JP2020020849A - Electronic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an electronic apparatus which improves a degree of design freedom relating to an appearance design of the electronic apparatus or layout of electronic components.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus comprises a transparent display, a housing and at least one electronic component. The transparent display has: a first surface; a second surface at an opposite side of the first surface; and a display region including multiple pixels. The housing faces the second surface and supports the transparent display. The at least one electronic component is disposed between the second surface and the housing and faces the display region. Further, the at least one electronic component includes at least one of a camera imaging the first surface side, a sensor for detecting a light entering the transparent display through the first surface side or information relating to an object existing at the first surface side, and a lamp for generating a light which enters through the second surface and exits through the first surface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  Embodiments of the present invention relate to an electronic device including a display.

  For example, electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets may include electronic components such as a camera, an illuminance sensor, a proximity sensor, a fingerprint sensor, and a notification lamp in addition to a display having an organic electroluminescence (EL) display element and a liquid crystal display element. . Generally, these electronic components are arranged in a peripheral area around the display area. Therefore, the appearance design of the electronic device and the layout of the electronic components are restricted, and the degree of freedom in designing the electronic device is suppressed.

JP 2018-6263 A JP 2017-151339 A

  One of the objects of the present disclosure is to provide an electronic device having excellent design flexibility regarding the appearance design of an electronic device and the layout of electronic components.

  An electronic device according to one embodiment includes a transparent display, a housing, and an electronic component. The transparent display has a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a display area including a plurality of pixels. The housing faces the second surface and supports the transparent display. The electronic component is disposed between the second surface and the housing, and faces the display area. Further, the electronic component is a camera that captures an image of the first surface side, a sensor that detects light incident on the transparent display from the first surface side or information about an object present on the first surface side, and And at least one lamp emitting light incident on the second surface and emitted from the first surface.

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the electronic device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic device taken along line II-II in FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the heat diffusion sheet. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing another example applicable to the heat diffusion sheet. FIG. 5 is a plan view showing an example of a layout of electronic components in a display area. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an example of a screen displayed in a display area in a video call. FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of a layout of sub-pixels included in the transparent display. FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view showing an example of a structure applicable to the sub-pixel. FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view of the transparent display taken along line IX-IX in FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic sectional view of the transparent display taken along line XX in FIG. FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of a signal line, a power supply line, and a light shielding layer in the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view showing a first modification of the signal line, the power supply line, and the light shielding layer. FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view showing a second modification of the signal line, the power supply line, and the light shielding layer. FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view showing a third modification of the signal line, the power supply line, and the light shielding layer. FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view showing a fourth modification of the signal line, the power supply line, and the light shielding layer. FIG. 16 is a schematic plan view showing a fifth modification of the signal line, the power supply line, and the light shielding layer. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration example of a transparent display according to the third embodiment. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a liquid crystal layer in a light transmitting state. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a liquid crystal layer in a light scattering state. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view illustrating another example of the liquid crystal layer according to the third embodiment. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view illustrating another example of the liquid crystal layer according to the third embodiment. FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a transparent display for describing image display using light from a light source.

Some embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.
It should be noted that the disclosure is merely an example, and those skilled in the art can easily conceive of appropriate changes while maintaining the gist of the invention. In addition, the drawings may be schematically illustrated as compared with actual embodiments in order to make the description clearer, but are merely examples, and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention. In the drawings, the same or similar elements that are continuously arranged may be omitted from reference numerals. In the specification and the drawings, components that perform the same or similar functions as those described in regard to a drawing thereinabove are marked with the same reference numerals, and a repeated detailed description may be omitted.

  In each embodiment, a smartphone is disclosed as an example of the electronic device. However, the electronic device is not limited to a smartphone, and may be another type of device such as a tablet, a mobile phone terminal, a personal computer, a game device, an in-vehicle device, a television receiver, and a digital camera.

  In each embodiment, a case where a display (display device) of an electronic device includes an organic electroluminescence (EL) display element or a liquid crystal display element will be described. However, each embodiment does not prevent application of the individual technical ideas disclosed in each embodiment to an electronic device including another type of display. For example, as other types of displays, a display using a light emitting diode (LED) as a display element, an electronic paper type display having an electrophoretic element, a display applying Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS), or electrochromism is used. Examples of the display are applied.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the electronic device 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown, a first direction X, a second direction Y, and a third direction Z are defined. In the present embodiment, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are orthogonal to each other, but these directions may intersect at an angle other than 90 °.

  The electronic device 1 includes a housing 2, a transparent display 3, and a cover glass 4. In the present embodiment, “transparent display” means a display that transmits light between a first surface (display surface) visually recognized by a user and a second surface (rear surface) opposite thereto. That is, for example, when the transparent display is detached from the electronic device, the background on the second surface side is visible from the first surface side, and the background on the first surface side is visible from the second surface side.

  In the present embodiment, the transparent display 3 is a flat panel display device in which the first surface F1 shown in FIG. 1 and a second surface F2 (see FIG. 2) opposite to the first surface F1 are substantially parallel. , And the housing 2. The cover glass 4 covers the transparent display 3. The transparent display 3 has a display area DA having many pixels and a peripheral area PA around the display area DA. As an example, the light transmittance of the transparent display 3 is preferably 50% or more.

  In the example of FIG. 1, the display area DA has a rectangular shape having a pair of long sides Sa1 and Sa2 parallel to the second direction Y and a pair of short sides Sb1 and Sb2 parallel to the first direction X. The housing 2, the transparent display 3, and the cover glass 4 also have the same rectangular shape as the display area DA. However, the display area DA, the housing 2, the transparent display 3, and the cover glass 4 are not limited to rectangular shapes, and may have other shapes such as a square shape, a perfect circle shape, and an elliptical shape.

  In the example of FIG. 1, the peripheral area PA surrounds the periphery of the display area DA. However, the peripheral area PA does not have to exist between the display area DA and any of the sides Sa1, Sa2, Sb1, and Sb2. Further, the entire front surface of the electronic device 1 may be the display area DA.

  The electronic device 1 includes various electronic components arranged in a space between the housing 2 and the transparent display 3. These electronic components include, for example, a camera 5, a first sensor 6, a second sensor 7, a notification lamp 8, a controller CT, a battery BT, and the like.

  The camera 5 captures an image on the first surface F1 side, and is sometimes called an in-camera, a front camera, or the like. The notification lamp 8 is, for example, an LED that is turned on or blinks to notify an incoming call, mail reception, or the like. The light emitted by the notification lamp 8 enters the second surface F2 and exits from the first surface F1.

  Examples of the first sensor 6 and the second sensor 7 include a sensor that detects information about light incident on the transparent display 3 from the first surface F1 side, a sensor that detects information about an object existing on the first surface F1 side, and the like. Various things can be applied. For example, the first sensor 6 is an illuminance sensor that detects illuminance based on external light incident on the transparent display 3 from the first surface F1 side, emits infrared light, receives reflected light thereof, and receives the reflected light. It is a proximity sensor that detects an object (for example, the head of the user) approaching the one surface F1 side, or a sensor having both functions. Further, for example, the second sensor 7 is a fingerprint sensor that detects a fingerprint of a finger pressed by the user against the first surface F1.

  The controller CT includes a processor and a memory, and controls the transparent display 3, the camera 5, the first sensor 6, the second sensor 7, the notification lamp 8, and the like. The battery BT supplies power to each unit of the electronic device 1. In addition, the electronic device 1 may include electronic components such as a speaker, a microphone, a communication unit, and a camera that captures an image on the back side of the electronic device 1. The speaker and the microphone may be provided, for example, on the side of the electronic device 1. Further, the speaker may be configured to generate sound by vibrating the transparent display 3.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic device 1 taken along line II-II in FIG. The housing 2 has a bottom 2a and a side 2b protruding in the third direction Z from the periphery of the bottom 2a. For example, both the bottom 2a and the side 2b have a light-shielding property, but at least a part thereof may have a light-transmitting property. The transparent display 3 is supported by, for example, the side 2b while being separated from the bottom 2a.

  The cover glass 4 is supported by, for example, the side portion 2b and covers the first surface F1 of the transparent display 3. The cover glass 4 may be bonded to the first surface F1. In the example of FIG. 2, a heat diffusion sheet 9 is provided on the second surface F2 of the transparent display 3. The heat diffusion sheet 9 is adhered to, for example, the second surface F2, and diffuses heat generated by the transparent display 3.

  The electronic components such as the camera 5, the first sensor 6, the second sensor 7, the notification lamp 8, the controller CT, and the battery BT are arranged between the second surface F2 and the bottom 2a. These electronic components are fixed to the bottom 2a, for example. However, at least one of these electronic components may be fixed to the transparent display 3 or the heat diffusion sheet 9 with an adhesive or the like. Further, at least one of these electronic components may be fixed by being sandwiched between the bottom 2 a and the transparent display 3 or the heat diffusion sheet 9.

  As illustrated in FIG. 2, the camera 5 includes a lens unit 5a, an image sensor 5b, and a holder 5c that supports the lens unit 5a. The lens unit 5a includes one or more lenses that condense the light L transmitted through the transparent display 3 from the first surface F1 to the second surface F2. The image sensor 5b is a sensor having, for example, a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) or a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS), and generates image data based on the light L collected by the lens unit 5a.

  When the heat diffusion sheet 9 has a light shielding property, the heat diffusion sheet 9 may have a first opening AP1 in a region facing the camera 5. It is preferable that the first opening AP1 has, for example, the same size as the lens unit 5a or a size larger than the lens unit 5a.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the heat diffusion sheet 9. In the example of this figure, the heat diffusion sheet 9 has a second opening AP2, a third opening AP3, and a fourth opening AP4 in addition to the first opening AP1. The second opening AP2 is provided in a region facing the first sensor 6. The third opening AP3 is provided in a region facing the second sensor 7. The fourth opening AP4 is provided in a region facing the notification lamp 8.

  By providing the second opening AP2 and the third opening AP3, the detection accuracy of the first sensor 6 and the second sensor 7 can be improved. By providing the fourth opening AP4, it is easy to confirm the lighting of the notification lamp 8. However, when the influence of the heat diffusion sheet 9 on the detection by the first sensor 6 and the second sensor 7 is small or when the influence of the heat diffusion sheet 9 on the visibility of the notification lamp 8 is small, each of the openings AP2 to AP2 The AP 4 need not be provided.

  When the heat diffusion sheet 9 has a light shielding property, electronic components such as the controller CT and the battery BT cannot be visually recognized from outside the electronic device 1. As another example, a structure in which openings corresponding to electronic components such as the controller CT and the battery BT are provided in the heat diffusion sheet 9 or the translucent heat diffusion sheet 9 is used so that these electronic components can be visually recognized from the outside. It may be a so-called skeleton structure. In this case, the design of the electronic device 1 can be improved.

  FIG. 4 is a plan view showing another example applicable to the heat diffusion sheet 9. In the example of this figure, the heat diffusion sheet 9 has a mesh shape composed of a plurality of wire portions 9a. A rectangular (or rhombic) opening 9b is formed in a region surrounded by the four lines 9a.

  The heat diffusion sheet 9 may be entirely in the form of a mesh as shown in FIG. 4, or a region facing electronic components such as the camera 5, the first sensor 6, the second sensor 7, and the notification lamp 8 may be locally localized. The mesh shape shown in FIG. In any case, the aperture 9b can enhance the image quality of the image captured by the camera 5, the detection accuracy of the first sensor 6 and the second sensor 7, and the visibility of the notification lamp 8.

  FIG. 5 is a plan view showing an example of a layout of the camera 5, the first sensor 6, the second sensor 7, and the notification lamp 8 in the display area DA. Two chain lines in the figure indicate a center line CL1 of the display area DA in the first direction X and a center line CL2 of the display area DA in the second direction Y. The point at which these center lines CL1 and CL2 intersect is referred to as the center C of the display area DA.

  In the example of FIG. 5, the camera 5 is arranged at a position shifted from the center C. Specifically, the camera 5 is separated from the center line CL1 in the first direction X by a distance D1 toward the long side Sa2, and is also separated from the center line CL2 in the second direction Y by a distance D2 from the center line CL2 to the short side Sb1. As an example, the distance D1 is smaller than the distance D2. In other words, the camera 5 is arranged at a position away from the center of the first surface F1 in the longitudinal direction of the first surface F1 shown in FIG.

  The first sensor 6 is arranged near a corner formed by the long side Sa1 and the short side Sb1. The second sensor 7 is arranged near the short side Sb2. In the example of FIG. 5, the center line CL1 coincides with the center of the second sensor 7 in the first direction X. The notification lamp 8 is disposed between the second sensor 7 and the long side Sa2 near the short side Sb2.

  The layout of the camera 5, the first sensor 6, the second sensor 7, and the notification lamp 8 is not limited to the example in FIG. For example, the camera 5 may be arranged at a position away from the center line CL1 on the long side Sa1 side, or may be arranged at a position overlapping the center line CL1 or the center line CL2.

  The electronic device 1 may have a function of a video call. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an example of a screen PIC displayed in the display area DA in a video call. On the screen PIC, an image of the other party transmitted from the electronic device of the call destination is displayed. In addition, an image of the user of the electronic device 1 captured by the camera 5 is transmitted to the electronic device of the call destination and displayed on the electronic device.

  As shown in FIG. 6, when the electronic device 1 is used in a posture in which the short side Sb1 is upward and the short side Sb2 is downward, the head HD of the other party displayed on the screen PIC is positioned closer to the short side Sb1. I can do it. Generally, the user talks while looking at the head HD of the other party. Therefore, if the camera 5 is arranged above the display area DA like a general smartphone, an image in a state where the user's eyes are deviated is captured by the camera 5 and displayed on the electronic device of the call destination. .

  On the other hand, in FIG. 6, the camera 5 overlaps the display area DA, and is further disposed near the short side Sb1. In this case, the camera 5 overlaps the head HD or is located near the head HD. Therefore, the position of the camera 5 is closer to the user's line of sight, and the user with a natural line of sight can be displayed on the electronic device of the call destination.

  The arrangement of the camera 5 in the present embodiment also exerts a suitable action when the user takes a picture of himself / herself. That is, generally, in such shooting, an image obtained by the camera 5 is displayed in the display area DA in real time, and the user operates the shutter button at an appropriate timing while checking the image. If the camera 5 overlaps with the display area DA as in the present embodiment, the camera 5 is closer to the user's line of sight for checking his or her own image, so that a photograph with a natural line of sight can be taken.

  Subsequently, a structure applicable to the transparent display 3 will be described. FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of the layout of the sub-pixels SP included in the transparent display 3. The transparent display 3 includes a plurality of types of sub-pixels SP each emitting a different color. In the example of FIG. 7, a red sub-pixel SPr, a green sub-pixel SPg, and a blue sub-pixel SPb are shown as examples of the sub-pixel SP. For example, as illustrated, sub-pixels SP of each color may be sequentially arranged in the first direction X, and sub-pixels SP of the same color may be repeatedly arranged in the second direction Y. However, the layout of the sub-pixels SP of each color is not limited to this example. Further, the transparent display 3 may include a sub-pixel SP of a color other than red, green, and blue, for example, a white sub-pixel SP. Further, the transparent display 3 may include a single color pixel.

  The transparent display 3 includes a plurality of scanning lines GL, a plurality of signal lines SL, and a plurality of power lines PL. The scanning line GL extends in the first direction X. The signal lines SL and the power supply lines PL both extend in the second direction Y and are alternately arranged in the first direction X. The sub-pixel SP corresponds to a region surrounded by the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and two adjacent scanning lines GL.

  The sub-pixel SP has a light emitting area EA (EAr, EAg, EAb) and a light transmitting area TA (TAr, TAg, TAb). The light emitting area EA is an area that emits visible light for image display. That is, the light-emitting region EAg of the sub-pixel SPr emits red light, the light-emitting region EAg of the sub-pixel SPg emits green light, and the light-emitting region EAb of the sub-pixel SPb emits blue light. The light transmitting area TA is an area through which visible light is transmitted, and no element such as a light-shielding wiring is arranged.

  In the example of FIG. 7, in each of the sub-pixels SP, a rectangular light-emitting region EA and a light-transmitting region TA are arranged in the second direction Y. However, the layout and shape of the light emitting region EA and the light transmitting region TA are not limited to this example. Note that FIG. 7 illustrates a structure in which the sub-pixel SP includes the light-emitting region EA and the light-transmitting region TA. However, the light-transmitting region TA is not included in the sub-pixel SP and is independent of the sub-pixel SP. Is also good.

  Adjacent signal lines SL and power supply lines PL are parallel to each other. That is, in the example of FIG. 7, the distance Dx between the signal line SL and the power supply line PL is constant both in the vicinity of the light emitting area EA and in the vicinity of the light transmitting area TA. However, the distance Dx may be different between the vicinity of the light emitting area EA and the vicinity of the light transmitting area TA.

  The transparent display 3 may include a light shielding layer 21. The light-shielding layer 21 overlaps with the scanning line GL, the signal line SL, and the power supply line PL, and has an opening in the light emitting area EA and the light transmitting area TA. In the example of FIG. 7, the light-shielding layer 21 is also arranged at the boundary between the light emitting area EA and the light transmitting area TA.

  FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view showing an example of a structure applicable to the sub-pixel SP. Here, illustration of the light shielding layer 21 and the like is omitted. The sub-pixel SP includes a first transistor TR1, a second transistor TR2, a first connection line CL1, a second connection line CL2, a third connection line CL3, and a first electrode E1.

  The first transistor TR1 includes a first semiconductor layer SC1. The second transistor TR2 includes a second semiconductor layer SC2. The first semiconductor layer SC1 faces the scanning line GL, has one end connected to the signal line SL, and the other end connected to the first connection line CL1. The first connection line CL1 is connected to the second connection line CL2.

  The second semiconductor layer SC2 faces the second connection line CL2, has one end connected to the power supply line PL, and the other end connected to the third connection line CL3. The third connection line CL3 is connected to the first electrode E1. The first electrode E1 is arranged in the light emitting area EA, and is not arranged in the light transmitting area TA.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view of the transparent display 3 taken along line IX-IX in FIG. The transparent display 3 includes a first transparent base material 10, an undercoat layer 11, a first interlayer insulating layer 12, a second interlayer insulating layer 13, and a planarizing layer in addition to the elements shown in FIGS. 14, a bank 15, a first protective layer 16, a sealing layer 17, a second protective layer 18, a second transparent substrate 20, a second electrode E2, and an organic light emitting layer OE. .

  The first transparent substrate 10 and the second transparent substrate 20 can be formed of, for example, a resin material such as polyimide or glass. In the structure shown in FIG. 9, the lower surface of the first transparent substrate 10 corresponds to the above-described second surface F2, and the upper surface of the second transparent substrate 20 corresponds to the above-described first surface F1.

  The undercoat layer 11 has a laminated structure in which, for example, a silicon oxide film is disposed above and below a silicon nitride film, and is formed on the upper surface of the first transparent substrate 10. The second semiconductor layer SC2 is formed on the undercoat layer 11. For example, the first semiconductor layer SC1 shown in FIG. 8 is also formed in the same layer as the second semiconductor layer SC2. The first interlayer insulating layer 12 is, for example, a silicon nitride film, and covers the undercoat layer 11 and the second semiconductor layer SC2. The second connection wiring CL2 is formed on the first interlayer insulating layer 12. For example, the scanning line GL shown in FIG. 8 is also formed in the same layer as the second connection wiring CL2. The scanning line GL can be formed, for example, of molybdenum tungsten.

  The second interlayer insulating layer 13 is, for example, a silicon oxide film, and covers the first interlayer insulating layer 12 and the second connection wiring CL2. The signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the third connection wiring CL3 are formed on the second interlayer insulating layer 13. The signal line SL and the power supply line PL can have a stacked structure in which, for example, titanium layers are arranged above and below an aluminum layer. For example, the first connection line CL1 shown in FIG. 8 is also formed in the same layer as the signal line SL. The power supply line PL and the third connection wiring CL3 are in contact with the second semiconductor layer SC2 through contact holes provided in each of the interlayer insulating layers 12 and 13.

  The planarization layer 14 is, for example, an organic resin film, and covers the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, the third connection wiring CL3, and the second interlayer insulating layer 13. The first electrode E1 is formed on the planarization layer 14 and is in contact with the third connection line CL3 through a contact hole provided in the planarization layer 14. The first electrode E1 can be, for example, a reflective electrode in which an Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) layer is arranged above and below the Ag layer.

  The bank 15 is, for example, an organic resin film, and is formed on the planarization layer 14. The first electrode E1 is exposed from the bank 15, and the organic light emitting layer OE is formed thereon. For example, a structure in which a hole transport layer, a light emitting layer, and an electron transport layer are sequentially stacked from the first electrode E1 side can be applied to the organic light emitting layer OE. A conductive material that transmits visible light is used for the second electrode E2. For example, the second electrode E2 can be formed of a transparent conductive material such as Indium Zinc Oxide (IZO), or a metal material such as Mg, Ag, or an alloy of Mg and Ag. The second electrode E2 covers the organic light emitting layer OE and the bank 15. The first protective layer 16 is, for example, a silicon nitride film, and covers the second electrode E2.

  The light shielding layer 21 is formed on the lower surface of the second transparent base material 20. The second protective layer 18 is, for example, a silicon nitride film, and covers the lower surface of the second transparent substrate 20 and the light shielding layer 21. The sealing layer 17 is an organic resin film, and is disposed between the first protective layer 16 and the second protective layer 18.

  A common voltage is applied to the second electrode E2. When a pixel voltage is applied to the first electrode E1 via the second transistor TR2, a current flows between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2, and more specifically, holes and electrons are combined in the light emitting layer. , A potential difference occurs, and the organic light emitting layer OE emits light. This light exits from the first surface F1. The organic light emitting layer OE is formed, for example, in an island shape for each sub-pixel SP, and emits light of a color corresponding to each sub-pixel SP. As another example, a configuration in which a color filter is arranged above the organic light emitting layer OE and the organic light emitting layer OE emits white light may be applied.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic sectional view of the transparent display 3 along the line XX in FIG. In the light-transmitting region TA, there are no light-shielding electrodes or metal wires. Therefore, light incident on the first surface F1 is transmitted to the second surface F2, and light incident on the second surface F2 is transmitted to the first surface F1.

  The size of the sub-pixel SP is sufficiently smaller than the sizes of the camera 5, the first sensor 6, the second sensor 7, and the notification lamp 8. That is, in the area facing the camera 5, the first sensor 6, the second sensor 7, and the notification lamp 8, there are many light-transmitting areas TA. Therefore, with the structure of the present embodiment, it is possible to capture an image with the camera 5, detect with the first sensor 6 and the second sensor 7, and visually recognize the light emitted from the notification lamp 8 through the transparent display 3.

  The structure of the transparent display 3 is not limited to those shown in FIGS. The transparent display 3 may have another structure as long as imaging by the camera 5, detection by the first sensor 6 and the second sensor 7, and visual recognition of the light emitted by the notification lamp 8 are possible through the transparent display 3.

  If the image captured by the camera 5 is affected by the scanning line GL, the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, the light shielding layer 21, and the like, the electronic device 1 may have a function of correcting the image by software. The execution subject of such correction processing may be the controller CT or another processor.

  In the electronic device 1 of the present embodiment, electronic components such as the camera 5, the first sensor 6, the second sensor 7, and the notification lamp 8 are arranged behind the display area DA. Therefore, there is no need to dispose these electronic components around the display area DA, so that the degree of freedom in designing the external appearance of the electronic device 1 and the layout of the electronic components can be increased.

For example, since there is no need to arrange electronic components around the display area DA, the peripheral area PA can be made smaller (the display area DA can be made larger). In addition, by not disposing the electronic components around the display area DA, the design of the electronic device 1 can be improved.
In addition, the present embodiment has the various effects described above.

[Second embodiment]
As shown in FIG. 7, when the light-transmitting areas TA having the same shape are arranged at a constant pitch, the light transmitted through the transparent display 3 is diffracted, and a specific interference pattern may be generated. When an interference pattern due to diffraction occurs, a color change of transmitted light occurs or a viewing angle dependency is developed. Therefore, for example, the quality of an image captured by the camera 5 may be degraded. Further, it may be difficult to visually recognize the lit notification lamp 8 from a specific direction, and when the first sensor 6 and the second sensor 7 are optical sensors, the detection performance may be reduced.

  In the present embodiment, a structure of the transparent display 3 capable of suppressing an interference pattern due to diffraction is disclosed. Configurations and effects not particularly mentioned are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light shielding layer 21 in the present embodiment. The structure of FIG. 11 is different from the structure of FIG. 11 in that the signal line SL and the power supply line PL are inclined with respect to the second direction Y between the light-transmitting regions TA (TAr, TAg, TAb) adjacent to each other in the first direction X. 7 is different from the structure of FIG. Between the light emitting areas EA (EAr, EAg, EAb) adjacent in the first direction X, the signal lines SL and the power supply lines PL are parallel to the second direction Y.

  In the translucent area TA, the distance Dx in the first direction X between the adjacent signal line SL and the power supply line PL changes continuously along the second direction Y. Similarly, the distance between the adjacent signal line SL and the light-shielding layer 21 overlapping with the power supply line PL also changes continuously along the second direction Y.

  The shape of the light transmitting area TA adjacent in the first direction X is a shape symmetrical with respect to an axis parallel to the first direction X. Similarly, the shape of the light transmissive area TA adjacent in the second direction Y is also line-symmetric with respect to an axis parallel to the first direction X.

  By adjusting the shapes of the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light-shielding layer 21 in this manner, an interference pattern due to diffraction can be suppressed. The structure shown in FIG. 11 may be partially applied to the sub-pixel SP facing the electronic components such as the camera 5, the first sensor 6, the second sensor 7, and the notification lamp 8, or may be applied to the entire display area DA. May be applied to the sub-pixel SP. When the structure shown in FIG. 11 is partially applied, for example, the same structure as in FIG. 7 may be applied to the other sub-pixels SP, or another structure may be applied.

  FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view showing a first modification of the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light shielding layer 21. The structure in FIG. 12 is different from the structure in FIG. 11 in that the light-shielding layer 21 has a protrusion PT protruding into the light-transmitting area TA.

  The protrusion PT may have, for example, a triangular shape projecting in the second direction Y from the light-shielding layer 21 between the light-transmitting region TA and the light-emitting region EA as shown in the drawing, or may have another shape. By providing such a convex part PT, in each translucent area TA, the distance Dy of the light shielding layer 21 in the second direction Y continuously changes in the first direction X. Thereby, an interference pattern due to diffraction can be more suitably suppressed.

  FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view showing a second modification of the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light shielding layer 21. The structure of FIG. 13 differs from the structure of FIG. 11 in that the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light-shielding layer 21 have a bent portion BP between the light-transmitting regions TA adjacent in the first direction X. I do.

  For example, in the upper translucent region TAr in the figure, the distance Dx is minimum at the bent portion BP. On the other hand, in the upper translucent area TAg in the figure, the distance Dx becomes the maximum at the bent portion BP. Thus, with the structure of FIG. 13, the shape of the light-transmitting region TA can be diversified. Thereby, an interference pattern due to diffraction can be more suitably suppressed.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view showing a third modification of the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light shielding layer 21. The structure in FIG. 14 is different from the structure in FIG. 13 in that the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light-shielding layer 21 have two bent portions BP1 and BP2 between the light-transmitting regions TA adjacent in the first direction X. Structure.

  For example, in the upper translucent region TAr in the figure, the distance Dx is the smallest at the bent portion BP1, and the distance Dx is the largest at the bent portion BP2. On the other hand, in the upper translucent area TAg in the figure, the distance Dx is the largest at the bent portion BP1, and the distance Dx is the smallest at the bent portion BP2. As described above, if the shape of the light transmitting region TA is complicated by the two bent portions BP1 and BP2, an interference pattern due to diffraction can be more appropriately suppressed. The number of bent portions is not limited to two, and may be three or more.

  FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view showing a fourth modification of the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light shielding layer 21. The structure of FIG. 15 differs from the structure of FIG. 14 in that the bent portions BP1 and BP2 are arranged at random positions.

  For example, in the upper translucent area TAr in the figure, the bent portions BP1 and BP2 of the signal line SL and the bent portions BP1 and BP2 of the power supply line PL are shifted in the second direction Y. Similarly, the positions of the bent portions BP1 and BP2 in the other light-transmitting regions TA are also irregular. As described above, by weakening the regularity of the positions of the bent portions BP1 and BP2, the interference pattern due to diffraction can be more suitably suppressed. The number of bent portions is not limited to two, and may be three or more.

  FIG. 16 is a schematic plan view showing a fifth modification of the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light shielding layer 21. The structure shown in FIG. 16 differs from the structures shown in FIGS. 11 to 15 in that the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light-shielding layer 21 are curved between light-transmitting regions TA adjacent in the first direction X. Different.

  For example, in the upper light transmitting area TAr in the figure, the signal line SL and the power supply line PL have an inflection point IP. The distance Dx is large above these inflection points IP in the figure, and is small below these inflection points IP in the figure. The distance Dx changes continuously along the second direction Y. As described above, even when the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light shielding layer 21 are bent in a curved shape, an interference pattern due to diffraction can be suppressed. Note that the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light shielding layer 21 may have two or more inflection points between the adjacent light-transmitting regions TA. Further, the number and position of inflection points may be different between the signal line SL and the power supply line PL.

  As described above, in addition to the examples illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 16, various structures can be applied to the signal line SL, the power supply line PL, and the light shielding layer 21. In the display area DA, one of the sub-pixels SP having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 16 may be arranged, or two or more may be arranged.

[Third embodiment]
In the third embodiment, a case where the transparent display 3 is a liquid crystal display device will be exemplified. Configurations and effects not particularly mentioned are the same as in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration example of the transparent display 3 in the present embodiment. The transparent display 3 includes a first substrate SUB1 (array substrate), a second substrate SUB2 (counter substrate), a scattering type liquid crystal layer LC, a seal SE, and a light source LS.

  The first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 are bonded by a seal SE. The liquid crystal layer LC is disposed in a space surrounded by the first substrate SUB1, the second substrate SUB2, and the seal SE.

  The first substrate SUB1 includes a first transparent base material 30 and a pixel electrode PE arranged in each sub-pixel. The second substrate SUB2 includes a second transparent base material 40 and a common electrode CE facing each pixel electrode PE. The first transparent substrate 30 and the second transparent substrate 40 can be formed of, for example, a resin material such as polyimide or glass. The pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE can be formed of, for example, a transparent conductive material such as ITO. In the structure shown in FIG. 17, the lower surface of the first transparent substrate 30 corresponds to the above-described second surface F2, and the upper surface of the second transparent substrate 40 corresponds to the above-described first surface F1.

  In the example of FIG. 17, the light source LS faces the side surface of the second substrate SUB2. However, the light source LS may face the side surface of the first substrate SUB1, or may face both the side surfaces of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. For example, the light source LS includes a light emitting element that emits red light, a light emitting element that emits green light, and a light emitting element that emits blue light.

  18 and 19 are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of a configuration that can be applied to the liquid crystal layer LC. The configuration shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 is called a polymer dispersed liquid crystal. The liquid crystal layer LC includes a liquid crystal polymer 51 and a liquid crystal molecule 52, which are examples of a polymer liquid crystal composition. The liquid crystal polymer 51 is obtained by polymerizing a liquid crystal monomer by irradiation with ultraviolet light. The liquid crystal molecules 52 are dispersed in a liquid crystal monomer.

  The liquid crystal molecules 52 may be a positive type having a positive dielectric anisotropy or a negative type having a negative dielectric anisotropy. The liquid crystal polymer 51 and the liquid crystal molecule 52 have the same optical anisotropy. Alternatively, the liquid crystal polymer 51 and the liquid crystal molecules 52 have substantially the same refractive index anisotropy. In addition, the responsiveness of the liquid crystal polymer 51 and the liquid crystal molecules 52 to the electric field is different. That is, the response of the liquid crystal polymer 51 to the electric field is lower than the response of the liquid crystal molecules 52 to the electric field.

  The example illustrated in FIG. 18 corresponds to, for example, a light transmission state in which no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC (a state in which the potential difference between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE is zero). In this state, the optical axis Ax1 of the liquid crystal polymer 51 and the optical axis Ax2 of the liquid crystal molecules 52 are parallel to each other.

  As described above, the liquid crystal polymer 51 and the liquid crystal molecule 52 have substantially the same refractive index anisotropy, and the optical axes Ax1 and Ax2 are parallel to each other. Therefore, there is almost no difference in the refractive index between the liquid crystal polymer 51 and the liquid crystal molecules 52 in all directions including the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z. Thereby, the light L1 parallel to the third direction Z and the lights L2 and L3 inclined with respect to the third direction Z pass through the liquid crystal layer LC with almost no scattering.

  The example illustrated in FIG. 19 corresponds to a light scattering state in which a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC (a state in which a potential difference is formed between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE). As described above, the response of the liquid crystal polymer 51 to the electric field is lower than the response of the liquid crystal molecules 52 to the electric field. Therefore, when a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, the alignment direction of the liquid crystal polymer 51 hardly changes, whereas the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules 52 changes according to the electric field. Therefore, the optical axis Ax2 is inclined with respect to the optical axis Ax1. As a result, a large refractive index difference occurs between the liquid crystal polymer 51 and the liquid crystal molecules 52 in all directions including the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z. In this state, the lights L1 to L3 incident on the liquid crystal layer LC are scattered in the liquid crystal layer LC.

  Note that the configuration of the liquid crystal layer LC is not limited to the example described above. The liquid crystal layer LC in the present embodiment may be any structure using a polymer liquid crystal composition that can switch between a light transmitting state and a light scattering state by an electric field formed between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. Such a configuration may be adopted.

  An example of another liquid crystal layer LC is a polymer network type liquid crystal in which a polymer fiber structure (polymer network structure) is formed in the liquid crystal layer LC. FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 are schematic sectional views when a polymer network type liquid crystal is used for the liquid crystal layer LC. The polymer 60 is formed in a network in the liquid crystal layer LC, and the liquid crystal material is arranged along the polymer network structure. FIG. 20 shows a state where no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, and the liquid crystal molecules 52 are arranged irregularly. FIG. 21 shows a state in which a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, and the liquid crystal molecules 52 are arranged in a predetermined direction. In general, the response speed of the polymer network type liquid crystal is higher than that of the polymer dispersion type liquid crystal, and thus the configurations shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 are suitable for the electronic device of the present invention. Although the plurality of polymers 60 are arranged irregularly in FIGS. 20 and 21, the plurality of polymers 60 may be arranged substantially parallel to the main surface of the first substrate SUB1 (see FIG. 17).

  FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the transparent display 3 for explaining image display using light from the light source LS. The light L10 emitted from the light source LS enters from the side surface of the second transparent substrate 40 and propagates through the second transparent substrate 40, the liquid crystal layer LC, the first transparent substrate 30, and the like. For example, in the liquid crystal layer LC of FIGS. 18 and 19, the light L10 is hardly scattered by the liquid crystal layer LC near the pixel electrode PE (OFF in the drawings) where no voltage is applied. Therefore, the light L10 hardly leaks from the first surface F1 and the second surface F2.

  On the other hand, for example, in the liquid crystal layer LC of FIGS. 18 and 19, the light L10 is scattered by the liquid crystal layer LC near the pixel electrode PE (ON in the drawings) to which a voltage is applied. The scattered light exits from the first surface F1 and the second surface F2 and is visually recognized as a display image.

  In the vicinity of the pixel electrode PE to which no voltage is applied (OFF in the drawing), external light L20 incident on the first surface F1 or the second surface F2 passes through the transparent display 3 without being scattered. . That is, when the transparent display 3 is viewed from the second surface F2 side, the background on the first surface F1 side is visible, and when the transparent display 3 is viewed from the first surface F1 side, the second surface F2 side. Is visible. FIG. 22 shows an example in which light is scattered in the liquid crystal layer LC near the pixel electrode PE to which a voltage is applied. Conversely, light is scattered near the pixel electrode PE to which no voltage is applied. Light may be scattered in the liquid crystal layer LC.

  The transparent display 3 configured as described above can be driven by, for example, a field sequential method. In this method, one frame period includes a plurality of subframe periods (fields). For example, when the light source LS includes red, green and blue light emitting elements, one frame period includes red, green and blue sub-frame periods.

  In the red sub-frame period, the red light-emitting element is turned on, and a voltage corresponding to the red image data is applied to each pixel electrode PE. As a result, a red image is displayed. Similarly, in the green and blue sub-frame periods, the green and blue light-emitting elements are turned on, and a voltage corresponding to the green and blue image data is applied to each pixel electrode PE. Thereby, green and blue images are displayed. The red, green, and blue images displayed in a time-sharing manner as described above are combined with each other and visually recognized by the user as a multicolor display image.

  Even when the transparent display 3 having the above configuration is used, the electronic device 1 can obtain the various effects described above in the first embodiment. Note that, in the transparent display 3 according to the present embodiment, since no light emitting element is arranged in the display area DA, the amount of heat generated in the display area DA is small. Therefore, the heat diffusion sheet 9 need not be provided in the display area DA.

  As described above, based on the electronic devices described as the embodiments of the present invention, all the electronic devices that can be appropriately modified and implemented by those skilled in the art also belong to the scope of the present invention as long as the gist of the present invention is included.

  Within the scope of the concept of the present invention, those skilled in the art can come up with various modifications, and it is understood that these modifications also fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, with respect to each of the above-described embodiments, those skilled in the art may appropriately add, delete, or change the design of components, or may add, omit, or change the conditions of the process. As long as it has the gist, it is included in the scope of the present invention.

  In addition, as for other functions and effects brought about by the modes described in the embodiments, those which are evident from the description of the present specification or which can be conceived appropriately by those skilled in the art are naturally interpreted as being brought about by the present invention. Is done.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Electronic apparatus, 2 ... Case, 3 ... Transparent display, 4 ... Cover glass, 5 ... Camera, 6 ... First sensor, 7 ... Second sensor, 8 ... Notification lamp, 9 ... Heat diffusion sheet, 21 ... Light shielding Layer, CT: controller, BT: battery, GL: scanning line, SL: signal line, PL: power line, SP: sub-pixel, EA: light-emitting area, TA: light-transmitting area.

Claims (14)

A transparent display having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a display area including a plurality of pixels;
A housing facing the second surface and supporting the transparent display;
Electronic components disposed between the second surface and the housing and facing the display area;
The electronic component includes a camera that captures an image of the first surface, a sensor that detects light incident on the transparent display from the first surface or information about an object present on the first surface, and the second component. Including at least one lamp that emits light incident on a surface and exiting from the first surface;
Electronics. The electronic component includes the camera,
The camera is arranged at a position away from the center of the display area,
The electronic device according to claim 1. The display area has a rectangular shape having a pair of short sides and a pair of long sides,
The camera is disposed at a position away from the center of the display area in a direction parallel to the long side,
The electronic device according to claim 2. The electronic component includes the camera,
The first surface has a longitudinal direction,
The camera is disposed at a position away from the center of the first surface in the longitudinal direction,
The electronic device according to claim 1. A thermal diffusion sheet provided on the second surface;
The heat diffusion sheet has an opening in a region facing the electronic component,
The electronic device according to claim 1. A thermal diffusion sheet provided on the second surface;
The heat diffusion sheet is in a mesh shape,
The electronic device according to claim 1. The pixel includes a light-emitting region that emits light emitted from the first surface, and a light-transmitting region that transmits light incident on the first surface to the second surface.
The electronic device according to claim 1. The pixel includes a plurality of sub-pixels,
The sub-pixel has a light-emitting region that emits light emitted from the first surface, and a light-transmitting region that transmits light incident on the first surface to the second surface.
The electronic device according to claim 7. The transparent display includes a plurality of wirings arranged in a first direction in the display area,
The light emitting region and the light transmitting region are formed between the adjacent wirings,
In the light-transmitting region of the pixel facing the electronic component, a distance in the first direction between adjacent wirings changes continuously along a second direction intersecting the first direction.
The electronic device according to claim 7. The transparent display includes a plurality of wirings arranged in a first direction in the display area,
The light emitting region and the light transmitting region are formed between the adjacent wirings,
In the light-transmitting region facing the electronic component, at least one of the adjacent wirings has a bent portion,
The electronic device according to claim 7. In the light-transmitting region that does not face the electronic component, the adjacent wirings are parallel to each other.
The electronic device according to claim 9. The transparent display includes a first substrate having a pixel electrode, a second substrate having a common electrode, a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, and the first substrate or the second substrate. A light source facing the side surface of the substrate,
The electronic device according to claim 1. The liquid crystal layer has a light transmitting state and a light scattering state,
The light transmission state and the light scattering state are switchable,
The electronic device according to claim 12. The electronic component is visible from the first surface side,
The electronic device according to claim 1.

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