WO2018154893A1

WO2018154893A1 - Optical device, optical system, and method for manufacturing optical device

Info

Publication number: WO2018154893A1
Application number: PCT/JP2017/042319
Authority: WO
Inventors: 井出　伸弘; 太田　益幸; 裕子鈴鹿
Original assignee: パナソニックＩｐマネジメント株式会社
Priority date: 2017-02-24
Filing date: 2017-11-27
Publication date: 2018-08-30
Also published as: JP2020064089A

Abstract

An optical device (1) comprises: a first translucent base material (10); a second translucent base material (20) arranged facing the first base material (10); first and second translucent electrode layers (40, 50) arranged facing each other between the first base material (10) and the second base material (20); and a light distribution layer (30) arranged between the first electrode layer (40) and the second electrode layer (50) for distributing incident light. The light distribution layer (30) includes an uneven structure layer (31) having a plurality of projections (33) each having a side face (35) capable of reflecting light and a variable-refractive-index layer (32) filling the spaces between the plurality of projections (33) for varying the refractive index according to a voltage applied between the first electrode layer (40) and the second electrode layer (50). The light distribution layer (30) is divided into a plurality of regions having different light distribution directions in plan view with each region having the side face (35) facing a different direction.

Description

Optical device, optical system, and optical device manufacturing method

The present invention relates to an optical device, an optical system, and a method for manufacturing the optical device.

An optical device capable of changing the transmission state of external light such as sunlight incident from the outside is known.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a liquid crystal optical element having a pair of transparent substrates, a pair of transparent electrodes formed on each of the pair of transparent substrates, and a prism layer and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between the pair of transparent electrodes. It is disclosed. The liquid crystal optical element changes the refractive index of the liquid crystal layer by a voltage applied to the pair of transparent electrodes, thereby changing the refraction angle of light passing through the interface between the inclined surface of the prism and the liquid crystal layer.

JP 2012-173534 A

However, in the conventional liquid crystal optical element, the traveling direction of the light bent by the prism layer is substantially the same as the incident direction of the light. For this reason, light is distributed in completely different directions when light is incident from the front and when light is incident from an oblique direction. Therefore, for example, when the direction of incident light (sunlight) changes due to the diurnal motion or annual motion of the sun, the light distribution also changes. That is, the light distribution changes with time of the incident light. The light distribution means a distribution in an emission direction (light distribution direction) of outgoing light (light distribution) when incident light is distributed.

Accordingly, the present invention provides an optical device that can broaden the light distribution of light and can adjust the change of the light distribution with respect to the temporal change of incident light, an optical system including the optical device, and the An object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing an optical device.

In order to achieve the above object, an optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first base material having translucency, and a second base having translucency, which is disposed to face the first base material. A first electrode layer and a second electrode layer having translucency, disposed between the material, the first base material, and the second base material, and the first electrode layer and the first base material. A concavo-convex structure having a plurality of convex portions each having a reflection surface capable of reflecting the light, the light distribution layer being disposed between the two electrode layers and distributing the incident light. A refractive index variable layer that is disposed so as to fill a space between the plurality of convex portions and has a refractive index that changes according to a voltage applied between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer, The light distribution layer is divided into a plurality of regions having different light distribution directions in plan view, and the direction of the reflecting surface is different for each region.

The optical system according to an aspect of the present invention includes a control unit that controls the optical state of the light distribution layer for each region by selectively applying a potential to the optical device and the plurality of electrode pieces. Prepare.

The method for manufacturing an optical device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a step of forming a first electrode layer having a light-transmitting property on a first substrate having a light-transmitting property, and an unevenness having a plurality of convex portions. A step of forming a plurality of structural layers, a step of attaching a plurality of the concavo-convex structure layers on the first electrode layer via an adhesive layer, and a translucent second base material A step of forming a second electrode layer, a step of filling a refractive index variable material whose refractive index changes according to an applied electric field between the plurality of convex portions, the first electrode layer and the first electrode Bonding the first base material and the second base material so that two electrode layers face each other with a plurality of the concavo-convex structure layers interposed therebetween. One of the concavo-convex structure layers is pasted with the arrangement direction of the convex portions different from the other one.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an optical device or the like that can broaden the light distribution of light and can adjust the change of the light distribution with respect to the time change of the incident light.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an optical device according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 3A is a plan view schematically showing an example of the concavo-convex structure layer of the optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 3B is a plan view schematically showing another example of the uneven structure layer of the optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the arrangement of the regions of the concavo-convex structure layer of the optical device according to the embodiment and the electrode pieces of the electrode layer. FIG. 5A is a diagram for explaining an action (light distribution state) when the optical device operates in the non-application mode when the optical device according to the embodiment is installed in a window. FIG. 5B is a diagram for explaining an action (transparent state) when the optical device operates in the voltage application mode when the optical device according to the embodiment is installed in a window. FIG. 6A is an enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining a non-application mode (light distribution state) of the optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 6B is an enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining a voltage application mode (transparent state) of the optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 7A is a diagram schematically illustrating optical characteristics of each region of the uneven structure layer of the optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 7B is a diagram schematically illustrating optical characteristics of each region of the uneven structure layer of the optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an operation mode of each region of the concavo-convex structure layer for each time zone of the optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating a light distribution in the daytime mode when light is incident obliquely on the optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 9B is a diagram illustrating a light distribution in the morning mode when light is incident on the optical device according to the embodiment from an oblique direction. FIG. 10A is a perspective view showing a first electrode layer forming step in the method of manufacturing an optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 10B is a perspective view showing a process of forming a plurality of concavo-convex structure layers in the method for manufacturing an optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 10C is a perspective view illustrating a bonding process for each region of the concavo-convex structure layer in the method for manufacturing an optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 10D is a perspective view illustrating a formation step of the second electrode layer in the method for manufacturing an optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 10E is a perspective view illustrating a liquid crystal material injection step in the method of manufacturing an optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 10F is a perspective view illustrating a base material bonding step in the method of manufacturing an optical device according to the embodiment. FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an optical device according to a modification of the embodiment. FIG. 12A is an enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining a non-application mode (transparent state) of an optical device according to a modification of the embodiment. FIG. 12B is an enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining a voltage application mode (light distribution state) of an optical device according to a modification of the embodiment.

Hereinafter, an optical device, an optical system, and an optical device manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Each of the embodiments described below shows a specific example of the present invention. Therefore, numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement and connection forms of components, steps, order of steps, and the like shown in the following embodiments are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the present invention. Therefore, among the constituent elements in the following embodiments, constituent elements that are not described in the independent claims showing the highest concept of the present invention are described as optional constituent elements.

Each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily shown strictly. Therefore, for example, the scales and the like do not necessarily match in each drawing. Moreover, in each figure, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the substantially same structure, The overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted or simplified.

In the present specification and drawings, the x axis, the y axis, and the z axis indicate the three axes of the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system. In each embodiment, the z-axis direction is the vertical direction, and the direction perpendicular to the z-axis (the direction parallel to the xy plane) is the horizontal direction. Note that the positive direction of the z-axis is vertically upward. In the present specification, the “thickness direction” means the thickness direction of the optical device, which is a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces of the first base material and the second base material, and “plan view” means , When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the main surface of the first substrate or the second substrate.

(Embodiment)
[Constitution]
First, the configuration of the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an optical device 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment, and is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a region II surrounded by a one-dot chain line in FIG.

The optical device 1 is a light control device that controls light incident on the optical device 1. Specifically, the optical device 1 is a light distribution element that can change the traveling direction of light incident on the optical device 1 (that is, distribute light) and emit the light.

As shown in FIG.1 and FIG.2, the optical device 1 is comprised so that the incident light may be permeate | transmitted, and the 1st base material 10, the 2nd base material 20, the light distribution layer 30, and the 1st An electrode layer 40, a second electrode layer 50, and an adhesive layer 60 are provided. In the present embodiment, the light distribution layer 30 is divided into a plurality of regions in plan view, and emits light in different light distribution directions for each region.

In the optical device 1, the first electrode layer 40, the adhesive layer 60, the light distribution layer 30, and the second electrode layer 50 are arranged in the thickness direction in this order between the paired first base material 10 and second base material 20. It is the structure arranged along. In order to maintain the distance between the first base material 10 and the second base material 20, a plurality of particulate spacers may be dispersed in the plane, or a columnar structure may be formed. .

Hereinafter, each component of the optical device 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[First substrate and second substrate]
The 1st base material 10 and the 2nd base material 20 are translucent base materials which have translucency. As the 1st base material 10 and the 2nd base material 20, a glass substrate or a resin substrate can be used, for example.

Examples of the material for the glass substrate include soda glass, alkali-free glass, and high refractive index glass. Examples of the material for the resin substrate include resin materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polycarbonate (PC), acrylic (PMMA), and epoxy. The glass substrate has the advantages of high light transmittance and low moisture permeability. On the other hand, the resin substrate has an advantage of less scattering at the time of destruction.

The first base material 10 and the second base material 20 may be made of the same material, or may be made of different materials. Moreover, the 1st base material 10 and the 2nd base material 20 are not restricted to a rigid board | substrate, The flexible board | substrate which has flexibility may be sufficient. In the present embodiment, the first base material 10 and the second base material 20 are transparent resin substrates made of PET resin.

The second base material 20 is an opposing base material that opposes the first base material 10 and is disposed at a position that opposes the first base material 10. The first base material 10 and the second base material 20 are arranged substantially in parallel with a predetermined distance of, for example, 10 μm to 30 μm. The 1st base material 10 and the 2nd base material 20 are adhere | attached by sealing resin, such as the adhesive agent formed in the frame shape at the outer periphery of each other.

In addition, although the planar view shape of the 1st base material 10 and the 2nd base material 20 is rectangular shapes, such as a square or a rectangle, for example, it is not restricted to this, Even if it is a polygon other than a circle or a rectangle Well, any shape can be employed.

[Light distribution layer]
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the light distribution layer 30 is disposed between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. The light distribution layer 30 has translucency and transmits incident light. The light distribution layer 30 distributes the incident light. That is, the light distribution layer 30 changes the traveling direction of light when the light passes through the light distribution layer 30.

The light distribution layer 30 includes a concavo-convex structure layer 31 having a plurality of convex portions 33 and a refractive index variable layer 32. The light distribution layer 30 can distribute light by the difference in refractive index between the uneven structure layer 31 and the refractive index variable layer 32.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3A, the light distribution layer 30 is divided into a plurality of regions having different light distribution directions in plan view. In each region, the direction of the side surface 35 that is the reflecting surface of the convex portion 33 is different.

FIG. 3A is a plan view schematically showing an example of the light distribution layer 30 of the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 3A, the stripe pattern given to each region indicates the direction in which the convex portion 33 of each region extends. The same applies to FIG. 3B.

For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the light distribution layer 30 is divided into three regions including a first region 30a, a second region 30b, and a third region 30c. Each of the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c is a strip-like region extending in the x-axis direction. The planar view shapes and sizes of the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c are, for example, the same. The first region 30a and the second region 30b are alternately and repeatedly arranged along the z-axis direction. A third region 30c is disposed between the first region 30a and the second region 30b.

In addition, the planar view shape of each area | region of the light distribution layer 30 is not restricted to the example shown to FIG. 3A. For example, FIG. 3B shows an example in which each of the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c extends in the z-axis direction. Or the planar view shape of the 1st field 30a, the 2nd field 30b, and the 3rd field 30c is a square, and may be arranged in matrix form. Since each region is dispersed in the plane of the light distribution layer 30, the in-plane uniformity of the optical device 1 can be improved.

In the present embodiment, the number of the third regions 30c is equal to the sum of the number of the first regions 30a and the number of the second regions 30b, but is not limited thereto. The number of each of the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c may be equal to each other.

In addition, when the light distribution layer 30 is viewed in plan, the size (area) and shape of each region are the same, but the present invention is not limited to this. The size and shape of each of the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c may be different from each other.

The optical characteristics (light distribution direction) of each region will be described later with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B.

[Uneven structure layer]
The uneven structure layer 31 is a finely shaped layer provided to make the surface (interface) of the refractive index variable layer 32 uneven. As shown in FIG. 2, the concavo-convex structure layer 31 includes a plurality of convex portions 33 having side surfaces 35 that are reflective surfaces capable of reflecting incident light, and a plurality of concave portions 34. Specifically, the concavo-convex structure layer 31 is a concavo-convex structure formed by a plurality of micro-order sized convex portions 33. Between the plurality of convex portions 33 are a plurality of concave portions 34. That is, one concave portion 34 is formed between two adjacent convex portions 33.

In the present embodiment, for each region of the light distribution layer 30, a plurality of concavo-convex structure layers having different alignment directions of the convex portions 33 are provided. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the first region 30a is provided with a first uneven structure layer 31a having a plurality of first protrusions 33a arranged in the first direction. The second region 30b is provided with a second uneven structure layer 31b having a plurality of second protrusions 33b arranged in the second direction. The third region 30c is provided with a third uneven structure layer 31c having a plurality of third protrusions 33c arranged in the third direction. That is, in the present embodiment, the concavo-convex structure layer 31 is composed of a first concavo-convex structure layer 31a, a second concavo-convex structure layer 31b, and a third concavo-convex structure layer 31c.

First, the planar view shape of the uneven structure layer for each region will be described.

The arrangement direction (first direction) of the plurality of first protrusions 33a of the first uneven structure layer 31a is an oblique direction with respect to the x-axis and the z-axis. The plurality of first protrusions 33a are formed in a stripe shape. A side surface (reflective surface) 35 of the first convex portion 33a extends along the direction in which the stripe extends (direction orthogonal to the first direction).

The extending direction of the side surface 35 is represented by an angle (inclination angle θa) with respect to the x axis in the xz plane. Here, the inclination angle θa is a positive number (+) when inclined toward the positive side of the z-axis as it goes toward the positive side of the x-axis, and is inclined toward the negative side of the z-axis as it goes toward the negative side of the x-axis. The case is a negative number (-). The same applies to the inclination angle θb of the side surface 35 of the second convex portion 33b and the inclination angle θc of the side surface 35 of the third convex portion 33c, which will be described later.

The inclination angle θa of the side surface 35 of the first convex portion 33a is, for example, −30 °, but is not limited thereto. The inclination angle θa is, for example, in a range greater than 0 ° and not greater than −45 °.

The arrangement direction (second direction) of the plurality of second convex portions 33b of the second uneven structure layer 31b is an oblique direction with respect to the x axis and the z axis. The plurality of second convex portions 33b are formed in a stripe shape. A side surface (reflective surface) 35 of the second convex portion 33b extends along the direction in which the stripe extends (direction orthogonal to the second direction).

The inclination angle θb of the side surface 35 of the second convex portion 33b is, for example, + 30 °, but is not limited thereto. The inclination angle θb is, for example, in a range greater than 0 ° and less than + 45 °.

The arrangement direction (third direction) that is the plurality of third protrusions 33c of the third uneven structure layer 31c is a direction different from the first direction and the second direction, and is parallel to the z-axis direction. The plurality of third convex portions 33c are formed in a stripe shape. A side surface (reflective surface) 35 of the third convex portion 33c extends along the direction in which the stripe extends (the direction orthogonal to the third direction). That is, the inclination angle θc of the side surface 35 of the third convex portion 33c is 0 °. Note that the inclination angle θc does not have to be 0 °, and may be inclined within a range of −45 ° to + 45 °.

In the present embodiment, as an example, the first region 30a and the second region 30b are paired. The first region 30a and the second region 30b have a line-symmetric relationship with respect to a line parallel to the direction in which the third region 30c extends (the x-axis direction in FIG. 3A and the z-axis direction in FIG. 3B). Specifically, the planar view shape of the plurality of first protrusions 33a is a line-symmetric shape with the planar view shape of the plurality of second protrusions 33b. The axis of symmetry at this time is a line parallel to the direction in which the third protrusions 33c are arranged (that is, the z-axis direction).

As described above, the alignment direction of the protrusions 33 is different in each region, but the sectional configuration of the protrusions 33 when cut along each alignment direction is substantially the same in each region. For example, FIG. 2 shows a yz section of the third region 30c. Hereinafter, the cross-sectional structure of the third region 30c will be described as an example on behalf of each region.

As shown in FIG. 2, each of the plurality of convex portions 33 has a shape that tapers from the root to the tip. In the present embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of each of the plurality of convex portions 33 is a tapered shape tapered along a direction (thickness direction, y-axis positive direction) from the first base material 10 toward the second base material 20. . Specifically, the cross-sectional shape (yz cross-section) of the convex portion 33 is a triangle, but is not limited thereto. The cross-sectional shape of the convex portion 33 may be a trapezoid, other polygons, or a polygon including a curve.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, each of the plurality of convex portions 33 has a pair of side surfaces 35 and 36 extending perpendicular to the direction in which the convex portions 33 are arranged. The pair of side surfaces 35 and 36 are surfaces that intersect the z-axis direction. Each of the pair of side surfaces 35 and 36 is an inclined surface that is inclined at a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the thickness direction (y-axis direction), and the distance between the pair of side surfaces 35 and 36 (the width of the convex portion 33 (z-axis direction)). )) Gradually decreases from the first base material 10 toward the second base material 20.

The side surface 35 is, for example, the side surface (upper side surface) on the vertically upper side among the plurality of side surfaces constituting the convex portion 33. The side surface 35 is a reflection surface (total reflection surface) that reflects (total reflection) incident light. The side surface 36 is, for example, a side surface (lower side surface) on the vertically lower side among a plurality of side surfaces constituting the convex portion 33. The side surface 36 is a refracting surface that refracts incident light.

In the present embodiment, the plurality of convex portions 33 are formed in a stripe shape extending in the x-axis direction. That is, each of the plurality of convex portions 33 is an elongated convex portion that extends linearly along the x-axis direction. Specifically, each of the plurality of convex portions 33 has a triangular cross-sectional shape and an elongated substantially triangular prism shape extending in the x-axis direction, and is arranged at substantially equal intervals along the z-axis direction. . Each of the plurality of convex portions 33 has the same shape, but may have different shapes.

The height (the length in the y-axis direction) of each of the plurality of convex portions 33 is, for example, 2 μm to 100 μm, but is not limited thereto. The width (length in the z-axis direction) of the plurality of convex portions 33 is, for example, 1 μm to 20 μm, and preferably 10 μm or less, but is not limited thereto. Further, the distance between adjacent convex portions 33, that is, the width of the concave portion 34 (z-axis direction) is, for example, 0 μm to 100 μm. That is, the two adjacent convex portions 33 may be disposed at a predetermined interval without being in contact with each other, or may be disposed in contact with each other. Note that the interval between the adjacent convex portions 33 is not limited to 0 μm to 100 μm.

As the material of the convex portion 33, for example, a resin material having optical transparency such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, or a silicone resin can be used. The convex portion 33 is formed of, for example, an ultraviolet curable resin material, and can be formed by molding or nanoimprinting.

The concavo-convex structure layer 31 can form, for example, a concavo-convex structure having a triangular cross section using an acrylic resin having a refractive index of 1.5 by mold embossing. The height of the convex portion 33 is, for example, 10 μm, and the plurality of convex portions 33 are arranged in the z-axis direction at regular intervals with an interval of 2 μm. The thickness of the base of the convex portion 33 is, for example, 5 μm. The distance between the bases of the adjacent convex portions 33 can take a value of 0 μm to 5 μm, for example.

[Refractive index variable layer]
The refractive index variable layer 32 is disposed so as to fill a space between the plurality of convex portions 33 (that is, the concave portion 34) of the concavo-convex structure layer 31. The refractive index variable layer 32 is disposed so as to fill a gap formed between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, since the convex portion 33 and the second electrode layer 50 are separated from each other, the refractive index variable layer 32 fills the gap between the convex portion 33 and the second electrode layer 50. Be placed. The convex portion 33 and the second electrode layer 50 may be in contact with each other. In this case, the refractive index variable layer 32 may be provided separately for each concave portion 34.

The refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 32 changes depending on the voltage applied between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. Specifically, the refractive index variable layer 32 functions as a refractive index adjustment layer capable of adjusting the refractive index in the visible light region when an electric field is applied. For example, since the refractive index variable layer 32 is composed of a liquid crystal having liquid crystal molecules 37 having electric field responsiveness, the orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules 37 is changed by applying an electric field to the light distribution layer 30 to change the refractive index. The refractive index of the variable layer 32 changes.

The birefringent material of the refractive index variable layer 32 is, for example, a liquid crystal including liquid crystal molecules 37 having birefringence. As such a liquid crystal, for example, a nematic liquid crystal, a smectic liquid crystal, or a cholesteric liquid crystal in which the liquid crystal molecules 37 are rod-like molecules can be used. For example, when the refractive index of the convex portion 33 is 1.5, the material of the refractive index variable layer 32 has an ordinary light refractive index (no) of 1.5 and an extraordinary light refractive index (ne) of 1.7. A positive type liquid crystal can be used.

The refractive index variable layer 32 includes, for example, end portions of the first base material 10 on which the first electrode layer 40 and the uneven structure layer 31 are formed and the second base material 20 on which the second electrode layer 50 is formed. It is formed by injecting a liquid crystal material by a vacuum injection method with the outer periphery sealed with a sealing resin. Alternatively, the refractive index variable layer 32 may be formed by bonding the second substrate 20 after dropping the liquid crystal material on the first electrode layer 40 and the concavo-convex structure layer 31 of the first substrate 10.

Note that FIG. 2 shows a state in which no voltage is applied (the same applies to FIG. 6A described later), and the liquid crystal molecules 37 are aligned so that the major axis is substantially parallel to the x-axis. When a voltage is applied between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50, the liquid crystal molecules 37 are aligned so that the major axis is substantially parallel to the y-axis (see FIG. 6B described later). .

Further, an electric field may be applied to the refractive index variable layer 32 by AC power, or an electric field may be applied by DC power. In the case of AC power, the voltage waveform may be a sine wave or a rectangular wave.

[First electrode layer and second electrode layer]
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 are electrically paired and configured to be able to apply an electric field to the light distribution layer 30. The first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 are paired not only electrically but also in arrangement, so that they face each other between the first base material 10 and the second base material 20. Has been placed. Specifically, the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 are arranged so as to sandwich the light distribution layer 30.

The first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 are translucent and transmit incident light. The first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 are, for example, transparent conductive layers. As a material of the transparent conductive layer, a conductor-containing resin made of a resin containing a conductor such as a transparent metal oxide such as ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) or IZO (Indium Zinc Oxide), silver nanowires or conductive particles, or A metal thin film such as a silver thin film can be used. In addition, the 1st electrode layer 40 and the 2nd electrode layer 50 may be these single layer structures, and these laminated structures (for example, laminated structure of a transparent metal oxide and a metal thin film) may be sufficient as them. In the present embodiment, each of the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 is ITO having a thickness of 100 nm.

The first electrode layer 40 is disposed between the first base material 10 and the uneven structure layer 31. Specifically, the first electrode layer 40 is formed on the surface of the first base material 10 on the light distribution layer 30 side.

On the other hand, the second electrode layer 50 is disposed between the refractive index variable layer 32 and the second substrate 20. Specifically, the second electrode layer 50 is formed on the surface of the second base material 20 on the light distribution layer 30 side.

In addition, the 1st electrode layer 40 and the 2nd electrode layer 50 are comprised so that electrical connection with an external power supply is attained, for example. For example, electrode pads or the like for connecting to an external power supply may be formed on the first base material 10 and the second base material 20 by being drawn from each of the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50.

In the present embodiment, at least one of the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 is composed of a plurality of electrode pieces. Specifically, both the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 are composed of a plurality of electrode pieces. The plurality of electrode pieces correspond to each of a plurality of regions dividing the light distribution layer 30.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the arrangement of the regions of the light distribution layer 30 of the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment and the electrode pieces of the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. 4 shows only a part of the optical device 1, specifically, the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the two third regions 30c. 4 shows the uneven structure layer 31, the first electrode layer 40, and the second electrode layer 50 of the light distribution layer 30, and the first base material 10, the adhesive layer 60, the refractive index variable layer 32, Other members such as the second base material 20 are not shown.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first electrode layer 40 includes a first electrode piece 40a, a second electrode piece 40b, and a third electrode piece 40c. The second electrode layer 50 includes a first electrode piece 50a, a second electrode piece 50b, and a third electrode piece 50c.

The first electrode piece 40a and the first electrode piece 50a are provided corresponding to the first region 30a and are paired electrically and in arrangement. Specifically, the planar view shapes of the first electrode piece 40a and the first electrode piece 50a are substantially the same as the planar view shape of the first region 30a. When a voltage is applied to the first electrode piece 40a and the first electrode piece 50a, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules 37 located in the first region 30a is controlled, and the light distribution in the first region 30a is controlled.

The second electrode piece 40b and the second electrode piece 50b are provided corresponding to the second region 30b and are paired electrically and in arrangement. Specifically, the planar view shapes of the second electrode piece 40b and the second electrode piece 50b are substantially the same as the planar view shape of the second region 30b. When a voltage is applied to the second electrode piece 40b and the second electrode piece 50b, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules 37 located in the second region 30b is controlled, and the light distribution in the second region 30b is controlled.

The third electrode piece 40c and the third electrode piece 50c are provided corresponding to the third region 30c, and are paired electrically and in arrangement. Specifically, the planar view shapes of the third electrode piece 40c and the third electrode piece 50c are substantially the same as the planar view shape of the third region 30c. When a voltage is applied to the third electrode piece 40c and the third electrode piece 50c, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules 37 located in the third region 30c is controlled, and the light distribution in the third region 30c is controlled.

The first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 are each formed by, for example, vapor deposition or sputtering. The first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 may be divided into a plurality of electrode pieces by, for example, forming a conductive film such as ITO and then patterning by etching or the like, or may be made of a conductive material. It may be formed by patterning application.

[Adhesive layer]
The adhesive layer 60 is an adhesive layer that bonds the uneven structure layer 31 and the first electrode layer 40. The adhesive layer 60 is provided, for example, one-to-one with respect to each of the plurality of first concavo-convex structure layers 31a, the plurality of second concavo-convex structure layers 31b, and the plurality of third concavo-convex structure layers 31c constituting the concavo-convex structure layer 31. ing. The adhesive layer 60 may be formed on the first electrode layer 40 in a single sheet shape. The adhesive layer 60 is formed using a resin material having translucency and adhesiveness (tackiness).

[Optical state of optical device]
Subsequently, the optical state (operation mode) of the optical device 1 will be described with reference to an example of use of the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment. Specifically, an optical system including the optical device 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B.

5A and 5B are diagrams each showing an example in which an optical system 70 including the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment is applied to a building 90. FIG. Specifically, FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams for explaining the operation when the optical device 1 operates in each operation mode when the optical device 1 is installed in the window 91.

As described above, in the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment, each of the uneven structure layer 31, the first electrode layer 40, and the second electrode layer 50 is divided into a plurality of regions. For this reason, the optical device 1 can operate in different operation modes for each region. In the following, first, the optical state of the optical device 1 will be described focusing on the third region 30c. Differences in the light distribution directions of the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c will be described later.

As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the optical system 70 includes the optical device 1 and a control unit 71. In each figure, the area shaded with dots extending from the optical device 1 indicates an area through which light (specifically, S-polarized light component) that has passed through the optical device 1 passes.

The optical device 1 can transmit incident light. For example, the optical device 1 can be realized as a window with a light distribution function by being installed in the window 91 of the building 90. The optical device 1 is bonded to the existing window 91 via an adhesive layer, for example. In this case, the optical device 1 is installed in the window 91 in a posture in which the main surfaces of the first base material 10 and the second base material 20 are parallel to the vertical direction (z-axis direction).

5A and 5B, the detailed structure of the optical device 1 is not shown, but the optical device 1 has the first base material 10 on the outdoor side and the second base material 20 on the indoor side, and The third projections 33c of the third region 30c are arranged such that the side surface 35 is on the ceiling 92 side and the side surface 36 is on the floor 93 side.

Further, although the control unit 71 is installed on the floor 93, this is schematically illustrated, and the installation location of the control unit 71 is not particularly limited. For example, the control unit 71 may be configured integrally with the optical device 1 and fixed to the window frame of the window 91 or the like. Alternatively, the control unit 71 may be embedded in a ceiling 92, a floor 93, a wall, or the like of the building 90.

The control unit 71 is a control unit that drives the optical device 1. Specifically, the control unit 71 applies an electric field to the light distribution layer 30 by applying a predetermined voltage between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. In the present embodiment, the controller 71 distributes light by selectively applying a potential to the plurality of electrode pieces constituting the first electrode layer 40 and the plurality of electrode pieces constituting the second electrode layer 50. The optical state of the layer 30 is controlled for each region. For example, the control unit 71 includes the first electrode piece 40a and the first electrode piece 50a, the second electrode piece 40b and the second electrode piece 50b, and the third electrode piece 40c and the third electrode piece 50c. A voltage is selectively applied to each of the two.

In the present embodiment, the controller 71 has two operation modes corresponding to the voltage application state between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 for each region of the light distribution layer 30. Specifically, the two operation modes are a non-application mode in which no voltage is applied and a voltage application mode in which a voltage is applied between electrode layers. The control unit 71 performs switching between the two operation modes based on a user operation or predetermined schedule information.

In the optical device 1, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules 37 included in the refractive index variable layer 32 changes according to the electric field applied to the light distribution layer 30. Since the liquid crystal molecules 37 are rod-like liquid crystal molecules having birefringence, the refractive index received by the light varies depending on the polarization state of the incident light. Here, for example, the refractive index of the convex portion 33 is 1.5, and the liquid crystal molecule 37 is a positive type in which the ordinary light refractive index (no) is 1.5 and the extraordinary light refractive index (ne) is 1.7. The case of the liquid crystal molecules will be described as an example.

Light such as sunlight incident on the optical device 1 includes P-polarized light (P-polarized component) and S-polarized light (S-polarized component). The vibration direction of the P-polarized light is substantially parallel to the minor axis of the liquid crystal molecules 37 in both the non-application mode and the voltage application mode. For this reason, the refractive index of the liquid crystal molecules 37 for P-polarized light does not depend on the operation mode, and is the ordinary light refractive index (no), specifically 1.5. For this reason, the refractive index for P-polarized light does not depend on the operation mode and is substantially constant in the light distribution layer 30, so that the P-polarized light travels straight through the light distribution layer 30 as it is.

On the other hand, the refractive index of the liquid crystal molecules 37 for S-polarized light changes depending on the operation mode.

Specifically, when the optical device 1 is driven in the non-application mode, the optical device 1 enters a light distribution state in which the traveling direction of the incident light L (S-polarized light) is changed. When the optical device 1 is driven in the voltage application mode, the optical device 1 enters a light-transmitting (transparent) state that allows the incident light L (S-polarized light) to pass as it is (without changing the traveling direction).

When an electrophoretic material (described later) is used as the refractive index variable material, both P-polarized light and S-polarized light travel in the same direction. For example, the traveling direction of both P-polarized light and S-polarized light can be bent by refraction and total reflection to realize a light distribution state.

Hereinafter, details of each operation mode will be described with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B while appropriately referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B. 6A and 6B are enlarged cross-sectional views for describing each operation mode of the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment.

Here, light that enters the optical device 1 from the front and passes through the third region 30c will be described. The light incident from the front is light that has an incident angle of 0 ° when viewed in the xy section.

Here, in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the path of the light L (for example, sunlight) incident on the optical device 1 is indicated by a thick arrow. In practice, the light L is refracted when it enters the first base material 10 and when it exits from the second base material 20, but the path change due to these refractions is not shown.

<Non-application mode (light distribution state)>
FIG. 6A schematically shows the state of the optical device 1 when driven in the non-application mode and the path of the light L that passes through the optical device 1.

The controller 71 does not apply a voltage between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 when the optical device 1 is operated in the non-application mode. Specifically, an electric field is not applied to the light distribution layer 30 because the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 have substantially the same potential (for example, ground potential). For this reason, the refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 32 can be made substantially uniform in the plane.

In this case, the refractive index received by the light L (S-polarized light) is 1.5 for the convex portion 33, whereas the refractive index variable layer 32 is 1.7. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 6A, the light L incident obliquely on the optical device 1 is refracted by the side surface 36 of the convex portion 33 and the traveling direction is changed, and then reflected by the side surface 35 of the convex portion 33 ( Total reflection). The light reflected by the side surface 35 is emitted obliquely upward. In other words, the optical device 1 emits the light L incident obliquely downward and obliquely upward. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 5A, the light L such as sunlight incident obliquely downward is bent in the traveling direction by the optical device 1 and irradiates the ceiling 92 of the building 90.

Also, the refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 32 may be in a state of greater than 1.5 and less than 1.7. At this time, the direction of refraction of the light L on the side surface 36 of the convex portion 33 is different from the case where the refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 32 is 1.5, so that the other direction of the ceiling 92 can be irradiated as necessary. it can.

For example, the angle of the light distribution by the optical device 1 is made smaller by reducing the applied voltage than in the case where the optical device 1 is in the transparent state in the voltage application mode, compared to the case in the light distribution state (non-application mode). can do. In this case, for example, the light can be advanced to the far side in the interior of the building 90. Thus, in the optical device 1, the light distribution direction can be changed according to the magnitude of the applied voltage.

<Voltage application mode (transparent state)>
FIG. 6B schematically shows the state of the optical device 1 when driven in the voltage application mode and the path of the light L that passes through the optical device 1.

The controller 71 applies a predetermined voltage between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 when the optical device 1 is operated in the voltage application mode. Thereby, the electric field applied to the light distribution layer 30 becomes substantially uniform in the plane, and the refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 32 can be made substantially uniform in the plane.

In this case, the refractive index received by the light L (S-polarized light) is 1.5 for both the convex portion 33 and the refractive index variable layer 32. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 6B, the light L incident on the optical device 1 obliquely passes through the optical device 1 as it is. That is, the optical device 1 emits the light L incident obliquely downward as it is obliquely downward. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5B, light L such as sunlight incident obliquely downward passes through the optical device 1 as it is and irradiates a portion near the window 91 of the floor 93 of the building 90.

As described above, according to the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment, the optical device 1 is optically dependent on the electric field (voltage applied between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50) applied to the light distribution layer 30. The state can be changed. Here, the transparent state and the light distribution state are switched, but an intermediate optical state between the light distribution state and the transparent state can be formed according to the applied voltage.

For example, a plurality of voltage levels to be applied may be set and switched as appropriate. An intermediate optical state is formed by making the applied voltage smaller than that in the transparent state. In the intermediate optical state, the angle of light distribution by the optical device 1 is smaller than in the light distribution state. Thereby, for example, light can be advanced to the far side of the interior of the building 90.

Here, the third region 30c has been described, but the same applies to the first region 30a and the second region 30b. That is, in the cross section parallel to the arrangement direction of the convex portions 33 of each of the first region 30a and the second region 30b, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, light travels according to each mode.

[Light distribution characteristics for each area]
Next, the difference in the light distribution direction in the left-right direction (in the xy plane) of each of the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c will be described. Here, an electric field is not applied to each region, and each region is in a light distribution state as shown in FIG. 6A.

7A and 7B are diagrams schematically showing the optical characteristics of each region of the concavo-convex structure layer 31 of the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment. Specifically, FIGS. 7A and 7B show the light distribution in the left-right direction (x-axis direction) of the light L incident on the optical device 1 when each region of the optical device 1 is viewed from the z-axis direction. ing.

FIG. 7A shows a path of light L incident on the optical device 1 from the front, that is, along the thickness direction (y-axis direction) of the optical device 1.

In the third region 30c, the extending direction of the third convex portion 33c is substantially parallel to the x-axis. Specifically, since the side surface 35 of the third convex portion 33c that functions as a reflecting surface is substantially parallel to the x-axis, the light L travels in the left-right direction without bending the light. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6A, the light L incident obliquely downward is emitted obliquely upward without changing the course in the left-right direction.

On the other hand, in the first region 30a, the extending direction of the first convex portion 33a is inclined with respect to the x-axis. Specifically, since the side surface 35 of the first convex portion 33a that functions as a reflecting surface is inclined with respect to the xy plane, the light L is bent in the inclined direction (left direction in the figure).

Further, since the second region 30b has a shape symmetrical with the first region 30a, the light L incident on the second region 30b is bent in the direction opposite to the first region 30a (rightward in the drawing). .

As described above, the light incident on the optical device 1 from the front proceeds while being spread in the left-right direction when passing through each region. For this reason, the optical device 1 can distribute light toward a wider range of the ceiling 92 and a wall positioned in the left-right direction with respect to the window 91.

On the other hand, FIG. 7B shows a path of light L incident on the optical device 1 from an oblique direction (left side). In this case, in the third region 30c, the light L travels as it is as in the case of FIG. 7A.

In each of the first region 30a and the second region 30b, the light is bent left and right with reference to the emission direction of the third region 30c. For this reason, the light L incident on the first region 30a is emitted in a direction closer to the y-axis direction (the thickness direction of the optical device 1) than in the case illustrated in FIG. 7A. The light L incident on the second region 30b is emitted to the right side as compared with the case shown in FIG. 7A.

[Switch operation mode for each area]
Here, switching of the operation mode for each region of the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the light may be bent more than necessary depending on the angle of the light incident on the optical device 1 (for example, the second region of FIG. 7B). 30b). For this reason, in this Embodiment, the control part 71 switches an operation mode for every area | region according to the angle of the light which injects with respect to the optical device 1 as an example.

In the present embodiment, the control unit 71 switches on / off of voltage application and the voltage level of the applied voltage for each region having a different light distribution direction. Specifically, the control unit 71 controls the optical state of the light distribution layer 30 for each region by selectively applying a potential to the plurality of electrode pieces.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an operation mode of each region of the concavo-convex structure layer for each time zone of the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the control unit 71 switches the operation mode of each area for each time period. In addition, the combination of the operation mode shown in FIG. 8 has shown as an example the case where the optical device 1 is installed in the surface of the south side of the building 90. FIG. Specifically, a case is shown in which light is incident on the optical device 1 from the front at a predetermined time during the daytime (sunlight time in the sun).

For example, the control unit 71 performs switching between the morning mode, the daytime mode, and the evening mode. The morning mode is an example of a first operation mode in which the first region 30a is in a light distribution state and the second region 30b is in a transparent state. The evening mode is an example of a second operation mode in which the first region 30a is in a transparent state and the second region 30b is in a light distribution state. The control unit 71 switches each operation mode according to the time zone. The control unit 71 may include a sensor that detects the incident direction of light, and may switch each operation mode based on the detected incident direction. Or the control part 71 may switch each operation mode based on the instruction | indication from a user.

Specifically, in the morning, the controller 71 operates the first region 30a and the third region 30c in the no-application mode and operates the second region 30b in the voltage application mode as the morning mode. That is, the first region 30a and the third region 30c are in a light distribution state, and the second region 30b is in a transparent state. Thereby, light incident obliquely from the left side (east side) of the optical device 1 can be effectively distributed toward the ceiling 92. Details will be described later with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B.

For example, during the day, the control unit 71 operates the entire area in the non-application mode as the day mode. That is, all regions are in a light distribution state. Alternatively, in the daytime mode, the first region 30a and the second region 30b may be operated in the voltage application mode, and the first region 30a and the second region 30b may be in a transparent state. Which is operated and the light distribution direction by the applied voltage control may be set according to the user's preference or the amount of incident light, for example. Thereby, the light incident from the front (south side) of the optical device 1 can be effectively distributed toward the ceiling 92.

For example, in the evening, the control unit 71 operates the second region 30b and the third region 30c in the no-application mode and operates the first region 30a in the application mode as the evening mode. That is, the second region 30b and the third region 30c are in a light distribution state, and the first region 30a is in a transparent state. Thereby, the light incident obliquely from the right side (west side) of the optical device 1 can be effectively distributed toward the ceiling 92.

In the present embodiment, since the first region 30a and the second region 30b are line symmetric, the evening mode realizes a symmetric light distribution state of the morning mode.

Here, the difference between the morning mode and the daytime mode will be described with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B, taking as an example a time zone such as morning in which light is incident on the optical device 1 from an oblique direction. 9A and 9B, the shaded area of the dots indicates the range irradiated by the light L from the sun 95.

9A and 9B are diagrams showing light distributions in the daytime mode and the morning mode when light is incident on the optical device 1 from an oblique direction, respectively. In the daytime mode here, a case where both the first region 30a and the second region 30b are in a transparent state is shown.

As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, in both the daytime mode and the morning mode, the P-polarized light LP of the light L from the sun 95 is refracted and reflected by the optical device 1 as it passes through the optical device 1. Since the optical action is not received, the floor 93 is passed as it is and the floor 93 is irradiated.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 9A, in the daytime mode, the S-polarized light of the light L from the sun 95 is subjected to different optical actions for each region when passing through the optical device 1. Specifically, the S-polarized light LS3 that passes through the third region 30c is reflected by the side surface 35 of the third convex portion 33c and is emitted toward the ceiling 92. The S-polarized light LS1 and LS2 passing through the first region 30a and the second region 30b irradiate the floor 93 as they are because the first region 30a and the second region 30b are in a transparent state.

As shown in FIG. 9B, in the morning mode, the S-polarized light LS3 that passes through the third region 30c out of the S-polarized light L from the sun 95 is reflected by the side surface 35 of the third convex portion 33c, and the ceiling. It is emitted toward 92. Similarly, the S-polarized light LS1 passing through the first region 30a is reflected by the side surface 35 of the first convex portion 33a and is emitted toward the ceiling 92. The S-polarized light LS2 passing through the second region 30b irradiates the floor 93 as it is because the second region 30b is in a transparent state.

At this time, since the side surface 35 of the first convex portion 33a has a different inclination from the side surface 35 of the third convex portion 33c, as shown in FIG. Emitted. For this reason, as shown to FIG. 9B, the wider range of the ceiling 92 is irradiated by S polarized light LS1.

As described above, the optical device 1 can efficiently distribute light incident obliquely in the left-right direction toward the ceiling 92. Therefore, for example, the control unit 71 can realize light distribution according to incident light by selectively controlling the operation mode for each region according to the time zone.

[Production method]
Next, a method for manufacturing the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10A to 10F. 10A to 10F are perspective views showing respective steps in the method for manufacturing the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment. Specifically, FIGS. 10A to 10F respectively show a step of forming the first electrode layer 40, a step of forming the concavo-convex structure layer 31, a step of attaching each region of the concavo-convex structure layer 31, and a step of forming the second electrode layer 50. The liquid crystal material 38 injection step and the base material bonding step are shown.

First, as shown in FIG. 10A, a first electrode layer 40 having translucency is formed on a first substrate 10 having translucency. For example, a first base material 10 such as a PET film is prepared, and a transparent conductive film such as ITO is formed by sputtering or the like. The first electrode layer 40 is formed by patterning the formed transparent conductive film by dry etching or the like. Thereby, a plurality of first electrode pieces 40a, second electrode pieces 40b, and third electrode pieces 40c are formed.

Next, as shown in FIG. 10B, a plurality of uneven structure layers having a plurality of protrusions 33 are formed. Specifically, a plurality of first concavo-convex structure layers 31a, second concavo-convex structure layers 31b, and third concavo-convex structure layers 31c having different arrangement directions (or extending directions) of the protrusions 33 are formed. Each concavo-convex structure layer is formed by, for example, molding. At this time, after forming one large uneven structure layer, a plurality of uneven structure layers may be formed by cutting each region. By making the cutting direction and the cutting position different, it is possible to form a plurality of concavo-convex structure layers having different directions and sizes of the protrusions 33 from one concavo-convex structure layer.

Next, a plurality of concavo-convex structure layers are bonded onto the first electrode layer 40 via the adhesive layer 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 10C, the adhesive layer 60 is attached to the lower surface of the third concavo-convex structure layer 31c and placed on the third electrode piece 40c of the first electrode layer 40. Thereby, the 3rd uneven structure layer 31c is fixed on the 3rd electrode piece 40c. In the present embodiment, one of the plurality of concavo-convex structure layers is attached with the arrangement direction of the protrusions 33 being different from the other one. The concavo-convex structure layer 31 is attached to each of the plurality of regions. This makes it possible to easily change the arrangement and shape of the uneven structure layer 31.

Next, as shown in FIG. 10D, a second electrode layer 50 having translucency is formed on the second substrate 20 having translucency. A specific method is the same as the method of forming the first electrode layer 40. Thereby, a plurality of first electrode pieces 50a, second electrode pieces 50b, and third electrode pieces 50c are formed. In addition, the formation process of the 2nd electrode layer 50 should just be performed before the bonding process of the following base material, for example, may be performed simultaneously with formation of the 1st electrode layer 40.

Next, as shown in FIG. 10E, a liquid crystal material 38 whose refractive index changes according to the applied electric field is filled between the plurality of convex portions 33. For example, the liquid crystal material 38 containing the liquid crystal molecules 37 is dropped, so that the liquid crystal material 38 is uniformly filled between the convex portions 33.

Finally, as shown in FIG. 10F, the first base material 10 and the second base material 20 are disposed so that the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 face each other with the plurality of uneven structure layers 31 therebetween. And paste together. Specifically, an annular sealing member is formed along at least one of the first base material 10 and the second base material 20 and the other is bonded. As the sealing member, for example, a thermoplastic resin or a thermosetting resin is used. After bonding the 1st base material 10 and the 2nd base material 20, a sealing member is hardened.

The liquid crystal material 38 may be injected after the substrates are bonded. For example, an injection port may be provided in a part of the annular sealing member, and the liquid crystal material 38 may be injected between the substrates by a vacuum injection method. Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the several types of convex part 33 which differs with positions was formed on one base material, several base materials which have the different types of convex part 33 were prepared, and in the case of use Of course, it is possible to use these base materials side by side and affix them to a window.

[Effects, etc.]
As described above, the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment includes the first base material 10 having translucency, and the second base material having translucency disposed so as to face the first base material 10. 20, the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 having translucency and disposed between the first base material 10 and the second base material 20 so as to face each other, and the first electrode layer 40 The light distribution layer 30 is disposed between the second electrode layer 50 and distributes incident light. The light distribution layer 30 is disposed so as to fill the space between the plurality of protrusions 33 and the uneven structure layer 31 having the plurality of protrusions 33 each having a reflection surface capable of reflecting light, and the first electrode layer 40 and And a refractive index variable layer 32 whose refractive index changes according to the voltage applied between the second electrode layers 50. The light distribution layer 30 is divided into a plurality of regions having different light distribution directions in plan view, and the direction of the reflecting surface is different for each region.

Thereby, since the light distribution layer 30 is divided into a plurality of regions having different light distribution directions, light can be distributed not only in one direction but also in a plurality of directions. Specifically, since the direction of the side surface 35 that functions as a light reflecting surface is different for each region, light can be distributed in a direction according to the angle of the side surface 35. For example, the optical device 1 can distribute light not only in the vertical direction but also in the horizontal direction. Thus, according to the optical device 1, the light distribution of light can be widened.

In addition, when the optical device 1 is installed in the window 91 and adopts sunlight or the like, the incident direction of the incident light (sunlight) with respect to the optical device 1 changes depending on the daily motion or the annual motion. At this time, for example, by controlling the light distribution direction according to the incident direction of light, it is possible to adjust the change in the light distribution with respect to the temporal change of the incident light. For example, the same light distribution as when light is incident from the front can be realized even when light is incident obliquely. Thus, even when the incident directions of light are different, the same (similar) light distribution can be realized.

Further, for example, the plurality of regions include a plurality of first protrusions 33a arranged side by side in the first direction, and each of the reflection surfaces extends in a direction orthogonal to the first direction. A first region 30a having a convex portion 33a and a plurality of second convex portions 33b arranged side by side in a second direction different from the first direction, each reflecting surface being in a direction orthogonal to the second direction And a second region 30b having a plurality of extending second convex portions 33b. The planar view shape of the plurality of first convex portions 33a is a line-symmetric shape with the planar view shape of the multiple second convex portions 33b.

Thereby, the light distribution direction can be made symmetrical between the first region 30a and the second region 30b. For this reason, for example, not only the light incident on the optical device 1 from the left side but also the light incident from the right side can be distributed in a desired direction.

In addition, for example, the plurality of regions further includes a plurality of third convex portions 33c arranged in a third direction different from the first direction and the second direction, and each reflecting surface has a third direction. 3rd area | region 30c which has the some 3rd convex part 33c extended in the direction orthogonal to is included. The planar view shape of the plurality of first convex portions 33a is a line-symmetric shape having a line parallel to the third direction as the symmetry axis of the planar view shape of the multiple second convex portions 33b.

Thereby, since three regions having different light distribution directions are provided, the light distribution can be made wider.

Further, for example, at least one of the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 is composed of a plurality of electrode pieces. The plurality of electrode pieces correspond to each of the plurality of regions.

This makes it possible to change the optical state for each region. Therefore, for example, since the light distribution state can be changed according to the angle of light incident on the optical device 1, a desired light distribution state can be easily realized.

Further, for example, the optical device 1 further includes an adhesive layer 60 that adheres the uneven structure layer 31 and the first electrode layer 40.

Thereby, the adhesion strength between the concavo-convex structure layer 31 and the first electrode layer 40 is increased, and the optical device 1 with high reliability can be realized.

In addition, the optical system 70 according to the present embodiment includes the optical device 1 and a controller 71 that controls the optical state of the light distribution layer 30 for each region by selectively applying a potential to the plurality of electrode pieces. .

This makes it possible to change the optical state for each region. For example, the optical device 1 includes a time zone such as in the morning in which light is incident on the optical device 1 from one left and right direction and a time zone such as an evening in which light is incident on the optical device 1 from other left and right directions. The light distribution state of can be changed.

In addition, for example, the control unit 71 sets the first region 30a to a light distribution state, sets the second region 30b to a transparent state, and sets the first region 30a to a transparent state, and sets the first region 30a to a transparent state. It switches and performs the 2nd operation mode (evening mode) which makes 30b a light distribution state.

Thus, the optical state of the optical device 1 can be changed to an appropriate state by switching the operation mode according to the incident direction of light.

In addition, for example, in the method for manufacturing the optical device 1 according to the present embodiment, the first electrode layer 40 having a light transmitting property is formed on the first base material 10 having a light transmitting property, and a plurality of protrusions are formed. A step of forming a plurality of concavo-convex structure layers 31 having a portion 33, a step of attaching a plurality of concavo-convex structure layers 31 to the first electrode layer 40 via an adhesive layer 60, and a second base material having translucency A step of forming a translucent second electrode layer 50 on 20, a step of filling a liquid crystal material 38 whose refractive index changes according to an applied electric field between the plurality of convex portions 33, and A step of bonding the first base material 10 and the second base material 20 so that the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 face each other with the plurality of concavo-convex structure layers 31 interposed therebetween. . In the pasting step, one of the plurality of concavo-convex structure layers 31 is pasted with the arrangement direction of the protrusions 33 being different from the other one.

Thus, the optical device 1 can be manufactured by forming a plurality of concavo-convex structure layers separately and then affixing them to the first electrode layer 40 via the adhesive layer 60. For this reason, the some optical device 1 from which arrangement | positioning of each area | region, a magnitude | size, and a shape differs can be implement | achieved easily.

(Modification)
Below, the modification of the said embodiment is demonstrated.

In the above embodiment, the case where the liquid crystal material is used as the refractive index variable material has been described, but the refractive index variable material is not limited to the liquid crystal material. For example, in this modification, a case where an electrophoretic material is used as the refractive index variable material will be described. In the following description, differences from the above embodiment will be mainly described, and description of common points will be omitted or simplified.

[Constitution]
FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an optical device 101 according to this modification. The overall configuration of the optical device 101 according to the present modification is the same as that of the optical device 1 shown in FIG. FIG. 11 shows a cross section corresponding to a region II surrounded by a one-dot chain line in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 11, the optical device 101 includes a first base material 10, a second base material 20, a light distribution layer 130, a first electrode layer 40, and a second electrode layer 50. The configuration other than the light distribution layer 130 is the same as that of the embodiment.

The light distribution layer 130 is disposed between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. The light distribution layer 130 has a light-transmitting property and transmits incident light. Further, the light distribution layer 130 changes the traveling direction of light when the light passes through the light distribution layer 130.

The light distribution layer 130 includes an uneven structure layer 31 and a refractive index variable layer 132. The uneven structure layer 31 has the same configuration as the uneven structure layer 31 of the optical device 1 according to the embodiment. That is, also in this modified example, a plurality of concavo-convex structure layers having different alignment directions of the protrusions 33 are provided for each region of the first light distribution layer 130. Specifically, the detailed configuration of the concavo-convex structure layer 31 of the first light distribution layer 130 is the same as that shown in FIG. 3A and FIG.

In the present modification, as shown in FIG. 11, the refractive index variable layer 132 includes an insulating liquid 137 and nanoparticles 138 included in the insulating liquid 137. The refractive index variable layer 132 is a nanoparticle dispersion layer in which countless nanoparticles 138 are dispersed in an insulating liquid 137.

The insulating liquid 137 is a transparent liquid having insulating properties, and is a solvent serving as a dispersion medium in which the nanoparticles 138 are dispersed as a dispersoid. As the insulating liquid 137, for example, a material having a refractive index (solvent refractive index) of about 1.3 to about 1.6 can be used. In this modification, an insulating liquid 137 having a refractive index of about 1.4 is used.

Note that the kinematic viscosity of the insulating liquid 137 is preferably about 100 mm ² / s. Further, the insulating liquid 137 has a low dielectric constant (for example, less than the dielectric constant of the concavo-convex structure layer 31), non-flammability (for example, a high flash point having a flash point of 250 ° C. or higher), and low volatility. Also good. Specifically, the insulating liquid 137 is a hydrocarbon such as an aliphatic hydrocarbon, naphtha, and other petroleum solvents, a low molecular weight halogen-containing polymer, or a mixture thereof. As an example, the insulating liquid 137 is a halogenated hydrocarbon such as a fluorinated hydrocarbon. Note that silicone oil or the like can be used as the insulating liquid 137.

A plurality of nanoparticles 138 are dispersed in the insulating liquid 137. The nanoparticles 138 are fine particles having a particle size of nano-order size. Specifically, when the wavelength of incident light is λ, the particle size of the nanoparticles 138 is preferably λ / 4 or less. By setting the particle size of the nanoparticles 138 to λ / 4 or less, light scattering by the nanoparticles 138 can be reduced, and an average refractive index of the nanoparticles 138 and the insulating liquid 137 can be obtained. The particle size of the nanoparticles 138 is preferably as small as possible, preferably 100 nm or less, more preferably several nm to several tens nm.

The nanoparticles 138 are made of, for example, a high refractive index material. Specifically, the refractive index of the nanoparticles 138 is higher than the refractive index of the insulating liquid 137. In this modification, the refractive index of the nanoparticles 138 is higher than the refractive index of the uneven structure layer 31.

As the nanoparticles 138, for example, metal oxide fine particles can be used. The nanoparticles 138 may be made of a material with high transmittance. In this modification, transparent zirconia particles having a refractive index of 2.1 and made of zirconium oxide (ZrO ₂ ) are used as the nanoparticles 138. The nanoparticles 138 are not limited to zirconium oxide, and may be composed of titanium oxide (TiO ₂ : refractive index 2.5) or the like.

Further, the nanoparticles 138 are charged particles that are charged. For example, by modifying the surface of the nanoparticle 138, the nanoparticle 138 can be charged positively (plus) or negatively (minus). In this modification, the nanoparticles 138 are positively (plus) charged.

In the refractive index variable layer 132 configured in this manner, charged nanoparticles 138 are dispersed throughout the insulating liquid 137. In this modification, zirconia particles having a refractive index of 2.1 are used as the nanoparticles 138 and the nanoparticles 138 are dispersed in an insulating liquid 137 having a solvent refractive index of about 1.4. It is said.

Further, the overall refractive index (average refractive index) of the refractive index variable layer 132 is set to be substantially the same as the refractive index of the uneven structure layer 31 in a state where the nanoparticles 138 are uniformly dispersed in the insulating liquid 137. In this variation, it is about 1.5. Note that the overall refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 132 can be changed by adjusting the concentration (amount) of the nanoparticles 138 dispersed in the insulating liquid 137. Although details will be described later, the amount of the nanoparticles 138 is, for example, such that it is buried in the recess 34 of the uneven structure layer 31. In this case, the concentration of the nanoparticles 138 with respect to the insulating liquid 137 is about 10% to about 30%.

The refractive index variable layer 132 is disposed between the uneven structure layer 31 and the second electrode layer 50. Specifically, the refractive index variable layer 132 is in contact with the uneven structure layer 31. That is, the contact surface of the refractive index variable layer 132 with the concave / convex surface of the concave / convex structure layer 31 is an interface between the refractive index variable layer 132 and the concave / convex surface of the concave / convex structure layer 31. The refractive index variable layer 132 is also in contact with the second electrode layer 50, but another layer (film) may be interposed between the refractive index variable layer 132 and the second electrode layer 50.

Also, the refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 132 changes according to the applied electric field. The electric field changes according to the voltage applied between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. Specifically, the refractive index variable layer 132 functions as a refractive index adjustment layer capable of adjusting the refractive index in the visible light region when an electric field is applied. For example, a DC voltage is applied between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50.

Since the nanoparticles 138 dispersed in the insulating liquid 137 are charged, when an electric field is applied to the refractive index variable layer 132, the nanoparticles 138 migrate in the insulating liquid 137 in accordance with the electric field distribution, and the insulating liquid 137 is unevenly distributed. As a result, the particle distribution of the nanoparticles 138 in the refractive index variable layer 132 is changed, and the concentration distribution of the nanoparticles 138 can be provided in the refractive index variable layer 132, so that the refractive index in the refractive index variable layer 132 is increased. Distribution changes. That is, the refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 132 changes partially. As described above, the refractive index variable layer 132 mainly functions as a refractive index adjustment layer capable of adjusting the refractive index with respect to light in the visible light region.

In this modification, each of the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 may be divided into a plurality of electrode pieces. In this case, as in the embodiment, it is possible to apply different electric fields for each region (for example, the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c) sandwiched between the electrode pieces, The concentration distribution of the nanoparticles 138 can be varied for each region. Thereby, a refractive index can be varied for every area | region pinched | interposed between electrode pieces.

The refractive index variable layer 132 is disposed between the first base material 10 and the second base material 20. Specifically, the insulating liquid 137 in which the nanoparticles 138 are dispersed is sealed between the first base material 10 and the second base material 20. The method for forming the refractive index variable layer 132 is the same as in the embodiment.

The thickness of the refractive index variable layer 132 is, for example, 1 μm to 100 μm, but is not limited thereto. As an example, when the height of the convex portion 33 of the concavo-convex structure layer 31 is 10 μm, the thickness of the refractive index variable layer 132 is, for example, 40 μm.

[Optical state]
Subsequently, an optical state of the optical device 101 according to this modification and an operation mode for forming the optical state will be described. In the present modification, light that enters the optical device 101 from the front and passes through the third region 30c among the plurality of regions of the first light distribution layer 130 will be described. The first region 30a and the second region 30b also have the same optical state as described below depending on the mode of the applied voltage, except that the slopes of the convex portions 33 are different. In this modification, the light path for each region is the same as that in the embodiment as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B.

<Transparent state (non-application mode)>
FIG. 12A is an enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining a non-application mode (transparent state) of the optical device 101 according to this modification.

In FIG. 12A, no voltage is applied between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. Specifically, the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 are equipotential with each other. In this case, since no electric field is applied to the refractive index variable layer 132, the nanoparticles 138 are dispersed throughout the insulating liquid 137.

At this time, in this modification, as described above, the refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 132 in a state where the nanoparticles 138 are dispersed throughout the insulating liquid 137 is about 1.5. Moreover, the refractive index of the convex part 33 of the concavo-convex structure layer 31 is about 1.5. That is, the entire refractive index of the refractive index variable layer 132 is equal to the refractive index of the convex portion 33 of the concavo-convex structure layer 131. Therefore, the refractive index is uniform throughout the light distribution layer 130.

For this reason, as shown in FIG. 12A, when light L is incident from an oblique direction, there is no refractive index difference at the interface between the refractive index variable layer 132 and the concavo-convex structure layer 31 (convex portion 33). Proceed straight.

<Light distribution state (voltage application mode)>
FIG. 12B is an enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining a voltage application mode (light distribution state) of the optical device 101 according to this modification.

In FIG. 12B, a voltage is applied between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. For example, a potential difference of about several tens of volts is applied to the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50. As a result, a predetermined electric field is applied to the refractive index variable layer 132, and in the refractive index variable layer 132, the charged nanoparticles 138 migrate in the insulating liquid 137 according to the electric field distribution. That is, the nanoparticles 138 perform electrophoresis in the insulating liquid 137.

In the example shown in FIG. 12B, the second electrode layer 50 has a higher potential than the first electrode layer 40. For this reason, the positively charged nanoparticles 138 migrate toward the first electrode layer 40, enter the concave portion 34 of the concave-convex structure layer 31, and accumulate.

Thus, the nanoparticles 138 are unevenly distributed on the uneven structure layer 31 side in the refractive index variable layer 132, whereby the particle distribution of the nanoparticles 138 is changed, and the refractive index distribution in the refractive index variable layer 132 is not uniform. Disappear. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12B, a concentration distribution of nanoparticles 138 is formed in the refractive index variable layer 132.

For example, in the region 132a on the uneven structure layer 31 side, the concentration of the nanoparticles 138 is high, and in the region 132b on the second electrode layer 50 side, the concentration of the nanoparticles 138 is low. Therefore, a difference in refractive index occurs between the region 132a and the region 132b.

In this modification, the refractive index of the nanoparticles 138 is higher than the refractive index of the insulating liquid 137. For this reason, the refractive index of the region 132a where the concentration of the nanoparticles 138 is high is higher than the refractive index of the region 132b where the concentration of the nanoparticles 138 is low, that is, the proportion of the insulating liquid 137 is high. For example, the refractive index of the region 132a is greater than about 1.5 to about 1.8 depending on the concentration of the nanoparticles 138. The refractive index of the region 132b is a value less than about 1.4 to less than about 1.5 depending on the concentration of the nanoparticles 138.

Since the refractive index of the plurality of convex portions 33 is about 1.5, when a voltage is applied between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50, the convex portion 33 is interposed between the convex portion 33 and the region 132a. Causes a difference in refractive index. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 12B, when the light L is incident from an oblique direction, the light L is refracted by the side surface 36 of the convex portion 33 and then totally reflected by the side surface 35. As a result, the light L incident obliquely downward is bent in the traveling direction by the optical device 101 and is applied to the indoor ceiling surface or the like.

It is also possible to change the light distribution direction by changing the refractive index according to the applied voltage. When liquid crystal is used as the refractive index variable material, it is derived from the birefringence of the liquid crystal, and the behavior differs between S-polarized light and P-polarized light. Therefore, it is possible to control light distribution of almost all light.

12A and 12B, although not shown in detail, each member such as an interface between the first base material 10 and the first electrode layer 40 or an interface between the refractive index variable layer 132 and the second electrode layer 50 is used. The light L is refracted in accordance with the refractive index difference at the interface where there is a refractive index difference.

Also in this modified example, as in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the light distribution layer 130 is divided into a plurality of regions having different light distribution directions. Light can be distributed. Specifically, since the direction of the side surface 35 that functions as a light reflecting surface is different for each region, light can be distributed in a direction according to the angle of the side surface 35. For example, the optical device 101 can distribute light not only in the vertical direction but also in the horizontal direction. Thus, according to the optical device 101, the light distribution of light can be widened.

(Other)
As described above, the optical device, the optical system, and the manufacturing method of the optical device according to the present invention have been described based on the above-described embodiment and its modifications. However, the present invention is limited to the above-described embodiment. It is not a thing.

For example, in the above embodiment, the control unit 71 switches the operation mode for each region, but is not limited thereto. For example, although an example in which both the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 are divided into a plurality of electrode pieces has been shown, the present invention is not limited thereto. Only one of the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 may be composed of a plurality of electrode pieces. Alternatively, both the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 may not be divided. In this case, although it becomes impossible to switch the light distribution state and the transparent state for each region, the light distribution direction of light in the light distribution state can be expanded.

Further, for example, in the above-described embodiment, the uneven structure layer 31 is individually manufactured for each region and then pasted on the first electrode layer 40 via the adhesive layer 60. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The uneven structure layer 31 may be integrally formed. Specifically, the concavo-convex structure layer 31 may be collectively formed by using a mold having a plurality of shapes in which the alignment direction of the convex portions 33 is different.

For example, the uneven structure layer 31 may be formed directly on the first electrode layer 40, and the optical device 1 may not include the adhesive layer 60. For example, the uneven structure layer 31 may be formed by imprinting after forming a thin film made of a resin material generally called a primer on the first electrode layer 40.

Further, for example, in the above-described embodiment, the example in which the first region 30a and the second region 30b have a line-symmetric relationship has been described. However, this is because the optical device 1 faces the window 91 facing south. This is particularly useful when installed. Therefore, for example, when the optical device 1 is installed in a window that faces other than true south, such as south-southwest, the first region 30a and the second region 30b may not have a line-symmetric relationship. The inclination angle of the side surface (reflection surface) 35 in the first region 30a and the inclination angle of the side surface 35 in the second region 30b may be different from each other. Further, the side surface 35 in the third region 30c may not extend in a direction parallel to the ground, and may be inclined.

Further, for example, the first base material 10 and the second base material 20 may be separated for each region. That is, a plurality of optical devices that can be individually driven for each region may be arranged in the plane.

Further, for example, in the above embodiment, a positive liquid crystal material is used as the liquid crystal material constituting the refractive index variable layer 32, but a negative liquid crystal material may be used.

For example, in the above embodiment, the optical device is arranged in the window so that the longitudinal direction of the third convex portion 33c is the x-axis direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the optical device may be arranged in the window so that the longitudinal direction of the third convex portion 33c is the z-axis direction.

Further, for example, the plurality of convex portions 33 may not be a straight stripe shape. For example, each of the plurality of convex portions 33 may have a wave shape, a wavy line shape, or a zigzag shape.

Further, in each of the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c, the plurality of convex portions 33 may include convex portions having different shapes. For example, a plurality of different tilt angles may be mixed in at least one of the tilt angles θa, θb, and θc. For example, the shape of the convex portion 33 in each of the first region 30a, the second region 30b, and the third region 30c may be different for each region. For example, the first convex portion 33a of the first region 30a is wave-shaped, the second convex portion 33b of the second region 30b is divided into dots, and the third convex portion 33c of the third region 30c is striped. There may be.

Further, for example, in the above-described embodiment, each of the plurality of convex portions 33 constituting the concavo-convex structure layer 31 has a long shape, but is not limited thereto. For example, the plurality of convex portions 33 may be arranged so as to be scattered in a matrix or the like. That is, you may arrange | position the some convex part 33 so that it may be dotted in dot shape.

Further, for example, in the above-described embodiment, each of the plurality of convex portions 33 has the same shape, but is not limited thereto, and may have different shapes within the plane, for example. For example, the inclination angles of the side surfaces 35 or 36 of the plurality of convex portions 33 may be different between the upper half and the lower half in the z-axis direction of the optical device 1.

In addition, for example, in the above-described embodiment, the height of the plurality of convex portions 33 is constant, but is not limited thereto. For example, the height of the plurality of convex portions 33 may be different at random. By doing in this way, it can suppress that the light which permeate | transmits an optical device looks rainbow color. In other words, by randomly varying the height of the plurality of convex portions 33, minute diffracted light and scattered light at the concave / convex interface are averaged by wavelength, and coloring of the emitted light is suppressed.

For example, in the modification of the above embodiment, the refractive index of the nanoparticles 138 may be lower than the refractive index of the insulating liquid 137. A transparent state and a light distribution state can be realized by appropriately adjusting the voltage to be applied according to the refractive index of the nanoparticles 138 and the like.

For example, in the modification of the above embodiment, the nanoparticles 138 are positively charged, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the nanoparticles 138 may be negatively charged. In this case, a direct voltage is applied between the first electrode layer 40 and the second electrode layer 50 by applying a positive potential to the first electrode layer 40 and applying a negative potential to the second electrode layer 50. Good.

In addition, the plurality of nanoparticles 138 may include a plurality of types of nanoparticles having different optical characteristics. For example, a transparent first nanoparticle charged positively and an opaque (black or the like) second nanoparticle charged negatively may be included. For example, the optical device 101 may have a light shielding function by aggregating and unevenly distributing the second nanoparticles.

In the above embodiment, the sunlight is exemplified as the light incident on the optical device 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the light incident on the optical device 1 may be light emitted from a light emitting device such as a lighting device.

In the above embodiment, the optical device 1 is attached to the indoor side surface of the window 91, but may be attached to the outdoor side surface of the window 91. By pasting on the indoor side, deterioration of the optical element can be suppressed. Further, although the optical device 1 is attached to the window 91, the optical device may be used as the window of the building 90 itself. The optical device 1 is not limited to being installed in the window 91 of the building 90, and may be installed, for example, in a car window. The optical device 1 can also be used for a light distribution control member such as a light-transmitting cover of a lighting fixture, for example. Alternatively, the optical device 1 can also be used as a blindfold member that utilizes light scattering at the interface of the concavo-convex structure.

Note that these modified examples can be applied to other embodiments and modified examples.

In addition, the embodiment can be realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions in each embodiment without departing from the scope of the present invention, or a form obtained by subjecting each embodiment to various modifications conceived by those skilled in the art. Forms are also included in the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,101 Optical device 10 1st base material 20

2nd base material

30, 130 Light distribution layer 30a 1st area | region 30b 2nd area | region 30c 3rd area | region 31

Uneven structure layer

32, 132 Refractive index variable layer 33 Convex part 33a 1st Convex part 33b Second convex part 33c Third convex part 38 Liquid crystal material (refractive index variable material)
40

1st electrode layer

40a, 50a

1st electrode piece

40b, 50b

2nd electrode piece

40c, 50c 3rd electrode piece 50 2nd electrode layer 60 Adhesive layer 70 Optical system 71 Control part

Claims

A first base material having translucency;
A second substrate having translucency, disposed opposite to the first substrate;
A first electrode layer and a second electrode layer having translucency, disposed opposite to each other between the first base material and the second base material;
A light distribution layer disposed between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer for distributing incident light;
The light distribution layer is
A concavo-convex structure layer having a plurality of convex portions each having a reflective surface capable of reflecting the light;
A refractive index variable layer that is arranged so as to fill a space between the plurality of convex portions, and whose refractive index changes according to a voltage applied between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer,
The light distribution layer is divided into a plurality of regions having different light distribution directions in plan view, and the direction of the reflecting surface is different for each region.
In the plurality of regions,
A plurality of first protrusions arranged side by side in a first direction, each of the reflective surfaces having a plurality of first protrusions extending in a direction perpendicular to the first direction;
A plurality of second protrusions arranged side by side in a second direction different from the first direction, each of the reflection surfaces extending in a direction perpendicular to the second direction. And a second region having
2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of first protrusions in a plan view shape is a line-symmetric shape of the plurality of second protrusions in a plan view shape.
The plurality of regions further includes
A plurality of third convex portions arranged in a third direction different from the first direction and the second direction, each reflecting surface extending in a direction orthogonal to the third direction. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein a third region having the third convex portion is included.
At least one of the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer is composed of a plurality of electrode pieces,
The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of electrode pieces correspond to each of the plurality of regions.
further,
The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an adhesive layer that adheres the uneven structure layer and the first electrode layer.
An optical device according to claim 4,
An optical system comprising: a control unit that controls the optical state of the light distribution layer for each of the regions by selectively applying a potential to the plurality of electrode pieces.
The controller is
A first operation mode in which the first region is in a light distribution state and the second region is in a transparent state;
The optical system according to claim 6, wherein the optical system is executed by switching between a second operation mode in which the first region is in a transparent state and the second region is in a light distribution state.
Forming a light-transmitting first electrode layer on a light-transmitting first substrate;
Forming a plurality of concavo-convex structure layers having a plurality of convex portions;
A step of attaching a plurality of the concavo-convex structure layers on the first electrode layer via an adhesive layer;
Forming a translucent second electrode layer on the translucent second substrate; and
Filling a refractive index variable material whose refractive index changes according to an applied electric field between the plurality of convex portions;
Bonding the first base material and the second base material so that the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer face each other with a plurality of the concavo-convex structure layers interposed therebetween,
In the attaching step, one of the plurality of concavo-convex structure layers is attached with a different arrangement direction of the convex portions from the other one. An optical device manufacturing method.