Display device and input device

A display device that includes first and second light sources, a light guide body, and a mask body is provided. The light guide body includes a reflector that has a shape of a first design. The light guide body guides first light emitted by the first light source and reflects the first light by the reflector to display the first design. The mask body includes a light-transmissive portion and a light-blocking portion. The light-transmissive portion has a shape of a second design, and the light-blocking portion is a portion other than the light-transmissive portion. The light-transmissive portion transmits second light emitted by the second light source to display the second design. The first design is displayed at a first display luminance, and the second design is displayed at a second display luminance. The first display luminance and the second display luminance are substantially equalized.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is based on and claims priority of Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-022174 filed on Feb. 9, 2018, Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-027976 filed on Feb. 20, 2018, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-170042 filed on Sep. 11, 2018.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a display device and an input device.

2. Description of the Related Art

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-333361 discloses a display device which includes a first light source for displaying a first design at all times via a light guide plate, and a second light source for displaying a second design as necessary through a shade part.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-163961 discloses a display device which selectively displays one of two graphics by switching the lighting between a first light source and a second light source.

SUMMARY

However, the conventional display devices according to Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-333361 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-163961 can be improved upon.

In view of this, the present disclosure provides a display device and an input device which are capable of improving upon the above related arts.

A display device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a display device which includes: a first light source; a second light source; a light guide body which includes a reflector having a shape of a first design, guides first light emitted by the first light source, and reflects the first light by the reflector to display the first design; and a mask body which includes a light-transmissive portion having a shape of a second design and a light-blocking portion that is a portion other than the light-transmissive portion, transmits, through the light-transmissive portion, second light emitted by the second light source, and blocks the second light by the light-blocking portion. In the display device, the first design is displayed at a first display luminance and the second design is displayed at a second display luminance, and the first display luminance and the second display luminance are substantially equalized by adjusting at least one of a luminance of the first light and a luminance of the second light.

In addition, a display device according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes: a first light source and a second light source, either one of which is selectively turned on; a light guide body which includes a reflector having a shape of a first design, guides first light emitted by the first light source, and reflects the first light by the reflector to display the first design; a mask body which includes a light-transmissive portion having a shape of a second design and a light-blocking portion that is a portion other than the light-transmissive portion, transmits, through the light-transmissive portion, second light emitted by the second light source, and blocks the second light by the light-blocking portion; a board on which the first light source and the second light source are disposed; a separator wall which separates the first light source and the second light source, and has a light-blocking property. In the display device, the board and the separator wall are connected in a state in which light is blocked between a first space in which the first light source is disposed and a second space in which the second light source is disposed.

The display device and the input device according to the present disclosure are capable of improving upon the above related arts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Underlying Knowledge Forming the Basis of the Present Disclosure

The inventors found that the following problems occur with the display device described in the “Description of the Related Art” section.

With the display device according to Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-333361, there is a possibility that a luminance for displaying the first design might be different from a luminance for displaying the second design. More specifically, with conventional display devices, a first design is displayed using light emitted by a first light source via a light guide plate and a second design is displayed using direct light emitted by a second light source, and thus a path of light for displaying the first design is different from a path of light for displaying the second design. For that reason, when the luminance of the first light source and the luminance of the second light source are same, the first design and the second design are likely to be displayed at different luminances, leading to a possible damage to the visual quality of the first design and the second design.

In view of the above, the present disclosure provides a display device capable of improving the visual quality of the first design and the second design which are displayed using light traveling through paths of light of different types.

In order to solve the above-described problem, the display device according to one aspect of present disclosure is a display device which includes a first light source; a second light source; a light guide body which includes a reflector having a shape of a first design, guides first light emitted by the first light source, and reflects the first light by the reflector to display the first design; and a mask body which includes a light-transmissive portion having a shape of a second design and a light-blocking portion that is a portion other than the light-transmissive portion, transmits, through the light-transmissive portion, second light emitted by the second light source, and blocks the second light by the light-blocking portion. In the display device, the first design is displayed at a first display luminance and the second design is displayed at a second display luminance, and the first display luminance and the second display luminance are substantially equalized by adjusting at least one of a luminance of the first light and a luminance of the second light.

According to this configuration, at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light is adjusted, and thus it is possible to equalize the first display luminance for displaying the first design and the second display luminance for displaying the second design. It is thus possible to improve the visual quality of the first design and the second design which are displayed using light traveling through paths of light of different types.

In addition, the display device may further include an adjuster which adjusts at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light to substantially equalize the first display luminance at which the first design is displayed and the second display luminance at which the second design is displayed.

According to this configuration, the adjuster adjusts at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light, and thus it is possible to equalize the first display luminance for displaying the first design and the second display luminance for displaying the second design. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the visual quality of the first design and the second design.

In addition, the adjuster may adjust the at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light by causing feed power to differ between the first light source and the second light source.

Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the adjuster may adjust at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light by causing feed current to differ between the first light source and the second light source.

Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the first light source and the second light source may comprise light sources of the same type.

According to this configuration, the adjuster adjusts feed power or feed current to be fed to the first light source and the second light source which comprise light sources of the same type, thereby making it possible to easily adjust at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the adjuster may adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

According to this configuration, the adjuster adjusts the luminance of the first light for displaying the first design displayed using the light guide body and likely to be lower in luminance than the second design displayed using transmitted light, to be higher than the luminance of the second light. Accordingly, the adjuster is capable of substantially equalizing the first display luminance at which the first design is displayed and the second display luminance at which the second design is displayed. It is thus possible to improve the visual quality of the first design and the second design.

In addition, the adjuster may include a lens which is disposed above the first light source on a side to which the first light is emitted, and collects the first light.

According to this configuration, it is possible to collect light emitted by the first light source, by disposing the lens above the first light source on the side to which the first light is emitted. It is thus possible to adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the adjuster may include a light reducer which is disposed above the second light source on a side to which the second light is emitted, and reduces a light amount of the second light.

According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce light emitted by the second light source, by disposing the light reducer above the second light source on the side to which the second light is emitted. It is thus possible to adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the adjuster may include a light diffuser which is disposed above the second light source on a side to which the second light is emitted, and diffuses the second light.

According to this configuration, it is possible to diffuse light emitted by the second light source, by disposing the light diffuser above the second light source on the side to which the second light is emitted. It is thus possible to adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the adjuster may cause the second light source to blink at a duty ratio less than a duty ratio of the first light source.

Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the first light source includes one or more light emitting elements and the second light source includes one or more light emitting elements, and the one or more light emitting elements of the first light source may be different in number from the one or more light emitting elements of the second light source.

Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the display device may further include a board on which the first light source and the second light source are disposed. In the display device, the first light source and the second light source may be disposed at different heights from the board.

Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the display device may further include a separator wall which separates the first light source and the second light source. The separator wall may include a wall surface having one of a dark portion, a matte portion, and a diffused reflection portion, on a side facing the second light source.

With this configuration, the separator wall is capable of reducing reflectance of the second light, and thus it is possible to adjust the luminance of the second light to be lower than the luminance of the first light. Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

In addition, the first design and the second design may be displayed at overlapping positions.

In the case where the first design and the second design are disposed at overlapping positions, a difference between a luminance of the first design and a luminance of the second design is likely to be particularly distinct when the first design and the second design are displayed at different luminances. However, even when the first design and the second design are disposed at such positions where a difference is likely to be distinct, it is possible to substantially equalize the luminance for displaying the first design and the luminance for displaying the second design. It is thus possible to improve the visual quality of the first design and the second design.

In addition, only one of the first light source and the second light source may be turned on at a time.

With this configuration, since the luminance at which the first design is displayed and the luminance at which the second design is displayed are substantially equalized even when either one of the first design and the second design is displayed, the luminance at which the first design is displayed and the luminance at which the second design is displayed are substantially equalized as well even at the time when display is switched. It is thus possible to improve the visual quality of the first design and the second design.

Furthermore, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-333361 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-163961 pose problems as follows.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-333361 discloses a configuration in which the first light source housing and the second light source housing house the first light source and the second light source, respectively; that is, a configuration in which a separator wall is disposed between the first light source and the second light source. The first light source housing and the second light source housing comprise a plurality of first light source housings and a plurality of second light source housings, respectively, so as to respectively correspond to a plurality of first light sources and a plurality of second light sources. The plurality of first light source housings and the plurality of second light source housings are integrated to form a light guide housing. The plurality of first light sources and the plurality of second light sources are disposed on a single board. Accordingly, the light guide housing is disposed on the board so as to house the plurality of first light sources and the plurality of second light sources in the plurality of first light source housings and the plurality of second light source housings.

In this case, the light guide housing has a configuration in which the plurality of first light source housings and the plurality of second light source housings are integrally formed, and thus a dimensional error is likely to occur in a plurality of partition walls provided between the plurality of first light sources and the plurality of second light sources. In addition, since the plurality of first light sources and the plurality of second light sources are disposed on a single board, the board increases in size and thus deflection is likely to occur. Accordingly, it is difficult to closely attach the light guide housing uniformly to the board. As described above, in the case where the light guide housing and the board are not closely attached and a gap is formed between them, light emitted by the first light sources leaks to the second light source housings or light emitted by the second light sources leaks to the first light source housings; that is, light leakage occurs, leading to a possible damage to the visual quality of the first design and the second design. In particular, in a configuration in which turning on of the first light sources and turning on of the second light sources are switched therebetween, as described in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-163961, the light leakage could cause light emitted by the first light sources to display the second design, or cause light emitted by the second light sources to display the first design.

In addition, in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-163961, the second light sources are not sufficiently isolated, and thus light emitted by the second light sources could reach a light pipe that transmits light emitted by the first light sources. More specifically, although an arm is disposed outside the second light sources, the arm could fail to block light emitted by the second light sources. For example, in the case where (i) the arm is formed using a light-transmissive component, or (ii) there is a gap, opening, or the like which penetrates between a space in which the second light sources are disposed and a space in which the light pipe is disposed, there is a possibility that light emitted by the second light sources could not be effectively prevented from entering the light pipe. For that reason, when a second graphic is displayed using light emitted by the second light sources, there is a possibility that a first graphic displayed using light emitted by the first light sources might be accidentally reflected.

In addition, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-333361 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-163961 are silent on a material of the board. Accordingly, when the board is formed using a light-transmissive material, there is a possibility that light emitted by one of the first light source and the second light source might propagate inside the board and dimly illuminate a space in which the other is disposed. Accordingly, as described above, there is a possibility that light emitted by the first light sources would display the second design or light emitted by the second light sources would display the first design.

As described above, with the techniques described in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-333361 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-163961 as described above, there is a problem that it is difficult to selectively and independently display the first design and the second design.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the inventors of the present application have found, after earnest investigation, a display device having a configuration described below.

A display device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a display device which further includes a board on which the first a separator wall which separates the first light source and the second light source, and has a light-blocking property. In the display device, either one of the first light source and the second light source is selectively turned on, and the board and the separator wall are connected in a state in which light is blocked between a first space in which the first light source is disposed and a second space in which the second light source is disposed.

With this configuration, when the first light sources emit light, it is possible to reduce leakage of first light emitted by the first light sources, into the second space from the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall. Likewise, when the second light sources emit light, it is possible to reduce leakage of second light emitted by the second light sources, into the first space from the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall. It is thus possible to reduce the second designs being reflected while the first designs are displayed, and to reduce the first designs being reflected while second designs are displayed. In this manner, it is possible to selectively and independently display the first design and the second design.

In addition, the board and the separator wall may be connected by filling a filler having a light-blocking property in a space between the board and the separator wall.

With this configuration, it is possible to effectively block light between the first space and the second space in the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall.

In addition, the filler may have a surface which is dark in color.

With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the first light emitted by the first light sources or the second light emitted by the second light sources being reflected by the filler. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce light being diffusely reflected by the filler, making it possible to effectively block light between the first space and the second space.

In addition, the filler may be a rubber or an adhesive.

Accordingly, it is possible to easily fill a gap in the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall. It is thus possible to effectively block light between the first space and the second space in the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall.

In addition, the board and the separator wall may be connected by inserting the separator wall into a recess or a through-hole provided in the board.

With this configuration, the separator wall is capable of separating the first space from the second space while a gap at the connecting portion being reduced to the minimum. In addition, the board includes a recess or a through-hole, and thus even when light propagates inside the board, the propagation of the light is blocked by the recess or the through-hole. It is thus possible to effectively block light between the first space and the second space in the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall.

In addition, the board may include a material having a light-blocking property.

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent leakage of light from the board, and thus to block light between the first space and the second space. In addition, since the board has a light-blocking property, it is possible to reduce the possibility of light propagating inside the board from one space to the other space as in a general glass epoxy board, and dimly illuminating the other space.

In addition, the separator wall may have a surface which is dark in color.

Accordingly, it is possible to reduce light being diffusely reflected by the surface of the separator wall, making it possible to effectively block light between the first space and the second space.

In addition, the board may have a surface which is dark in color.

Accordingly, it is possible to reduce light being diffusely reflected by the surface of the board, making it possible to effectively block light between the first space and the second space.

In addition, further, a lens which is disposed above at least one of the first light source and the second light source on a side to which light is emitted, and collects the light may be included.

With this configuration, it is possible to collect light of at least one of the first light source and the second light source using the lens, making it possible to reduce the first light of the first light source traveling toward the second space, or reduce the second light of the second light source traveling toward the first space. It is thus possible to effectively block light between the first space and the second space in the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall.

An input device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: the above-described display device; and a switch which detects pressure on the display device.

Accordingly, when the first light sources emit light, it is possible to reduce leakage of first light emitted by the first light sources, into the second space from the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall. Likewise, when the second light sources emit light, it is possible to reduce leakage of second light emitted by the second light sources, into the first space from the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall. It is thus possible to reduce the second design being reflected while the first design is displayed, and to reduce the first design being reflected while the second design is displayed. In this manner, the input device is capable of selectively and independently displaying the first design and the second design.

In addition, with the input device, the display device may press the switch by moving toward the switch, upon being applied with the pressure.

In addition, with the input device, the separator wall may be connected to the board in a state in which, upon being applied with the pressure, the separator wall is movable toward the switch relative to the board, while keeping a state in which light is blocked at a connecting portion between the board and the separator wall.

Hereinafter, an input device which includes a display device according to one aspect of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

It should be noted that each of the exemplary embodiments described below shows one specific example of present disclosure. The numerical values, shapes, materials, structural components, the arrangement and connection of the structural components, steps, the processing order of the steps, etc. shown in the following embodiments are mere examples, and therefore do not limit the scope of the claims of present disclosure. Therefore, among the structural components in the following exemplary embodiments, structural components not recited in any one of the independent claims are described as arbitrary structural elements.

(1-1. Configuration of Steering Input Device)

First, a configuration of steering input device2according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference toFIG. 1andFIG. 2.FIG. 1is a diagram which illustrates one example of a vehicle interior of a vehicle in which steering input device2according to Embodiment is installed.FIG. 2is a diagram which illustrates a use example of steering input device2according to Embodiment 1.

In the vehicle interior of automobile4(one example of the vehicle) illustrated inFIG. 1, steering input device2and on-vehicle device6are installed. Steering input device2according to Embodiment 1 includes steering wheel8and display device100.

Steering wheel8is for steering automobile4. Steering wheel8includes rim12having a ring shape, spoke14having a substantially T-shape and formed integrally with rim12on an inner circumference surface of rim12, and horn switch cover16which covers a horn switch (not illustrated) disposed at a center portion of spoke14.

Display device100is for operating on-vehicle device6, and is disposed on spoke14of steering wheel8, for example. As illustrated inFIG. 2, a driver who is a user of display device100performs an input operation on display device100with finger18(one example of an operation object) of the right hand gripping rim12, thereby operating on-vehicle device6. A configuration of display device100will be described later in detail.

On-vehicle device6is, for example, an audio device for reproducing an optical disc such as a compact disc, etc. On-vehicle device6is placed in dashboard20, for example. A configuration of on-vehicle device6will be described later in detail.

[1-2. Configuration of Display Device]

The following describes a configuration of display device100according to Embodiment 1, with reference toFIG. 3toFIG. 7.FIG. 3illustrates an external perspective view of display device100according to Embodiment 1.FIG. 4is an exploded perspective view of display device100according to Embodiment 1.FIG. 5is a cross-sectional view taken along V-V inFIG. 3.

Outer frame111is a component constituting an outer periphery of a front surface and side surfaces of display device100. Outer frame111includes, for example, a resin material, etc.

Touch sensor112is a sensor which is disposed on a front-surface side (a Z-axis positive side) of display device100, and detects a touch position on the front surface. The touch position is a position touched by a user. Touch sensor112is located on the Z-axis positive side with respect to pressure portion116, and detects a touch position on an operation surface of pressure portion116that is a surface of pressure portion116on the Z-axis positive side. It should be noted that first designs141to146and second designs151to156are displayed on a surface of touch sensor112on the Z-axis positive side. In other words, the surface of touch sensor112on the Z-axis positive side is a display screen.

It should be noted that the touch position may be a position touched by a body part of a user such as a finger, or a position touched by a conductive object. Touch sensor112is composed of a transparent member. Various types of touch sensors, such as a resistive touch sensor, a capacitive touch sensor, etc., can be employed as touch sensor112.

Window frame113is a component which blocks light from a region other than reflectors having the shapes of the designs and are formed on light guide body114. More specifically, window frame113is disposed forward of light guide body114, and has openings each having a quadrilateral outer shape at the regions corresponding to the designs. Window frame113includes a material having a light-blocking property (for example, resin, etc.). According to this configuration, with display device100, it is possible to reduce emitting of light from a portion other than the portions corresponding to reflectors which have the shapes of first designs141to146and are formed on light emission surface131a(see the description thereof below) of light guide body114, and to emit light exclusively from the portions corresponding to reflectors.

Light guide body114is a component which emits light (first light) forward from a light emission surface substantially parallel to an X-Y plane. The first light is emitted by first light sources122and123mounted on board118. More specifically, light guide body114guides first light emitted by first light sources122and123, and reflects the guided first light by reflectors having the shapes of first designs141to146, thereby displaying first designs141to146. Light guide body114is formed using a transparent material, such as an acrylic resin, a polycarbonate resin, etc.

The following describes a detailed configuration of light guide body114according to Embodiment 1, with reference toFIG. 6.

FIG. 6is a perspective view which indicates a relationship between light guide body114and first light sources122and123for displaying first designs141to146corresponding to reflectors formed on light guide body114.

As illustrated inFIG. 6, light guide body114includes light emission portion131and light guiding portions132and133.

Light emission portion131is a plate-shaped component disposed substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. Light emission portion131includes light emission surface131awhich emits light from a surface on the Z-axis positive side. The reflectors which have the shapes of first designs141to146indicating operation objects are formed on light emission surface131a.

Light guiding portions132and133are plate-shaped portions which are connected to light emission portion131substantially at right angle, and are disposed substantially parallel to a Y-Z plane. Light guiding portions132and133include light entrance surfaces134and135which face first light sources122and123, respectively, and are substantially parallel to the X-Y plane.

Light entrance surfaces134and135include first light entrance surface134which faces first light sources122and second light entrance surface135which faces first light sources123. According to the present embodiment, first light entrance surface134is disposed at a position facing three first light sources122, extending over the regions where the three first light sources122are disposed. Second light entrance surface135is disposed at a position facing three first light sources123, extending over the regions where the three first light sources123are disposed.

In addition, light guiding portions132and133are portions of light guide body114which guide light entering through light entrance surfaces134and135, to light emission surface131a. Light guiding portions132and133include first light guiding portion132which guides, to light emission surface131a, light entering through first light entrance surface134, and second light guiding portion133which guides, to light emission surface131a, light entering through second light entrance surface135. First light guiding portion132and second light guiding portion133are respectively disposed at the ends in the X-axis direction of light emission portion131, and are substantially parallel to each other. In other words, second light guiding portion133is opposite to first light guiding portion132across light emission surface131a.

First light guiding portion132and second light guiding portion133are formed at an angle to light emission portion131. More specifically, first light guiding portion132is connected to light emission portion131via curved portion132athat is bent at an angle of approximately 90 degrees, and second light guiding portion133is connected to light emission portion131via curved portion133athat is bent at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.

As described above, light guide body114has a configuration which guides light (first light) emitted by three first light sources122and three first light sources123, through two light guiding portions132and133to light emission surface131a. Accordingly, even when light emission surface131ahas relatively a broad surface for displaying a plurality of designs which indicate positions to be touched by a user, it is possible to reduce luminance non-uniformity occurring in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction on light emission surface131a.

The reflectors are each formed by forming a groove or opening having a shape of inverted V with a tip on the light exit side, on a surface opposite to light emission surface131aof light emission portion131. More specifically, first designs141to146are displayed as a result of reflecting, toward the Z-axis positive side, light that is guided from light guiding portions132and133to light emission portion131and travels in the X-axis directions, by the reflectors each of which is a groove or an opening having a shape of inverted V. In addition, the reflectors are formed on light emission portion131so as to transmit light in the thickness direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of light guide body114. Accordingly, light guide body114transmits, toward the Z-axis positive side, light emitted by second light sources124disposed on the Z-axis negative side relative to light emission portion131.

Next, a detailed configuration of mask body115according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference toFIG. 7.

FIG. 7is a perspective view which indicates a relationship between mask body115and second light sources124for displaying second designs151to156corresponding to light-transmissive portions formed on mask body115.

As illustrated inFIG. 7, mask body115is a plate-shaped component having a substantially square shape, and includes the light-transmissive portions that have the shapes of second designs151to156and transmit light in the thickness direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of mask body115. Mask body115blocks light in a portion other than the portions in which the light-transmissive portions having the shape of second designs151to156are formed. More specifically, mask body115includes (i) the light-transmissive portions which transmit second light emitted by second light sources124and have the shapes of second designs151to156, and a light-blocking portion which is a portion of mask body115other than the light-transmissive portions and blocks the second light. In mask body115, the light-blocking portion is formed using a material having a light-blocking property (for example, resin), and the light-transmissive portions are formed using a material having a light-transmissive property (for example, resin).

It should be noted that the light-transmissive portions of mask body115may be formed as through-holes having the shapes of the second designs in the light-blocking portion. Alternatively, mask body115may be formed by applying coating having a light-blocking property on a transparent plate-shaped component. More specifically, mask body115may have a configuration in which a coated film having a light-blocking property is disposed on the surface of the light-blocking portion, and the coated film is not disposed on the surfaces of the light-transmissive portions.

On mask body115, the light-transmissive portions having the shapes of second designs151to156are formed at positions respectively corresponding to the positions of second light sources124ato124fdisposed on the Z-axis negative side with respect to mask body115. As illustrated inFIG. 4, pressure portion116and separator wall117which are later described are disposed between mask body115and board118on which second light sources124ato124fare disposed. Second light sources124ato124fare separated from one another by separator wall117. Accordingly, each of second designs151to156receives light (second light) of a corresponding one of second light sources124ato124f.

In addition, mask body115is disposed on the Z-axis negative side with respect to light guide body114, in a state in which mask body115overlaps with light emission portion131of light guide body114. The light-transmissive portions having the shapes of second designs151to156are arranged at positions to overlap with the reflectors having the shapes of first designs141to146. In other words, light guide body114and mask body115are arranged such that each of first designs141to146overlaps with a corresponding one of second designs151to156. More specifically, first designs141to146and second designs151to156are displayed at overlapping positions. As described above, the regions in which the reflectors having the shapes of first designs141to146are provided and the regions in which the light-transmissive portions having the shapes of second designs151to156are provided overlap with each other and thus have substantially equivalent areas.

Pressure portion116is a component which is disposed forward of switch121that is mounted on board118, and presses switch121. In order to press switch121, pressure portion116is supported by outer frame111on the side surfaces along the X-axis of pressure portion116so as to be slidable with respect to switch121in the Z-axis direction. Pressure portion116supports touch sensor112, window frame113, and light guide body114. Accordingly, touch sensor112, window frame113, and light guide body114slide together with pressure portion116sliding in the Z-axis direction. It should be noted that an operation surface on which pressure portion116is pressed has a width greater than a width of a finger a person.

In addition, pressure portion116is provided with a plurality of openings which penetrate through pressure portion116in the Z-axis direction, and are located at positions respectively corresponding to the positions of the light-transmissive portions of mask body115which have the shapes of second designs151to156. The plurality of openings each have a quadrilateral shape when viewed in the Z-axis direction. Accordingly, pressure portion116transmits light emitted by second light sources124ato124fthat correspond to the light-transmissive portions having the shapes of second designs151to156.

Separator wall117is a component which is disposed on board118, separates between (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124ato124f, and has a light-blocking property. More specifically, separator wall117includes, at least above board118, walls respectively disposed between: first light source122; first light source123; second light source124a; second light source124b; second light source124c; second light source124d; second light source124c; and second light source124f, and reduces light emitted by these light sources reaching somewhere other than the corresponding reflectors or light-transmissive portions having the shapes of the designs. The walls included by separator wall117each have a square-tube shape disposed so as to correspond to a corresponding one of second light sources124ato124f. The space above board118is divided by separator wall117into first space S1in which first light sources122and123are disposed and second space S2in which second light sources124are disposed. In addition, separator wall117may have a surface which is dark in color.

Board118is a wiring board which includes: switch121; a plurality of first light sources122and123; a plurality of second light sources124; and control circuit125. Switch121, the plurality of first light sources122and123, and the plurality of second light sources124are disposed on board118, for example, and mounted on a main surface of board118that is a surface on the front-surface side (the Z-axis positive side). Board118may include a material having a light-blocking property. In addition, board118may have a surface which is dark in color.

Switch121is a pressing-type switch. Accordingly, display device100also functions as an input device including switch121.

The plurality of first light sources122and123and the plurality of second light sources124include, on board118: three first light sources122disposed on the X-axis negative side with respect to switch121; three first light sources123disposed on the X-axis positive side with respect to switch121; and six second light sources124disposed between the three first light sources122and the three first light sources123. In addition, first light sources122and123and second light sources124are arranged at separate positions on board118. The three first light sources122are aligned along the Y-axis. The three first light sources123are aligned along the Y-axis. The plurality of first light sources122and123and the plurality of second light sources124are each, for example, a light emitting diode (LEI)). It should be noted that each of the plurality of first light sources122and123and the plurality of second light sources124may be a light emitting element other than the LED, such as an organic electro electroluminescence (EL), a light bulb, or the like.

In addition, the plurality of first light sources122and123and the plurality of second light sources124may be light sources of the same type, such as light emitting elements of the same type (LEDs, for example). In this case, the light emitting elements of the same type are light emitting elements which emit light at the same luminance under the same emission conditions (for example, the magnitude of applied current or power).

In this case, the total number of first light sources122and123and the total number of second light sources124are each six. Accordingly, the luminance of first light emitted by first light sources122and123for displaying first designs141to146and the luminance of second light emitted by second light sources124for displaying second designs151to156are equal to each other when the emission conditions of first light sources122and123and second light sources124are same.

Control circuit125controls operations of first light sources122and123and second light sources124.

FIG. 8is a block diagram which illustrates a functional configuration of the display device.

As illustrated inFIG. 8, control circuit125includes adjuster126which adjusts luminance of first light sources122and123and second light sources124.

Adjuster126adjusts at least one of the luminance of first light emitted by first light sources122and123and the luminance of second light emitted by second light sources124, so as to substantially equalize a first display luminance that is the luminance of light for displaying first designs141to146and a second display luminance that is the luminance of light for displaying second designs151to156. Adjuster126makes the emission conditions different between (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124, and thereby adjusts the luminance of each of first light sources122and123and second light sources124. Adjuster126may adjust at least one of the luminance of first light and the luminance of second light by causing feed power to be different between (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124. Alternatively, adjuster126may adjust at least one of the luminance of first light and the luminance of second light by causing feed current to be different between (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124.

It should be noted that second designs151to156which are displayed using transmitted light are likely to be brighter than first designs141to146which are displayed using light guided by light guide body114. Accordingly, adjuster126may adjust the luminance of first light emitted by first light sources122and123to be higher than the luminance of second light emitted by second light sources124. In this case, adjuster126may make the feed power to first light sources122and123greater than the feed power to second light sources124. Alternatively, adjuster126may make the feed current to first light sources122and123greater than the feed current to second light sources124. Accordingly, adjuster126is capable of adjusting the first display luminance of first designs141to146and the second display luminance of second designs151to156to be equal to each other.

In addition, adjuster126may adjust at least one of the luminance of first light and the luminance of second light by making a duty ratio for emission of first light sources122and123and a duty ratio for emission of second light sources124different from each other. Adjuster126, for example, may cause second light sources124to blink at a duty ratio less than a duty ratio of first light sources122and123. It should be noted that, in this case, the duty ratio of first light sources122and123includes 1. In other words, the case where first light sources122and123emit light at all times is included.

In addition, control circuit125switches the function of switch121to be a function according to one of the positions of first designs141to146or one of the positions of second designs151to156, which corresponds to a position detected by touch sensor112. For example, when switch121is pressed while touch sensor112detects the position corresponding to first design141, control circuit125receives an input of a right cursor key indicated by first design141. For the other first designs142to146or second designs151to156, the function is switched, and an input corresponding to the function determined by the switching is received, in the same manner as above.

Control circuit125causes display device100to operate in a plurality of operation modes. For example, control circuit125causes display device100to operate in two operation modes, namely, a menu selecting mode as a first operation mode and a music player mode as a second operation mode. Control circuit125switches a function when switch121is pressed, according to the operation mode determined by a predetermined switching means. Various switching means such as on and off of another switch, audio recognition, gesture recognition, etc., may be included in the examples of the predetermined switching means.

In addition, control circuit125associates functions assigned to switch121and functions displayed by emission of first light sources122and123or second light sources124, according to an operation mode. For example, in the first operation mode, touch sensor112and switch121are combined to serve as arrow keys for shifting the item that is selected for selecting a menu, and as an enter key for setting the selected item. In addition, in the second operation mode, touch sensor112and switch121are combined to serve as keys for forwarding or rewinding the number, turning up or down the volume, starting or stopping, etc. of a music player.

According to the present embodiment, control circuit125selectively causes either one of (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124to emit light, according to an operation mode. In this manner, control circuit125controls first light sources122and123and second light sources124such that first designs141to146are displayed in the first operation mode and second designs151to156are displayed in the second operation mode. In the same manner, control circuit125controls first light sources122and123and second light sources124such that first designs141to146are displayed on touch sensor112in the first operation mode and second designs151to156are displayed on touch sensor112in the second operation mode, by selectively causing first light sources122and123or second light sources124to emit light according to an operation mode.

More specifically, control circuit125causes first light sources122and123to emit light and turns off second light sources124in the first operation mode. In the second operation mode, control circuit125causes second light sources124to emit light and turns off first light sources122and123. In other words, control circuit125selectively makes a transition between a first state and a second state according to whether the operation mode is the first operation mode or the second operation mode. In the first state, first light sources122and123emit light, and second light sources124are turned off. In the second state, second light sources124emit light and first light sources122and123are turned off.

It should be noted that control circuit125may place all of first light sources122and123and second light sources124in a off state when the combination of touch sensor112and switch122is placed in an off state by an external switch or the like.

Bottom frames119are components which hold board118in a state in which bottom frames119are fixed to a bottom ends of outer frame111. More specifically, bottom frames119are components which fix board118at the bottom ends of outer frame111.

In this manner, outer frame111supports slidably, in the Z-axis direction, pressure portion116which supports touch sensor112, window frame113, light guide body114, and mask body115, and fixes board118at the position of bottom ends. Accordingly, when pressure portion116slides in the Z-axis direction with respect to outer frame111, a distance between light guide body114and board118in the Z-axis direction changes.

FIG. 9is a diagram for explaining forward and rearward movement for pressing switch121. InFIG. 9, (a) is a cross-sectional view equivalent toFIG. 5which illustrates a state before switch121is pressed. InFIG. 9, (b) is a cross-sectional view which illustrates a state in which switch121is pressed.

As illustrated inFIG. 9, when pressure portion116which supports touch sensor112, window frame113, light guide body114, and mask body115slides toward the Z-axis negative side with respect to outer frame111, switch121is pressed by pressure portion116.

Display device100according to the present embodiment includes: first light sources122and123, second light sources124, light guide body114, and mask body115. Light guide body114guides first light emitted by first light sources122and123, and reflects the guided first light by reflectors having the shapes of first designs141to146, thereby displaying first designs141to146. Mask body115transmits second light emitted by second light sources124through light-transmissive portions having the shapes of second designs151to156, and blocks the second light by a light-blocking portion other than the light-transmissive portions. First designs141to146are displayed at a first display luminance and second designs151to156are displayed at a second display luminance, and the first display luminance and the second display luminance are substantially equalized by adjusting a luminance of the first light and a luminance of the second light.

More specifically, with display device100, at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light is adjusted, and thus it is possible to substantially equalize the first display luminance of first designs141to146and the second display luminance of second designs151to156. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the visual quality of first designs141to146and second designs151to156which are displayed using light traveling through paths of light of different types.

In addition, display device100according to the present embodiment further includes adjuster126. Adjuster126adjusts at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light to substantially equalize the first display luminance for displaying first designs141to146and the second display luminance for displaying second designs151to156.

More specifically, adjuster126adjusts at least one of the luminance of the first light emitted by first light sources122and123and the luminance of the second light emitted by second light sources124, and thus it is possible to substantially equalize the first display luminance of first designs141to146and the second display luminance of second designs151to156. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the visual quality of first designs141to146and second designs151to156.

In addition, in display device100according to the present embodiment, adjuster126adjusts at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light by causing feed power to be different between (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124. In addition, in display device100according to the present embodiment, adjuster126adjusts at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light by causing feed current to be different between (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124. Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light.

In addition, in display device100according to the present embodiment, first light sources122and123and second light sources124comprise light sources of the same type. More specifically, adjuster126adjusts feed power or feed current to be fed to first light sources122and123and second light sources124which comprise light sources of the same type, thereby making it possible to easily adjust at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light.

In addition, in display device100according to the present embodiment, adjuster126adjusts the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light. More specifically, adjuster126adjusts the luminance of the first light for displaying first designs141to146which are displayed using light guide body114, which is likely to be lower in luminance than the luminance of the second light for displaying second designs151to156which are displayed using transmitted light, to be higher than the luminance of the second light. Accordingly, adjuster126is capable of adjusting the first display luminance of first designs141to146and the second display luminance of second designs151to156to be substantially equal to each other. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the visual quality of first designs141to146and second designs151to156.

In addition, in display device100according to the present embodiment, adjuster126causes second light sources124to blink at a duty ratio less than a duty ratio of first light sources122and123. Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

In addition, display device100according to the present embodiment further includes separator wall117. Separator wall117separates between (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124. In addition, separator wall117includes a wall surface having one of a dark portion, a matte portion, and a diffused reflection portion, on a side facing second light sources124. With this configuration, separator wall117is capable of reducing reflectance of the second light, and thus it is possible to make the luminance of the second light to be lower than the luminance of the first light. Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

In addition, in display device100according to the present embodiment, first designs141to146and second designs151to156are displayed at overlapping positions. In the case where first designs141to146and second designs151to156are disposed at overlapping positions, a difference between a luminance of first designs141to146and a luminance of second designs151to156is likely to be particularly distinct when first designs141to146and second designs151to156are displayed at different luminance. However, even when first designs141to146and second designs151to156are disposed at such positions where a difference is likely to be distinct, it is possible to adjust the luminance for displaying first designs141to146and the luminance for displaying second designs151to156to be substantially equalized. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the visual quality of first designs141to146and second designs151to156.

In addition, in display device100according to the present embodiment, only one of (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124are selected and caused to emit light. Accordingly, even when either one of (i) first designs141to146and (ii) second designs151to156are selected and displayed, the luminance for displaying first designs141to146and the luminance for displaying second designs151to156are adjusted to be substantially equalized. Thus, the luminance for displaying first designs141to146and the luminance for displaying second designs151to166are substantially equalized even when the display is switched. Accordingly, it is possible to improve visual quality of first designs141to146and second designs151to156.

(1-4. Variation of Embodiment 1)

In the foregoing Embodiment 1, adjuster126adjusts the first display luminance for displaying first designs141to146and the second display luminance for displaying second designs151to156to be substantially equalized, by causing feed power, feed current, or a duty ratio to be different between (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this example. The following describes variation examples in the case where adjuster126is not used for adjusting luminance.

The following describes a configuration of display device100A of Variation 1, with reference toFIG. 10.

FIG. 10is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 1, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along V-V inFIG. 3.

For example, display device100A illustrated inFIG. 10includes, as adjusters, lenses161and162which are disposed above first light sources122and123, respectively, on a side to which the first light is emitted, and collect the first light. In other words, the adjuster may include lenses161and162which adjust luminance of the first light. In this case, a lens need not be disposed above second light source124. It should be noted that, since the configuration other than lenses161and162is equivalent to the configuration described in Embodiment 1, description for the equivalent configuration shall be omitted.

With display device100A according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 1, it is possible to collect light emitted by first light sources122and123, by disposing lenses161and162above first light sources122and123on the side to which the first light is emitted. Accordingly, it is possible to adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

It should be noted that, although the luminance of the first light is adjusted using lenses161and162without adjusting the luminance using adjuster126of Embodiment 1, in display device100A according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 1, adjuster126of Embodiment 1 and lenses161and162may be combined to adjust the luminance.

In addition, although lenses161and162are disposed above first light sources122and123on the side to which the first light is emitted in display device100A according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 1, lenses may be disposed above second light sources124on the side to which the second light is emitted, without disposing lenses161and162above first light sources122and123.

In addition, first lenses which collect the first light and second lenses which collect the second light may be disposed above first light sources122and123on the side to which the first light is emitted and above second light sources124on the side to which the second light is emitted, respectively. In this case, the first lenses and the second lenses are mutually different in the degree of collecting light, namely, a focal length.

In this manner, according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 1, lenses which collect light are disposed above at least one of (i) the first light sources on the side to which the first light is emitted and (ii) the second light sources on the side to which the second light is emitted, and thereby luminance of light on the side where the lenses are disposed is adjusted.

The following describes a configuration of display device100B of Variation 2 of Embodiment 1, with reference toFIG. 11.

FIG. 11is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 1, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along V-V inFIG. 3.

For example, display device100B illustrated inFIG. 11includes, as adjusters, light reducers170which are disposed above second light sources124on the side to which the second light is emitted, and reduce an amount of the second light. In other words, the adjuster may include light reducers170which adjust luminance of the second light. In this case, the light reducers need not be disposed above first light sources122and123. It should be noted that, since the configuration other than light reducers170is equivalent to the configuration described in Embodiment 1, description for the equivalent configuration shall be omitted.

Light reducers170include a material (material that is colored with smoke as a whole) which transmits light by a predetermined amount. More specifically, light reducers170include a transparent material in which fine particles for absorbing light are dispersed. Light reducers170are, for example, neutral density (ND) filters.

With display device100B according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 1, it is possible to reduce light emitted by second light sources124, by disposing light reducers170above second light sources124on the side to which the second light is emitted. Accordingly, it is possible to adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

In addition, instead of light reducers170, light diffusers which diffuse light may be disposed above second light sources124on the side to which the second light is emitted. In other words, the adjuster may include the light diffusers which adjust luminance of the second light.

The light diffusers may be formed using a transparent material in which fine particles for diffusing (diffusely reflecting) light are dispersed, or lenses which diffuse light, namely, concave lenses.

In this case as well, it is possible to diffuse light emitted by second light sources124, by disposing the light diffusers above second light sources124on the side to which the second light is emitted. Accordingly, it is possible to adjust the luminance of the first light to be higher than the luminance of the second light.

It should be noted that, although the luminance of the second light is adjusted using light reducers170or the light diffusers without adjusting the luminance using adjuster126of Embodiment 1, in display device100B according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 1, adjuster126of Embodiment 1 and light reducers170or the light diffusers may be combined to adjust the luminance.

In addition, although light reducers170or the light diffusers are disposed above second light sources124on the side to which the second light is emitted in display device100B according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 1, light reducers170for reducing the first light or the light diffusers for diffusing the fast light may be disposed above first light sources122and123on the side to which the first light is emitted without disposing light reducers170or the light diffusers above second light sources124.

In addition, first light reducers which reduce the first light or first light diffusers which diffuse the first light may be disposed above first light sources122and123on the side to which the first light is emitted, and second light reducers which reduce the second light or second light diffusers which diffuse the second light may further be disposed above second light sources124on the side to which the second light is emitted. In this case, the first light reducers and the second light reducers are materials mutually different in the degree of reducing light. For example, a density of fine particles which absorb light per unit area is different between the first light reducers and the second light reducers. In addition, in this case, the first light diffusers and the second light diffusers are materials mutually different in the degree of diffusing light due to a difference in density of fine particles which diffuse light per unit area, for example. Alternatively, the first light diffusers and the second light diffusers are concave lenses mutually different in the focal length. It should be noted that the unit area described above is obtained, for example, based on an area of each of the light reducers or each of the light diffusers when the light reducer or the light diffuser is viewed from an optical axis of each of the light sources in a plan view.

In this manner, according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 1, the light reducers or the light diffusers are disposed above at least one of (i) the first light sources on the side to which the first light is emitted and (ii) the second light sources on the side to which the second light is emitted, and thereby at least one of the first light and the luminance of the second light is adjusted.

The following describes a configuration of display device100C of Variation 3 of Embodiment 1, with reference toFIG. 12.

FIG. 12is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to Variation 3 of Embodiment 1, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along V-V inFIG. 3.

For example, display device100C illustrated inFIG. 12includes twice as many first light sources122C and123C as first light sources122and123of display device100according to Embodiment 1. In other words, although not entirely illustrated, first light sources122C and123C include twelve light emitting elements (LEDs). Meanwhile, second light sources124are equivalent to second light sources124included in display device100of Embodiment 1, and thus include six light emitting elements (LEDs). In other words, second light sources124include light emitting elements different in total number from the light emitting elements included in first light sources122C and123C. In display device100C according to Variation 3, the total number of light emitting elements included in first light sources122C and123C is greater than the total number of light emitting elements included in second light sources124.

In this manner, with display device100C according to Variation 3 of Embodiment 1, it is possible to adjust at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light, by causing the total number of light emitting elements included to differ between (i) first light sources122C and123C and (ii) second light sources124.

It should be noted that at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light may be adjusted by making the total number of light emitting elements included in the second light sources greater than the total number of light emitting elements included in the first light sources.

Alternatively, not limited to adjusting luminance by varying the total number of light emitting elements, at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light may be adjusted by employing light emitting elements having maximum luminance different between the first light sources and the second light sources. More specifically, even under the same emission conditions, light emitting elements which are employed emit light at different luminance when, for example, the light emitting elements differ in luminescence efficiency. Accordingly, utilizing this, light emitting elements which are different in performance such as luminescence efficiency, maximum luminance, or the like may be respectively employed for the first light sources and the second light sources.

The following describes a configuration of display device100D of Variation 4 of Embodiment 1, with reference toFIG. 13.

FIG. 13is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to Variation 4 of Embodiment 1, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along V-V inFIG. 3.

For example, first light sources122and123included in display device1001) illustrated inFIG. 13are located at higher positions from board118than first light sources122and123included in display device100according to Embodiment 1. More specifically, first light sources122and123are disposed on bases181and182, respectively, which are disposed on board118. With this configuration, the height from board118of each of the positions at which first light sources122and123are disposed are greater than the height from board118of each of the positions at which second light sources124are disposed. In this manner, by disposing first light sources122and123at higher positions from board118, than positions at which second light sources124are disposed, it is possible to place first light sources122and123to be closer to a display screen on which first designs141to146and second designs151to156are displayed than second light sources124. Accordingly, it is possible to adjust the luminance of the first light which is effective to display first designs141to146, by adjusting the heights of bases181and182. In this manner, it is possible to adjust the first display luminance and the second display luminance to be substantially equalized.

It should be noted that, although a configuration example in which the first light sources are disposed above the board via the bases and the second light sources are directly disposed on the board has been described with reference toFIG. 13, the configuration is not limited to this example. The first light sources may be directly mounted on the board, and the second light sources may be disposed above the board via the bases. In other words, it is sufficient that the first light sources and the second light sources are disposed at different heights from the board.

In addition, the present disclosure is not limited to the configuration in which a height is changed using the bases. It is sufficient that the present disclosure has a configuration in which a distance between the display screen and each of the light sources is changed. The distance between the display screen and each of the light sources may be changed by changing the shape of the board as a result of providing a recess and protrusion, for example.

Next, Variation 5 of Embodiment 1 will be described.

Instead of the configuration in which at least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light is adjusted in display devices100and100A to100D according to embodiment 1 and Variations 1 to 4 of Embodiment 1 described above, at least one of the luminance of the first light and luminance of the second light may be adjusted by including one of a dark portion, a matte portion, and a diffused reflection portion, on a wall surface of separator wall117on a side facing second light source124. In other words, the wall surface of separator wall117on the side facing second light source124may include a material which is dark in color, a material which is matte, or a material which diffusely reflects light. In this case, it is assumed that wall surfaces of separator wall117on the side facing first light sources122and123are not provided with a dark portion, a matte portion, or a diffused reflection portion. Here, being dark in color means having a color such as black, navy, brown, or the like, which is a color with reflectance lower than predetermined reflectance.

With this configuration, a portion of the second light is absorbed or diffusely reflected by the wall surface of separator wall117on the side facing second light sources124, and thus it is possible to reduce the reflectance of the second light. Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust the luminance of the second light that is effective for displaying second designs151to156to be lower than the luminance of the first light.

It should be noted that, in contrast to the above, separator wall117may include a wall surface having a dark portion, a matte portion, or a diffused reflection portion on the side facing first light sources122and123. In this case as well, it is assumed that wall surfaces of separator wall117on the side facing second light sources124are not provided with a dark portion, a matte portion, or a diffused reflection portion.

Next, Embodiment 2 will be described below.

Display device100E according to Embodiment 2 is different in a connecting portion between separator wall117and board118from display device100according to Embodiment 1 described above.

Board118and separator wall117are connected in a state in which light is blocked between first space S1and second space S2. More specifically, board118and separator wall117are connected by filling filler160having a light-blocking property in a space between board118and separator wall117as illustrated inFIG. 14. Filler160may have a surface which is dark in color. Here, being dark in color means having a color such as black, navy, brown, or the like, which is a color with reflectance lower than predetermined reflectance. Filler160is formed using, for example, a rubber, an adhesive, or the like.

Display device100E according to the present embodiment includes: first light sources122and123, second light sources124, light guide body114, mask body115, board118, and separator wall117. Either (i) first light sources122and123or (ii) second light sources124is selectively turned on. Light guide body114guides first light emitted by first light sources122and123, and reflects the guided first light by reflectors having the shapes of first designs141to146, thereby displaying designs141to146. Mask body115transmits second light emitted by second light sources124, by light-transmissive portions having the shapes of second designs151to156, and blocks the second light by a light-blocking portion other than the light-transmissive portions. First light sources122and123and second light sources124are disposed on board118. Separator wall117separates between (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124, and has a light-blocking property. Board118and separator wall117are connected in a state in which light is blocked between first space S1in which first light sources122and123are disposed and second space S2in which second light sources124are disposed.

Accordingly, when first light sources122and123emit light, it is possible to reduce leakage of first light emitted by first light sources122and123, into second space S2from the connecting portion between board118and separator wall117. In the same manner, when second light sources124emit light, it is possible to reduce leakage of second light emitted by second light sources124, into first space S1from the connecting portion between board118and separator wall117. It is thus possible to reduce second designs151to156being accidentally reflected while first designs141to146are displayed, and to reduce first designs141to146being accidentally reflected while second designs151to156are displayed. In this manner, with display device100E, it is possible to selectively and independently display first designs141to146and second designs151to156, and thus the visual quality can be improved.

In addition, in display device100E according to the present embodiment, board118and separator wall117are connected by filling filler160that has a light-blocking property, in a space between board118and separator wall117. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively block light between first space S1and second space S2in the connecting portion between board118and separator wall117.

In addition, in display device100E according to the present embodiment, filler160has a surface which is dark in color. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the first light emitted by first light sources122and123or second light emitted by second light sources124being reflected by filler160. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce light being diffusely reflected by filler160, making it possible to effectively block light between first space S1and second space S2.

In addition, in display device100E according to the present embodiment, filler160is a rubber or an adhesive. Accordingly, it is possible to easily fill a gap in the connecting portion between board118and separator wall117. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively block light between first space S1and second space S2in the connecting portion between board118and separator wall117.

In addition, in display device100E according to the present embodiment, board118includes a material having a light-blocking property. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent leakage of light from board118, and thus to block light between first space S1and second space S2. In addition, since board118has a light-blocking property, it is possible to reduce the possibility of light propagating inside the board from one space to the other space, as in a general glass epoxy board, and dimly illuminating the other space.

In addition, in display device100E according to the present embodiment, separator wall117has a surface which is dark in color. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce light being diffusely reflected by the surface of separator wall117, making it possible to effectively block light between first space S1and second space S2.

In addition, in display device100E according to the present embodiment, board118has a surface which is dark in color. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce light being diffusely reflected by the surface of board118, making it possible to effectively block light between first space S1and second space S2.

(2-3. Variation of Embodiment 2)

The following describes a configuration of display device100F according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 2, with reference toFIG. 15.

FIG. 15is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 2, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along V-V inFIG. 3.

For example, display device100F illustrated inFIG. 15further includes lenses161and162which are disposed above first light sources122and123, respectively, on a side to which the first light is emitted, and collect the first light, in addition to the configuration of display device100according to Embodiment 1. In this case, lenses need not be disposed above second light sources124as illustrated inFIG. 15, or lenses equivalent to lenses161and162may be disposed. It should be noted that, since the configuration other than lenses161and162is equivalent to the configuration described in Embodiment 1, description for the equivalent configuration shall be omitted.

In addition, although lenses161and162are disposed above first light sources122and123on the side to which the first light is emitted, lenses for collecting the second light may be disposed above second light sources124on the side to which the second light is emitted, without disposing lenses161and162above first light sources122and123.

In this manner, lenses for collecting light are disposed above at least one of (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124on the side to which light is emitted, and thus it is possible, by the lenses, to collect light emitted by at least one of (i) first light sources122and123and (ii) second light sources124. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the first light of first light sources122and123traveling toward second space S2, or to reduce the second light of second light sources124traveling toward first space S1. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively block light between first space S1and second space S2in the connecting portion between board118and separator wall117.

In Embodiment 2 and Variation 1 of Embodiment 2 described above, board118and separator wall117are connected by filling a space between board118and separator wall117with filler160that has a light-blocking property. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this example.

The following describes a configuration of display device100G of Variation 2 of Embodiment 2, with reference toFIG. 16.

FIG. 16is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 2, which corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along V-V inFIG. 3.

Display device100F according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 2 is different in configurations of separator wall117A and board118A from display device100according to Embodiment 1. Accordingly, the following describes the configurations of separator wall117A and board118A. It should be noted that the configuration of display device100F according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 2 other than separator wall117A and board118A is equivalent to the configuration of display device100of Embodiment 1, and thus detailed description for the equivalent configuration will be omitted.

Separator wall117A includes penetrating portion191having a tip which penetrates through board118A at a connecting portion between separator wall117A and board118A.

In this manner, board118A and separator wall117A are connected by inserting penetrating portion191of separator wall117A into through-hole192in board118A. Accordingly, separator wall117A is capable of easily separating first space S1from second space S2while a gap at the connecting portion being reduced to the minimum. In addition, board118A includes through-hole192, and thus even when light propagates inside board118A, the propagation of the light is blocked by through-hole192. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively block light between first space S1and second space S2in the connecting portion between board118A and separator wall117A.

It should be noted that, although the foregoing describes the case where penetrating portion191of separator wall117A penetrates through through-hole192of board118A, separator wall117A may be configured to not penetrate through board118A. More specifically, the separator wall may be inserted into a recess portion such as a groove formed on the board, at the connecting portion between the separator wall and the board, without penetrating through the board. In other words, the separator wall may be configured to fit in the board. In this case as well, it is possible to yield the advantageous effect equivalent to the advantageous effect yielded by board118A and separator wall117A of Variation 1 of Embodiment 2.

Although Embodiment 2 and Variations 1 and 2 of Embodiment 2 describe the case where outer frame111supports slidably, in the Z-axis direction, pressure portion116which supports touch sensor112, window frame113, light guide body114, and mask body115, and fixes board118at the position of bottom ends, the present disclosure is not limited to this case, and may have a configuration in which outer frame111is fixed to touch sensor112, window frame113, light guide body114, mask body115, and pressure portion116. In this case, switch121may be provided to another board disposed on the Z-axis negative side with respect to board118, instead of being provided to board118. More specifically, with the display device in this case, the display device slides toward the Z-axis negative side via another supporter when pressed toward the Z-axis negative side, and thereby presses the switch provided to another board.

Although Embodiment 2 and Variations 1 and 2 of Embodiment 2 describe the case where relative positions of board118or118A and separator wall117or117A are fixed, the separator wall, together with touch sensor112, window frame113, light guide body114, mask body115, and pressure portion116may move in a direction toward the board when touch sensor112is pressed. In this case, the separator wall may move relative to the board, while keeping a state in which light is blocked at the connecting portion between the board and the separator wall.

For example, when a filler is provided between the separator wall and the board, the separator wall and the board may be connected via the filler such that the filler is compressed when the separator wall moves in the direction toward the board, thereby tolerating the movement of the separator wall. In addition, for example, when the end portion of the separator wall is inserted into the recess portion or the through-hole of the board, the separator wall may be connected to the board slidably in the direction of insertion in a state in which the end portion of the separator wall is inserted into the recess portion or the through-hole of the board

Although the forgoing has described that, in display devices100, and100A to100G according to Embodiments 1 and 2, Variations 1 to 5 of Embodiment 1, and Variations 1 to 4 of Embodiment 2, the outer shape of the opening included in window frame113is quadrilateral, the outer shape of the opening is not limited to this example. Example of the outer shape of the opening may include a circle, a star, and other various shapes. In addition, the outer shape of the opening of pressure portion116and the shape of the wall of separator wall117are also not limited to be quadrilateral, and may be any shape according to the outer shape of the opening included in window frame113. With this configuration, in the regions in proximity to the reflectors having the shapes of first designs141to146and the light-transmissive portions having the shapes of second designs151to156, it is possible to display first designs141to146and second designs151to156in various shapes according to the shapes of the opening of window frame113, the opening of pressure portion116, and the wall of separator wall117.

It should be noted that the forgoing describes that display device100includes switch121, the present disclosure in not limited to this example. For example, without including switch121, only the function of switching light sources to selectively display first designs141to146and second designs151to156may be included.

Although the foregoing describes the case where first light sources122and123and second light sources124each comprise a plurality of light emitting elements, in display devices100, and100A to100G according to the foregoing Embodiments 1 and 2, Variations 1 to 5 of Embodiment 1, and Variations 1 to 4 of Embodiment 2, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and first light sources122and123and second light sources124may each comprise a single light emitting element.

At least one of the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light is adjusted in display devices100, and100A to100D according to the foregoing Embodiment 1 and Variations 1 to 5 of Embodiment 1. However, in display devices100E to100G according to Embodiment 2 and Variations 1 to 4 of Embodiment 2, the luminance of the first light and the luminance of the second light may be adjusted in the same manner as Embodiment 1, or may be not adjusted unlike Embodiment 1.

Although the display device and the input device according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure have been described above based on the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Other forms in which various modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are applied to the embodiments, or forms structured by combining structural components of different embodiments may be included within the scope of one or more aspects of the present disclosure, unless such changes and modifications depart from the scope of the present disclosure.

The disclosures of the following Japanese Patent Applications including specification, drawings and claims are incorporated herein by references on their entirety: Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-022174 filed on Feb. 9, 2018, Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-027976 filed on Feb. 20, 2018, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-170042 filed on Sep. 11, 2018.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present disclosure is applicable to a display device, an input device, etc. capable of improving the visual quality of the first design and the second design which are displayed using light traveling through paths of light of different types.