Patent ID: 6229767
Filing Date: 2001-05-08
Classification: G02B,G02F,G04G

Abstract:
A display device, comprising:a first polarization separator that transmits linearly polarized light polarized in a first direction and does not transmit linearly polarized light polarized in a direction perpendicular to the first direction;a polarization changing element positioned to receive linearly polarized light emerging from said first polarization separator and that selects between a state of changing a polarization direction of polarized light transmitted therethrough and a state of not changing the polarization direction;a second polarization separator disposed opposite to said first polarization separator with said polarization changing element interposed therebetween, the second polarization separator transmitting linearly polarized light polarized in a second direction and reflecting linearly polarized light polarized in a direction perpendicular to the second direction;a solar battery disposed opposite to said polarization changing element with said second polarization light separator disposed therebetween, the solar battery receiving external light and converting the external light into electric energy; andsaid solar battery reflecting a portion of the external light when said polarization changing element changes the polarization direction of polarized light transmitted therethrough.