is turned on cannot be substantially visually recognized by the diffusion function optical element. Can be. That is, the problem that the image of the identification element is displayed outside the display device or affects the desired image display can be solved.

  Two or more diffusion function optical elements may be provided in the optical element package. Further, a diffusion function optical element may be provided outside the optical element package. In this case, from the viewpoint of erasing the image of the identification element, the diffusion function optical element is provided outside the light emitting surface side of the optical element package. It is desirable to provide it. The optical element package according to the sixth aspect of the invention can be employed in any electronic apparatus including a lighting device (for example, a backlight unit of a display device) and a display device.

  Ninth to tenth aspects of the present invention relate to a method of reusing an optical element package itself among illumination devices or display devices on which the optical element package is mounted. In the ninth to tenth inventions, it can be said that the optical element covering member includes one or more optical elements included in the covering member, and thus the optical element is protected by the covering member. Therefore, as described above, the optical element that is an inclusion is extremely suitable for reuse or recycling. Further, if the covering member itself does not have any problems such as optical characteristics and quality, the optical element covering body itself can be reused.

  In the ninth to tenth aspects of the present invention, an identification element is provided in a package member of the optical element package, or a part of the illumination device or display device excluding the optical element package, and the identification element includes the illumination element. Information indicating that the device or the display device has the optical element package is stored. Therefore, by reading the information stored in the identification element from the outside, it can be easily recognized from the outside that the illumination device or the display device has the optical element package. Can contribute to reuse.

  In the ninth to tenth inventions, it is desirable to use an IC tag capable of remotely recognizing information as the identification element so that the presence of the optical element package can be easily recognized from the outside of the illumination device or the display device. .

  In the ninth to tenth inventions, it is desirable to perform a predetermined inspection on the optical element covering body after the optical element covering body is removed from the illumination device or the display device. As a result of the inspection, if it is determined that the optical element inclusion body itself cannot be reused, the inclusion member is removed, and the optical element that is the inclusion is changed according to the method proposed in the first to fourth inventions. It can be sorted and recycled or reused.

  In the ninth to tenth inventions, the identification element further stores information relating to at least one of the configuration, specifications, size, weight, model number, model, manufacturer, manufacturing location, and manufacturing time of the optical element package. It is desirable that In addition, assuming that the optical element itself, which is an inclusion, may be recycled or reused, the identification element is made of the material, function, specifications, size, weight, model number, model, manufacturer, manufacture of the optical element. It is desirable to further store information on at least one of the location and the production time.

  In the eleventh to twelfth aspects of the present invention, a discriminating element is provided in a covering member of the optical element covering member, or a part of the illumination device or display device excluding the optical element covering member. Information indicating that the device or the display device has the optical element package is stored. Therefore, by reading the information stored in the identification element from the outside, it is possible to easily recognize that the illumination device or the display device has the optical element package, and the optical element package is reused. Can contribute.

  In order to easily recognize the presence of the optical element package from the outside of the illumination device or the display device, it is desirable to use an IC tag capable of remotely recognizing information as the identification element.

  According to the present invention, the optical elements constituting the optical element package can be easily recycled, reused, and sorted. In addition, the optical element package can be easily reused.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

  First, in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, an optical element to which the present invention is applied and an optical element package including the optical element as an inclusion will be described.

  An optical element package to which the present invention is applied can be incorporated in any electronic device such as a lighting device (typically a backlight unit of a liquid crystal display) and a display device (typically a liquid crystal television). Is. For example, the optical element package is used as a member constituting the liquid crystal display device in order to improve the display characteristics of the liquid crystal display device.

  A configuration example of a liquid crystal display device using an optical element package will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid crystal display device includes a backlight 4 that emits light, and a liquid crystal panel 3 that displays an image based on the light emitted from the backlight 4.

  The backlight 4 includes an illumination device 1 that emits light, and an optical element package 2 that adjusts the characteristics of the light emitted from the illumination device 1 and emits the light toward the liquid crystal panel 3. The illumination device 1 is, for example, a direct illumination device, and includes a light source 11 that emits light and a reflector 12 that reflects the light emitted from the light source 11 and directs the light toward the liquid crystal panel 3. Examples of the light source 11 include a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), a hot cathode fluorescent lamp (HCFL), organic electroluminescence (OEL), and inorganic electroluminescence (IEL). ElectroLuminescence), a light emitting diode (LED), or the like can be used. The reflector 12 is provided, for example, so as to cover the lower side and the side of the one or more light sources 11 and reflects light emitted from the one or more light sources 11 to the lower side and the side to It is for turning in the direction.

  The liquid crystal panel 3 is for displaying information by temporally and spatially modulating light supplied from the light source 11. Examples of the liquid crystal panel 3 include a twisted nematic (TN) mode, a super twisted nematic (STN) mode, a vertically aligned (VA) mode, and a horizontal alignment (In-Plane Switching: IPS). Mode, Optically Compensated Birefringence (OCB) mode, Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal (FLC) mode, Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) mode, Phase Transition Guest Host (Phase) A display mode such as Change Guest Host (PCGH) mode can be used.

The optical element package 2 includes an optical element stack 21 and a cover member 22 that covers the optical element stack 21. From the viewpoint of suppressing image degradation, the optical element laminate 21 and the covering member 22 are preferably in close contact with each other. The optical element laminate 21 supports one or a plurality of optical elements 24A for adjusting the characteristics of the light by performing a process such as diffusion or condensing on the light emitted from the illumination device 1, and supports the one or a plurality of optical elements 24A. The support 23 to be laminated is laminated. The covering member 22 has a first region R ₁ through which light incident on the optical element stack 21 is transmitted and a second region R ₂ through which light emitted from the optical element stack 21 is transmitted.

  Hereinafter, among the surfaces of the optical element 24A, the support member 23, the covering member 22, and the optical element laminate 21, the surface on which light from the illumination device 1 is incident is the incident surface, and the light incident from this incident surface is emitted. The surface is referred to as an exit surface, and a surface located between the entrance surface and the exit surface is referred to as an end surface. Further, the entrance surface and the exit surface are collectively referred to as a main surface as appropriate.

  The one or more optical elements 24A include at least a light collecting element. When the optical element package 2 includes a plurality of optical elements 24A, optical elements other than the light condensing elements are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected according to desired characteristics of the liquid crystal display device. Specifically, as the optical element 24A other than the light condensing element, for example, a light diffusion element, a light control element, or the like can be used. The number and type of the optical elements 24A are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected according to desired characteristics of the liquid crystal display device. Examples of the shape of the optical element A include a film shape, a sheet shape, and a plate shape. However, the shape is not particularly limited to these shapes, and is arbitrarily selected according to the required characteristics of the liquid crystal display device. be able to. Specifically, the thickness of the optical element 24A is preferably 5 to 1000 μm.

  The condensing element is an optical element that includes a base material and a prism array formed on one main surface of the base material and has a function of condensing light. The prism forming the prism row is, for example, a columnar body having a cross-sectional shape such as a polygonal shape, a circular shape, a hyperbola, or an elliptical shape, and preferably a columnar body having a triangular cross-sectional shape. Examples of the optical element having such a columnar body include 3EF BEF. As a material for the light concentrating element, for example, a material mainly composed of a polymer material such as polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyethylene naphthalate, styrene butadiene copolymer, polypropylene, or cycloolefin polymer can be used. The prism row on the substrate can be formed, for example, by transferring a pattern to one main surface of the substrate by thermal transfer. Alternatively, it may be formed by applying an ultraviolet curable resin to a substrate and curing it after pattern transfer.

  The support body 23 has, for example, a plate shape. The support 23 is, for example, a transparent plate that transmits the light emitted from the illumination device 1 or an optical plate that adjusts the characteristics of the light by subjecting the light emitted from the illumination device 1 to diffusion or condensing. is there. As such an optical plate, for example, a diffusion plate, a phase difference plate, a prism plate, or the like can be used. The thickness, cross-sectional width, length, and rigidity (elastic modulus) of the support 23 may be selected in consideration of the tension applied to the covering member 22 when the optical element 24 and the supporting body 23 are covered by the covering member 22. preferable. Specifically, the thickness of the support 23 is preferably 50 to 10,000 μm, more preferably 100 to 5000 μm.

  The support 23 is mainly composed of, for example, a polymer material, and the transmittance is preferably 30% or more. Further, when the liquid crystal display device is stored in a high temperature environment of 40 ° C., the temperature inside the liquid crystal display device is increased to about 60 ° C., and in an actual liquid crystal display device or the like, a polarizer is used at 70 ° C. Considering that a temperature rise suppressing function is provided in order to avoid deterioration, it is preferable that the support member 23 has a small rigidity variation up to 70 ° C. and has a certain degree of elasticity. . Examples of the material of the support 23 having such characteristics include polycarbonate (elastic modulus 2.1 GPa), polystyrene (elastic modulus 2.8 GPa), zeonore resin (elastic modulus 2.1 GPa) as a cycloolefin resin, and acrylic. Resins (elastic modulus: 3 GPa) and the like are listed as the main components. Among these materials, the main component is a material having the lowest elastic modulus, an elastic modulus equal to or higher than that of polycarbonate resin (2.1 GPa or higher). Are preferred.

  The main surfaces of the optical element 24 </ b> A and the support 23 are preferably subjected to uneven treatment or contain fine particles. This is because rubbing and friction can be reduced. In addition, the optical element 24A and the support 23 may contain additives such as a light stabilizer, an ultraviolet absorber, an antistatic agent, a flame retardant, and an antioxidant as necessary, so that an ultraviolet absorbing function and an infrared absorbing function can be obtained. A function, an electrostatic suppression function, and the like may be imparted to the optical element 24A and the support 23. Further, the optical element 24A and the support 23 are subjected to surface treatment such as anti-glare treatment (AG treatment) or anti-reflection treatment (AR treatment) so as to diffuse reflected light or reduce the reflected light itself. Also good. In addition, the surfaces of the optical element 24A and the support 23 may have a function for reflecting ultraviolet rays and infrared rays.

  It is preferable that tension is applied to the covering member 22 in a state where the optical element 24A and the support 23 are included. It is because generation | occurrence | production of the wrinkle etc. with respect to the covering member 22 can be suppressed, and deterioration of the display characteristic of an image can be suppressed. The presence / absence of tension in the covering member 22 and the measurement of the tension can be performed, for example, as follows using a TMA (thermal / stress / strain measuring apparatus EXSTAR6000 TMA / SS) manufactured by Seiko.

  First, in a state where tension is applied to the covering member 22, a 5 mm × 50 mm test piece is cut out from the central portion of the optical element covering member 2 with a rectangular mold. At this time, the test piece is cut out so that the long side and the short side of the test piece are parallel to the long side and the short side of the support 23, respectively. Next, after a test piece is sandwiched between glass plates so that there is no slack, the length is measured with a tool microscope manufactured by Topcon Corporation. Since the cut-out test piece is in a state in which the tension is released, it is in a state of being contracted by more than 50 mm. From this contracted state, the dimensions are converted so as to return to the initial 50 mm state, and the test piece is recut and set for TMA. Next, the tension at the initial temperature of 25 ° C. is measured. Any tension measuring instrument can be used as long as it can measure the stress by applying a tensile stress to a predetermined length, and the presence or absence of tension can be confirmed.

  The covering member 22 has, for example, a film shape or a sheet shape. Examples of the shape of the covering member 22 include a cylindrical shape or a bag shape, but are not particularly limited to these shapes, and may be appropriately selected according to the desired characteristics and shape of the optical element covering member 2. You can choose. In addition, the packaging member 22 may include, for example, one or a plurality of packaging members, and the packaging member 22 may be formed into a tubular shape or a bag shape by joining the peripheral portions of the packaging members as necessary. When the covering member 22 is bonded, the bonding position is preferably outside the display area of the optical element laminate 21.

  The covering member 22 preferably has one or a plurality of openings. By having such an opening, when the optical element stack 21 is covered by the covering member 22, the air in the covering member 22 is discharged to the outside and the optical element stack 21 and the covering member 22 are brought into close contact with each other. Thus, the occurrence of image defects can be suppressed. Further, by having such an opening, when the constituent material of the support 23 and the optical element 24A wrapped by the covering member 22 is volatilized, this volatile component is discharged to the outside of the optical element covering 2; By suppressing condensation or solidification of volatile components in the packaging member 22, the occurrence of image defects can be suppressed. In the case where a plurality of openings are provided in the covering member 22, it is preferable that openings be provided on the opposing end surfaces of the optical element laminate 21 or in the vicinity thereof. This is because the occurrence of image defects can be further suppressed by efficiently discharging the volatile component to the outside of the optical element covering member 2 and further suppressing condensation or solidification of the volatile component in the covering member 22. .

  The opening is preferably provided at a position corresponding to the outside of the display area of the optical element stack 21, and more preferably at a position corresponding to the end face of the optical element stack 21 or in the vicinity thereof. By providing the opening at such a position, it is possible to prevent deterioration in image quality due to the opening. When the optical element laminate 21 has corners, it is preferable to provide openings at portions corresponding to the corners of the optical element laminate 21 and expose the corners from the openings. Specifically, when the optical element laminate 21 has a rectangular shape as a whole, the covering member 22 is provided with openings at positions corresponding to the four corners of the optical element laminate 21, and the optical elements are formed from the openings. It is preferable to expose each corner of the laminate 21. The size and shape of the opening are preferably selected in consideration of the air discharge performance in the manufacturing process of the optical element covering member 2, the shape and size of the optical element laminate 21, the durability of the covering member 22, and the like. Examples include a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a semicircular shape, a triangular shape, a quadrangular shape, a rhombus shape, and a slit shape, but are not limited to these shapes.

The covering member 22 is, for example, a transparent single-layer or multi-layer film or sheet. The thickness of the covering member 22 is selected to be, for example, 5 to 5000 μm. Further, the thickness of the covering member 22 may be different between the _first region R ₁ and the second region R ₂ . Which of the first region R ₁ and the second region R ₂ is made thicker can be selected according to a desired purpose. For example, in order to protect the support body 23 and the optical element 24 from the heat generated from the light source 11 and to suppress the shape change thereof, the thickness of the first region R ₁ is changed to the thickness of the second region R ₂ . It is preferable to increase the thickness. Moreover, you may make it the covering member 22 enclose the structure as an aggregate.

  At least the covering member 22 disposed between the light condensing element and the polarizer has a phase difference. By having the phase difference, the light component launched by the light collecting element such as a prism sheet is converted by the covering member 22, and the light transmitted through the polarizer 3a can be increased. Moreover, it is preferable that the covering member 22 has at least one of contractibility and stretchability. By having such characteristics, the optical element laminate 21 can be included in a state where tension is applied to the covering member 22. Therefore, the covering member 22, the support body 23, and the optical element 24 can be brought into close contact with each other, and generation of wrinkles in the covering member 22 can be suppressed. Examples of the shrinkability include heat shrinkability and infrared shrinkage. Moreover, as the covering member 22, a stretched member is preferable. This is because the stretching process can impart two characteristics to the covering member 22 such as phase difference and shrinkage. That is, the optical element encapsulant 2 is superior to the optical element encapsulant 2 in that it has a function of including the optical element, rather than a structure in which the phase difference element is disposed between the condensing element and the polarizer 3a.

  As the material of the covering member 22, it is preferable to use a material mainly composed of a polymer material having heat shrinkability and capable of expressing a phase difference. Examples of such a polymer material include polypropylene, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polystyrene, butadiene, styrene butadiene copolymer, and polymethyl methacrylate. These materials may be used alone or in combination. The material of the covering member 22 is not limited to the above material, and can be arbitrarily selected depending on the required characteristics of the covering member 22.

  The thermal contraction rate of the covering member 22 is preferably 0.2% or more, more preferably 5% or more, still more preferably 10% or more, and most preferably 20% or more. By doing in this way, it is because the adhesiveness of the covering member 22 and the optical element laminated body 21 can be improved. The heat shrinkage rate is a heat shrinkage rate in a process of covering the optical element laminate 21 with the covering member 22. It is preferable that the heat shrink process is higher than the temperature in the lighting device that rises due to the heat generated from the light source 11. Specifically, it is preferable to perform the heat shrink process at 100 ° C to 150 ° C. Therefore, said heat shrinkage means the shrinkage in 100 to 150 degreeC. The heat deformation temperature of the covering member 22 is preferably 80 ° C. or higher, more preferably 90 ° C. or higher. This is because the covering member 22 is not deformed by the heat generated from the light source 11 so that the optical element covering body is not warped, wrinkled, or the like.

  Moreover, as the material of the covering member 22, a material mainly composed of a polymer material that absorbs infrared rays and thermally shrinks is also preferable. Examples of such a polymer material include those containing a material having an absorption region in the infrared region. By using such a material, when the optical element covering body 2 is irradiated with infrared rays, only the covering member 22 can absorb the infrared rays. Therefore, the contraction of only the covering member 22 among the constituent members of the optical element covering body 2 can proceed. Even when the shrinkage process is performed by infrared rays, the shrinkage rate is preferably 0.2% or more, more preferably 5% or more, even more preferably 10% or more, and most preferably 20% or more.

  The covering member 22 is 1 from the viewpoint of scratch resistance on the surface, prevention of adhesion to the liquid crystal panel 3, prevention of sticking to the included optical element 24 and the support 23, or prevention of scratches due to vibration during transportation. It is preferable to contain seeds or two or more fillers.

  Further, the packaging member 22 may further contain additives such as a light stabilizer, an ultraviolet absorber, an antistatic agent, a flame retardant, and an antioxidant, if necessary, so that the ultraviolet absorbing function, the infrared absorbing function, and the electrostatic You may make it provide the suppression member etc. to the covering member 22. FIG. Further, the covering member 22 may be subjected to surface treatment such as anti-glare treatment (AG treatment) and anti-reflection treatment (AR treatment) to diffuse the reflected light or reduce the reflected light itself. Furthermore, a function of transmitting light in a specific wavelength region such as UV-A light (about 315 to 400 nm) may be added.

  In the configuration example of the display device described above, the optical element 24A may be omitted. In that case, the covering member 22 may have an optical function. Further, in the above-described configuration example of the display device, as illustrated in FIG. 14 described later, the covering member 22 itself may be omitted.

(First embodiment)
Next explained is a method for recycling an optical element according to the first embodiment of the invention. First, an outline of a method for recycling an optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The optical element recycling method according to the first embodiment of the present invention collects the optical element package 2 as shown in FIG. 2a and stacks the optical element as an inclusion as shown in FIGS. 2b to 2c. Among the optical elements 24 constituting the body 21, the recyclable optical elements 24 are sorted and recycled.

  FIG. 3 shows an overview of an example of the optical element package 2. The optical element package 2 shown in FIG. 3A has a configuration in which an optical element stack 21 including a plurality of optical elements is covered by a band-shaped package member 22. In this example, an opening is provided in the end face of the optical element covering member 2, so that the optical element stack 21 of the inclusion can be easily taken out. The optical element package 2 shown in FIG. 3B is optically provided by the packaging member 22 provided with openings so that the corners of the optical element stack 21 are exposed corresponding to the corners of the optical element stack 21. It has a configuration including the element stack 21. In the optical element covering body 2 shown in FIG. 3B, a perforation 42 is provided on the covering member 22 in order to make it easy to take out the included optical element stack 21.

  In the optical element recycling method according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the identification element 41 is provided on the packaging member 22 of the optical element packaging body 2. The identification element 41 includes information indicating whether or not the optical element 24 is recyclable, and further, the material, function, film configuration, specifications, size, weight, and model number of the optical element 24 of the optical element package 2 or inclusion. Information on at least one of the model, the manufacturer, the manufacturing location, and the manufacturing time is stored. As the identification element 41, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, an IC (Integrates Circuit) tag, or the like can be used. As will be described later, based on the information stored in the identification element 41, the recyclable optical element 24 is specified among the optical elements 24 included in the optical element package 2.

  FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of the optical element recycling method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In step S11, the optical element covering body 2 is collected. In step S12, information on the identification element 41 provided on the covering member 22 is read. In step S13, information on the optical element 24 is acquired. Reading of information of the identification element 41 is performed using, for example, a barcode reader, an IC tag reader, or the like.

  The acquired information is displayed on the monitor 16 or the like so that the operator can easily manage the recycling system according to the present invention. The monitor 16 displays, for example, the film configuration of the optical element package, the functional material of each optical element 24, and information on whether or not recycling is possible. The display of the acquired information on the monitor 16 is not always necessary and may be omitted.

  In step S14, the optical element 24A is extracted from the covering member 22. In step S15, the recyclable optical element 24 and the non-recyclable optical element 24 are sorted based on the acquired information. The separation can be performed based on, for example, the material of the optical element 24 and information on whether recycling is possible. In the case where there are a plurality of optical elements 24 made of different materials, the optical elements 24 may be classified for each material.

  The optical element 24 that can be recycled by the separation process in step S15 is decomposed into raw materials through a process such as melting in step S16, and is generated as a recycled raw material in step S17. For example, a resin is usually processed into a pellet.

  In step S18, the recycled raw material is formed into an optical element 24 typified by, for example, an optical sheet. In step S19, the recycled raw material is used again as an inclusion of the optical element package 2 in the optical element package manufacturing process. Can do. In step S20, when the optical element package 2 is commercialized, and in step 11, the optical element package 2 is collected again, the optical element 24 is recycled by the above-described process or a second embodiment described later. The optical element can be reused by the method for reusing the optical element.

  Of course, the optical element 24 molded from the recycled raw material can be used not as an inclusion of the optical element package 2 but as a single optical element 24. Further, the recycled raw material can be recycled as another product different from the optical element 24 as in step S21.

  On the other hand, the optical element 24 that has been made unrecyclable undergoes necessary processing such as cutting and melting in step 31 and is discarded in step 32.

  According to the recycling method of the optical element according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the identification element 41 is provided on the packaging member 22 of the optical element packaging body 2, and the recyclable or reusable optical element 24 is provided on the identification element 41. Further, by storing information specifying the material or function thereof, it becomes easy to recognize and sort the optical element 24 from the outside. For example, when the optical element 24 is recycled, the information about the material of the optical element 24 is stored in the identification element 41, so that the optical element 24 can be sorted based on the information.

  A configuration example of a system to which the recycling method according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described with reference to FIG. In this system, an IC chip 216 is used as the identification element 41. The IC chip 216 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a memory 202, an input interface 203 and an output interface 204, an input antenna 205, and an output antenna 206. The reader / writer 217 includes an output antenna 207 and an input antenna 208, an output interface 209 and an input interface 210, and a controller 211.

  The CPU 201 controls data transmission / reception between the IC chip 216 and the reader / writer 217. The memory 202 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a nonvolatile memory (flash memory, an EPROM (Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory), an FRAM (Ferroelectric Random). Access Memory) and the like, and stores an operation program of the CPU 201, information on the optical element 24, and the like. The output / input antennas 205 to 208 are used for communication between the IC chip and the reader / writer and for supplying power to the IC chip 216. For example, an induced electromotive force based on an electromagnetic wave transmitted from the reader / writer 217 is supplied as electric power. The input / output interfaces 203 to 204 perform communication control between the IC chip 216 and the reader / writer 217.

  The IC chip 216 communicates with the reader / writer 217 using the electromagnetic wave 300 via the output / input antennas 205 to 208, and information (data) related to the optical element 24 stored in the memory 201 is exchanged. The controller 211 of the reader / writer 217 is connected to the computer 212 and its operation is controlled.

  The computer 212 collates the information regarding the optical element 24 acquired from the IC chip 216 with the information stored in the database 215, and specifies the recyclable optical element 24. The monitor 219 displays information about the acquired optical element 24. Then, the computer 212 controls the controller 213 and sorts the optical element 24 into recyclable and non-recyclable by the operation of the optical element sorting mechanism 214. Then, the separated recyclable optical element 24 is decomposed into raw materials through a process such as melting and recycled.

(Second Embodiment)
An optical element reuse method according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, the outline of the optical element reuse method according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the method of reusing an optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 6a, the optical element package 2 is recovered, and as shown in FIGS. The reusable optical element 24 is separated from the plurality of optical elements 24 constituting the body 21 and reused.

  In the optical element reuse method according to the second embodiment, the discriminating element 41 is provided on the covering member 22 of the optical element covering member 2 as in the first embodiment.

  The identification element 41 includes information indicating whether or not the optical element 24 can be reused, and further, the material, function, film configuration, specifications, size, weight, and the like of the optical element 24 of the optical element package 2 or inclusion. Information on at least one of a model number, a model, a manufacturer, a manufacturing place, and a manufacturing time is stored. As the identification element 41, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, an IC tag, or the like can be used. As will be described later, based on the information stored in the identification element 41, the reusable optical element 24 is specified among the optical elements 24 included in the optical element package 2.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for reusing an optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, in steps S <b> 41 to S <b> 43, the optical element package 2 is collected, information on the identification element 41 provided on the packaging member 22 is read, and information on the optical element 24 is acquired. Reading of the information of the identification element 41 is performed using a barcode reader, an IC tag reader, or the like.

  The acquired information may be displayed on the monitor 20 or the like so that the operator can easily manage the reuse system according to the present invention. The monitor 20 shows, for example, information about the film configuration of the optical element package 2, the function, material, and reusability of each optical element 24. The display of the acquired information on the monitor 16 is not always necessary and may be omitted.

  In step S44, the optical element 24 is extracted from the covering member 22. In step S45, the reusable optical elements 24 are sorted based on the acquired information. The separation can be performed based on the function of the optical element 24 and information on whether reuse is possible. When there are a plurality of optical elements 24 having different functions, the optical elements 24 may be classified for each function.

  The optical element 24 determined to be reusable by the separation process in step S45 is finally determined to be a reusable optical element 24 through a predetermined inspection as necessary in step S46. Examples of predetermined inspection include various specifications such as optical characteristics (total light transmittance, haze, refractive index, chromaticity, film thickness, optical shape of optical element, pitch, size, electrical resistance, weight, volume, density, etc. ) Inspections and quality inspections (such as checking for the presence / absence or degree of unevenness, streaks, stains, dirt, white spots, black spots, pinholes, dents, scratches, cracks, wrinkles, deflection, tears, etc.).

  The optical element 24 that is finally made reusable in the predetermined inspection in step S46 can be used again as an inclusion of the optical element package 2 in the manufacturing process of the optical element package 2 in step S47. it can.

  If the optical element package 2 is commercialized in step S48 and the optical element package 2 is recovered again in step 41, the optical element 24 can be reused by the above-described steps. Alternatively, the optical element 24 can be recycled by the process described in the first embodiment. Of course, the reused optical element 24 can be used not as an inclusion of the optical element package 2 but as an optical element 24 alone.

  On the other hand, in the step S46, the optical element 24 that is determined not to be reused by the information acquired from the identification element 41 or the predetermined inspection and that can be recycled is melted in the steps S51 to S52. For example, the raw material can be decomposed into raw materials, processed into pellets, and produced as recycled raw materials.

  In step S52, the recycled raw material is formed into an optical element 24 typified by an optical sheet in step S55, and in step S47, the optical element package 2 is manufactured again in the manufacturing process of the optical element package 2. It can be used as an inclusion.

  The optical elements that are not reusable and non-recyclable in the optical element sorting step in step S45 are discarded after necessary processing such as cutting and melting in steps S53 to S54.

  According to the method for reusing an optical element according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the discriminating element 41 is provided on the covering member 22 of the optical element covering body 2, and the reusable optical element 24 and the discriminating element 41 are provided. By storing information specifying the material or function, the optical element 24 can be recognized from the outside, and the reusable optical element 24 can be sorted and reused.

  A system to which the optical element reuse method according to the second embodiment of the present invention is applied can be configured by appropriately changing the system configuration described in the first embodiment. At this time, information for identifying a reusable optical element is stored in the identification element 41. Based on this information, the reusable optical element 24 among the optical elements 24 is selected by the optical element sorting mechanism 214. Sorted and reused.

(Third embodiment)
An optical element sorting method according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, an outline of a method for separating optical elements according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, in the optical element separation method according to the third embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 8a, the optical element package 2 can be recovered and recycled into the optical element package 2. Optical elements (first optical elements) 24 and reusable optical elements (second optical elements) 24 are mixed, as shown in FIGS. In the separation step, the first optical element 24 and the second optical element 24 can be separated at a time from the plurality of optical elements 24 constituting the element laminate 21.

  In the optical element sorting method according to the third embodiment, the discriminating element 41 is provided on the covering member 22 of the optical element covering body 2 in the same manner as in the first and second embodiments. In the optical element separation method according to the third embodiment, the information stored in the identification element 41 is read and acquired in the same manner as the separation step described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment. Based on the information, the first optical element 24 and the second optical element 24 are separated.

  When recycling the optical element 24, information regarding the material of the optical element 24 can be stored in the identification element 41, and the optical element 24 can be sorted based on the information. On the other hand, when the optical element 24 is reused, for example, information regarding the function of the optical element 24 can be stored in the identification element 41, and the optical element 24 can be sorted based on the information.

  For example, information such as a diffusion plate made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) can be reused, and a prism sheet made of polycarbonate (PC) can be recycled, and can be reused by storing the information in the identification element 41 and reading the information. The optical element 24 and the recyclable optical element 24 can be separated. Then, after sorting, the recyclable optical element 24 is recycled. Further, the reusable optical element 24 is reused by performing a predetermined inspection as necessary.

  In the optical element sorting method according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the discriminating element 41 is provided in the covering member 22, and information that specifies the recyclable or reusable optical element 24 and its material or function is stored. Thus, it becomes easy to recognize and sort the optical element 24 from the outside.

  A system to which the optical element sorting method according to the third embodiment of the present invention is applied can be configured by appropriately changing the system configuration described in the first embodiment. At this time, information for identifying the recyclable optical element 24 and the reusable optical element 24 is stored in the identification element 41, and based on this information, the optical element sorting mechanism 214 includes the optical element 24. The recyclable optical element 24 and the reusable optical element 24 are separated, and the optical element 24 is recycled or reused according to the separation.

(Fourth embodiment)
A method for reusing an optical element package according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The method for reusing an optical element package according to the fourth embodiment is a method for collecting and reusing the optical element package 2 from an electronic device in which the optical element package 2 is incorporated. In the method of reusing the optical element package 2 according to the fourth embodiment, the identification element 41 is provided in the optical element package 2 and / or an electronic device (for example, the display device shown in FIG. 1).

  FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of a method for reusing an optical element package according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In step S61, the optical element package 2 is collected from the electronic device. In steps S62 to S63, the information of the identification element 41 provided on the package member 22 of the optical device package 2 or a part of the electronic device is read. Information that the optical element package 2 is mounted on the electronic device is acquired. The identification element 41 is acquired using, for example, a barcode reader, an IC tag reader, or the like.

  In addition, the identification element 41 may store information such as specifications relating to the optical element package 2. The acquired information is displayed on a monitor or the like so that the operator can easily manage the reuse system according to the present invention. The display of the acquired information by the monitor 30 is not always necessary and may be omitted.

  In step S64, based on the acquired information, the optical element package 2 is taken out from the electronic device on which the optical element package 2 is mounted. In step 65, the optical element package 2 is finally determined to be reusable after a predetermined inspection as necessary. Examples of predetermined inspection include various specifications such as optical characteristics (total light transmittance, haze, refractive index, chromaticity, film thickness, optical shape of optical element, pitch, size, electrical resistance, weight, volume, density, etc. ) Inspections and quality inspections (such as checking for scratches, wrinkles, warpage, deflection, and tearing).

  In step S66, the optical element package 2 that is finally determined to be reusable can be reused in the manufacturing process of electronic equipment such as a lighting device and a display device. In step S67, when the electronic device is commercialized and collected again, the optical element package 2 can be reused by the above-described process again.

  On the other hand, in step S71, the information obtained from the identification element 41 or the optical element package 2 determined not to be reusable by a predetermined inspection is performed according to the steps described in the first to third embodiments. It is possible to separate and recycle or reuse the optical element 24 that is the inclusion. Assuming such a case, it is desirable to store information relating to the optical element 24 in the identification element 41.

  In the fourth embodiment, the discriminating element 41 is provided in a part of the covering member 22 of the optical element covering body 2 or a lighting device or a display device excluding the optical element covering body 2, and the identifying element 41 includes the lighting device or By storing information indicating that the display device has the optical element package 2, the presence of the optical element package 2 can be easily recognized from the outside, contributing to the reuse of the optical element package 2. can do.

  A system to which the method of reusing the optical element package 2 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is applied, for example, can be configured by appropriately changing the system configuration described in the first embodiment. .

(Fifth embodiment)
An optical element package 2 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The optical element package 2 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention prevents display characteristics from being deteriorated by the identification element 41 arranged on the packaging member 22. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, when the identification element 41 is provided on the packaging member 22 of the optical element packaging body 2 and the identification element 41 is in an area corresponding to the display area of the display device, the light is emitted from the backlight 4. The image of the identification element 41 may be visually recognized by the light. Even if it is not in the area corresponding to the display area, the light leaked from the backlight 4 to the outside of the display area is blocked by the identification element 41, so that only the portion can be uneven and the display characteristics may be impaired. There is also.

  In the optical element package 2 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, when used in the display device as shown in FIG. 1, the optical element recycling method, the optical element recycling method, and the optical element separation described above are used. It is suitable for the method and has a configuration in which the installation of the identification element 41 does not affect the display characteristics of the display device. Hereinafter, first to sixth examples of the optical element package according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

Adoption of identification element that transmits visible light (first example of optical element package)
The first example of the optical element package according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention employs a barcode or two-dimensional code that transmits visible light and reflects invisible light (invisible light) as the identification element 41. To do. For example, a bar code or a two-dimensional code that can be read by invisible ultraviolet or infrared light is used. Since these identification elements 41 transmit visible light, for example, the light from the light source 11 such as the backlight 4 of the display apparatus is transmitted, so that an image of the identification element 41 is not displayed on the display apparatus. The bar code or the two-dimensional code can be formed on the covering member 22 of the optical element covering member 2 by a method such as printing. If there is no problem in reading, the optical element 24 other than the covering member 22 may be formed.

  In the field of banknote processing devices, in order to check the authenticity of banknotes using the banknote processing device, light is emitted instead of serial numbers (features that are visible to humans) given to banknotes. Although it has been proposed to create a code (for example, a bar code) using a special material having magnetic properties (features that are not easily noticed by the human eye) and use it for checking banknotes (Japanese Translation of International Patent Publication No. 2005-526304). (See paragraphs [0713] to [0714], [0791], and [0794]), and such a barcode may be used.

Erasing the image of the discriminating element by the diffusion function optical element (second example of the optical element package)
FIG. 10 shows an example in which the identification element 41 is provided on the display surface side of the display device of the covering member 22 and the diffusion function optical element 24 c is provided on the display surface side of the optical element covering body 2. Even if the light from the illuminating device 1 is blocked a little due to the presence of the identification element 41, the light can be scattered by the diffusion function of the diffusion function optical element 24c so that the display characteristics are not affected. .

  On the other hand, FIG. 11 shows an example in which the identification element 41 is provided on the illuminating device 1 side of the covering member 22 and the diffusing function optical element 24 c is included in the optical element covering body 2. Even if the light from the illuminating device 1 is blocked a little due to the presence of the identification element 41, the light can be scattered by the diffusion function of the diffusion function optical element 24c so that the display characteristics are not affected. . A diffusion film, a diffusion plate, or the like can be used as the diffusion function optical element 24c.

  In this case, instead of or in addition to the diffusion function optical element 24c, the optical element 24b may have a diffusion function. Alternatively, instead of or in addition to the diffusing function optical element 24c, the covering member 22 itself (either the lighting device 1 side, the display surface side, or both) may have a diffusing function. In particular, when the inclusion of the optical element covering member 2 is only a support and no optical element is provided, the covering member 22 itself may have a diffusion function. In order to provide a diffusion function, for example, a resin containing a diffusion material (for example, organic or inorganic fine particles) is applied to the surface of the covering member 22 to provide a diffusion layer, or the diffusion member is included in the material of the covering member. Can be used.

Example in which the identification element other than the display area (a third example of the optical element covering member)
FIG. 12 shows an example in which the identification element 41 is provided in a part other than the part corresponding to the display region 80 in the packaging member 22. With such a configuration, the light from the backlight 4 is not blocked by the identification element 41, or the influence thereof can be reduced, and deterioration of display characteristics due to the presence of the identification element 41 is prevented. be able to. Further, the identification element 41 may be provided on the side surface of the optical element package 2.

Identification element in the opening of the optical element package (fourth example of the optical element package)
FIG. 13 shows an example in which the identification element 41 is provided in the opening provided at the end of the covering member 22 in the optical element covering member 2. The covering member 22 covers almost the entire optical element laminate 21. The covering member 22 has one or a plurality of openings 70. By having such an opening 70, when the optical element stack 21 is wrapped by the covering member 22, the air in the covering member 22 is discharged to the outside, and the optical element stack 21 and the covering member 22 are brought into close contact with each other. By doing so, the occurrence of image defects can be suppressed. Further, by having such an opening 70, when the constituent material of the support 23 and the optical element 24 wrapped by the covering member 22 is volatilized, this volatile component is discharged to the outside of the optical element covering 2. In addition, the occurrence of image defects can be suppressed by suppressing condensation or solidification of volatile components in the packaging member 22. In the case where a plurality of openings are provided in the covering member 22, it is preferable that the openings are provided respectively on the opposite end faces of the optical element laminate 21 or in the vicinity thereof. This is because the occurrence of image defects can be further suppressed by efficiently discharging the volatile component to the outside of the optical element covering member 2 and further suppressing condensation or solidification of the volatile component in the covering member 22. .

  Such an opening 70 is not usually provided in the portion of the covering member 22 corresponding to the display area. Therefore, by providing the identification element 41 in the opening 70, the identification element 41 corresponds to the display area. It can be avoided by itself. In FIG. 13, the identification element 41 is provided not at the covering member 22 but at the end of the optical element 24 c exposed therefrom. However, this is an example, and the identification element 41 may be provided in the exposed portion of the other optical element 24.

  When the identification element 41 is provided, a method of printing a barcode or a two-dimensional barcode as the identification element 41 on the end of the optical element 24 or providing an IC chip after the optical element 24 is manufactured. It is done. Alternatively, a mark may be attached to the side surface of the optical element exposed from the opening by, for example, coloring, marking, or the like, so that it is possible to determine whether recycling or reuse is possible. Of course, such a mark may be included in the identification element 41. By adopting such a method, it is not necessary to provide a bar code or an IC chip, and a reader for reading them can be omitted in the recycling or reuse process.

Example in which a micro-sized identification element is provided (fifth example of an optical element package)
When a barcode or a two-dimensional code is adopted as the identification element 41, it is desirable to make the size of the barcode small so that the light from the backlight is blocked and display characteristics are not affected. Usually, the barcode or the two-dimensional code has a rectangular or square shape of 2 to 4 cm in length and width, but in the present embodiment, a barcode or a two-dimensional code having a size of less than 2 cm in length and width, preferably less than 1 cm is adopted. It is desirable to do. When such an identification element is provided in a region that does not correspond to the display region, the light from the backlight is not blocked or can be minimized even if blocked. There is no loss of properties.

  On the other hand, an identification element capable of wireless authentication such as an IC tag (also referred to as an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip or the like, but its name is not limited) may be employed as the minute identification element. The IC tag has a normal size of the order of mm or less (for example, in the case of a Hitachi μ chip, a 0.05 mm square size and a thickness of 5 μm), and is very small. Therefore, when the IC tag is provided in an area that does not correspond to the display area, the light from the backlight is not blocked or can be minimized even if blocked. Will not be damaged.

  As an electromagnetic wave for reading information stored in an IC tag, a microwave having a wavelength of 300 MHz to 30 GHz that can read information from a remote point is used (this communication method is generally called a microwave type, usually 2). .45 GHz band is used). In this case, the communication distance is about 2 m. Of course, although the communication distance is slightly inferior, it is also possible to read information by an electromagnetic induction type or electromagnetic coupling type communication method using an electromagnetic wave having a wavelength of 3 KHz to 300 MHz. In this case, the communication distance is about ˜1 m for the electromagnetic induction type and about several millimeters for the electromagnetic coupling type.

  As described above, when an IC tag is used, information can be read even from a remote point where the optical element package 2 cannot be seen (for example, information relating to the optical element can be read from the outside without disassembling the display device). In addition to this, there are other advantages, such as a large amount of information, rewriting, reading on the move in the production / distribution route, and lots of information at once. It can be read.

  In particular, the ability to read while moving improves traceability in the production / distribution route, facilitating production process management, inventory management, distribution process management, product management, and the like.

  In addition, since a large amount of information can be read at a time, for example, information about a plurality of optical element packages mounted on a plurality of display devices and lighting devices can be read at a time. Recognize information in management, recycling, and reuse.

An example in which the identification element is provided in a region located outside the display region in the optical element (sixth example of the optical element package)
FIG. 14 shows an example in which the identification element 41 is provided outside the display area of the optical element 24. FIG. 14A shows an example in which the identification element 41 is provided at the end of the optical element 24 outside the display area. In FIG. 14A, the optical element laminate 21 includes an unevenness eliminating film 111, a diffusion plate 112 that is a support 23, a diffusion sheet 113, a prism sheet 114, and a reflective polarizer 115. The optical elements 24 constituting the optical element laminate 21 are bonded at the optical element bonding portion 107 outside the display area of the display device. The bonding method of the optical element 24 can be performed by, for example, bonding by heat welding, bonding by an adhesive, or fixing with a screw by providing a through hole, but is not limited thereto. The identification element 41 is provided at the end of the reflective polarizer outside the display area of the display device. FIG. 14B is an example in which an identification element is provided at the joint of the optical element 24. In FIG. 14B, the identification element 41 is provided in a region of the reflective polarizer that is located at the joint 107 that is outside the display region of the display device.

  As in the sixth example, by providing the optical element 24 in a region located outside the display region, it is possible to prevent the image of the identification element 41 from being visually recognized. The position where the identification element 41 is provided is not limited to the example described above, and may be provided on the side surface of the diffusion plate 112, for example. The types and arrangement of optical elements are merely examples, and are not limited to the examples described above. Further, as the light source 116, not only the CCFL direct type but also the HCFL direct type, LED direct type (RGB three colors or W1 color), etc. can be adopted. Alternatively, an edge light (side light) type using the above light source, a type of irradiation from the corner of the frame, or the like can be adopted.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments of the present invention, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the type and configuration of the optical element that is the inclusion of the optical element package are merely examples, and are not limited to the examples described above. Further, the material and form of the packaging member are merely examples, and are not limited to the above-described examples.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of a liquid crystal display device using an optical element package to which the present invention is applied. It is the schematic explaining the outline | summary of the recycling method of the optical element by 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a basic diagram which shows the example of the optical element package to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the recycling method of the optical element by 1st Embodiment of this invention. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a system to which an optical element recycling method according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied. It is the schematic for demonstrating the outline | summary of the reuse method of the optical element by the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the reuse method of the optical element by the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is the schematic for demonstrating the outline | summary of the separation method of the optical element by the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the reuse method of the optical element covering body by 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a basic diagram which shows the 2nd example of the optical element packaging body by 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a basic diagram which shows the 2nd example of the optical element packaging body by 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a basic diagram which shows the 3rd example of the optical element packaging body by 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a basic diagram which shows the 4th example of the optical element package by the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is an approximate line figure showing the 6th example of an optical element encapsulant by a 5th embodiment of this invention. It is the schematic which shows the structure of the conventional liquid crystal display device.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Illuminating device 2 ... Optical element inclusion body 3a ... Polarizer 3 ... Liquid crystal panel 4 ... Backlight 11 ... Light source 12 ... Reflecting plate 21 ... Optical element lamination | stacking Body 22 ... Comprehensive member 23 ... Support 24 ... Optical element 24A ... Optical element 41 ... Identification element

Claims (24)

Of the one or more optical elements, the recyclable optical element and the optical element are included in the covering element of the optical element covering body including one or two or more optical elements and a covering member covering the optical elements. Provide an identification element that stores information that identifies the material of the element,
Recognizing the information by reading the information stored in the identification element from the outside,
A method of recycling an optical element that separates and recycles the recyclable optical element based on the recognized information. The method for recycling an optical element according to claim 1, wherein the recyclable optical element is integrally formed of a single material. The method for recycling an optical element according to claim 1, wherein the recyclable optical element is a prism sheet, an unevenness eliminating sheet, a diffusion sheet, a diffusion plate, or a reflective polarizer. The method for recycling an optical element according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of recyclable optical elements are sorted for each material and recycled based on the information. 2. The optical element according to claim 1, further comprising: information relating to at least one of a function, a specification, a size, a weight, a model number, a model, a manufacturer, a manufacturing place, and a manufacturing time of the recyclable optical element stored in the identification element. Recycling method. The optical element recycling method according to claim 1, wherein the identification element is a barcode or a two-dimensional code. The method for recycling an optical element according to claim 1, wherein the identification element is an IC tag. Of the one or more optical elements, the reusable optical element and the reusable optical element in the covering element of the optical element covering body including one or two or more optical elements and a covering member covering the optical elements, An identification element storing information for specifying the function of the optical element is provided,
Recognizing the information by reading the information stored in the identification element from the outside,
A method for reusing an optical element, wherein the reusable optical element is sorted based on the recognized information and reused. The method of reusing an optical element according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of reusable optical elements are classified according to the same function based on the information and reused.   The optical element according to claim 8, further comprising: information relating to at least one of a material, a specification, a size, a weight, a model number, a model, a manufacturer, a manufacturing place, and a manufacturing time of the reusable optical element stored in the identification element. How to reuse 9. The reusable optical element is inspected before or after the reusable optical element is separated, and the optical element is reused when the optical element is reusable. A method for reusing the described optical element. Of the one or more optical elements, the reusable optical element and the reusable optical element in the covering element of the optical element covering body including one or two or more optical elements and a covering member covering the optical elements, An identification element storing information for specifying the function of the optical element is provided,
Recognizing the information by reading the information stored in the identification element from the outside,
Sorting the reusable optical element based on the information;
Recycling of an optical element that inspects the reusable optical element when the reusable optical element is separated or before and after that, and recycles the optical element when the optical element is not reusable Method. Among the plurality of optical elements, the first optical element that can be recycled and the first optical element are included in the covering member of the optical element covering body that includes a plurality of optical elements and a covering member that covers the optical elements. Identification that stores first information for specifying the material of the optical element, and second information for specifying the function of the second optical element that can be reused and the second optical element among the plurality of optical elements. Provide elements,
Recognizing the first information and the second information by reading the first information and the second information stored in the identification element from the outside,
An optical element separation method for separating the first optical element and the second optical element based on the recognized first information and the second information. One or more optical elements, and a covering member that includes the optical elements,
The covering member is provided with an identification element,
The discriminating element is an optical element package in which information for specifying a recyclable or reusable optical element and its material or function among the one or two or more optical elements is stored. One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that includes the optical elements, and includes an incident surface and an output surface of light emitted from a light source,
An identification element is provided on the peripheral portion of the covering member on the incident surface side,
The identification element stores information specifying the recyclable or reusable optical element among the one or two or more optical elements and the material or function thereof. At least one of the one or two or more optical elements is An optical element having a diffusion function,
An optical element package in which the optical element having the diffusing function scatters light when the light source is turned on so that the image of the identification element from the emission surface side of the optical element package cannot be substantially visually recognized. One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that includes the optical elements, and includes an incident surface and an output surface of light emitted from a light source,
An identification element is provided on the peripheral portion of the covering member on the incident surface side,
The identification element stores information specifying the recyclable or reusable optical element among the one or two or more optical elements and the material or function thereof. At least one of the one or two or more optical elements is An optical element having a diffusion function,
When the light source is turned on, the optical element including the diffusing function scatters light so that the image of the identification element from the exit surface side of the optical element covering is substantially invisible. Lighting device. One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that includes the optical elements, and includes an incident surface and an output surface of light emitted from a light source,
An identification element is provided on the peripheral portion of the covering member on the incident surface side,
The identification element stores information specifying the recyclable or reusable optical element among the one or two or more optical elements and the material or function thereof. At least one of the one or two or more optical elements is An optical element having a diffusion function,
A display device equipped with an optical element package in which the optical element having the diffusing function scatters light when the light source is lit, and the image of the identification element from the exit surface side of the optical element package cannot be visually recognized. . A display that includes a light source, one or more optical elements, and an optical element covering body that includes a covering member that covers the optical element and includes an incident surface and an exit surface for light emitted from the light source. A part of the display device excluding the covering member or the optical element covering body of the device,
An identification element storing information indicating that the display device has the optical element package is provided,
Recognizing the information by reading the information stored in the identification element from the outside,
A method of reusing an optical element package that removes the optical element package from the display device based on the recognized information.   19. The method of reusing an optical element package according to claim 18, wherein the optical element package is inspected after the optical element package is removed.   19. The optical element package according to claim 18, wherein information relating to at least one of the configuration, specifications, size, weight, model number, model, manufacturer, manufacturing place, and manufacturing time of the optical element package is stored in the identification element. How to reuse   19. The optical element package according to claim 18, wherein information relating to at least one of a material, a function, a specification, a size, a weight, a model number, a model, a manufacturer, a manufacturing position, and a manufacturing time of the optical element is stored in the identification element. How to reuse Illumination including a light source, one or more optical elements, and an optical element covering body that includes a covering member that covers the optical element and includes an incident surface and an exit surface for light emitted from the light source A part of the illumination device excluding the covering member or the optical element covering member of the device,
An identification element storing information indicating that the illumination device has the optical element package is provided,
Recognizing the information by reading the information stored in the identification element from the outside,
A method of reusing an optical element package that removes the optical element package from the illumination device based on the recognized information. A light source;
One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that covers the optical elements, and an optical element covering body that includes an incident surface and an exit surface for light emitted from the light source;
Including
In the part of the backlight unit excluding the covering member or the optical element covering body, an identification element is provided,
A lighting device in which information indicating that the lighting device has the optical element package is stored in the identification element. A light source;
One or two or more optical elements, and a covering member that covers the optical elements, and an optical element covering body that includes an incident surface and an exit surface for light emitted from the light source;
A display panel;
Including
A part of the display device excluding the covering member or the optical element covering body is provided with an identification element,
A display device in which information indicating that the display device has the optical element package is stored in the identification element.

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