JP2015031835A - Light projection device and display device having the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a light projection device capable of presenting an image having high quality at low costs and a display device having the light projection device.SOLUTION: A light projection device 2 includes: a light generator 20 and an optical device 30. The light generator 20 is configured to generate a light beam group L0 from a light source LS via a spatial light modulator 23. The light beam group L0 generated by the light generator 20 is guided to the optical device 30. In the optical device 30, the light beam group L0 guided from the light generator 20 is divided into a first light beam group L1 and a second light beam group L2. A first projection port 33 and a second projection port 34 are formed on a front part 31a of a second casing 31 of the optical device 30. A path for guiding the light beam group generated by the light source LS to the first projection port 33 is called a first path L1a, and a path for guiding the light beam group generated by the light source LS to the second projection port 34 is called a second path L2a. The optical path length of the first path L1a and the second path L2a is equal to each other.

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical projection device and a display device including the same.

  A technique for connecting a plurality of images and displaying them on a screen using a plurality of projectors is known. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a display device that projects light from four projectors to four regions on a screen, respectively. In this display device, by connecting four images by light projected from four projectors, an image in which the four images are connected is displayed on the screen.

  On the other hand, a stereoscopic video display device that presents a stereoscopic image that can be viewed with the naked eye by using a plurality of projectors has been proposed (see Patent Document 2).

  The stereoscopic video display device described in Patent Document 2 includes a screen and a plurality of projectors. The plurality of projectors are arranged in a horizontal direction. A plurality of images are projected from the projection units of the plurality of projectors onto the back of the screen. A plurality of images projected on the screen from a plurality of projectors are overlaid at the same size and the same position on the back surface of the screen. Thereby, a stereoscopic image is presented in the space before and after the screen.

JP 2005-338249 A JP 2010-81440 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-138371

  In the display device described in Patent Document 1, the same number of projectors as the number of images connected on the screen are used. Therefore, in order to display a high-quality image on the screen, a large number of projectors are required, and the cost required to obtain a high-quality image increases.

  In the stereoscopic video display apparatus described in Patent Document 2, in order to present a high-quality stereoscopic image, it is necessary to project a large number of images on a screen using a large number of projectors. Even in this case, since a large number of projectors are required, the cost required to obtain a high-quality image increases.

  Patent Document 3 describes a stereoscopic video display device that displays a right-eye image and a left-eye image on a screen in a time-sharing manner using a single projector. In the projector described in Patent Document 3, a light beam group for forming a right-eye image and a light beam group for forming a left-eye image are projected from a projection lens onto a screen through a common path.

  For example, two light ray groups that form two different images instead of the right-eye image and the left-eye image are projected from the projector of Patent Document 3 toward two areas on the screen. In this case, two images can be connected on the screen by one projector.

  However, in the projector of Patent Document 3, a plurality of light beam groups pass through a common path. Therefore, in order to project the two light beam groups onto the two areas on the screen, a mechanism for accurately changing the path of the light beam groups projected from the projector in a time division manner is required. As such a mechanism, a mechanism that physically changes the tilt or position of the projection lens in a time-division manner is conceivable, but in this case, the projector becomes expensive.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an optical projection device capable of presenting a high-quality image at low cost and a display device including the same.

  (1) An optical projection apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a light generator that generates a light beam group for forming an image, and an optical device that projects the light beam group generated by the light generator. Includes a plurality of projection openings, an optical system that forms a plurality of paths for guiding the light ray groups generated by the light generator to the plurality of projection openings, and time division means for projecting the light ray groups in a time division manner from the plurality of projection openings. The optical system includes a plurality of optical axes that respectively pass through the plurality of projection openings from the plurality of paths, and the plurality of paths have the same optical path length.

  In the light projection device, a light group for forming an image is generated by a light generator, and the generated light group is projected by an optical device. In the optical device, a group of light beams generated by the light generator are respectively guided to a plurality of projection openings through a plurality of paths formed by the optical system. The plurality of light beam groups are projected in a time division manner from the plurality of projection openings along the plurality of optical axes.

  In this case, since the plurality of paths are configured to have the same optical path length, the distances between the plurality of virtual emission points that emit the plurality of ray groups and the plurality of projection openings are equal. Thereby, the same function as the case where a plurality of existing projectors are arranged can be realized by using a single light projection device. Therefore, it is possible to present a high-quality image at a low cost.

  Further, according to the above configuration, since the light beam groups are respectively projected from the plurality of projection openings, the number of light projection devices is reduced compared to the number of light beam groups to be projected to form a desired image. be able to. Thereby, the installation work of the light projection apparatus is simplified.

  (2) The time division means is provided in each of a plurality of paths or a plurality of projection ports, and a plurality of light blocking means capable of switching between a first state in which the light beam group passes and a second state in which the light beam group is blocked. And a switching means for switching the plurality of light blocking means from the second state to the first state in a time division manner.

  In this case, with a simple configuration, it is possible to project the light beam guided to the plurality of projection ports in a time division manner.

  (3) The optical system distributes the light beam generated by the light generator in a plurality of directions, and guides the plurality of light beams distributed by the light distribution device to a plurality of projection openings through a plurality of paths. A plurality of optical members configured such that the optical path lengths of the paths of the plurality of light groups respectively guided from the light distribution means to the plurality of projection openings via the plurality of optical members are equal to each other. A member may be arranged.

  In this case, the optical path lengths of the paths of the plurality of light beam groups distributed by the light distribution means can be easily adjusted by arranging the plurality of optical members.

  (4) The plurality of optical members include a plurality of reflection members that respectively reflect the plurality of light beam groups distributed by the light distribution unit to the plurality of projection ports, and can change the directions of the plurality of optical axes. The direction of the plurality of reflecting members may be variably provided.

  In this case, by changing the directions of the plurality of reflecting members, the directions of the plurality of light groups projected from the plurality of projection openings can be easily adjusted.

  (5) The light generator includes a first lens that expands the generated light beam group, and the optical device is provided between the first lens of the light generator and the light distribution means, and is formed by the first lens. A second lens that forms a first real image while converging the expanded light beam group, and a first real image that is provided between the second lens and the plurality of projection openings and is formed by the second lens. One or a plurality of third lenses that respectively form a plurality of second real images based on the plurality of paths or extension lines of the plurality of paths may be included.

  In this case, since the second lens is provided between the first lens and the light distribution means, the light group converged by at least the second lens is incident on the light distribution means. Therefore, the amount of light incident on the light distribution means can be increased without increasing the size of the light distribution means. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the amount of light of a plurality of light ray groups passing through a plurality of paths without increasing the size of the light projection device.

  (6) One or a plurality of third lenses are provided between the second lens and the light distribution unit, and converge a light beam that has passed through the second lens while a plurality of second lenses based on the first real image are converged. 2 real images are formed in a plurality of paths, respectively, and the optical device is provided in each of a plurality of projection openings, and a plurality of optical devices based on the plurality of second real images while expanding a light beam group that has passed through one or a plurality of third lenses. A plurality of fourth lenses that respectively form the third real image on extension lines of the plurality of paths.

  In this case, since the one or more third lenses are provided between the second lens and the light distribution means, the light distribution means is converged by at least the second lens and is one or more third lenses. The group of rays converged by is incident. Therefore, it is possible to increase the amount of light incident on the light distribution means while reducing the size of the light distribution means. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the size of the light projection apparatus and to prevent a reduction in the light amount of a plurality of light beam groups that pass through a plurality of paths.

  Each of the plurality of fourth lenses is variably provided so that the directions of the plurality of optical axes can be changed, and the size of the plurality of third real images can be changed. The positions in the direction of the plurality of optical axes may be variably provided.

  In this case, by changing the directions of the plurality of optical axes of the plurality of fourth lenses, the directions of the plurality of light groups projected from the plurality of projection openings can be easily adjusted.

  Further, the sizes of the plurality of third real images can be easily adjusted by changing the positions of the plurality of fourth lenses in the directions of the plurality of optical axes.

  Each of the plurality of fourth lenses may have a smaller diameter than the first lens.

  In this case, the size of the plurality of projection openings to which the fourth lens is attached can be made smaller than the diameter of the first lens. Therefore, a plurality of light beam groups can be projected at a smaller pitch by reducing the plurality of projection openings.

  (7) A display device according to a second invention is a screen, one or a plurality of light projection devices according to the above invention, and a light beam applied to the screen by the one or more light projection devices based on the image data. And a control device that controls one or a plurality of light projection devices so that a plane image or a three-dimensional image is presented by a group of light beams transmitted through the screen.

  In the display device, a light beam group projected by one or a plurality of light projection devices based on the image data is irradiated on the screen. Alternatively, a light beam group projected by one or more light projection devices based on the image data passes through the screen. Thereby, a planar image or a three-dimensional image is presented.

  The display device includes one or a plurality of light projection devices according to the invention described above. Thereby, it is possible to present a high-quality image at a low cost.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to present a high-quality image at low cost.

It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the display apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a typical cross-sectional view which shows the structure of the optical projector of FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the effect about the resolution in case a 1st image and a 2nd image are displayed on a screen by a time division. It is a typical cross-sectional view which shows the 1st modification of an optical projector. It is typical sectional drawing which shows the 2nd modification of an optical projector. It is a typical sectional view showing the 3rd modification of a light projection device. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of a structure of a reflective element. It is a figure for demonstrating the 4th modification of an optical projector. It is a front view of the screen which shows the state in which the 1st-4th light beam group was projected from the light projector of FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the three-dimensional display which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the effect of the three-dimensional display which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a typical longitudinal cross-sectional view of the three-dimensional display which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a schematic plan view of the principal part of the three-dimensional display which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the effect about the positional relationship of a 1st virtual emission point and a 2nd virtual emission point.

  Hereinafter, an optical projection device and a display device according to embodiments of the present invention will be described.

[1] First Embodiment (1) Configuration of Display Device FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a display device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1A is a schematic plan view showing the main part of the display device 1 of this example. In the following description, three directions orthogonal to each other are defined as an X direction, a Y direction, and a Z direction. The X direction is a horizontal direction from the left to the right or from the right to the left as viewed from the observer 10, and in FIG. Further, the Y direction is a vertical direction from the top to the bottom or from the bottom to the top as viewed from the observer 10, and the vertical direction from the top to the bottom is indicated by an arrow Y in FIG. Further, the Z direction is a depth direction orthogonal to the X direction and the Y direction. In FIG. 1, the depth direction away from the observer 10 is indicated by an arrow Z.

  As shown in FIG. 1A, the display device 1 includes a light projection device 2, a screen 3, a storage device 4, and a control device 5. The light projection device 2 includes a light generator 20 and an optical device 30. The light generator 20 generates a light group L0 for forming an image. The light group L0 generated from the light generator 20 is guided to the optical device 30. In the optical device 30, the light group L0 guided from the light generator 20 is distributed to a plurality (two in this example) of light groups. In the following description, one light group distributed in the optical device 30 is referred to as a first light group L1, and the other light group is referred to as a second light group L2. In this example, a reflective screen is used as the screen 3. The optical device 30 projects the first light group L1 and the second light group L2 onto the front surface of the screen 3 in a time division manner.

  The storage device 4 includes, for example, a hard disk or a memory card. The storage device 4 stores image data for presenting an image (in this example, a planar image) on the screen 3. The control device 5 is composed of a personal computer, for example. The control device 5 controls the light generator 20 and the optical device 30 of the light projection device 2 based on the image data stored in the storage device 4.

  A front view of the screen 3 is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 1B, the first light beam L1 is projected onto the area 3a on the left side of the screen 3, whereby a rectangular first image G1 is displayed. Further, the second light ray group L2 is projected onto the area 3b on the right side of the screen 3, whereby a rectangular second image G2 is displayed.

  In this example, the first image G1 and the second image G2 are displayed so as not to overlap. Not limited to this, a part of the first image G1 and a part of the second image G2 may overlap.

(2) Configuration of Optical Projection Device FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the optical projection device 2 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, in the light projection device 2, the light generator 20 and the optical device 30 are arranged so as to be aligned in the Z direction. The light generator 20 and the optical device 30 are fixed to each other.

  The light generator 20 includes a first casing 21, a spatial light modulator 23, a projection lens 24, and a light source LS. In the present embodiment, LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) is used as the spatial light modulator 23. As the spatial light modulator 23, other spatial light modulators such as DMD (Digital Mirror Device) or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) can be used instead of LCOS. The first casing 21 houses the spatial light modulator 23, the projection lens 24, and the light source LS. The first casing 21 has a front surface portion 21a, a rear surface portion 21b, one side surface portion 21c, and another side surface portion 21d.

  The front surface portion 21a and the rear surface portion 21b are parallel to the XY plane and face each other. The one side surface portion 21c and the other side surface portion 21d are parallel to the YZ plane and face each other.

  A spatial light modulator 23 is disposed in the center of the first casing 21. The spatial light modulator 23 transmits the light generated by the light source LS and modulates the phase of the transmitted light group to generate a light group L0 for forming an image. An opening 22 is formed in the portion of the front surface portion 21 a that faces the projection lens 24. A projection lens 24 is disposed between the spatial light modulator 23 and the opening 22 in the Z direction. In this example, the projection lens 24 is arranged so that its optical axis 24 a passes through the center of the spatial light modulator 23.

  The optical device 30 includes a second casing 31, a beam splitter 35, a plurality of (three in this example) mirrors 36, 37, and 38, a first liquid crystal shutter 41, a second liquid crystal shutter 42, and a shutter driving unit 40. Including.

  The second casing 31 accommodates the beam splitter 35 and the mirrors 36, 37, and 38. The second casing 31 includes a front surface portion 31a, a rear surface portion 31b, one side surface portion 31c, and another side surface portion 31d.

  The front surface portion 31a and the rear surface portion 31b are parallel to the XY plane and face each other. The one side surface portion 31c and the other side surface portion 31d are parallel to the YZ plane and face each other.

  In the present embodiment, the first casing 21 and the second casing 31 are provided separately, and the first casing 21 and the second casing 31 are integrally connected by a connecting member (not shown), so that the light The generator 20 and the optical device 30 are fixed to each other. Not only this but the component of the light generator 20 and the optical apparatus 30 may be accommodated in a single casing. In addition, when the first casing 21 and the second casing 31 are made of the same material (resin or metal), the first casing 21 and the second casing 31 may be integrally formed with the connecting member. Good.

  The width W30 of the second casing 31 in the X direction is smaller than twice the width W20 of the first casing 21 in the X direction. In this example, the width W30 of the second casing 31 is equal to the width W20 of the first casing 21.

  An opening 32 is formed at the center of the rear surface portion 31 b of the second casing 31. Here, the size of the opening 22 of the first casing 21 and the opening 32 of the second casing 31 in the X direction may be equal to the width W30 of the second casing 31. For example, when the openings 22 and 32 have a circular shape, the diameters of the openings 22 and 32 may be equal to the width W30 of the second casing 31. Further, the rear surface portion 31b of the second casing 31 may not be formed. In this case, an opening 22 having the same shape as the rear opening of the second casing 31 is formed in the front surface portion 21a of the first casing 21, for example.

  The optical device 30 is arranged such that the optical axis 24 a of the projection lens 24 of the light generator 20 is directed into the second casing 31 through the opening 32.

  A beam splitter 35 is disposed at the center of the second casing 31. Thereby, when the light beam L0 is emitted from the spatial light modulator 23 of the light generator 20, the light beam L0 is expanded by the projection lens 24, and the opening 22 and the second casing 31 of the first casing 21 are expanded. Is guided to the beam splitter 35 in the second casing 31.

  The beam splitter 35 reflects the light beam group L0 guided from the spatial light modulator 23 as the first light beam group L1 toward the one side surface portion 31c and transmits it as the second light beam group L2.

  A circular first projection port 33 and a circular second projection port 34 are formed on the front surface portion 31a so as to be separated from each other by a certain distance in the X direction. A mirror 36 is provided between the beam splitter 35 and one side surface portion 31c in the X direction. The mirror 36 reflects the first light ray group L1 toward the first projection port 33 of the front surface portion 31a. The mirror 36 is provided so as to be swingable about an axis parallel to the Y direction by the user. For example, the user can change the direction in which the first light ray group L1 is projected by adjusting the inclination of the mirror 36 with respect to the YZ plane. Thereby, the position at which the first light ray group L1 is projected is changed, and the position of the first image G1 (FIG. 1B) displayed on the screen 3 is adjusted.

  Further, the mirror 36 may be provided so as to be swingable about an axis parallel to the X direction by the user. In this case, the degree of freedom in adjusting the position of the first image G1 is improved. Note that the position of the mirror 36 in the Z direction is fixed in the second casing 31.

  A first liquid crystal shutter 41 is provided at the first projection port 33 in the front surface portion 31 a of the second casing 31. When the first liquid crystal shutter 41 is in the open state, the first light beam group L1 reflected by the beam splitter 35 is projected from the mirror 36 to the screen 3 through the first projection port 33. On the other hand, when the first liquid crystal shutter 41 is in the closed state, the first light beam group L1 reflected by the beam splitter 35 is blocked by the first liquid crystal shutter 41 and is not projected onto the screen 3.

  A mirror 37 is provided between the beam splitter 35 and the front surface portion 31a in the Z direction. A mirror 38 is provided between the mirror 37 and the other side surface portion 31d in the X direction. The mirror 37 is fixed to the second casing 31 so as to maintain a constant inclination (for example, 45 °) with respect to the YZ plane, and reflects the second light ray group L2 toward the other side surface portion 31d. The mirror 38 reflects the second light beam group L2 reflected by the mirror 37 toward the second projection port 34 of the front surface portion 31a. Similarly to the mirror 36, the mirror 38 is provided so as to be swingable around an axis parallel to the Y direction by the user of the light projection device 2. For example, the user can change the direction in which the second light ray group L2 is projected by adjusting the inclination of the mirror 38 with respect to the YZ plane. Thereby, the position at which the second light ray group L2 is projected changes, and the position of the second image G2 (FIG. 1B) displayed on the screen 3 is adjusted.

  Further, the mirror 38 may be provided so as to be swingable about an axis parallel to the X direction by the user. In this case, the degree of freedom in adjusting the position of the second image G2 is improved. In the second casing 31, the positions of the mirrors 37 and 38 in the Z direction are fixed.

  A second liquid crystal shutter 42 is provided at the second projection port 34 in the front surface portion 31a. When the second liquid crystal shutter 42 is in the open state, the second light beam group L2 that has passed through the beam splitter 35 is reflected by the mirrors 37 and 38 and projected onto the screen 3 through the second projection port 34. On the other hand, when the second liquid crystal shutter 42 is in the closed state, the second light beam group L2 transmitted through the beam splitter 35 is blocked by the second liquid crystal shutter 42 and is not projected onto the screen 3.

  A shutter drive unit 40 that drives the first liquid crystal shutter 41 and the second liquid crystal shutter 42 is provided on the front surface portion 31a. The shutter drive unit 40 is controlled by the control device 5 of FIG. 1 and alternately switches the open / close state of the first liquid crystal shutter 41 and the second liquid crystal shutter 42 at a constant period.

  Images generated in the spatial light modulator 23 are switched at the timing when the first light group L1 and the second light group L2 are respectively projected. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the effect on the resolution when the first image G1 and the second image G2 are displayed on the screen 3 in a time division manner. For example, assume that the resolution of an image of a predetermined area that can be generated by the spatial light modulator 23 is α.

  In this case, when the first image G1 and the second image G2 have a predetermined area and the spatial light modulator 23 generates the first image G1 and the second image G2 in a time division manner, FIG. As shown in FIG. 3A, the first image G1 and the second image G2 can be displayed on the screen 3 with the resolution α.

  On the other hand, in the spatial light modulator 23, when generating a light beam group that forms a connected image including the first image G1 and the second image G2, the area of the connected image is larger than the predetermined area. The image resolution cannot be α. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3B, the resolution of the connected image displayed on the screen 3 is lower than α.

  As described above, the spatial light modulator 23 generates a plurality of images in a time division manner. Thereby, the resolution of the image displayed on the screen 3 can be kept high at a low cost.

  Here, the path for guiding the light beam group generated by the spatial light modulator 23 to the first projection port 33 is referred to as a first path L1a, and the light beam group generated by the spatial light modulator 23 is the second projection port. The route leading to 34 is referred to as a second route L2a. A virtual emission point at which the first light ray group L1 is considered to be generated when the light projector 2 is viewed from the screen 3 is referred to as a first virtual emission point VP1. Furthermore, a virtual emission point at which the second light ray group L2 is considered to be generated when the light projection device 2 is viewed from the screen 3 is referred to as a second virtual emission point VP2.

  In the present embodiment, the optical path length of the first path L1a and the second path L2a are configured to have the same optical path length. In this case, the distance from the first virtual exit point VP1 to the first projection port 33 in the Z direction is equal to the distance from the second virtual exit point VP2 to the second projection port 34 in the Z direction. Thereby, the same function as the case where two existing projectors are arranged can be realized by using a single light projection device 2. Therefore, it is possible to present a high-quality image at a low cost.

  In particular, in the optical projection apparatus 2 of this example, the first path L1a and the second path L2a are configured so that the optical path length of the first path L1a and the second path L2a have the same optical path length. Without adding lenses with different magnifications to each other, the size of the first light group L1 on the XY plane at the first projection port 33 and the size of the second light group L2 on the XY plane at the second projection port 34 Can be matched. Therefore, the first image is arranged by arranging the light projection device 2 so that the distance from the first projection port 33 to the screen 3 in the Z direction and the distance from the second projection port 34 to the screen 3 coincide with each other. It is possible to easily match the size of G1 and the size of the second image G2.

  In order to display a plurality of images on the screen 3, when using a plurality of projectors for forming a plurality of images, it is necessary to accurately arrange a large number of projectors. Therefore, the arrangement work of a plurality of projectors becomes complicated. On the other hand, in the light projection device 2 of the present example, the same function as when two existing projectors are arranged is realized by using one light projection device 2. Therefore, the number of light projection devices 2 can be reduced as compared with the number of images to be displayed on the screen 3. Thereby, the installation work of the light projector 2 is simplified.

  Further, when two projectors corresponding to the first and second images G1 and G2 are used, for example, the brightness and size of the first and second images G1 and G2 displayed on the screen 3 are made uniform. Therefore, adjustment work for each projector is required. Thereby, it takes a long time to adjust the two projectors. On the other hand, in the light projection apparatus 2 of this example, the first light group L1 and the second light group L2 are generated by distributing the light group L0 generated by one light generator 20. Is done. Therefore, the brightness of the first image G1 formed by the first light beam group L1 and the brightness of the second image G2 formed by the second light beam group L2 are equal to each other. Therefore, adjustment work for making the brightness of the first image G1 and the brightness of the second image G2 uniform is unnecessary.

  Further, in the light projection device 2 of this example, the light group L0 before being distributed is expanded by the projection lens 24. On the other hand, the first light group L1 and the second light group L2 do not pass through the lens. In this case, since the optical path length of the first path L1a and the second path L2a have the same optical path length, the size of the first image G1 formed by the first light beam group L1 and the second light beam group L2 The size of the formed second image G2 is equal to each other. Therefore, adjustment work for making the size of the first image G1 and the size of the second image G2 uniform is unnecessary.

  Thus, the adjustment work for adjusting the brightness and size of the image displayed on the screen 3 is facilitated.

  In the light projection device 2 of FIG. 2, the position of the first light beam L1 on the screen 3 and the second light beam L2 are changed by changing the inclination of the mirrors 36 and 38 with respect to the YZ plane. The position on the screen 3 to be projected can be easily adjusted. In this case, for example, the first image G <b> 1 and the second image G <b> 2 of FIG.

(3) Modified Examples of Optical Projection Device (3-1) First Modified Example As described above, in the optical device 30 of FIG. 2, the first path L1a and the second path L2a have the same optical path length. Thus, the optical system of the optical device 30 including the beam splitter 35 and the mirrors 36, 37, and 38 is configured.

  Not limited to the example of FIG. 2, in the optical device 30, the configuration of the optical system may be determined as follows. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a first modification of the light projection device 2. In the example of FIG. 4A, a mirror 36 is provided between the beam splitter 35 and the one side surface portion 31c in the X direction provided in the optical device 30. The mirror 36 guides the first light beam group L <b> 1 reflected by the beam splitter 35 to the first projection port 33. Also in the example of FIG. 4A, as in the example of FIG. 2, the mirror 36 is provided so as to be swingable around an axis parallel to the Y direction by the user. Further, the mirror 36 may be provided so as to be swingable about an axis parallel to the X direction by the user. Further, mirrors 37, 38, and 39 are provided between the beam splitter 35 and the front surface portion 31a in the Z direction. The mirrors 37, 38, and 39 respectively guide the second light beam group L 2 to the second projection port 34 by reflecting the second light beam group L 2 that has passed through the beam splitter 35. In the example of FIG. 4A, only the mirror 39 among the mirrors 37, 38, 39 is provided so as to be swingable about an axis parallel to the Y direction by the user, like the mirror 36. Further, the mirror 39 may be provided so as to be swingable around an axis parallel to the X direction by the user.

  In the example of FIG. 4B, a mirror 36 is provided between the beam splitter 35 and one side surface portion 31c in the X direction. The mirror 36 guides the first light beam group L <b> 1 reflected by the beam splitter 35 to the first projection port 33. Also in the example of FIG. 4B, the mirror 36 is provided so as to be swingable around an axis parallel to the Y direction by the user, as in the example of FIG. Further, the mirror 36 may be provided so as to be swingable about an axis parallel to the X direction by the user. In addition, mirrors 37 and 38 are provided between the beam splitter 35 and the front surface portion 31a in the Z direction. The mirrors 37 and 38 guide the second light beam group L2 to the second projection port 34 by reflecting the second light beam group L2 transmitted through the beam splitter 35, respectively. In the example of FIG. 4B, only the mirror 38 of the mirrors 37 and 38 is provided so as to be swingable about an axis parallel to the Y direction by the user, like the mirror 39 of FIG. It is done. Further, the mirror 38 may be provided so as to be swingable about an axis parallel to the X direction by the user.

  4A and 4B, the plurality of mirrors 37, 38, and 39 are arranged so that the optical path length of the second path L2a is equal to the optical path length of the first path L1a. Is done. Also in this example, the positions of the mirrors 36, 37, 38, 39 in the Z direction are fixed.

(3-2) Second Modification FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a second modification of the light projection device 2. The optical device 30 of this example is different from the optical device 30 of FIG. 2 in the following points. In the optical device 30 of this example, the image forming lens 51, the relay lens 52, the first projection lens 53, and the second projection lens are provided in the second casing 31 together with the beam splitter 35 and the mirrors 36, 37, and 38. 54 is provided.

  Specifically, an imaging lens 51 and a relay lens 52 are provided between the rear surface portion 31 b and the beam splitter 35 in the Z direction. The imaging lens 51 is located between the rear surface portion 31b and the relay lens 52, and guides the light beam group L0 guided from the light generator 20 to the relay lens 52 while converging. A real image b based on the image a generated in the spatial light modulator 23 is formed between the imaging lens 51 and the relay lens 52 as indicated by a dotted line.

  The relay lens 52 guides the light beam group L0 guided from the imaging lens 51 to the beam splitter 35 while further converging. Thereby, a real image c1 based on the real image b is further formed on the first path L1a. A first projection lens 53 is provided in the first projection port 33. The first projection lens 53 forms a real image based on the real image c1 on the screen 3 on the extended line of the first path L1a while expanding the first light ray group L1.

  Further, a real image c2 based on the real image b is further formed on the second path L2a. A second projection lens 54 is provided at the second projection port 34. The second projection lens 54 forms a real image based on the real image c2 on the screen 3 on the extended line of the second path L2a while expanding the second light ray group L2.

  Here, the first projection lens 53 and the second projection lens 54 are provided so as to be swingable about an axis parallel to the X direction and swingable about an axis parallel to the Y direction by the user. The user can change the direction in which the first light beam L1 is projected from the first projection port 33 and the direction in which the second light beam group L2 is projected from the second projection port 34. Thereby, the first image G1 (FIG. 1B) and the second image G2 (FIG. 1 (FIG. 1 (B)) displayed on the screen 3 by projecting the first light group L1 and the second light group L2. The position of b)) is adjusted.

  Further, the first projection lens 53 and the second projection lens 54 are provided so as to be movable in the Z direction. Thereby, the user can project the first image G1 (FIG. 1B) and the second image G2 displayed on the screen 3 by projecting the first light group L1 and the second light group L2. The size and focus of (FIG. 1 (b)) can be adjusted.

  In this example, the light group L 0 guided from the light generator 20 to the optical device 30 is guided to the beam splitter 35 while being converged by the imaging lens 51 and the relay lens 52. Thereby, the amount of light incident on the beam splitter 35 can be increased without increasing the size of the beam splitter 35. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the light amount of the first light group L1 and the second light group L2 passing through the first path L1a and the second path L2a from decreasing without increasing the size of the light projection device 2.

  As described above, in the present example, each of the first projection lens 53 and the second projection lens 54 has a smaller diameter than the imaging lens 51. Thereby, the size of the first projection port 33 and the second projection port 34 in the X direction can be made smaller than the diameter of the imaging lens 51. Accordingly, it is possible to project the first light group L1 and the second light group L2 with a small pitch.

  The configuration of the light generator 20 including the spatial light modulator 23, the projection lens 24, and the light source LS is generally commercially available as a projector. When the optical device 30 of FIG. 5 is manufactured as an accessory of a commercially available projector, the same configuration as the optical projection device 2 of FIG. 5 can be easily realized by attaching the optical device 30 to one existing projector. Can do. For example, by attaching the optical device 30 of FIG. 5 to one existing projector, a plurality (two in this example) of images are displayed on the screen 3 in a time-sharing manner. Thereby, the same function as the case where a plurality of existing projectors are arranged can be easily realized by using one existing projector.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the second modification, a real image b based on the image a is formed between the imaging lens 51 and the relay lens 52. In this case, the light beam group L0 converges from the imaging lens 51 to the position where the real image b is formed, and then diffuses from the position where the real image b is formed. When the light beam group L0 that diffuses from the position where the real image b is formed diffuses in the direction in which the relay lens 52 does not exist, the amount of the light beam group L0 incident on the relay lens 52 decreases. Therefore, an optical member for diffusing the light group L0 toward the relay lens 52 at the position where the real image b is formed in order to increase the amount of the light group L0 toward the relay lens 52 from the position where the real image b is formed. May be provided. As an optical member for adjusting the direction in which the light beam group L0 is diffused, for example, a light diffusing plate can be used.

  Further, an optical member (for example, a diffusing plate) that allows the first light group L1 to efficiently enter the first projection lens 53 may be provided at a position where the real image c1 is formed. Furthermore, an optical member (for example, a diffusing plate) that allows the second light group L2 to efficiently enter the second projection lens 54 may be provided at a position where the real image c2 is formed.

  As described above, the diffuser is provided at each of the positions where the real images b, c1, and c2 are formed, so that the amount of light of the first light group L1 and the second light group L2 projected from the light projection device 2 can be reduced. The decrease can be further prevented.

(3-3) Third Modification FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a third modification of the light projection device 2. The light generator 20 of this example is different from the light generator 20 of FIG. 2 in the following points. In the light generator 20 of this example, a reflective element 60 is provided in the first casing 21 instead of the spatial light modulator 23 and the projection lens 24.

  FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the reflective element 60. The reflective element 60 in FIG. 7 is manufactured by MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems). The reflective element 60 includes a support frame 61, a movable frame 62, and a reflective member 63. The support frame 61 is disposed on the XY plane. In FIG. 7, portions of the support frame 61, the movable frame 62, and the reflection member 63 are indicated by a dot pattern.

  Here, an axis parallel to the X direction and passing through the center of the reflecting element 60 in the Y direction is referred to as a first rotation axis 60x, and an axis parallel to the Y direction and passing through the center of the reflecting element 60 in the X direction is the second axis. This is referred to as a rotation axis 60y.

  The movable frame 62 is attached to the support frame 61 so as to be rotatable about the first rotation shaft 60x as indicated by an arrow q. The reflection member 63 is attached to the movable frame 62 so as to be rotatable about the second rotation shaft 60y as indicated by an arrow r. One surface of the reflecting member 63 becomes the reflecting surface 64. The length of one side of the reflecting surface 64 is, for example, about 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

  With such a configuration, the reflecting surface 64 is provided so as to be swingable about the second rotation shaft 60y, and is provided to be swingable about the first rotation shaft 60x. Here, the light beam refers to light represented by a straight line that does not diffuse. Thereby, it is possible to reflect the light incident on the reflecting surface 64 at an arbitrary angle in the XZ plane and an arbitrary angle in the YZ plane.

  In the present example, while the light beam L from the light source LS is irradiated on the reflection surface 64 of the reflection element 60, the second rotation is performed with the reflection surface 64 inclined at a certain angle around the first rotation axis 60x. The reflection surface 64 is sequentially inclined at a plurality of different angles around the rotation axis 60y. Next, after changing the inclination angle of the reflection surface 64 around the first rotation axis 60X, the reflection surface 64 is inclined at different angles sequentially around the second rotation axis 60Y. By repeating this operation, light rays are projected from the reflecting surface 64 in a plurality of different directions within a predetermined time.

  As described above, by irradiating the reflection surface 64 of the reflection element 60 with the light beam L from the light source LS, the reflection surface 64 is swung around the second rotation axis 60Y and the first rotation axis 60X. The light beam L can be reflected by the reflecting surface 64 in a plurality of different directions in a time division manner. Thereby, in the light projection device 2, a light beam group L <b> 10 including a plurality of light beams is emitted toward the optical device 30 in a pseudo manner.

  In the optical device 30, the light beam group L <b> 10 is guided to the beam splitter 35 of the optical device 30. In the beam splitter 35, similarly to the optical device 30 of FIG. 2, the light beam group L10 guided from the reflection element 60 is distributed to the first light beam group L11 and the second light beam group L12. The first light ray group L11 is guided to the first projection port 33 by the mirror 36. The second light ray group L12 is guided to the second projection port 34 by the mirrors 37 and 38.

  In the example of FIG. 6 as well, a path that guides the light beam group generated by the MEMS 60 to the first projection port 33 is called a first path L1a, and a path that guides the light beam group generated by the MEMS 60 to the second projection port 34. Is referred to as a second path L2a.

  When the shutter driving unit 40 drives the first liquid crystal shutter 41 and the second liquid crystal shutter 42, the first light beam group L11 and the second light beam group L12 are projected onto the front surface of the screen 3 in a time division manner. Accordingly, the first light group L11 is projected to display the first image G1 (FIG. 1) on the screen 3, and the second light group L12 is projected to project the second image G2. (FIG. 1) is displayed on the screen 3.

(3-4) Fourth Modification In the optical device 30 of FIG. 2, the light ray group L0 guided from the light projection device 2 is distributed to the first light ray group L1 and the second light ray group L2. Not limited to this, in the optical device 30, the light beam group L0 guided from the light projection device 2 may be distributed to three or more light beam groups.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a fourth modification of the light projection device 2. In FIG. 8, a partially cutaway perspective view showing the internal structure of the optical device 30 is shown. In the optical device 30 of this example, the first projection port 33, the second projection port 34, the third projection port 81, and the fourth projection port 82 are formed in the front surface portion 31 a of the second casing 31. . When the front surface portion 31a is viewed from the inside of the second casing 31, the first projection port 33 is formed in the upper left region of the front surface portion 31a, and the second projection port 34 is formed in the upper right region of the front surface portion 31a. It is formed. The third projection port 81 is formed in the lower left region of the front surface portion 31a, and the fourth projection port 82 is formed in the lower right region of the front surface portion 31a.

  Further, in the second casing 31, the light ray group L0 guided from the light projection device 2 is divided into a first light ray group L1, a second light ray group L2, a third light ray group L3, and a fourth light ray group L4. Three beam splitters 35a, 35b, 35c for distribution are provided. Further, in the second casing 31, the first light group L1, the second light group L2, the third light group L3, and the fourth light group distributed by the three beam splitters 35a, 35b, and 35c. A plurality of mirrors (not shown) for guiding L4 to the screen 3 through the first projection port 33, the second projection port 34, the third projection port 81, and the fourth projection port 82 are provided.

  The beam splitters 35a, 35b, and 35c are arranged to be aligned on the optical axis 24a (FIG. 2) of the projection lens 24 (FIG. 2). Of the beam splitters 35a, 35b, and 35c, the beam splitter 35a is positioned at a position farthest from the front surface portion 31a, and the beam splitter 35c is positioned at a position closest to the front surface portion 31a.

  The beam splitter 35a reflects the light beam group L0 guided from the spatial light modulator 23 as a first light beam group L1 in a direction heading obliquely upward to the left as viewed from the rear surface portion 31b. The beam splitter 35a transmits the remaining part of the light beam group L0. The first light beam group L1 reflected by the beam splitter 35a is guided to the first projection port 33 by a mirror (not shown). Also in this example, a path for guiding the light beam generated by the spatial light modulator 23 (FIG. 2) to the first projection port 33 is referred to as a first path L1a.

  The beam splitter 35b reflects the light beam group L0 that has passed through the beam splitter 35a as a second light beam group L2 in a direction toward the upper right as viewed from the rear surface portion 31b. The beam splitter 35b transmits the remaining part of the light beam group L0. The second light beam group L2 reflected by the beam splitter 35b is guided to the second projection port 34 by a mirror (not shown). Also in this example, a path that guides the light beam generated by the spatial light modulator 23 (FIG. 2) to the second projection port 34 is referred to as a second path L2a.

  The beam splitter 35c reflects the light beam group L0 that has passed through the beam splitter 35b as a third light beam group L3 in a direction toward the lower left as viewed from the rear surface portion 31b. The beam splitter 35c transmits the remaining part of the light beam group L0. The third light beam group L3 reflected by the beam splitter 35c is guided to the third projection port 81 by a mirror (not shown). In this example, a path that guides the light beam generated by the spatial light modulator 23 (FIG. 2) to the third projection port 81 is referred to as a third path L3a.

  The light transmitted through the beam splitter 35c is reflected as a fourth light beam group L4 by a mirror (not shown) in a direction toward the lower right when viewed from the rear surface portion 31b. Thereafter, the fourth light beam group L4 is further guided to the fourth projection port 82 by a mirror (not shown). In this example, a path that guides the light beam generated by the spatial light modulator 23 (FIG. 2) to the fourth projection port 82 is referred to as a fourth path L4a.

  In this example, the beam splitter 35a, the optical path length of the first path L1a, the optical path length of the second path L2a, the optical path length of the third path L3a, and the optical path length of the fourth path L4a are equal to each other. The arrangement of the mirrors 35b and 35c and a mirror (not shown) is determined.

  The optical device 30 of this example further includes a first liquid crystal shutter 41, a second liquid crystal shutter 42, a third liquid crystal shutter 83, a fourth liquid crystal shutter 84, and a shutter driving unit (not shown). When the shutter driving unit drives the first to fourth liquid crystal shutters 41, 42, 83, and 84, the first to fourth light beam groups L1 to L4 are projected onto the front surface of the screen 3 in a time division manner.

  FIG. 9 is a front view of the screen 3 showing a state in which the first to fourth light beam groups L1 to L4 are projected from the light projection device 2 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the first light beam L1 is projected onto the upper left area 3a of the screen 3, whereby a rectangular first image G1 is displayed. Further, the second light beam L2 is projected onto the upper right area 3b of the screen 3, whereby a rectangular second image G2 is displayed. Further, the third light beam L3 is projected onto the lower left region 3c of the screen 3, whereby a rectangular third image G3 is displayed. Further, the fourth light beam L4 is projected onto the lower right region 3d of the screen 3, whereby a rectangular fourth image G4 is displayed.

  In this example, the first image G1 to the fourth image G4 are displayed so as not to overlap. Not limited to this, a part of the first image G1 may overlap with a part of the other images G2 to G4. A part of the second image G2 may overlap with a part of the other images G3 and G4. A part of the third image G3 and a part of the other image G4 may overlap.

  As described above, when the first to fourth images G <b> 1 to G <b> 4 are displayed on the screen 3 by time division, a high-quality image having a high resolution can be displayed on the screen 3.

  Here, when the light projector 2 of FIG. 8 is viewed from the screen 3, a virtual emission point that is considered to emit the first light ray group L1 is referred to as a first virtual emission point. Further, a virtual emission point that is considered to emit the second light ray group L2 when the light projection device 2 is viewed from the screen 3 is referred to as a second virtual emission point. A virtual emission point that is considered to emit the third light group L3 when the light projection device 2 is viewed from the screen 3 is referred to as a third virtual emission point. A virtual emission point that is considered to emit the fourth light group L4 when the light projection device 2 is viewed from the screen 3 is referred to as a fourth virtual emission point.

  In this case, also in this example, the distance from the first virtual emission point to the first projection port 33, the distance from the second virtual emission point to the second projection port 34, the third virtual emission point to the first The distance from the third projection port 81 and the distance from the fourth virtual exit point to the fourth projection port 82 are equal to each other. Therefore, the same function as the case where the existing four projectors are arranged can be realized by using the single light projection device 2. Therefore, it is possible to present a higher quality image at a low cost.

(4) Effects of First Embodiment As described above, in the optical projection device 2 according to the present embodiment, the optical system of the optical device 30 is configured so that a plurality of paths have equal optical path lengths. Therefore, the distances between the plurality of virtual emission points that emit the plurality of light ray groups and the plurality of projection openings are equal. Thereby, the same function as the case where a plurality of existing projectors are arranged can be realized by using the single light projection device 2. Therefore, it is possible to present a high-quality planar image at low cost. Further, the number of light projection devices 2 can be reduced as compared with the number of images to be displayed on the screen 3. Thereby, the installation work of the light projector 2 is simplified. Furthermore, the adjustment work for adjusting the brightness and size of the image displayed on the screen 3 is facilitated.

[2] Second Embodiment (1) Configuration of Stereoscopic Display In the second embodiment, a stereoscopic display will be described as an example of a display device. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the stereoscopic display according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10A is a schematic plan view showing the main part of the stereoscopic display 1A of this example. Also in the following description, as in the first embodiment, three directions orthogonal to each other are defined as an X direction, a Y direction, and a Z direction.

  As shown in FIG. 10A, the stereoscopic display 1 </ b> A of this example includes a plurality of light projection devices 2, a planar light beam controller 6, a storage device 4, and a control device 5. FIG. 10B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of one of the plurality of light projection devices 2 used in the stereoscopic display 1A. Each light projection device 2 has the same configuration as the light projection device 2 of FIG. 6 except that the positional relationship between the first projection port 33 and the second projection port 34 in the X direction is reversed. Have. In the three-dimensional display 1A, the plurality of light projection devices 2 are arranged along the X direction so that the first projection ports 33 and the second projection ports 34 are alternately arranged in the X direction. The light projection device 2 projects the first light group L11 and the second light group L12, which are pseudo light beams, from the first projection port 33 and the second projection port 34 onto the light beam controller 6.

  As shown by a thick arrow in FIG. 10B, in each light projection apparatus 2, the inclination of the mirrors 36 and 38 with respect to the YZ plane is adjusted. Thereby, the first light group L11 and the second light group L12 are accurately projected onto a predetermined region of the light controller 6.

  The light beam controller 6 transmits the light beams projected from the first projection port 33 and the second projection port 34 of the plurality of light projection devices 2 and diffuses them within a certain angle range while transmitting them. It is arranged in front of (front). Details of the function of the light beam controller 6 will be described later.

  In the following description, similarly to the example of FIG. 2, a virtual emission point that is regarded as having emitted the first light beam group L11 when the light projection device 2 is viewed from the light beam controller 6 is defined as the first virtual light point. This is called the emission point VP1. Further, a virtual emission point that is regarded as having emitted the second light beam group L12 when the light projection device 2 is viewed from the light beam controller 6 is referred to as a second virtual emission point VP2. The plurality of first virtual emission points VP1 and the plurality of second virtual emission points VP2 are arranged so as to be aligned in the X direction at a common position in the Z direction.

  The storage device 4 stores stereoscopic shape data for presenting the stereoscopic image 300. The control device 5 controls the light projection device 2 based on the solid shape data stored in the storage device 4. As a result, the stereoscopic image 300 is presented in the space in front (front) and rear (back) of the light beam controller 6.

(2) Configuration of Light Controller 6 The light controller 6 is formed of a flat transparent sheet made of acrylic or polycarbonate. On one or both surfaces of the transparent sheet, a plurality of linear lenses extending in the X direction are provided so as to be closely arranged in the Y direction. Each linear lens has a kamaboko-shaped vertical cross section, for example.

  The light ray controller 6 slightly diffuses in the first angle range in the X direction (in the XZ plane) while transmitting the light beam, and from the first angle range in the Y direction (in the YZ plane) while transmitting the light beam. Has a function of diffusing in a large second angle range.

  The light beam controller 6 allows the light beams from the first projection port 33 and the second projection port 34 of the plurality of light projection devices 2 to be slightly diffused and transmitted in the first angle range in the X direction. Reference numeral 10 denotes an arbitrary position in the X direction, and only one light beam in a certain direction from the light projection device 2 toward the observer 10 can be visually recognized.

  In addition, the light beam controller 6 diffuses the light beam from the first projection port 33 or the second projection port 34 of each light projection device 2 in the Y direction in a second angle range larger than the first angle range. Therefore, the observer 10 can visually recognize one light beam from an arbitrary position in the vertical direction.

(3) Effect of Second Embodiment FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the effect of the three-dimensional display 1A according to the second embodiment. For example, it is assumed that a plurality of projectors pr having the same configuration as that of the light generator 20 in FIG. 5 are used instead of the plurality of light projection devices 2 in FIG. FIG. 11A shows a schematic plan view of a stereoscopic display using a plurality of projectors pr instead of the plurality of light projection devices 2, and FIG. 11B shows a front view of the plurality of projectors pr.

  Due to physical limitations of components such as lenses and cases of the plurality of projectors pr, the emission points TP of the light beams emitted from the plurality of projectors pr are changed to the first virtual emission points VP1 and the first virtual emission points VP1 in FIG. It is difficult to arrange them densely in the X direction at the same pitch as the two virtual emission points VP2.

  Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, when a plurality of projectors pr are used, the plurality of projectors pr are arranged in a plurality of stages (two stages in this example) in the Y direction and in the X direction. A method of arranging the emission points TP of the plurality of projectors pr so as not to overlap is conceivable. According to this method, by increasing the number of stages of the plurality of projectors pr arranged in the Y direction, the emission points TP of the plurality of projectors pr are densely arranged in the X direction regardless of physical restrictions of each projector pr. It becomes possible to arrange.

  FIG. 11C shows a schematic side view of the stereoscopic display of FIG. In the example of FIG. 11C, the light beam La projected from the upper projector pr toward the central portion PS of the light beam controller 6 travels in the Z direction so as to go from the top to the bottom. On the other hand, the light beam Lb projected from the lower projector pr toward the central portion PS of the light beam controller 6 travels in the Z direction so as to go upward from below. The light beams La and Lb transmitted through the central portion PS of the light beam controller 6 are diffused in the YZ plane as shown by the dotted lines.

  In the space behind the light beam controller 6, the luminance distribution of the light beam La passing through the light beam controller 6 is the largest on the straight line where the light beam La travels from the upper projector pr toward the center part PS, and is away from the straight line. As it gets smaller. Similarly, the luminance distribution of the light beam Lb that passes through the light beam controller 6 is the largest on the straight line along which the light beam Lb travels from the lower projector pr toward the central portion PS, and decreases as the distance from the straight line increases.

  Therefore, when the viewpoint of the observer 10 is at a position Ea lower than the central part PS of the light controller 6, the observer 10 recognizes that the image formed by the light beam La projected from the upper projector pr is bright, The image formed by the light beam Lb projected from the lower projector pr is recognized as dark. On the other hand, when the viewpoint of the viewer 10 is at a position Eb higher than the central portion PS of the light controller 6, the viewer 10 recognizes that the image formed by the light beam Lb projected from the upper projector pr is bright, The image formed by the light beam La projected from the lower projector pr is recognized as dark. Thus, when the plurality of projectors pr are arranged in a plurality of stages in the Y direction, the image quality of the stereoscopic image 300 varies depending on the observation position.

  On the other hand, in the stereoscopic display 1A according to the present embodiment, the first virtual emission points VP1 of the plurality of light projection devices 2 and the plurality of light projection devices 2 are arranged in a plurality of stages in the Y direction. The second virtual emission points VP2 can be densely arranged in the X direction. As a result, even if the first angle range of the light beam controller 6 to be slightly diffused in the X direction is reduced, gaps in the X direction are hardly formed between a plurality of light beams transmitted through the light beam controller 6. When the first angle range is reduced in the light controller 6, the stereoscopic image 300 is finely presented in the X direction. In addition, unevenness in the image quality of the stereoscopic image 300 is prevented depending on the observation position in the Y direction.

  As a result, it is possible to present a high-quality stereoscopic image 300 with no gap (discontinuity) to the observer 10 at an arbitrary position in the X direction at low cost.

[3] Third Embodiment (1) Configuration of Stereoscopic Display In the third embodiment as well, as in the second embodiment, a stereoscopic display will be described as an example of a display device. FIG. 12 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a three-dimensional display according to the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view of the main part of the stereoscopic display according to the third embodiment.

  The stereoscopic display 1B according to the third embodiment is different from the stereoscopic display 1A according to the second embodiment in the following points.

  12 and 13 includes a plurality of light projection devices 2, a storage device 4 (see FIG. 10A), a control device 5 (see FIG. 10A), and a light beam controller 7. The stereoscopic display 1 </ b> B is provided on the table 9. The table 9 includes a top plate 91 and a plurality of legs 92. The top plate 91 has a circular hole.

  The light beam controller 7 has a truncated cone shape that is rotationally symmetric about the vertical axis 500. The large diameter bottom portion and the small diameter bottom portion of the light beam controller 7 are open. The light beam controller 7 allows the incident light beam to pass through and slightly diffuses in the circumferential direction about the axis 500 in the third angle range, and transmits the light beam while passing the light beam in the ridge line direction, which is larger than the third angle range. It has a function of diffusing in an angle range of 4. The light beam controller 7 is fitted in the circular hole of the top plate 91 so that the large-diameter bottom opening faces upward.

  Below the table 9, the plurality of light projection devices 2 are arranged such that the first virtual emission point VP <b> 1 and the second virtual emission point VP <b> 2 of each light projection device 2 are located on the circumference centered on the axis 500. Is arranged. The plurality of light projection devices 2 are provided so as to irradiate the outer peripheral surface of the light beam controller 7 from obliquely below the light beam controller 7.

  Each light projection device 2 projects the first light ray group L11 and the second light ray group L12 made of a plurality of light rays in a time-division manner from the first projection port 33 and the second projection port 34 in a time division manner. The configuration and operation of the light projection device 2 are the same as those of the light projection device 2 of FIG.

  An observer around the table can observe the inner peripheral surface of the light beam controller 7 from obliquely above the table top.

  The control device 5 (FIG. 10A) controls the plurality of light projection devices 2 based on the solid shape data stored in the storage device 4 (FIG. 10A). Thereby, the stereoscopic image 300 is presented inside and above the light controller 7.

(2) Effects of the Third Embodiment In the present embodiment, the first virtual emission point VP1 and the second virtual emission point VP2 of each light projection device 2 are centered on the axis 500 parallel to the Y direction. Located on the circumference to be. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the effect of the positional relationship between the first virtual emission point VP1 and the second virtual emission point VP2. For example, the first virtual emission point VP1 of one light projection device 2 is disposed on the circumference cr1 centered on the axis 500 at a position below the top plate 91 of FIG. 12, and the second virtual emission point VP2 Is assumed not to be positioned on the circumference cr1 centered on the axis 500 at a position below the top plate 91.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 14A, the first virtual emission point VP1 is located above the top plate 91 of FIG. 12 and from the first position p1 on the circumference cr2 centered on the axis 500. Visible to the right and the second virtual exit point VP2 to the left. On the other hand, the first virtual emission point VP1 appears to the left and the second virtual emission point VP2 to the right from the second position p2 above the top plate 91 and on the circumference cr2 centered on the axis 500. appear. That is, the positional relationship between the first virtual emission point VP1 and the second virtual emission point VP2 varies depending on the viewing position. Further, the angle formed by the straight line passing through the first virtual emission point VP1 and the second position p2 and the straight line passing through the second virtual emission point VP2 and the second position p2 is the first virtual emission point VP1 and the first virtual emission point VP1. This is significantly smaller than the angle formed by the straight line passing through the first position p1 and the straight line passing through the second virtual emission point VP2 and the first position p1. In this case, the observer 10 cannot appropriately recognize the three-dimensional shape of the three-dimensional image 300 depending on the observation position.

  On the other hand, as described above, the first and second virtual emission points VP1 and VP2 of one light projection device 2 are on the circumference cr1 centering on the axis 500 at a position below the top plate 91 of FIG. Assume a position. In this case, as shown in FIG. 14B, the first virtual emission point VP1 appears to the right from both the first position p1 and the second position p2, and the second virtual emission point VP2 Looks to the left. That is, when the first and second virtual emission points VP1 and VP2 are visually recognized through the light ray controller 7, the first virtual emission point VP1 and the second virtual emission point VP1 are viewed from any position on the circumference cr2. The positional relationship of the emission point VP2 does not change. Furthermore, the angle formed by the straight line passing through the first virtual exit point VP1 and the second position p2 and the straight line passing through the second virtual exit point VP2 and the second position p2 is the first virtual exit point VP1 and the first virtual exit point VP1. The angle formed by the straight line passing through the first position p1 and the straight line passing through the second virtual emission point VP2 and the first position p1 is substantially equal. Thereby, the observer 10 can appropriately recognize the three-dimensional shape of the three-dimensional image 300 when the light beam controller 7 is viewed from any direction.

  As described above, in the stereoscopic display according to the present embodiment, the first virtual emission points VP1 and the second virtual emission points VP2 of the plurality of light projection devices 2 can be densely arranged in the circumferential direction. It becomes. Further, the light beam projected from the first virtual emission point VP1 and the second virtual emission point VP2 of the plurality of light projection devices 2 toward the light beam controller 7 is slightly diffused in the circumferential direction by the light beam controller 7. Is done. Therefore, a light beam group without a gap in the circumferential direction is formed. As a result, it is possible to present a high-quality stereoscopic image 300 with no gap (discontinuity) to the observer 10 at an arbitrary position in the circumferential direction at low cost.

[4] Other Embodiments (1) In the first embodiment, a reflective screen is used as the screen 3. However, the screen 3 is not limited to this, and a transmissive screen may be used instead of the reflective screen. In this case, the first image G1 and the second image G2 based on the first light group L1 and the second light group L2 are displayed on the rear surface of the screen 3. The observer 10 can visually recognize the first image G1 and the second image G2 by looking at the rear surface of the screen 3.

  (2) In the second embodiment, the light beam controller 6 is disposed in front of (in front of) the plurality of light projection devices 2 and transmits a light beam projected from the plurality of light projection devices 2 while maintaining a certain angle range. Diffuse in. Thereby, the stereoscopic image 300 is presented in the space in front of and behind the light controller 6. The observer 10 can visually recognize the stereoscopic image 300 by looking at the rear surface of the light beam controller 6.

  However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and in the three-dimensional display 1A, a reflective material may be provided on the rear surface of the light beam controller 6. In this case, the three-dimensional image 300 is presented in front of the light beam controller 6 by a plurality of light beam groups that pass through the light beam controller 6 and are reflected by the reflecting material and pass through the light beam controller 6 again. The observer 10 can visually recognize the stereoscopic image 300 by looking at the front surface of the light beam controller 6 from a position between the plurality of light projection devices 2 and the light beam controller 6 in the Z direction.

  (3) Also in the third embodiment, the light beam controller 7 is arranged in front of (in front of) the plurality of light projection devices 2 and transmits a light beam projected from the plurality of light projection devices 2 at a constant angle. Spread within range. The observer 10 can visually recognize the stereoscopic image 300 by looking at the inner peripheral surface of the light beam controller 7.

  Not limited to this, in the three-dimensional display 1 </ b> B, a reflector is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the light beam controller 7, and a plurality of light projection devices 2 emit light rays from obliquely above the light beam controller 7 to the inner peripheral surface of the light beam controller 7. May be provided. At this time, the first virtual emission point VP <b> 1 and the second virtual emission point VP <b> 2 of each light projection device 2 are arranged on a circumference centering on the axis 500. In this case, the three-dimensional image 300 is transmitted to the inside of the light controller 7 by a plurality of light beams that pass through the light controller 7 from the inner peripheral surface of the light controller 7 and are reflected by the reflecting material, and pass through the light controller 7 again. Presented. Thereby, the observer 10 can visually recognize the stereoscopic image 300 by looking at the inner peripheral surface of the light beam controller 7.

  (4) In the second modification (FIG. 5) in the first embodiment, the imaging lens 51, the relay lens, and the beam splitter 35 and the mirrors 36, 37, 38 are provided in the second casing 31. 52, a first projection lens 53, and a second projection lens 54 are provided.

  Of the above components, the relay lens 52 may not be provided. In this case, for example, in the second casing 31, a real image based on the image generated by the spatial light modulator 23 is generated on the first and second paths L1a and L2a between the imaging lens 51 and the beam splitter 35. Imaged. Alternatively, a real image based on the image generated by the spatial light modulator 23 is on the first path L1a between the beam splitter 35 and the first projection port 33 and between the beam splitter 35 and the second projection port 34. An image is formed on the second path L2a.

  Thereafter, the first projection lens 53 forms a real image on the screen 3 based on the real image formed on the first path L1a while expanding the first light ray group L1. The second projection lens 54 forms a real image on the screen 3 based on the real image formed on the second path L2a while expanding the second light ray group L2.

  (5) In addition to the above example, the first projection lens 53 and the second projection lens 54 are not provided in the optical projection device 2 of the second modification (FIG. 5) of the first embodiment. May be.

  In this case, the relay lens 52 is configured to expand the light beam group L0. Accordingly, the relay lens 52 guides the light beam L0 guided from the imaging lens 51 to the beam splitter 35 while expanding it, and converts the real image based on the real image formed by the imaging lens 51 into the first light beam L1 and the second light beam L2. The image is formed on the screen 3 by the light beam group L2.

  (6) In the first to third embodiments, the beam splitter 35 distributes the first beam group L1 and the second beam group L2 from the beam group L0 guided from the light generator 20 to the optical device 30. Is done. Further, the first light group L11 and the second light group L12 are distributed from the light group L10.

  Not limited to this, the first light group L1 or the first light group L11 and the second light group L2 or the second light group L12 may be distributed from the light groups L0 and L10 by the following configuration.

  For example, instead of the beam splitter 35, a mirror that can swing around an axis parallel to the Y direction may be provided at a position where the beam splitter 35 of FIG. In this case, by tilting the mirror by 45 ° with respect to the YZ plane, the light beam group L0 from the light generator 20 can be guided to the first projection port 33 as the first light beam group L1. On the other hand, by making the mirror parallel to the YZ plane, the light ray group L0 from the light generator 20 can be guided to the second projection port 34 as the second light ray group L2. Therefore, by changing the tilt of the mirror with respect to the YZ plane at a constant period, the first light group L1 and the second light group L2 can be distributed from the light group L0 without reducing the amount of light.

  In this case, since the light is alternately guided to the first projection port 33 and the second projection port 34, the first liquid crystal shutter 41, the second liquid crystal shutter 42, and the shutter driving unit 40 are not necessary.

  In addition to the above example, a dimming mirror capable of electrically changing optical characteristics may be provided in place of the beam splitter 35 at a position where the beam splitter 35 of FIG. 2 is provided. For example, the dimming mirror reflects light in a state where no voltage is applied, and transmits light when a voltage of a predetermined level is applied.

  In this case, the dimming mirror is disposed with an inclination of 45 ° with respect to the YZ plane. In this state, a predetermined level of voltage is applied to the dimming mirror. Thereby, the light ray group L0 from the light generator 20 can be led to the first projection port 33 as the first light ray group L1. On the other hand, the application of voltage to the dimming mirror is stopped. Thereby, the light beam group L0 from the light generator 20 can be guided to the second projection port 34 as the second light beam group L2.

  (7) In the first to third embodiments, the first liquid crystal shutter 41, the second liquid crystal shutter 42, the third liquid crystal shutter 83, the fourth liquid crystal shutter 84, and the shutter drive are used as switching means. Although the part 40 is used, it is not limited to this. As the switching means, the light emitted from the remaining projection openings of the plurality of projection openings is allowed to pass while the light emitted from any one of the plurality of projection openings provided in the front surface portion 31a of the second casing 31 is passed. Other configurations having a mechanism capable of blocking may be used.

  Specifically, a disk-shaped light shielding member and a rotation driving unit may be used as the switching unit. One opening is formed in the light shielding member of this example. In this case, in the front surface portion 31a of the second casing 31, the opening of the light shielding member is set to any one of the plurality of projection openings so as to be rotatable around an axis passing through the centers of the plurality of projection openings. A light shielding member is provided so as to overlap. In this state, by rotating the light shielding member by the rotation driving unit, it is possible to project a plurality of lights in a time-sharing manner from a plurality of projection openings.

  In addition to the above example, each of the plurality of projection openings may be provided with a mechanically openable / closable shutter. In this case, a plurality of lights may be projected in a time-sharing manner from a plurality of projection openings by individually controlling the open / closed states of the plurality of shutters.

  (8) In the first embodiment described above, the light projection device 2 including the spatial light modulator 23 and the light projection device 2 including the MEMS are used as the light generator. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As the light generator, a general light projection apparatus including a projection system such as a lens array composed of a plurality of lenses can be used.

  (9) In the second and third embodiments, the reflective element 60 including MEMS is used as the light generator. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As the light generator, a general light generation apparatus including a spatial light modulator such as LCOS, DMD, or LCD and a projection system such as a lens array including a plurality of lenses may be used. In this case, a plurality of light beams in different directions can be simultaneously projected from the first projection port 33 of the light projection device 2. In addition, a plurality of light beams in different directions can be simultaneously projected from the second projection port 34 of the light projection device 2.

[5] Correspondence between each constituent element of claim and each element of the embodiment Hereinafter, an example of correspondence between each constituent element of the claim and each element of the embodiment will be described. It is not limited to.

  In the first to third embodiments, the first image G1, the second image G2, the third image G3, the fourth image G4, and the three-dimensional image 300 are examples of images, and the light group L0, An example in which the first ray group L1, the second ray group L2, the third ray group L3, the fourth ray group L4, the ray group L10, the first ray group L11, and the second ray group L12 are ray groups. It is.

  The light generator 20 is an example of a light generator, the optical device 30 is an example of an optical device, and the first projection port 33, the second projection port 34, the third projection port 81, and the fourth projection device. The projection port 82 is an example of a plurality of projection ports, and the first route L1a, the second route L2a, the third route L3a, and the fourth route L4a are examples of a plurality of routes.

  The beam splitter 35, the mirrors 36, 37, 38, 39, the imaging lens 51, the relay lens 52, the first projection lens 53, and the second projection lens 54 are examples of optical systems, and the shutter drive unit 40, The first liquid crystal shutter 41, the second liquid crystal shutter 42, the third liquid crystal shutter 83, and the fourth liquid crystal shutter 84 are examples of time division means, the closed state is an example of the first state, and the open state Is an example of the second state, and the first liquid crystal shutter 41, the second liquid crystal shutter 42, the third liquid crystal shutter 83, and the fourth liquid crystal shutter 84 are examples of a plurality of light blocking means.

  The shutter drive unit 40 is an example of switching means, the beam splitters 35, 35a, 35b, and 35c are examples of light distribution means, and the mirrors 36, 37, 38, and 39 are examples of a plurality of optical members, The mirrors 36, 37, 38, and 39 are examples of a plurality of reflecting members, the projection lens 24 is an example of a first lens, the imaging lens 51 is an example of a second lens, and the relay lens 52 or the second lens. One projection lens 53 and the second projection lens 54 are examples of one or a plurality of third lenses, and the first projection lens 53 and the second projection lens 54 are examples of a plurality of fourth lenses. .

  The screen 3 and the light beam controllers 6 and 7 are examples of the screen, the light projection device 2 is an example of one or a plurality of light projection devices, and the first image G1, the second image G2, and the third The image G3 and the fourth image G4 are examples of planar images, the stereoscopic image 300 is an example of a stereoscopic image, and the control device 5 is an example of a control device.

  As each constituent element in the claims, various other elements having configurations or functions described in the claims can be used.

  The present invention can be used to present a planar image or a stereoscopic image.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Display apparatus 1A, 1B Three-dimensional display 2 Optical projection apparatus 3 Screen 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d Area | region 4 Memory | storage device 5 Control apparatus 6,7 Light beam controller 9 Table 10 Observer 20 Light generator 21 1st casing 21a, 31a Front part 21b, 31b Rear part 21c, 31c One side part 21d, 31d Other side part 22 Aperture 23 Spatial light modulator 24 Projection lens 24a Optical axis 30 Optical device 31 2nd casing 32 Aperture 33 1st projection port 34 Second projection port 35, 35a, 35b, 35c Beam splitter 36, 37, 38, 39 Mirror 40 Shutter drive unit 41, 42, 83, 84 Liquid crystal shutter 51 Imaging lens 52 Relay lens 53, 54 Projection lens 60 Reflective element 60x 1st rotating shaft 60y 2nd rotating shaft 61 Support frame 2 Movable frame 63 Reflecting member 64 Reflecting surface 81 Third projection port 82 Fourth projection port 91 Top plate 92 Leg 300 Stereo image 500 Axis cr1, cr2 Circumference G1 First image G2 Second image G3 Third image Image G4 4th image L0-L4, L10-L12 Ray group L1a 1st path L2a 2nd path L3a 3rd path L4a 4th path La, Lb Ray LS Light source PS Center part pr Projector TP Output point VP1 First virtual emission point VP2 Second virtual emission point W20, W30 Width X, Y, Z, q, r Arrow p1 First position p2 Second position

Claims (7)

A light generator for generating a group of rays for forming an image;
An optical device for projecting a group of rays generated by the light generator,
The optical device comprises:
A plurality of projection openings;
An optical system for forming a plurality of paths for guiding the light beam generated by the light generator to the plurality of projection openings;
Including time division means for projecting light rays in a time division manner from the plurality of projection ports,
The optical system includes: a plurality of optical axes that respectively pass through the plurality of projection openings from the plurality of paths; and the plurality of paths have an equal optical path length. The time division means includes
A plurality of light blocking means provided in the plurality of paths or the plurality of projection openings, respectively, capable of switching between a first state that allows a light beam to pass through and a second state that blocks the light beam group;
The light projection apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a switching unit that switches the plurality of light blocking units from the second state to the first state in a time division manner. The optical system is
A light distribution means for distributing the light beam generated by the light generator in a plurality of directions;
A plurality of optical members configured to guide a plurality of light beam groups distributed by the light distribution means to the plurality of projection openings through the plurality of paths;
The plurality of optical members are arranged such that optical path lengths of paths of a plurality of light beam groups respectively guided from the light distribution means to the plurality of projection openings via the plurality of optical members are equal. Or the light projection apparatus of 2. The plurality of optical members are:
A plurality of reflecting members that respectively reflect the plurality of light beam groups distributed by the light distributing unit to the plurality of projection ports;
The optical projection apparatus according to claim 3, wherein directions of the plurality of reflecting members are variably provided so that directions of the plurality of optical axes can be changed. The light generator includes a first lens that expands the generated light group,
The optical device comprises:
A second lens which is provided between the first lens of the light generator and the light distribution means and forms a first real image while converging a group of light beams expanded by the first lens;
A plurality of second real images based on the first real image provided between the second lens and the plurality of projection openings and formed by the second lens are the plurality of paths or the plurality of paths. 5. The optical projection device according to claim 3, further comprising one or a plurality of third lenses respectively formed on an extension line of. The one or more third lenses are provided between the second lens and the light distribution unit, and are based on the first real image while converging a light ray group that has passed through the second lens. Forming a plurality of second real images in each of the plurality of paths;
The optical device is provided at each of the plurality of projection ports, and expands a group of light beams that have passed through the one or more third lenses, and displays a plurality of third real images based on the plurality of second real images. The optical projection device according to claim 5, further comprising a plurality of fourth lenses respectively formed on an extension line of the path. Screen,
One or a plurality of light projection devices according to claim 1;
The one or more light projections so that a planar image or a three-dimensional image is presented by a group of light rays irradiated on the screen by the one or more light projection devices or a light ray group transmitted through the screen based on image data A display device comprising: a control device that controls the device.

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