JPH11133449A - Optical device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an optical device capable of attaining high speed driving, having high uniformity, allowed to be easily manufactured and capable of actively, continuously and periodically changing optical characteristics. SOLUTION: In the optical device having a layer 12 including a liquid crystal(LC) layer, a transprent substance layer 11 of which surface contacting with the LC layer has a required curved surface shape, a 1st electrode group constituted of plural mutully parallel electrodes, a 2nd electrode group opposed to the 1st electrode group in parallel through the layer including the LC layer and the transparent substance layer, and a driving device 115 for impressing voltage to respective electrodes of the 1st and 2nd electrode groups, voltage of different amplitude is impressed from the driving device to each electrode of the 1st and 2nd electrode groups to change the direction of an electric field in a layer including LC within an area surrounded by two adjacent electrodes 13, 14 of the 1st electrode group and two adjacent electrodes 15, 16 of the 2nd electrode group.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an optical device, and more particularly, to the optical characteristics of an optical device, such as the focal length of a lens, the deflection angle of a prism, or the divergence angle of a lenticular lens, by applying an applied voltage. The present invention relates to an optical device that can change accurately at high speed and continuously.

[0002]

2. Related Background Art Most conventional optical devices are passive optical devices, and the types of active optical devices whose optical properties can be changed by voltage or the like are limited. Among them, as an optical device using a refractive index variable substance, for example, a liquid crystal lens as shown in FIG. 15 has been proposed (Research Report on Chemical Research Grant, 1984, N)
o. 59850048).

As shown in FIG. 15, the structure of this liquid crystal lens is a plano-concave lens 91 made of polymer or glass, a transparent electrode 93 formed on the surface thereof, and a transparent electrode 93 formed on the transparent electrode 93. Alignment film 9 made of polyimide, etc.
5, a liquid crystal layer 92, and an opposing substrate 910 opposing these.
It comprises a transparent electrode 94 formed thereon, an alignment film 96 made of polyimide or the like formed on the transparent electrode 94, and a driving device 915 for driving these. Here, for the liquid crystal layer 92, a normal nematic liquid crystal whose dielectric anisotropy is not reversed due to a difference in frequency is used, and the alignment films (95, 96) are formed such that the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 92 are substantially parallel. It is in a homogeneous alignment state so as to be aligned.

When no voltage is applied between the transparent electrode 93 and the transparent electrode 94 from the driving device 915, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 92 are substantially parallel to the counter substrate 910 by the action of the alignment films (95, 96). Orient to align. In this case, since the liquid crystal layer 92 appears to have a larger refractive index than the plano-concave lens 91 for the incident light 99 in a polarization state parallel to the alignment direction, the entire optical device acts as a plano-convex lens, It converges like outgoing light 98.

On the other hand, when an appropriate voltage is applied between the transparent electrode 93 and the transparent electrode 94 from the driving device 915, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 92 are moved by the action of the applied voltage to the opposite substrate 910 and the plano-concave lens 91. Oriented perpendicular to In this case, since the liquid crystal layer 92 appears to have almost the same refractive index as the plano-concave lens 91 to the incident light 99, the optical device as a whole has the same effect as a simple glass plate, and the outgoing light 97 The light exits in substantially the same direction as the incident light.

As described above, in the liquid crystal lens shown in FIG. 15, the focal length of the plano-convex lens can be continuously changed by the applied voltage.

[0007]

As described above, as shown in FIG.
Also in the conventional optical device shown in FIG. 5, it is possible to continuously change the optical characteristics of the optical device, for example, the focal length of the plano-convex lens, by the applied voltage.

However, in the conventional optical device shown in FIG. 15, the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 92 when no voltage is applied is performed only by the alignment regulating force of the alignment films (95, 96). In such an optical device, since the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 92 is as thick as several hundred μm or more, FIG.
As shown in (1), there is a disadvantage that the recovery time during the driving is extremely slow, which is several seconds or more. In addition, since the recovery time is a state in which no voltage is applied, there is almost no improvement, and there is no measure for shortening the recovery time.

[0009] As shown in FIG.
In the case where the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 92 are aligned only by the alignment regulating force of (5, 96), near the transparent electrode 93,
For example, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 92 are oriented along the curved surface of the plano-concave lens 91. For this reason, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules is partially inclined, and the refractive index felt by the incident light approaches, for example, the refractive index of the plano-concave lens 91, and the amount of change in the optical properties becomes small. However, there is a drawback that a distribution is generated in the amount of change in.

Further, for example, in order to form a transparent electrode 93 on the surface of a plano-concave lens 91 or the like, when a voltage is applied, an electric field is applied near the transparent electrode 93 in a form perpendicular to the surface. As shown in (1), the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 92 are aligned in a form perpendicular to the surface of the transparent electrode 93.
For this reason, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules is partially tilted, and a region where the refractive index felt by the incident light is considerably different from, for example, the refractive index of the plano-concave lens 91 is formed. Have the disadvantage that they are partially deflected.

When the surface shape of the plano-concave lens 91 is more complicated, especially when it has a deep groove or a sharp projection, it is difficult to form the transparent electrode 93 uniformly. However, there is a disadvantage that the alignment process of the alignment film 95 for aligning the liquid crystal molecules, for example, a rubbing process becomes difficult.

Further, as can be seen from FIG. 15, the distance between the transparent electrodes (93, 94) differs depending on the position, and the same voltage is applied to this. It had a drawback that it easily occurred.

As described above, the conventional active optical device using the variable refractive index material has many problems in practical use, such as long recovery time, non-uniformity, problems in manufacturing or active. Had disadvantages.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide an optical device which can be driven at high speed, has good uniformity, and is easy to manufacture. It is an object of the present invention to provide a technique capable of continuously and periodically changing optical characteristics.

The above and other objects and novel features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0016]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Among the inventions disclosed in the present application, the outline of a representative one will be briefly described.
It is as follows.

A layer including a liquid crystal layer, a layer of a transparent material having a surface in contact with the liquid crystal layer having a desired curved surface shape, a first electrode group including a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other; A second electrode group composed of a plurality of electrodes, the second electrode group being opposed to the first electrode group in parallel with the layer including the liquid crystal layer and the layer of the transparent material, and the first electrode group and the second electrode group. And a driving device for applying a voltage to each electrode of the electrode group, wherein the driving device applies a voltage having a different amplitude to each electrode of the first electrode group and the second electrode group, The direction of the electric field direction is changed in a region surrounded by two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group and two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group and in a layer containing liquid crystal. It is characterized by the following.

The driving device applies voltages having different phases to the electrodes of the first electrode group and the second electrode group, and two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group are connected to the second electrode group. It is characterized in that the direction of the direction of the electric field in a region surrounded by two electrodes adjacent to each other in the electrode group and in the layer containing the liquid crystal is changed periodically.

The position of the center of gravity of the region surrounded by two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group and the two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group, and the position of the center of gravity of the first electrode group Two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group and two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group are proportional to the distance between two electrodes and two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group. It is characterized in that the amplitude of the voltage applied to the electrodes is increased.

In a cross section obtained by cutting two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group and two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group along a plane orthogonal to the plurality of parallel electrodes, Arranged in a square position, the phases of voltages applied to two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group and two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group are orthogonal to a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other. It is characterized by being shifted clockwise (or counterclockwise) by 90 degrees in a cross section cut by a plane.

[0021]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

In all the drawings for describing the embodiments, those having the same functions are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their repeated description will be omitted.

[First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
The optical device according to the present embodiment includes a substrate (110, 111)
, A transparent material layer 11, a liquid crystal layer 12, and a plurality of parallel electrodes (four electrodes (13, 14, 15, 16) in FIG. 1) sandwiching the transparent material layer 11 and the liquid crystal layer 12. (Only numbers are given to them) and a driving device 115 for driving these. Here, the substrate (110, 1)
11) is formed of, for example, glass, a polymer, an insulated metal or the like, and the transparent material layer 11 is formed of, for example, a transparent polymer or glass. Further, for the liquid crystal layer 12, for example, a nematic liquid crystal or a smectic liquid crystal is used.

A plurality of parallel electrodes, for example, electrodes (13,
14, 15, 16) are ITO and tin oxide (SnOx) as transparent electrodes, and aluminum (A) as a low-resistance electrode.
l) It is formed by an electrode or a combination thereof. Here, each electrode on the substrate 110 side, that is, each electrode including the electrodes (13, 14) shown in FIG.
Each electrode on the substrate 111 side, that is, each electrode including the electrodes (15, 16) shown in FIG. 1 constitutes a second electrode group.

The present embodiment aims at providing, for example, a plano-convex lens having a variable focal length (with a positive focal length) as an example of an active optical device. When the refractive index is substantially larger than the refractive index of the transparent material layer 11, the liquid crystal layer 12 having a large refractive index is used.
However, for example, a case of a convex lens shape will be described. In this case, the surface shape of the transparent material layer 11 on the liquid crystal layer 12 side is, for example, a concave Fresnel lens shape as shown in FIG. Of course, for example, when the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 12 is generally smaller than the refractive index of the transparent material layer 11,
It is clear that the surface shape of the transparent material layer 11 on the liquid crystal layer 12 side may be, for example, a convex Fresnel lens shape as shown in FIG.

In the present embodiment, for simplicity of explanation, the electrodes (13, 14, 15, 16) are viewed in a cross section taken at a substantially square position (however, at a plane perpendicular to a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other). An example is shown below. The liquid crystal layer 1
2 has a positive dielectric anisotropy, and further, the refractive index anisotropy, substantially equal to n _o (ordinary index) refractive index of the layer 11 of transparent material, n _e (extraordinary refractive index ) Uses a liquid crystal layer 12 that is generally larger than the transparent material layer 11.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal layer 1
When the two liquid crystal molecules are oriented perpendicular to the substrates (110, 111), the refractive indices of the transparent material layer 11 and the liquid crystal layer 12 become equal, and the incident light 19 is hardly changed and the output light Emitted as 17. On the other hand, when the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 12 are oriented parallel to the substrates (110, 111), the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 12 becomes larger than that of the transparent material layer 11, and the liquid crystal layer 12 is parallel to the orientation direction of the liquid crystal. For the incident light 19 having polarized light, since it functions as a convex Fresnel lens, it is focused, for example, like the outgoing light 18. When the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 12 have an intermediate inclination between the two, the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 12 also has an intermediate value, so that the liquid crystal layer 12 functions as a lens having a variable focal length, as shown in FIG. It is almost the same as the example.

FIGS. 2 and 3 are diagrams for explaining the operation principle of the optical device according to the first embodiment. As described above, in the conventional example, since the thickness of the liquid crystal layer (92 shown in FIG. 15) is as thick as, for example, about several hundred μm, the speed at which the liquid crystal molecules recover from a state perpendicular to the substrate to a state parallel to the substrate is about several seconds. And the applied voltage is zero,
Could not respond fast.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, the electrodes (13, 14) are set to the same voltage V11 and the electrodes (15, 16) are set to the same voltage V12.
Further, from a state where a sufficient voltage difference is given between the voltage (V11) and the voltage (V12), for example, as shown in FIG. 3, the electrodes (13, 15) are set to the same voltage V13 and the electrodes (14, , 16) as the same voltage V14 and the voltage (V
13) and the voltage (V14) to a state where a sufficient voltage difference is given between the electrodes (13, 14, 15,.
The voltage applied to 16) is changed. As a result, the electric field in the region surrounded by the electrodes (13, 14, 15, 16) and in the region of the liquid crystal layer 12 is changed from the spatially substantially uniform electric field E11 to the spatially substantially uniform, differently oriented electric field. It can be changed to the electric field E12.

Therefore, when the liquid crystal molecules in this region have positive dielectric anisotropy, the liquid crystal molecules
The direction changes from the direction parallel to 11 to the direction parallel to the electric field E12, that is, from the state perpendicular to the substrate (110, 111) to the state parallel to the electric field E12. As described above, in the present embodiment, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules is changed by changing the direction of the electric field. Therefore, the speed can be increased as compared with the conventional example shown in FIG. 15, and the intensity of the electric field is further increased. This has the advantage that the speed can be increased.

Here, the voltage application method shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is an example, and the direction of the electric field E is continuously changed by changing the amplitude of the voltage applied to the electrodes (13, 14, 15, 16). Obviously, it can be changed in any direction.
Further, in the present embodiment, unlike the conventional example shown in FIG. 15, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules is determined mainly by the direction of the electric field, not by the alignment regulating force that is difficult to measure, so that the direction can be accurately controlled. It has the advantage that. Therefore, in the optical device according to the present embodiment, its optical characteristics (for example, focal length and the like) can be accurately changed at high speed and continuously.

Further, since the movement of the liquid crystal molecules in the present embodiment is mainly in the direction of the electric field, there is an advantage that the movement of the liquid crystal molecules is less affected by the surface state of the layer in contact with the conventional example shown in FIG. . Further, in this embodiment, since the electrode 13 is not provided on the surface of the transparent material layer 11, there is no need to form a conductive film on a portion having a complicated shape. Has the advantage of being easier.
In addition, it is easy to make the distance between the electrodes, for example, between the electrode 13 and the electrode 15 approximately the same, and the transparent material layer 11 may be present between the electrodes. On the other hand, there is also an advantage that deterioration of insulation properties, short circuit, and the like hardly occur. As described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to speed up driving, to achieve uniformity, to facilitate manufacture, and to solve problems in driving, as compared with the conventional example.
Here, in the present embodiment, if the dielectric constant of the transparent material layer 11 and the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal layer 12 are substantially the same, it is clear that the control of the direction of the electric field can be easily performed and the uniformity can be easily obtained. It is.

In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal layer 12
Although the case where the liquid crystal layer 12 has a positive dielectric anisotropy has been described, it is apparent that the same effect as described above can be obtained even when the liquid crystal layer 12 has a negative dielectric anisotropy.
However, when the liquid crystal layer 12 has a negative dielectric anisotropy, the liquid crystal molecules tend to be perpendicular to the direction of the electric field, so that a degree of freedom occurs in the perpendicular plane, and a slight degree of freedom occurs. It can be an instability factor. Of course, it is considered that the degree of freedom is limited because the electrode is usually a control.

In this embodiment, the case where the electrodes (13, 14, 15, 16) are arranged in a substantially square position has been described for the sake of simplicity. , 14, 15, 16), even if the electrode (1) has an arrangement shape different from the substantially square position.
The amplitude of the voltage applied to the electrodes (13, 14, 15, 16) is adjusted so as to give a substantially uniform electric field in the region of the liquid crystal layer 12 surrounded by (3, 14, 15, 16). The good is clear.

In the present embodiment, as described above, the refractive index of the transparent material layer 11 and the refractive index variable material, for example, either the extraordinary refractive index or the normal refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 12, are the same. It may be set to a value or a close value. However, it is not always necessary to set these refractive indices to the same value or close values, and a similar effect can be obtained as follows. That is, for example, in the case of a fixed focus lens as the transparent material layer 11, setting the refractive index to the same value or a close value means setting the focal length in that case to near infinity. Equivalent to. For example, when it is difficult for the material to make the refractive index the same value or a close value, or when such a material has another physical property value (for example,
Even if it is disadvantageous due to the relationship of dielectric anisotropy, refractive index anisotropy, temperature characteristics, miscibility with solvent, toxicity, etc.), simply attach another fixed focus lens before and after this variable focus lens. This can be solved only by disposing and correcting the focal length.

In this embodiment, the case where the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 12 is substantially larger than the refractive index of the transparent material layer 11 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Even when the refractive index is substantially smaller than the refractive index of the transparent substance layer 11, or when the value of the transparent substance layer 11 is located within the variable range of the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 13, Obviously, a similar effect can be obtained.

In the present embodiment, the transparent material layer 1
Although the case where the Fresnel lens shape is used as the surface shape on the liquid crystal layer 12 side of 1 has been described, the surface shape on the liquid crystal layer 12 side of the transparent material layer 11 is a convex lens shape, It is apparent that similar effects can be obtained even when the shape includes a concave lens shape, a prism array shape, a lenticular lens shape, a lens array shape, a diffraction grating shape, or a curved surface shape obtained by combining these shapes.

In the present embodiment, the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 12 and the refractive index of the transparent material layer 11 are determined when the liquid crystal molecules stand perpendicular to the electrodes (13, 14, 15, 16). The case where the two are almost equal has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this.
4, 15 and 16), when they are almost equal to each other, or when the liquid crystal molecules are electrodes (13, 1).
4, 15, 16), it is clear that the same effects as in the present embodiment can be obtained even when the two angles are substantially equal to each other.

[Second Embodiment] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
The optical device according to the present embodiment is similar to the optical device according to the first embodiment.
The substrate (210, 211), the transparent material layer 21, the liquid crystal layer 22, and a plurality of parallel electrodes (four electrodes (23, 2
4, 25, 26) are numbered. ) And a driving device 215 for driving these.
Here, each electrode on the substrate 210 side, that is, each electrode including the electrodes (23, 24) shown in FIG. 4 corresponds to a first electrode group,
Each electrode on the substrate 211 side, that is, the electrodes (25,
Each electrode including 26) forms a second electrode group.

Further, in the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, an object of the present invention is to provide, as an example of an active optical device, a plano-convex lens with a variable focal length (plus a focal length), and For example, a case will be described in which the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 22 is substantially larger than the refractive index of the transparent material layer 21 and the liquid crystal layer 22 having a large refractive index has, for example, a convex lens shape.

Further, in this embodiment, in order to simplify the explanation, the electrodes (23,
24, 25, and 26) are arranged at substantially square positions (however, when viewed in a cross section taken along a plane orthogonal to a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other). The liquid crystal layer 22 has a positive dielectric anisotropy, and as the refractive index anisotropy, n _o (normal refractive index) is substantially equal to the refractive index of the transparent material layer 21.
A liquid crystal layer whose _ne (abnormal refractive index) is generally larger than that of the transparent material layer 21 is used.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, like the first embodiment, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 22 are
When the liquid crystal layer 22 is oriented perpendicular to 211), the refractive index of the transparent material layer 21 and the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 22 become equal, and the incident light 29
Are emitted as emission light 27 with little change.
On the other hand, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 22 correspond to the substrates (210, 211).
When the liquid crystal layer 22 is oriented in parallel to the liquid crystal layer 22, the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 22 becomes larger than that of the transparent substance layer 21. The liquid crystal layer 22 functions as a convex Fresnel lens for incident light 29 having polarization parallel to the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules. For this purpose, for example, the light is focused like the emitted light 28. When the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 22 have a tilt between the two, the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 22 also has an intermediate value, and thus functions as a lens whose focal length changes.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, each of the first electrode group and the second electrode group of the optical device has:
In the case of voltages having different phases, for example, four electrodes, the phases of the voltages are, for example, clockwise or counterclockwise (provided that they are viewed in a cross section taken along a plane orthogonal to a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other). Is shifted by 90 degrees, for example,
Apply a sinusoidal voltage. Thereby, the electrodes (23, 2)
4, 25, 26) and the direction of the substantially uniform electric field E in the area of the liquid crystal layer 22 is clockwise or counterclockwise (however, on a plane orthogonal to a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other). (When viewed in a cut cross-section), continuously and periodically. Therefore, when the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in this region has a positive dielectric anisotropy,
Change continuously and time-period parallel to the direction of the electric field E, clockwise or counterclockwise (when viewed in a cross section taken along a plane orthogonal to a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other). Can be.

As described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to accurately and periodically change the direction of the liquid crystal molecules at high speed, continuously, by changing the direction of the electric field. Needless to say, the speed can be increased by further increasing the strength of the electric field, as in the first embodiment. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the optical characteristics of the optical device, that is,
It is possible to change the focal length and the like at high speed, continuously, and accurately and periodically.

In the present embodiment, the case where the liquid crystal layer 22 has a positive dielectric anisotropy has been described, but even if the liquid crystal layer 22 has a negative dielectric anisotropy, Obviously, the same effect as described above can be obtained. However,
When the liquid crystal layer 22 has a negative dielectric anisotropy, the liquid crystal molecules tend to be perpendicular to the direction of the electric field, so that a degree of freedom is generated in the perpendicular plane, which causes a slight instability. It is possible that Of course, it is considered that the degree of freedom is limited because the electrode is usually a control.

In this embodiment, for simplicity of explanation, the case where the electrodes (23, 24, 25, 26) are arranged at substantially square positions has been described. , 24, 25, 26) have an arrangement shape different from the substantially square position,
3, 24, 25, 26) and the amplitude of the voltage applied to the electrodes (23, 24, 25, 26) is adjusted so as to give a substantially uniform electric field in the region of the liquid crystal layer 22. The good is clear.

Although the present embodiment has been described with reference to the case where the voltage applied to each electrode is a sine wave, the waveform of this voltage is not necessarily required to be a sine wave, but may be a sine wave. It will be apparent that any waveform may be used as long as it changes so as to become a substantially uniform electric field.

In the present embodiment, as described above, the refractive index of the transparent material layer 21 and the refractive index variable material, for example, either the extraordinary refractive index or the normal refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 22, are the same. It may be set to a value or a close value. However, it is not always necessary to set these refractive indices to the same value or close values, and a similar effect can be obtained as follows. That is, for example, considering the case of a fixed-focus lens as the transparent material layer 21, setting the refractive index to the same value or a close value means setting the focal length in that case to near infinity. Equivalent to. For example, when it is difficult for the material to make the refractive index the same value or a close value, or when such a material has another physical property value (for example,
Even if it is disadvantageous due to the relationship of dielectric anisotropy, refractive index anisotropy, temperature characteristics, miscibility with solvent, toxicity, etc.), simply attach another fixed focus lens before and after this variable focus lens. This can be solved only by disposing and correcting the focal length.

In the above description, for example, the case where the present invention is applied to a region surrounded by four electrodes (23, 24, 25, 26) has been described. It is clear that similar effects can be expected by applying the present invention even in a region surrounded by the region. However, in the adjacent region, any one of the four electrodes (23, 24, 25, 26) in the region becomes a common electrode in the adjacent region (for example, in the case of the adjacent region on the left side in FIG. (23, 25) are common electrodes).

Therefore, in the adjacent region, the direction in which the direction of the liquid crystal molecules changes is reversed (for example,
If one is clockwise, the adjacent region is counterclockwise), so that voltages can be assigned to the electrodes in each region without contradiction. In this case, since the movement of the liquid crystal molecules is reversed in the adjacent region, a domain may be generated at this boundary. However, since the electrode spacing can be made sufficiently large, even if domains occur spatially periodically in this region,
This is considered to have little adverse effect such as a confusion factor.

[Embodiment 3] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.
The optical device according to the present embodiment includes a substrate (710, 711), a transparent substance layer 71,
The liquid crystal layer 72 and a plurality of parallel electrodes (four electrodes (7 in FIG. 5) sandwiching the transparent material layer 71 and the liquid crystal layer 72 therebetween.
3, 74, 75, 76) only)
And a driving device 715 for driving these. Here, each electrode on the substrate 710 side, that is, each electrode including the electrodes (73, 74) shown in FIG. 5, corresponds to the first electrode group, and each electrode on the substrate 711 side, ie, the electrode shown in FIG. (7
5, 76) constitute a second electrode group.

In the present embodiment, the first and second embodiments are used.
As in the case of 2, the objective is to provide, for example, a plano-convex lens with a variable focal length (plus a focal length) as an example of an active optical device, and for example, the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 72 is made of a transparent material. The case where the liquid crystal layer 72 having a large refractive index is substantially larger than the refractive index of the layer 71, for example, has a convex lens shape will be described.

In this embodiment, for simplicity of explanation, the electrode (7) is used as in the first and second embodiments.
3, 74, 75, 76) are arranged at substantially square positions (when viewed in a cross section taken along a plane orthogonal to a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other). The liquid crystal layer 72 has a positive dielectric anisotropy, and further has a refractive index anisotropy of n
_o substantially equal to the (ordinary index) refractive index of the layer 71 of transparent material, n _e (extraordinary refractive index) is used generally larger crystal layer than the layer 71 of transparent material.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 72 correspond to the substrate (7) as in the first and second embodiments.
In the case where the liquid crystal layer 72 and the liquid crystal layer 72 are oriented perpendicular to 10, 711), the refractive index of the transparent substance layer 71 becomes equal to the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 72, and the incident light 79 is emitted as the emitted light 77 with almost no change. On the other hand, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 72 correspond to the substrates (710, 7
11), the liquid crystal layer 72 has a higher refractive index than the transparent substance layer 71, and the convex Fresnel lens for incident light 79 having polarized light parallel to the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules. Therefore, for example, it converges like the outgoing light 78. When the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 72 have an intermediate tilt between them, the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 72 also has an intermediate value, and thus functions as a lens whose focal length changes.

As described in the second embodiment, when the voltage applied to the electrode is continuous, it is necessary to reverse the movement of the liquid crystal molecules in the adjacent region, which may cause a domain to be generated. is there. The adverse effect of this is considered to be small, but when the movement of the liquid crystal molecules is not required to be controlled very precisely, this factor can be eliminated by the following voltage application method.

First, as described in the above embodiment,
Even in the region adjacent to the region surrounded by the electrodes (73, 74, 75, 76), the voltage arrangement for orienting the liquid crystal molecules in the same direction is set when the liquid crystal molecules stand perpendicular to the substrate. A voltage of the same potential may be applied to each electrode of the first electrode group, and a voltage of the same potential may be applied to each electrode of the second electrode group. In the case of sleeping, for example, when the spontaneous polarization of the liquid crystal molecules is sufficiently small, the liquid crystal molecules are oriented only in the direction of the electric field, so that each electrode in the lateral direction of the first electrode group and the second electrode group. , Small, large, small,...

Therefore, the voltages applied to the electrodes may be set to these voltages, and the movement of the intermediate liquid crystal molecules may be left to balance with the viscosity of the liquid crystal layer. That is, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, each electrode of the optical device has a discontinuous phase or a voltage including a steep change, for example, as shown in FIG. Deviated by degrees, for example,
Apply a square wave voltage. Thereby, these electrodes (7
In the region surrounded by (3, 74, 75, 76) and the region adjacent thereto, the electric field is an electric field perpendicular to the substrate (710, 711) and an electric field lying in one direction horizontal to the substrate (710, 711). Is applied periodically (however, when viewed in a cross section taken along a plane orthogonal to a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other).

Therefore, when the liquid crystal layer 72 in this region has a positive dielectric anisotropy, the liquid crystal molecules tend to move in the direction of the electric field E. However, since the liquid crystal layer 72 has viscosity, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules does not change discontinuously, but changes continuously in balance with the change in the electric field and the viscosity. In addition, since the liquid crystal layer 7 has crystallinity, it attempts to perform the same movement in each region, and as a result,
In addition, almost uniform exercise can be realized in each area.

As described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to change the direction of liquid crystal molecules at high speed and continuously, and to change the direction periodically by suppressing the generation of domains.

As a matter of course, the speed can be increased by further increasing the strength of the electric field, as in the first and second embodiments.

In this embodiment, the case where the liquid crystal layer 72 has a positive dielectric anisotropy has been described. However, even when the liquid crystal layer 72 has a negative dielectric anisotropy, Obviously, the same effect as described above can be obtained. However,
When the liquid crystal layer 72 has a negative dielectric anisotropy, the liquid crystal molecules tend to be perpendicular to the direction of the electric field, so that a degree of freedom is generated in the perpendicular plane, which causes a slight instability. It is possible that Of course, it is considered that the degree of freedom is limited because the electrode is usually a control.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the electrodes (73, 74, 75, 76) are arranged in a substantially square position has been described for simplicity of description. , 74, 75, 76) have an arrangement shape different from the substantially square position,
3, 74, 75, 76) and in the region of the liquid crystal layer 72, the amplitude of the voltage applied to the electrodes (73, 74, 75, 76) is adjusted so as to give a substantially uniform electric field. The good is clear.

In the present embodiment, as described above, the refractive index of the transparent material layer 71 and the refractive index variable material, for example, either the extraordinary refractive index or the normal refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 72 are the same. It may be set to a value or a close value. However, it is not always necessary to set these refractive indices to the same value or close values, and a similar effect can be obtained as follows. That is, for example, considering the case of a fixed focus lens as the transparent material layer 71, setting the refractive index to the same value or a close value means setting the focal length in that case to near infinity. Equivalent to. For example, when it is difficult for the material to make the refractive index the same value or a close value, or when such a material has another physical property value (for example,
Even if it is disadvantageous due to the relationship of dielectric anisotropy, refractive index anisotropy, temperature characteristics, miscibility with solvent, toxicity, etc.), simply attach another fixed focus lens before and after this variable focus lens. This can be solved only by disposing and correcting the focal length.

[Fourth Embodiment] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
As in the first and second embodiments, the optical device according to the present embodiment includes a substrate (810, 811), a transparent material layer 81,
The liquid crystal layer 82 and a plurality of parallel electrodes (four electrodes (8 in FIG. 6) sandwiching the transparent material layer 81 and the liquid crystal layer 82.
3,84,85,86) only)
And a driving device 815 for driving these. Here, each electrode on the substrate 810 side, that is, each electrode including the electrodes (83, 84) shown in FIG. 6 corresponds to the first electrode group, and each electrode on the substrate 811 side, ie, the electrode shown in FIG. (8
5,86) constitute a second electrode group.

In this embodiment, as in the first and second embodiments, as an example of an active optical device, for example, a plano-convex lens having a variable focal length (plus a focal length)
It is assumed that the liquid crystal layer 82 has a higher refractive index than the transparent material layer 81, and the liquid crystal layer 82 having a larger refractive index has, for example, a convex lens shape. doing.

In this embodiment, for simplicity of explanation, the electrode (8) is used as in the first and second embodiments.
3, 84, 85, 86) are arranged at substantially square positions (when viewed in a cross section taken along a plane orthogonal to the electrodes parallel to each other). The liquid crystal layer 82 has positive dielectric anisotropy, and further, the refractive index anisotropy, substantially equal to n _o (ordinary index) refractive index of the layer 81 of transparent material, n
_A case in which the liquid crystal layer has _e (an extraordinary refractive index) that is substantially larger than the transparent material layer 81 will be described.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 82 are oriented perpendicular to the substrates (810, 811), the transparent material layer 81 and the liquid crystal layer 82
And the incident light 89 exits as the exit light 87 with little change. On the other hand, when the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 82 are oriented parallel to the substrates (810, 811), the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 82 becomes larger than that of the transparent material layer 81, and is parallel to the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules. In order to function as a convex Fresnel lens with respect to the incident light 89 having various polarizations, the incident light 89 converges, for example, as the outgoing light 88. When the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 82 have a tilt between the two, the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 82 also has an intermediate value, and thus functions as a lens whose focal length changes.

Also, as shown in FIG. 6, in the present embodiment, unlike the first and second embodiments, the distance to the next electrode is sufficiently large because the electrodes are sparse. The necessity to consider adjacent regions as an arrangement is significantly reduced. Further, the electric field is weak in the region where the electrodes are sparse, and the liquid crystal molecules tend to move in the same manner as the surroundings due to the crystallinity of the liquid crystal layer 82. For example, the electrodes (83, 84, 85, 8)
When the liquid crystal molecules in the area surrounded by 6) are moved by the electric field,
The liquid crystal molecules in a region where the electrode is sparse perform the same movement.
Therefore, uniform movement of the liquid crystal molecules can be realized as a whole. However, the time required for uniform movement of liquid crystal molecules increases with the length of the region where the electrodes are sparse, so this length is set according to the speed of change in optical characteristics required for the optical device. You need to choose.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the movement of the liquid crystal molecules does not need to be controlled very precisely, the crystallinity of the liquid crystal layer 82 is greatly utilized to change the direction of the liquid crystal molecules to the speed of light. In addition, it is possible to make the change continuously and periodically while suppressing generation of domains. Needless to say, the speed can be increased by further increasing the strength of the electric field, as in the first and second embodiments.

In this embodiment, the case where the liquid crystal layer 82 has a positive dielectric anisotropy has been described. Obviously, the same effect as described above can be obtained. However,
When the liquid crystal layer 82 has a negative dielectric anisotropy, the liquid crystal molecules tend to be perpendicular to the direction of the electric field, so that a degree of freedom is generated in the perpendicular plane, which causes a slight instability. It is possible that Of course, it is considered that the degree of freedom is limited because the electrode is usually a control.

In this embodiment, for simplicity of explanation, the electrodes (83, 84, 85, 86) are viewed in a cross section taken at a substantially square position (provided that they are cut at a plane perpendicular to the electrodes parallel to each other). Is shown), but as will be described later, the arrangement of the electrodes (83, 84, 85, 86) is
Even if the arrangement shape is different from the substantially square position, the electrode (8
3, 84, 85, 86) and in the region of the liquid crystal layer 82, the amplitude of the voltage applied to the electrodes (83, 84, 85, 86) is adjusted so as to give a substantially uniform electric field. The good is clear.

In this embodiment, as described above, the refractive index of the transparent material layer 81 and the refractive index variable material, for example, either the extraordinary refractive index or the normal refractive index of the liquid crystal layer 82 are the same. It may be set to a value or a close value. However, it is not always necessary to set these refractive indices to the same value or close values, and a similar effect can be obtained as follows. That is, for example, considering the case of a fixed focus lens as the transparent material layer 81, setting the refractive index to the same value or a close value means setting the focal length to near infinity in that case. Equivalent to. For example, when it is difficult for the material to make the refractive index the same value or a close value, or when such a material has another physical property value (for example,
Even if it is disadvantageous due to the relationship of dielectric anisotropy, refractive index anisotropy, temperature characteristics, miscibility with solvent, toxicity, etc.), simply attach another fixed focus lens before and after this variable focus lens. This can be solved only by disposing and correcting the focal length.

[Fifth Embodiment] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 (a) is a sectional view of a main part thereof, and FIG. (A)
(Lower electrodes) of the second electrode group shown in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a relationship between 6) and a film 310.

A plurality of electrodes, such as the electrodes (13, 14, 15, 16) in the first embodiment, or the electrodes (23, 24, 25, 26) in the second embodiment, etc. It is important to create an electric field as uniform as possible in the enclosed area. In the present embodiment, a film 310 having a higher electric resistance and a uniform electric resistance than the resistance of the electrodes (33, 34) is arranged between these electrodes, for example, the electrodes 33 and 34, In addition, these electrodes (33, 34) are electrically connected to the film 310.

With this configuration, the film 31
The potential near zero will change almost linearly between the potentials of the electrodes 33 and 34. Therefore, the present embodiment has an advantage that the electric field in the region surrounded by the electrodes (33, 34, 35, 36) can be made more uniform. However, since a current flows through the film 310,
The power consumption of the optical device may increase. As means for suppressing this, it is effective to arrange the films 310 in a line / space shape, for example, as shown in FIG.

[Sixth Embodiment] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the arrangement of electrodes in an optical device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

A plurality of electrodes, for example, the electrodes (13, 14, 15, 16) in the first embodiment, or the electrodes (23, 24, 25, 26) in the second embodiment
In the area surrounded by these electrodes as in
It is important to create an electric field that is as uniform as possible. In the first and second embodiments, the arrangement of the electrodes is, for example, a substantially square position (however, when viewed in a cross section taken along a plane orthogonal to the electrodes parallel to each other). It is obvious that the arrangement may be used.

The guideline in this case is that since the inside is a uniform electric field, as the electrodes move away from the center of gravity of these electrodes, as shown in FIG. As can be seen from the above, applying a voltage proportional to the distance of the electrode from the position of the center of gravity. However, it is necessary to compensate the secondary electric field disturbance by inserting an electrode.

[Embodiment 7] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical apparatus according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.
As in the first and second embodiments, the optical device of this embodiment includes a substrate (510, 511) and a transparent material layer 501.
, A liquid crystal layer 52, and a plurality of parallel electrodes (four electrodes (53, 53,
54, 55, and 56), and a drive unit 515 for driving these.
Here, each electrode on the substrate 510 side, that is, each electrode including the electrodes (53, 54) shown in FIG. 9 corresponds to a first electrode group.
Each electrode on the substrate 511 side, that is, the electrodes (55,
Each of the electrodes including 56) constitutes a second electrode group.

[0080] In this embodiment, as the liquid crystal layer 52, n _o approximately equal to (ordinary index) refractive index of the layer 501 of transparent material, n _e layer (extraordinary index of refraction) of a transparent material 50
A liquid crystal layer larger than 1 is used.

In the present embodiment, the surface shape of the transparent material layer 501 on the liquid crystal layer 52 side is a concave lens shape. When the voltage shown in the first to sixth embodiments is applied to a plurality of electrodes, for example, four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56), a region surrounded by the four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56) A substantially uniform electric field can be generated in the device, and the direction of the electric field can be accurately changed at high speed and continuously. For this reason, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 52 can be continuously changed at a high speed and accurately.
The difference in refractive index between the transparent material layer 501 and the liquid crystal layer 52 changes accurately at high speed and continuously. Therefore, the optical device of the present embodiment functions as a convex lens that can change accurately at high speed and continuously based on the difference in refractive index.

[Eighth Embodiment] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical apparatus according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. The optical device of the present embodiment is different from that of the seventh embodiment in that the surface shape of the transparent substance layer 502 on the liquid crystal layer 52 side is a convex Fresnel lens shape. This is the same as Embodiment 7.

The voltages shown in the first to sixth embodiments are applied to a plurality of electrodes, for example, four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56).
Applied to the four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56)
A substantially uniform electric field can be generated in the area surrounded by
The direction of the electric field can be accurately changed at high speed and continuously. For this reason, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 52 can be accurately changed at high speed and continuously, and the difference in the refractive index between the transparent material layer 502 and the liquid crystal layer 52 can be changed at high speed and continuously. It changes exactly. Therefore, the optical device of the present embodiment functions as a concave Fresnel lens that can change the focal length accurately at high speed and continuously based on the difference in the refractive index.

[Embodiment 9] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical apparatus according to Embodiment 9 of the present invention. The optical device of the present embodiment is different from that of the seventh embodiment in that the surface shape of the transparent material layer 503 on the liquid crystal layer 52 side is a prism array shape. Same as in mode 7.

The voltages shown in the first to sixth embodiments are applied to a plurality of electrodes, for example, four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56).
Applied to the four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56)
A substantially uniform electric field can be generated in the area surrounded by
The direction of the electric field can be accurately changed at high speed and continuously. For this reason, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 52 can be changed accurately at high speed and continuously, and the difference in the refractive index between the transparent material layer 503 and the liquid crystal layer 52 can be changed at high speed and continuously. It changes exactly. Therefore, the optical device of the present embodiment functions as an optical deflecting device that can change the deflection angle accurately at high speed and continuously based on the difference in the refractive index.

[Embodiment 10] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical apparatus according to Embodiment 10 of the present invention. The optical device according to this embodiment includes a transparent substance layer 504.
This embodiment is different from the seventh embodiment in that the surface shape on the liquid crystal layer 52 side is a concave lenticular lens shape, but the other configuration is the same as the seventh embodiment.

The voltages shown in the first to sixth embodiments are applied to a plurality of electrodes, for example, four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56).
Applied to the four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56)
A substantially uniform electric field can be generated in the area surrounded by
The direction of the electric field can be accurately changed at high speed and continuously. For this reason, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 52 can be accurately changed at high speed and continuously, and the difference in the refractive index between the transparent material layer 504 and the liquid crystal layer 52 is rapidly and continuously changed. It changes exactly. Therefore, the optical device of the present embodiment functions as a lenticular lens that can change the focal length and the divergence angle accurately at high speed and continuously based on the difference in the refractive index.

[Eleventh Embodiment] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical apparatus according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. The optical device according to this embodiment includes a layer 505 of a transparent substance.
In that the surface shape on the side of the liquid crystal layer 52 is a diffraction grating shape,
Although different from the seventh embodiment, the other configuration is the same as that of the seventh embodiment.

The voltages shown in the first to sixth embodiments are applied to a plurality of electrodes, for example, four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56).
Applied to the four electrodes (53, 54, 55, 56)
A substantially uniform electric field can be generated in the area surrounded by
The direction of the electric field can be accurately changed at high speed and continuously. Therefore, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 52 can be changed continuously at high speed and accurately, and the difference in the refractive index between the transparent material layer 505 and the liquid crystal layer 52 is changed at high speed and continuously. It changes exactly. Therefore, the optical device according to the present embodiment functions as a diffractive optical device, for example, a light deflecting device that can change the diffraction efficiency accurately at high speed and continuously based on the difference in the refractive index.

[Twelfth Embodiment] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical apparatus according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. In the optical device of the present embodiment, an alignment film 60 made of, for example, polyimide, PVA, PVB, obliquely deposited SiO, or the like is formed on the surface of the electrode on the liquid crystal layer 62 side, for example, the electrodes (65, 66). The liquid crystal layer 62 is different from the first embodiment in that the liquid crystal layer 62 includes an alignment film 60, and the other configuration is the same as the first embodiment.

By subjecting the alignment film 60 to, for example, a rubbing treatment, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 62 thereon can be aligned in a certain direction. By providing the alignment film 60 and performing a rubbing process, when the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 62 are inclined in a direction parallel to the alignment film 60, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 62 are uniformly aligned in a wide domain region. Can be. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the adverse effects such as the distortion of the electric field or the disturbance of the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules due to the disturbance, and it is possible to prevent the scattering caused by the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 62 being directed in various directions and the white turbidity due thereto. It becomes possible.

As described above, the invention made by the present inventor is:
Although a specific description has been given based on the above-described embodiment, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it is needless to say that various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention.

[0093]

The effects obtained by typical ones of the inventions disclosed in the present application will be briefly described as follows.

According to the present invention, the first electrode group and the second electrode group are opposed to each other with the transparent material layer and the liquid crystal-containing layer interposed therebetween. And two electrodes
In the region surrounded by two adjacent electrodes of the electrode group of
In addition, the optical characteristics of the optical device are changed by changing the direction of the direction of the electric field in the layer containing the liquid crystal, so that the optical characteristics of the optical device can be changed accurately at high speed and continuously. It is possible to do.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view of a main part showing a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the operation principle of the optical device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the operation principle of the optical device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of a main part showing a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of a main part showing a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams showing a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7A is a sectional view of a main part thereof, and FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between an electrode of a second electrode group and a film.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an arrangement of electrodes in an optical device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a sectional view of a main part showing a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a sectional view of a main part showing a schematic configuration of an optical device according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a sectional view of a main part showing a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of an optical device according to Embodiment 10 of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical device according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a sectional view showing a main part of a schematic configuration of an optical device according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a main part showing a schematic configuration of a conventional liquid crystal lens.

16 is a graph showing the relationship between the applied voltage and the focal length of the liquid crystal lens shown in FIG.

17 is a graph showing a recovery time when the liquid crystal lens shown in FIG. 15 is driven.

18 is a view for explaining an alignment state of liquid crystal molecules in a liquid crystal layer 92 on the surface of the plano-concave lens 91 in the liquid crystal lens shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a view for explaining an alignment state of liquid crystal molecules of a liquid crystal layer 92 when a voltage is applied in the liquid crystal lens shown in FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

11, 21, 61, 71, 81, 501, 502, 50
3,504,505 ... Transparent material layer, 12,22,5
2, 62, 72, 82, 92: liquid crystal layer, 13 to 16, 2
3-26, 33-36, 43-46, 53-56, 63
~ 66, 73 ~ 76, 83 ~ 86 ... electrodes, 19, 29,
39, 59, 69, 79, 89, 99 ... incident light, 17,
18, 27, 28, 37, 38, 57, 58, 67, 6
8, 77, 78, 87, 88, 97, 98 ... outgoing light, 9
1: Plano-concave lens, 93, 94: Transparent electrode, 60, 95,
96 ... orientation film, 110, 111, 210, 211, 51
0,511,610,611,710,711,81
0,811 ... substrate, 115,215,515,615,
715, 815, 915 drive device, 310 film, 91
0: Counter substrate.

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. A layer including a liquid crystal layer, a layer of a transparent material having a surface in contact with the liquid crystal layer having a desired curved surface shape, and a first electrode group including a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other; A second electrode group composed of a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other and facing the first electrode group in parallel with the first electrode group across the layer including the liquid crystal layer and the transparent material layer; A driving device for applying a voltage to each electrode of the second electrode group, wherein a voltage having a different amplitude is applied from the driving device to each electrode of the first electrode group and the second electrode group. Then, the direction of the electric field direction in a region surrounded by two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group and two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group and in a layer containing liquid crystal is changed. An optical device characterized by changing. 2. The driving device applies voltages having different phases to each of the first electrode group and the second electrode group, and two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group, 2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein a direction of an electric field direction in a region surrounded by two adjacent electrodes of the two electrode groups and in a layer containing liquid crystal is changed in a time-periodic manner. . 3. A film which is electrically connected between at least one electrode of the first electrode group and the second electrode group and has a higher electric resistance and a uniform electric resistance than each of the electrodes. 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein
An optical device according to claim 1. 4. A position of a center of gravity of a region surrounded by two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group, two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group, and The two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group and the adjacent two electrodes of the second electrode group are proportional to the distance between the two adjacent electrodes and the two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the amplitude of the voltage applied to the two electrodes is increased.
An optical device according to claim 3. 5. A cross section in which two adjacent electrodes of the first electrode group and two adjacent electrodes of the second electrode group are cut by a plane orthogonal to the plurality of parallel electrodes. ,
Two electrodes adjacent to the first electrode group and the second electrode
The phase of the voltage applied to two adjacent electrodes in the group of electrodes is shifted 90 degrees clockwise (or counterclockwise) clockwise (or counterclockwise) in a section cut by a plane orthogonal to a plurality of electrodes parallel to each other. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: 6. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid crystal layer is a liquid crystal layer having a positive dielectric anisotropy. 7. The surface shape of the surface of the transparent material layer in contact with the liquid crystal layer may be a convex lens shape, a concave lens shape, a Fresnel lens shape, a prism array shape, a lens array shape, a lenticular lens shape, a diffraction grating shape, or any of them. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the optical device has a curved surface shape obtained by combining: 8. The liquid crystal display device according to claim 1, wherein the dielectric constant of the layer of the transparent material and the dielectric constant of the layer including the liquid crystal layer have substantially the same value. An optical device according to claim 1.