DISPLAY DEVICE

A display device to be attached to an object includes: a display unit that includes a display surface and displays video on the display surface; a decorative layer that is light-transmissive and disposed on a display surface side of the display unit, the decorative layer being decorated according to an appearance of the object; and an intermediate layer that is light-transmissive and disposed between the display unit and the decorative layer. The decorative layer has a first haze value ranging from 28.4% to 86.3%, inclusive.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a display device.

BACKGROUND ART

For display devices such as liquid crystal displays, providing a decorative sheet with a decorative layer on a display surface of a display device to give a designability has been studied. If a pattern that is harmonious with a space where a display device is placed is applied to a decorative layer, the display device is capable of being blended with the space. For example, Patent Literature (PTL) 1 discloses a decorative sheet provided with light-transmissive portions through which light of an image from a display device passes.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2019-120833

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

Provision of a decorative layer on a display surface of a display device involves a problem in which an image quality of a video displayed by the display device is degraded as compared with a case where the decorative layer is not included. For example, the decorative layer diffuses light received from the display device, which may cause a blurred video to be displayed.

The present disclosure therefore provides a display device including a decorative layer, the display device being capable of preventing degradation in quality of an image displayed.

Solution to Problem

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a display device to be attached to an object includes: a display unit that includes a display surface and displays video on the display surface; a decorative layer that is light-transmissive and disposed on a display surface side of the display unit, the decorative layer being decorated according to an appearance of the object; and an intermediate layer that is light-transmissive and disposed between the display unit and the decorative layer, wherein the decorative layer has a first haze value ranging from 28.4% to 86.3%, inclusive.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

With a display device according to an aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent degradation in quality of an image displayed in the display device including a decorative layer.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, certain exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying Drawings. The following embodiments are general or specific examples of the present disclosure. The numerical values, shapes, materials, elements, arrangement and connection configuration of the elements, steps, the order of the steps, etc., described in the following embodiments are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Among elements in the following embodiments, those not described in any one of the independent claims indicating the broadest concept of the present disclosure are described as optional elements.

It should be noted that the respective figures are schematic diagrams and are not necessarily precise illustrations. Additionally, components that are essentially the same share like reference signs in the figures. Accordingly, overlapping explanations thereof are omitted or simplified.

It should be noted that, in the present description, terms each indicating a relationship between components, such as “parallel” and terms each indicating a shape of a component, such as “rectangular” as well as numerical ranges are not expressions that express only stringent meanings but expressions each include a margin that is considered to be substantially the same, such as a discrepancy on the order of several percent.

First, a configuration of display device1according to the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.1toFIG.4. Display device1is, for example, to be attached to an object when used. Display device1is, for example, an embedded display device to be embedded in the object. Here will be described an example in which the object is a structure (white wall), but the object is not limited to the structure; for example, the object may be an electrical appliance (e.g., see refrigerator100illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B).

FIG.1is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a schematic configuration of display device1according to the present embodiment.FIG.2is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of display device1according to the present embodiment.FIG.3is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of display device1according to the present embodiment. It should be noted thatFIG.1illustrates, of constituent components included in display device1, only display unit10, decorative sheet20, and half-mirror layer30.

As illustrated inFIG.1toFIG.3, display device1includes display unit10, decorative sheet20, half-mirror layer30, bonding layers40and41, and controller50. In addition, as illustrated inFIG.1andFIG.2, display unit10, half-mirror layer30, and decorative sheet20are disposed in this order. Specifically, half-mirror layer30and decorative sheet20are disposed in this order and parallel to each other on a display surface10aside of display unit10. It is only required that, of the constituent components of display device1, at least display unit10be embedded in the object. It should be noted that “being embedded” means that at least display unit10is positioned inside the object. In addition, display device1is disposed being embedded in the object such that a user can visually recognize decorative sheet20.

Display unit10includes display surface10aand displays a video on display surface10a. Display unit10is, for example, but not limited to, a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display. In a case where, for example, luminance of a video to be displayed by display device1is to be increased, display unit10may be a light-emitting diode (LED) display. It should be noted that video includes still images and movies.

Decorative sheet20is provided so as to hide (conceal) display device1being embedded in the object. Decorative sheet20is light-transmissive, is disposed on the display surface10aside of display unit10, and is decorated, for example, according to an appearance of the object. The decoration is applied to the entire decorative sheet20but may be applied partly. Decorative sheet20is provided, for example, such that both display region11that displays a video on display unit10and periphery region12in which an accompanying element such as a wiring pattern is provided are covered with decorative sheet20. The decoration applied to decorative sheet20may be applied to, for example, both display region11and periphery region12or may be applied to only one of display region11and periphery region12(e.g., only display region11). In addition, there may be two or more decorative patterns to be applied to decorative sheet20. Decorative sheet20may be formed with different decorative patterns for display region11and periphery region12. The appearance of the object includes, for example, a pattern, a color tone, a shine, a texture, and the like of the object. The appearance of the object may additionally include a surface shape of the object. It should be noted that the decorative pattern herein includes a solid decoration (e.g., a white decoration).

The decoration applied to decorative sheet20is preferably a decoration that makes display device1and the object appear integral in a state where display device1is embedded in the object, for example (e.g., presence of display device1is hard to be visually recognized when display device1does not display a video). In addition, for example, the decoration applied to decorative sheet20is preferably a decoration that is harmonious with an interior of a room where the object is placed. For example, in a case where the object is a wall and where display device1is embedded in the wall, such decoration may be a decoration that makes display device1appear as the wall when the wall is seen with display unit10not displaying a video. In the present embodiment, the object is a white wall, and therefore, for example, decorative sheet20is decorated in the white. For example, in a case where the object is a wall and where display device1is embedded in the wall, such decoration may be a decoration that makes display device1appear as if the wall is ornamented with a painting when the wall is seen with display unit10not displaying a video. That is, a decoration that looks like a painting may be applied to decorative sheet20. This is also an example of a decoration that is harmonious with an interior.

For example, decorative sheet20is disposed in the foreground of display device1. A user visually recognizes decorative sheet20with display device1being embedded in the object.

As illustrated inFIG.2, decorative sheet20includes substrate21and decorative layer22. It should be noted that althoughFIG.1andFIG.2illustrate a case where a size of decorative sheet20in plan view (when seen from a direction of a line of sight illustrated inFIG.2) is as large as that of display unit10, the size of decorative sheet20is not limited to this case. For example, decorative sheet20may be larger than display unit10in plan view.

Substrate21is a layer serving as a base of decorative sheet20and is formed from a light-transmissive resin material, a glass material, or the like. For example, substrate21is preferably transparent. In a case where substrate21is formed from such a resin material, substrate21may be formed from, for example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA/acrylic resin), or the like.

Substrate21has, for example, a flat shape but may have a shape that is in conformity with a surface shape of the object. For example, in a case where a surface of the object is a projection-depression shape, substrate21may have the projection-depression shape.

Decorative layer22is a decorative pattern layer that is formed from a material such as paint and a transparent-resin-based ink containing pigment. At least part of decorative layer22is provided on an optical path of light emitted from display unit10. Decorative layer22is provided by forming a decorative pattern on one or both surfaces of substrate21with the material by printing or the like. Examples of a method for the printing include, but not limited to, screen printing. It should be noted that decorative layer22is light-transmissive. In addition, the transmissivity of decorative layer22is lower than the transmissivity of substrate21, for example.

A decorative pattern that forms decorative layer22is determined as appropriate according to an appearance of the object in which display device1is to be embedded. For example, the decorative pattern preferably has a color tone or a pattern that is the same as a color tone or a pattern of the object in which display device1is to be embedded. For example, the decorative pattern may be monochromatic (e.g., white) or may have a wood-grain tone, a stone-grain tone, or the like.

Although decorative layer22is formed on a surface of substrate21on a display unit10side (back surface) in the present embodiment, this does not limit the formation of decorative layer22; it is only required that decorative layer22be formed on at least one of the back surface of substrate21and a surface that is back-to-back with the back surface (e.g., front surface20a).

Front surface20ais, for example, disposed to be flush with a surface of the object. For example, in a case where decorative layer22is formed on front surface20aof substrate21, display device1may be attached being embedded in the object such that decorative layer22is flush with the surface of the object. Front surface20ais, for example, an outermost surface of display device1.

It should be noted that decorative sheet20may be formed of a colored film or colored glass. Substrate21formed of the colored film or the colored glass is formed by kneading pigment or dye into a substrate or the like. Substrate21formed of the colored film is made of resin, and substrate21formed of the colored glass is made of glass. In a case where substrate21is a colored film or colored glass, the decorative pattern may be provided by substrate21itself. Further, in a case where substrate21is a colored film or colored glass, decorative layer22may be further formed on substrate21by printing or the like.

As compared with a case where display device1does not include half-mirror layer30, a higher transmittance can be set to decorative sheet20. The transmittance of decorative sheet20ranges from 20% to 80%, but the transmittance is not limited to the range; for example, the transmittance may range from 20% to 50%. It should be noted that the transmittance herein means total transmittance.

It should be noted that decorative layer22need not be a printed layer provided by forming a decorative pattern by printing or the like and may be a projection-depression layer formed by embossing or the like or may include the printed layer and the projection-depression layer. At least one of the printed layer and the projection-depression layer is to be selected as appropriate according to the appearance or the like of the object to which display device1is to be attached. Further, decorative sheet20may be formed including, for example, a thin slice of wood (e.g., sliced veneer) or stones.

Half-mirror layer30is a layer that is provided between display unit10and decorative layer22and is light-transmissive. Half-mirror layer30is provided so as to emphasize the pattern (design) of decorative layer22in a state where display unit10does not display a video (in a state of a non-display mode, which will be described later). For example, in a case where decorative layer22is decorated in white, the white decoration can be caused to appear more deeply (whiter) by provision of half-mirror layer30. The provision of half-mirror layer30enables a pattern having a desired depth (e.g., a desired whiteness) to be provided even if the transmittance of decorative layer22is high in a state where display unit10does not display a video. This allows a depth of decorative layer22to be lowered; it is therefore possible to keep a degree of optical diffusion by decorative layer22low and to provide a pattern having a desired depth. It should be noted that the desired depth is a depth to a degree that the pattern is blended with the interior.

Half-mirror layer30is provided by forming, for example, a metallic film or a resin multilayer film (transparent multilayer film) on a substrate. For example, in a case where half-mirror layer30is formed with a metallic film, the metallic film is formed by subjecting aluminum, silver, tin, or the like to vapor deposition. An optical reflectance of half-mirror layer30ranges from 25% to 70%, inclusive. Further, half-mirror layer30preferably has no diffusibility (optical diffusibility), from a viewpoint of making a video clear. It should be noted that having no diffusibility herein includes having a diffusibility to such a degree that the diffusibility has no influence on a clarity of a video displayed by display unit10. Having no diffusibility includes, for example, having a haze value on the order of several percent.

Half-mirror layer30is an example of an intermediate layer. It should be noted that half-mirror layer30may be a polarizing half-mirror layer. The polarizing half-mirror layer includes, for example, half-mirror layer30and a thin film layer that is formed on a surface of half-mirror layer30on a decorative sheet20side. A refractive index of the thin film layer is different from a refractive index of half-mirror layer30. The thin film layer has such a refractive index and such a thickness that can reduce a strength of reflected light with respect to incident light from the decorative sheet20side at the polarizing half-mirror layer. By the use of the polarizing half-mirror layer, it is possible to allow light received from display unit10to pass more than half-mirror layer30while preserving a reflective performance of half-mirror layer30for light received from the decorative sheet20side.

Here, the reason that the provision of half-mirror layer30enables the transmittance of decorative layer22to be set to a high transmittance and enables the haze value to be set a low haze value will be described with reference to a display device without half-mirror layer30as a comparative example. In the display device according to the comparative example, if a transmittance of decorative layer22is increased, a luminance value of a video increases, improving an image quality of the video, whereas an appearance (e.g., texture) of decorative layer22at the time when no video is displayed is degraded. On the other hand, if the transmittance of decorative layer22is decreased in the display device according to the comparative example, the appearance of decorative layer22at the time when no video is displayed is improved, whereas a luminance value of a video decreases, degrading the image quality of the video. As above, it is difficult for the display device according to the comparative example to establish compatibility between increasing the transmittance of decorative layer22and preventing the degradation in the appearance of decorative layer22.

In contrast, including half-mirror layer30, display device1according to the present embodiment can compensate for the degradation in the appearance of decorative layer22caused by increasing the transmittance of decorative layer22. When not displaying a video, display device1shows the pattern of decorative layer22using natural light that is incident on display device1and reflected off decorative layer22and natural light that is incident on display device1, is reflected off half-mirror layer30, and passes through decorative layer22. That is, the presence of half-mirror layer30enables the pattern to stand out in relief. For example, the presence of half-mirror layer30enables colored portions to stand out in relief.

Display device1is therefore capable of preventing the degradation in the appearance of decorative layer22in a case where the transmittance of decorative layer22is increased. That is, display device1can establish the compatibility between increasing the transmittance of decorative layer22and preventing the degradation in the appearance of decorative layer22.

Further, the transmittance of decorative layer22can be adjusted based on, for example, a content of fine-particle material such as pigment (e.g., white pigment) to be dissolved in a solvent for forming of decorative layer22. For example, the transmittance of decorative layer22can be increased by reducing the content of the pigment or the like to be dissolved in the solvent. Here, a haze value of decorative layer22varies with the content of the fine-particle material; for example, if the content of the fine-particle material is reduced, fine particles that cause diffusion of light are reduced, and therefore, the haze value of decorative layer22is decreased. That is, with half-mirror layer30, display device1is capable of increasing the transmittance of decorative layer22as well as decreasing the haze value of decorative layer22. Display device1is therefore capable of, when not displaying a video, preventing the degradation in the appearance of decorative layer22and capable of, when displaying a video, displaying the video clearly with reduced blurring. In addition, although including half-mirror layer30, display device1is capable of preventing a decrease in luminance value of a video.

It should be noted that since half-mirror layer30has no diffusibility as described above, it is possible to provide the above-described effect while preventing a video and decorative layer22from appearing blurred.

Bonding layer40is a bonding member for sticking display unit10and half-mirror layer30together. Bonding layer41is a bonding member for sticking half-mirror layer30and decorative sheet20together. Bonding layers40and41are formed from a bonding member having a high transparency such as an optical clear adhesive (OCA). Further, it is preferable to select, as bonding layers40and41, those having refractive indices that are close to refractive indices of transparent base plate included in display unit10and half-mirror layer30. Further, bonding layers40and41preferably have a low diffusibility from the viewpoint of preventing a degradation in image quality and preventing the degradation in the appearance of decorative layer22when a video is not displayed. For example, bonding layers40and41preferably have no diffusibility. It should be noted that having no diffusibility herein includes having no diffusibility as well as having a diffusibility to such a degree that the diffusibility has no influence on image quality and the appearance of decorative layer22. Having no diffusibility includes, for example, having a haze value on the order of several percent.

It should be noted that in a case where one of display unit10and half-mirror layer30has a bonding layer, bonding layer40need not be provided. In a case where one of half-mirror layer30and decorative sheet20has a bonding layer, bonding layer41need not be provided. Further, for example, in a case where display device1includes a holder or the like that fixes display unit10, half-mirror layer30, and decorative sheet20in this order, bonding layers40and41need not be provided. In a case where bonding layers40and41are not provided, at least one of display unit10and half-mirror layer30, and half-mirror layer30and decorative sheet20may be disposed being brought into direct contact with each other.

For example, decorative layer22and half-mirror layer30are directly stuck together via bonding layer41. For example, display device1includes no diffusion layer between decorative layer22and half-mirror layer30. It should be noted that even in a case where decorative layer22is formed on front surface20aof substrate21, display device1preferably includes no diffusion layer between decorative layer22and half-mirror layer30.

In display device1with this configuration, light emitted from display unit10(light of a video) is diffused by decorative layer22(e.g., by only decorative layer22); therefore, it is possible to prevent a displayed video from blurring, that is, prevent a degradation in image quality, as compared with a case where a diffusion layer is included (a case where light of a video is diffused by the diffusion layer).

Further, display device1is further capable of preventing the degradation in the appearance of decorative layer22when a video is not displayed. The degradation in the appearance of decorative layer22refers to that, for example, the design of decorative layer22becomes unclear (appears blurred). Natural light incident from the outside of display device1passes through decorative sheet20, is reflected off half-mirror layer30, passes through decorative sheet20again, and is then emitted to the outside of display device1.

At this time, the natural light passes through decorative sheet20twice, is diffused in accordance with the haze value of decorative layer22, and is emitted. For example, in a case where display device1includes a diffusion layer between decorative layer22and half-mirror layer30, natural light additionally passes through the diffusion layer twice, is diffused in accordance with the haze value of decorative layer22and a haze value of the diffusion layer, and is emitted, which tends to make the design of decorative layer22unclear. In contrast, since display device1according to the present embodiment includes no diffusion layer between decorative layer22and half-mirror layer30, it is possible to prevent the design of decorative layer22from becoming unclear, as compared with a case where a diffusion layer is included.

Controller50is a control device that controls components included in display device1. Specifically, controller50controls display unit10to switch between a non-display mode of causing display unit10not to display a video to let a user see the decoration of decorative sheet20and a display mode of causing display unit10to display a video. The non-display mode is, for example, a mode for making display device1harmonious with the object (e.g., a wall) at which display device1is provided. Controller50includes, for example, an input device (not illustrated) that receives an operation by a user, and the above-described control may be performed according to the operation by the user obtained with an input device.

Controller50is a microcomputer but may be implemented in a form of a dedicated circuit or the like. Controller50reads a control program from a storage built in controller50and executes the program read.

A luminance value of a video that is displayed by display device1configured as described above is determined from a luminance value of the video at display unit10, a transmittance of half-mirror layer30, and the transmittance of decorative sheet20. The luminance value of the video displayed by display device1is preferably at least 100 nits. In other words, it is preferable to determine the transmittances of decorative sheet20and half-mirror layer30and determine the luminance value of light of a video emitted from display unit10so that the luminance value of the video displayed by display device1becomes at least 100 nits. It should be noted that the luminance value refers to a maximum value of luminance of the video displayed by display device1; however, the luminance value is not limited to such a maximum value. The luminance value may be a statistical value such as a minimum value, an average value, or a median of the video displayed by display device1.

It should be noted thatFIG.1illustrates display unit10, decorative sheet20, and half-mirror layer30having rectangular shapes as an example; however, the shapes of display unit10, decorative sheet20, and half-mirror layer30are not limited to rectangular shapes. The shapes of display unit10, decorative sheet20, and half-mirror layer30may be, for example, polygonal or circular. Further,FIG.1illustrates display unit10, decorative sheet20, and half-mirror layer30having the same size (the size in plan view) as an example; however, the sizes of display unit10, decorative sheet20, and half-mirror layer30are not limited to this example.

Here, another configuration of the display device will be described with reference toFIG.4.FIG.4is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating another example of a schematic configuration of display device1aaccording to the present embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.4, display device1aincludes, in addition to display device1, polarizing half-mirror layer60between display unit10and half-mirror layer30. That is, display device1aincludes both half-mirror layer30and polarizing half-mirror layer60between display unit10and decorative sheet20. In this case, half-mirror layer30and polarizing half-mirror layer60are each an example of an intermediate layer. It should be noted that positions of half-mirror layer30and polarizing half-mirror layer60are not limited to positions illustrated inFIG.4as long as half-mirror layer30and polarizing half-mirror layer60are disposed between display unit10and decorative sheet20. Further, half-mirror layer30may be provided in a case where polarizing half-mirror layer60cannot solely conceal display device1.

1-2. Relation Between Optical Properties of Decorative Sheet and Appearance of Display Device

Next, results of verification about a relation between optical properties of decorative sheet20and an appearance of display device1will be described with reference toFIG.5.FIG.5is a diagram illustrating the results of the verification for display device1according to the present embodiment. Specifically,FIG.5is a diagram illustrating results of verification about a relation between haze value and parallel beam transmittance of decorative sheet20, and display clarity and designability (whiteness).

First, conditions for the verification of the relation between optical properties of decorative sheet20and the appearance of display device1will be described. Display device1used for the verification is a display device in which decorative layer22is decorated in white and that includes half-mirror layer30as an intermediate layer. Half-mirror layer30has a transmittance of 30% and a reflectivity of 70%. Substrate21of decorative sheet20has a thickness of 2 mm, and decorative layer22is provided on a back surface of substrate21. Half-mirror layer30is disposed on (being in contact with) decorative layer22. Further, display unit10has a size of 31 inch and a resolution of 4K (4096×2160). In addition, a luminance of display device1when display device1displays full-screen white is set to 1000 nits.

Verification by an observer is conducted at a position 0.5 m away from display device1in a room where a fluorescent lamp is lit. The fluorescent lamp emits light that gives an illuminance of about 100 lx at front surface20aof display device1. The verification by an observer is verification of display clarity and designability and is conducted in a form of visual check.

Parallel beam transmittances shown inFIG.5are each a parallel beam transmittance of decorative sheet20. The parallel beam transmittances each indicate, for example, a ratio of light emitted in a direction perpendicular to a surface of decorative sheet20to light incident on decorative sheet20. In other words, the parallel beam transmittances each indicate a ratio of light passing through decorative sheet20and not diffused within decorative sheet20to light incident on decorative sheet20. The parallel beam transmittances serve as an index that indicates a brightness of a video displayed by display device1. The haze values in the figure each indicate a haze value of decorative sheet20. It should be noted that the parallel beam transmittances and the haze values are measured with a haze meter.

Display clarity indicates a clarity of display when display device1operates in the display mode. The display clarity can be regarded as indicating a degree of blurring of the display. That is, verification of the display clarity is conducted in the display mode. Display unit10displays a bar display (video) in which color bars are displayed against a white background and displays a character display in which black characters from 8 points to 20 points are displayed. For example, conditions for the character display such as sizes of the characters may be determined based on JIS S 0032 (Estimation of minimum legible size for a Japanese single character). The observer checks the bar display and the character display and determines whether the displays are clear (whether the displays are not blurred).

Results of the verification of the display clarity are rated as “◯”, “Δ”, and “x”. The mark “◯” indicates that the displays have a high legibility (e.g., the characters are highly legible). That is, the mark means that the displays are clear. The mark “Δ” indicates that the displays have a low legibility (e.g., the characters are not highly legible but distinguishable). That is, the mark means that the displays are clear to some degree. The marks “◯” and “Δ” mean that the displays are legible. The mark “x” indicates that the displays are not legible (not distinguishable). That is, the mark means that the displays are unclear.

The designability (whiteness) indicates an appearance when display device1is in the non-display mode. The designability can be regarded as indicating a degree of harmoniousness with surroundings (e.g., a wall). That is, verification of the designability is conducted in the non-display mode. The observer determines the designability in a state where display unit10does not display a video.

Results of the verification of the designability are rated as “◯”, “Δ”, and “x”. The mark “◯” indicates a designability with the mark is high. That is, the mark means that decorative sheet20can provide a desired appearance. The mark “Δ” indicates that a designability with the mark is low but at an acceptable level. That is, the mark means that decorative sheet20can provide the desired appearance (e.g., a desired degree of harmoniousness) to some degree. The marks “◯” and “Δ” mean that the appearance of decorative sheet20is acceptable. The mark “x” indicates that a designability with the mark is low to an unacceptable level. That is, the mark means that decorative sheet20fails to provide a desired appearance (e.g., decorative sheet20is not harmonious with an object).

As illustrated inFIG.5, for the display clarity, a haze value of decorative sheet20is preferably at most 86.3%, more preferably at most 72.0%. Further, for the designability, a haze value of decorative sheet20is preferably at least 28.4%, more preferably at least 57.0%. From the above, a haze value of decorative sheet20for establishing compatibility between the display clarity and the designability preferably ranges from 28.4% to 86.3%, inclusive, more preferably from 57.0% to 72.0%, inclusive. This makes it possible to ensure a high display clarity of display device1while preventing degradation in designability of display device1.

It should be noted that even if the thickness of substrate21of decorative sheet20and the pattern of decorative layer22of decorative sheet20do not meet the respective conditions for display device1used for the verification, the same results as those illustrated inFIG.5are supposed to be given. That is, the results shown inFIG.5are supposed to be given irrespective of the thickness of substrate21and the pattern of decorative layer22. For example, the above-described results apply to display device1aillustrated inFIG.4.

It should be noted that, of substrate21and decorative layer22, decorative layer22significantly influences a haze value and a parallel beam transmittance of decorative sheet20. Values of a haze value and a parallel beam transmittance of decorative layer22are therefore similar to those of a haze value and a parallel beam transmittance of decorative sheet20. For example, the result of the verification shown inFIG.5can be regarded as indicating a relation between optical properties of decorative layer22and an appearance of display device1.

In a case where an intermediate layer of display device1is a diffusion layer having a diffusibility or a case where a diffusion layer having a diffusibility is included between an intermediate layer and decorative sheet20, a total haze value and a total parallel beam transmittance of the diffusion layer and decorative sheet20preferably fall within the respective ranges shown inFIG.5. For example, a haze value that is calculated based on emitted light emitted from decorative sheet20with respect to parallel beams incident on the diffusion layer preferably falls within the range of haze value shown inFIG.5.

In a case where decorative layer22is decorated in white, the haze value of decorative sheet20can be adjusted based on, for example, at least one of a concentration of white pigment to be dissolved in solvent for forming decorative layer22and the number of printed layers. In a case where decorative layer22is decorated with a pattern of a color other than white, the haze value can be adjusted based on, for example, at least one of a density of the pattern and widths of lines constituting the pattern. It should be noted that the haze value may be adjusted by a method other than the above-described method.

1-3. Application Example

Next, an application example of display device1described above will be described with reference toFIG.6AandFIG.6B.FIG.6Ais a diagram for describing the non-display mode of display device1according to the present embodiment in the application example.FIG.6Bis a diagram for describing the display mode of display device1according to the present embodiment in the application example. It should be noted that the application example to be described below is merely an example, and for example, an object for which display device1is used is not limited to the following object.

As illustrated inFIG.6AandFIG.6B, display device1may be installed being embedded in an electrical apparatus, which is an example of the object (e.g., a home appliance such as refrigerator100). In this case, the electrical apparatus includes a body that has a recessed portion for housing display device1and display device1that is housed in the recessed portion. The recessed portion is a recessed portion used for embedding display device1into the electrical apparatus.

Refrigerator100has a monochromatic (e.g., white) color tone, for example. In this case, decorative sheet20is decorated in white. The white decoration is an example of being decorated suitably for the object. With this configuration, as illustrated inFIG.6A, while controller50controls display unit10in the non-display mode, a user will visually recognize the white decoration formed on decorative sheet20. That is, the appearance of display device1is harmonious with an appearance of refrigerator100. This makes display device1in the non-display mode difficult to be visually recognized as being embedded into refrigerator100.

Further, as illustrated inFIG.6B, while controller50controls display unit10in the display mode, a user can visually recognize a video displayed by display unit10. The user can visually recognize, for example, a clear video that is seen standing out from refrigerator100. For example, by displaying a recipe or ingredients, display device1can assist a user in cooking.

As described above, display device1according to Embodiment is to be attached to an object, and includes: display unit10that includes display surface10aand displays video on display surface10a; decorative layer22that is light-transmissive and disposed on display surface10aside of display unit10, decorative layer22being decorated according to an appearance of the object; and half-mirror layer30(example of an intermediate layer) that is light-transmissive and disposed between display unit10and decorative layer22. Decorative layer22has a haze value (example of a first haze value) ranging from 28.4% to 86.3%, inclusive.

This enables display device1to provide a clear display with reduced blurring even with a configuration including decorative layer22because the haze value of decorative layer22ranges from 28% to 87%, inclusive. Display device1is therefore capable of preventing degradation in quality of an image displayed even in a case where display device1includes decorative layer22.

Further, the intermediate layer includes at least one of half-mirror layer30and polarizing half-mirror layer60.

This enables display device1to provide a pattern having a desired depth even when a depth of decorative layer22is lowered. Lowering the depth of decorative layer22can lower a diffusibility of decorative layer22; therefore, it is possible to provide a clearer display with further reduced blurring.

The haze value of decorative layer22ranges from 57% to 72%, inclusive.

This enables display device1to provide an even clearer display with even further reduced blurring and to ensure a high designability.

In addition, a parallel beam transmittance of decorative layer22(an example of a first parallel beam transmittance) ranges from 7.5% to 56.1%, inclusive.

This enables display device1to provide a display having a brightness not less than a prescribed brightness in the display mode.

Further, the parallel beam transmittance of decorative layer22(an example of a first parallel beam transmittance) ranges from 17.4% to 29.2%, inclusive.

This enables display device1to provide a brighter display in the display mode.

First, a configuration of display device200according to the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.7andFIG.8.FIG.7is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of display device200according to the present embodiment.FIG.8is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of display device200according to the present embodiment. In display device200as illustrated inFIG.7andFIG.8, a pixel arrangement of display unit10and a decorative pattern of decorative layer222may cause a moire pattern (interference pattern) to appear. Display device200according to the present embodiment is different from display device1according to Embodiment 1 in that display device200includes an intermediate layer (e.g., diffusion layer230) for reducing the moire pattern caused to appear by display unit10and decorative layer222. Specifically, display device200is different from display device1in mainly that the intermediate layer is diffusion layer230, which has a predetermined haze value. Hereinafter, the difference from Embodiment 1 will be mainly described; the same components as those in Embodiment 1 will be given the same reference numeral as in Embodiment 1, and description thereof may be omitted or simplified.

As illustrated inFIG.7, display device200according to the present embodiment includes decorative sheet220in place of decorative sheet20in Embodiment 1 and diffusion layer230in place of half-mirror layer30in Embodiment 1.

Decorative sheet220is provided so as to hide (conceal) display device200being embedded in the object. Decorative sheet220is light-transmissive, is disposed on the display surface10aside of display unit10, and is decorated, for example, according to an appearance of the object. The decoration is applied to the entire decorative sheet220but may be applied partly.

The decoration applied to decorative sheet220is preferably a decoration that makes display device200and an object appear integral in a state where display device200is embedded in the object, for example (e.g., display device200being installed is difficult to be visually recognized when display device200does not display a video). In addition, the decoration applied to decorative sheet200, for example, is preferably a decoration that is harmonious with an interior of a room where the object is placed. For example, in a case where the object is a wall and where display device200is embedded in the wall, such decoration is preferably a decoration that makes display device200appear as the wall when the wall is seen with display unit10not displaying a video.

It should be noted that decorative sheet220may have a function of enhancing transmittance or visibility of display. Such a function may be implemented by regularly arranged holes provided in decorative sheet220. The regularly arranged holes may be, for example, physical holes provided in substrate221(e.g., holes penetrating substrate221) or may be, for example, portions of decorative layer222on which a decoration is not printed (non-printed portions). The regularly arranged holes are provided in a form of, for example, a plurality of holes disposed two-dimensionally. In this case, although display unit10and the regularly arranged holes cause a moire pattern to appear, display device200according to the present embodiment can reduce the appearance of such a moire pattern. It should be noted that decorative sheet220having the regularly arranged holes satisfies being formed with a regular pattern.

For example, decorative sheet220is disposed in the foreground of display device200. A user visually recognizes decorative sheet220with display device200being embedded in the object.

Substrate221is a layer serving as a base of decorative sheet220and is formed from a light-transmissive resin material, a glass material, or the like. For example, substrate221is preferably transparent. In a case where substrate221is formed from such a resin material, substrate221may be formed from, for example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA/acrylic resin), or the like. A thickness of substrate221is not limited to a particular thickness but may be, for example, 2 mm.

Decorative layer222is a layer in which the regular pattern is provided. Examples of the regular pattern include a wood-grain tone, a hairline pattern (linear pattern), a dotted pattern, a gradation pattern, a check pattern, but the regular pattern may be any pattern as long as the pattern has regularity. Hereinafter, an example in which a hairline pattern is applied to decorative layer222will be described. Decorative layer222may be a hairline-finished decorative film. Further, decorative layer222may be formed by, for example, subjecting a back surface of substrate221to hairline finish.

It should be noted that optical properties of decorative sheet220may be, for example, within a range of the optical properties of decorative sheet20according to Embodiment 1. Specifically, a haze value and a parallel beam transmittance of decorative sheet220each may be any value within the range within which the value results in “◯” or “Δ” in the verification shown inFIG.5. For example, the haze value of decorative sheet220may range from 28.4% to 8.3%, inclusive, preferably from 57% to 72%, inclusive. For example, the parallel beam transmittance of decorative sheet220may range from 7.5% to 56.1%, inclusive, preferably from 17.4% to 29.2%, inclusive. It should be noted that the optical properties of decorative sheet220are not limited to the above.

Vapor-deposited layer223is, for example, a metal vapor-deposited layer for presenting a metallic tone. Vapor-deposited layer223is formed by, for example, being stacked on the back surface of substrate221subjected to the hairline finish. A metal constituting vapor-deposited layer223is not limited to a particular metal and may be, for example, aluminum. Vapor-deposited layer223is formed on substrate221by a well-known vapor deposition method such as a vacuum evaporation method.

Although decorative layer222is formed on a surface of substrate221on a display unit10side (back surface) in the present embodiment, this does not limit the formation of decorative layer222; it is only required that decorative layer222be formed on at least one of the back surface of substrate221and a surface that is back-to-back with the back surface (e.g., front surface220a).

Diffusion layer230is a layer that is provided between display unit10and decorative layer222and that is light-transmissive and has a diffusibility (optical diffusibility). Diffusion layer230is formed of, for example, a film that is subjected to diffusion treatment or a bonding layer containing an optical diffuser such as silica. Diffusion layer230may be, for example, an anti-glare (AG) film that is subjected to AG treatment to be capable of diffusing light received from display unit10. Alternatively, diffusion layer230may be an anti-glare anti-reflection (AGAR) film that is subjected to AGAR treatment, from a viewpoint of preventing light from display unit10from being reflected off an interface between display unit10and diffusion layer230, that is, the viewpoint of improving a transmittance of diffusion layer230. Alternatively, diffusion layer230may be, for example, an OCA containing silica and the like. From a viewpoint of maintaining a clarity of a video further, diffusion layer230is preferably disposed closer to display unit10than to decorative layer222between display unit10and decorative layer222. For example, diffusion layer230is preferably stuck directly to display unit10via bonding layer40.

Diffusion layer230has a function of diffusing light received from display unit10and outputting the diffused light to decorative sheet220. Diffusion layer230diffuses light having lattice shading that is attributable to a dot pitch (light including shading that has plane regularity) and outputs the diffused light to decorative sheet220. In other words, decorative sheet220receives the light diffused by diffusion layer230. A parallel beam transmittance and a haze value of diffusion layer230will be described later. It should be noted that the description will be given of an example in which diffusion layer230is formed of a single layer, but diffusion layer230may be formed of a plurality of layers (e.g., a plurality of AG films or a plurality of diffusion layers).

It should be noted that display device200according to the present embodiment may further have a function of enhancing transmittance or visibility of display. Such a function is implemented by, for example, an optical control part (not illustrated) that controls a direction of light received from display unit10. The optical control part may be, for example, regularly arranged holes or may be regularly disposed wall portions for leading light received from display unit10to decorative sheet220. The regularly arranged holes are provided in a form of, for example, a plurality of holes disposed two-dimensionally. The regularly disposed wall portions are provided in a form of, for example, a plurality of wall portions disposed two-dimensionally. For example, the optical control part is disposed between decorative sheet220and diffusion layer230. In this case, although display unit10and the optical control part having regularity cause a moire pattern to appear, display device200according to the present embodiment can reduce the appearance of such a moire pattern. It should be noted that display device200including such an optical control part satisfies being provided with a regular pattern.

As described above, display device200is a display device to be attached to an object, and includes: display unit10that includes display surface10aand displays a video on display surface10a; decorative layer222that is light-transmissive and disposed on a display surface10aside of display unit10, decorative layer222being decorated according to an appearance of the object; and diffusion layer230that is light-transmissive and disposed between display unit10and decorative layer222, diffusion layer230diffusing light received from display unit10. Further, a haze value of decorative layer222may range from 28.4% to 86.3%, inclusive.

It should be noted that, with reference toFIG.8, the description has been given of an example in which display device200does not include a half-mirror layer (e.g., half-mirror layer30in Embodiment 1), but display device200may include a half-mirror layer. For example, display device200may include a half-mirror layer in place of vapor-deposited layer223or in addition to the configuration illustrated inFIG.8. The half-mirror layer is disposed between decorative layer222and diffusion layer230. For example, display device200may include, between decorative layer222and diffusion layer230, at least one of a half-mirror layer and a polarizing half-mirror layer. It should be noted that in a case where display device200includes a half-mirror layer in place of vapor-deposited layer223, decorative sheet220includes substrate221and decorative layer222. Further, in a case where display device200includes a half-mirror layer, the half-mirror layer and diffusion layer230constitute an intermediate layer. The intermediate layer is, for example, a layer disposed between display unit10and decorative layer222; the intermediate layer may be constituted by a plurality of layers.

2-2. Relation Between Optical Properties of Diffusion Layer and Appearance of Display Device

Next, results of verification of a relation between optical properties of diffusion layer230and an appearance of display device200will be described with reference toFIG.9.FIG.9is a diagram illustrating the results of the verification for display device200according to the present embodiment. Specifically,FIG.9is a diagram illustrating results of verification of a relation between haze value and parallel beam transmittance of diffusion layer230, and display clarity and anti-moire-pattern property.

First, conditions for the verification of the relation between optical properties of diffusion layer230and the appearance of display device1will be described. It should be noted that the description about the conditions will be given mainly of regards in which the conditions are different from the conditions in Embodiment 1. Decorative sheet220of display device200used for the verification includes decorative layer222that is a hairline-finished decorative film and diffusion layer230that includes at least one of an AG film or an AGAR film. Substrate221of decorative sheet220has a thickness of 2 mm, and decorative layer222is stuck to a back surface of substrate221. Diffusion layer230is disposed on (being in contact with) decorative layer222.

The verification of the display clarity and the anti-moire-pattern property is conducted in the display mode. An observer checks the bar display and the character display to determine whether the displays are clear (whether the displays are not blurred) and to determine a degree of appearance of a moire pattern.

It should be noted thatFIG.9shows results of verification for cases where diffusion layer1to diffusion layer6that have haze values different from one another and that have parallel beam transmittances different from one another and for a case where diffusion layer230is not included (shown as “No diffusion layer” inFIG.9). The haze values and the parallel beam transmittances of diffusion layer1to diffusion layer6are adjusted by sticking together a plurality of types of AG films or AGAR films that have haze values different from one another and that have parallel beam transmittances different from one another.

Parallel beam transmittances shown inFIG.9are each a parallel beam transmittance of diffusion layer230. The parallel beam transmittances each indicate, for example, a ratio of light emitted in a direction perpendicular to a surface of diffusion layer230to light incident on diffusion layer230. In other words, the parallel beam transmittances each indicate, for example, a ratio of light passing through diffusion layer230and not diffused within diffusion layer230to light incident on diffusion layer230. The parallel beam transmittances serve as an index that indicates a brightness of a video displayed by display device200. The haze values in the figure each indicate a haze value of diffusion layer230.

A method for the verification and results of the verification of the display clarity are the same as in Embodiment 1, and description thereof will be omitted; however, the verification is conducted for each of clearances described later.

The anti-moire-pattern property indicates an appearance of display device200when display device200operates in the display mode. The anti-moire-pattern property can be regarded as indicating a degree of appearance of a moire pattern in the display. That is, verification of the anti-moire-pattern property is conducted in the display mode. Display unit10displays a bar display (video) in which color bars are displayed against a white background and displays a character display in which black characters from 8 point to 20 point are displayed. For example, conditions for the character display such as sizes of the characters may be determined based on JIS S 0032 (Estimation of minimum legible size for a Japanese single character). The observer checks the bar display and the character display and determines whether the displays are clear (whether the displays are not blurred). Further, in the verification of the anti-moire-pattern property, a verification of whether a moire pattern does not appear at any bias angle by rotating decorative layer222with respect to display unit10about an optical axis of display device200(an axis parallel to a direction in which display unit10, diffusion layer230, and decorative sheet220are arranged (stacking direction)).

Results of the verification of the anti-moire-pattern property are rated as “◯”, “Δ”, and “x”. The mark “◯” means that a moire pattern does not appear at any angle. The mark “Δ” indicates that although a moire pattern is recognized with some angle, but the moire pattern is feeble and is practically at a level considered unproblematic (at an acceptable level). The marks “◯” and “Δ” means that the appearance of decorative sheet20is acceptable. The mark “x” indicates that a strong moire pattern appears and is not at the acceptable level.

The verification by the observer is conducted for each of clearances that are distances between display unit10and decorative layer222excluding a thickness of diffusion layer230. That is, the verification by the observer is conducted with various clearances between display unit10and decorative layer222. Specifically, the verification is conducted with clearances having distances “no clearance” (0 mm), “1 mm”, “2 mm”, and “3 mm”. The clearances are, in the example inFIG.8for example, each a total thickness (length) of thickness d1of bonding layer40and thickness d2of bonding layer41and vapor-deposited layer223. It is noted that the clearances each include an air space. “No clearance” means that diffusion layer230is a diffusive-adhesive layer having adhesiveness for causing display unit10and decorative layer222to adhere to respective opposite surfaces of diffusion layer230in order to stick display unit10and decorative layer222together. Thickness d2need not include a thickness of vapor-deposited layer223. In other words, the clearances each may be a total thickness (length) of thicknesses of bonding layers40and41and a thickness of the air space. It is noted that diffusion layer230may be disposed at any position between display unit10and decorative layer222.

First, a case of “no clearance” will be described. In this case, as illustrated inFIG.9, for the display clarity, a haze value of diffusion layer230is preferably at most 23.5%, more preferably at most 11.3%. In this case, a parallel beam transmittance of diffusion layer230is preferably at least 70.4%, more preferably at least 81.7%.

Next, a case of the clearance “1 mm” will be described. In this case, as illustrated inFIG.9, for the display clarity, a haze value of diffusion layer230is preferably at most 11.3%, more preferably at most 7.0%. In this case, a parallel beam transmittance of diffusion layer230is preferably at least 81.7%, more preferably at least 86.6%.

Next, a case of the clearance “2 mm” will be described. In this case, as illustrated inFIG.9, for the display clarity, a haze value of diffusion layer230is preferably at most 11.3%, more preferably at most 5.5%. In this case, a parallel beam transmittance of diffusion layer230is preferably at least 81.7%, more preferably at least 87.5%.

Next, a case of the clearance “3 mm” will be described. In this case, as illustrated inFIG.9, for the display clarity, a haze value of diffusion layer230is preferably at most 7.0%, more preferably at most 5.5%. In this case, a parallel beam transmittance of diffusion layer230is preferably at least 86.6%, more preferably at least 87.5%.

For the anti-moire-pattern property, it is only required that a haze value of diffusion layer230be at least 0.4%, more preferably at least 0.6%, irrespective of the clearances.

From the above, in the case of “no clearance”, a haze value of diffusion layer230for establishing compatibility between the display clarity and the anti-moire-pattern property preferably ranges from 0.4% to 23.5%, inclusive, more preferably from 0.6% to 11.3%, inclusive. In the case of the clearance “1 mm”, a haze value of diffusion layer230for establishing compatibility between the display clarity and the anti-moire-pattern property preferably ranges from 0.4% to 11.3%, inclusive, more preferably from 0.6% to 7.0%, inclusive. In the case of the clearance “2 mm”, a haze value of diffusion layer230for establishing compatibility between the display clarity and the anti-moire-pattern property preferably ranges from 0.4% to 11.3%, inclusive, more preferably from 0.6% to 5.5%, inclusive. In the case of the clearance “3 mm”, a haze value of diffusion layer230for establishing compatibility between the display clarity and the anti-moire-pattern property preferably ranges from 0.4% to 7.0%, inclusive, more preferably from 0.6% to 5.5%, inclusive.

This makes it possible to ensure a high display clarity of display device200while preventing a moire pattern from appearing on display device200.

Further, from the above, in the case of “no clearance”, a parallel beam transmittance for providing a high display clarity is preferably at least 70.4%, more preferably at least 81.7%. In the case of the clearance “1 mm”, a parallel beam transmittance for providing a high display clarity is preferably at least 81.7%, more preferably at least 86.6%. In the case of the clearance “2 mm”, a parallel beam transmittance for providing a high display clarity is preferably at least 81.7%, more preferably at least 87.5%. In the case of the clearance “3 mm”, a parallel beam transmittance for providing a high display clarity is preferably at least 86.6%, more preferably at least 87.5%.

This enables display device200to display a brighter video and thus to improve the display clarity.

2-3. Application Example

Next, an application example of display device200described above will be described with reference toFIG.10AandFIG.10B.FIG.10Ais a diagram for describing the non-display mode of display device200according to the present embodiment in the application example.FIG.10Bis a diagram for describing the display mode of display device200according to the present embodiment in the application example. It should be noted that the application example to be described below is merely an example, and an object for which display device200is used is not limited to the following object.

As illustrated inFIG.10AandFIG.10B, display device200may be installed being housed in a building material, which is an example of the object (e.g., wall300). In this case, the building material includes a body that has a recessed portion for housing display device200and display device200that is housed in the recessed portion. The recessed portion is a recessed portion used for embedding display device200into the building material.

Wall300has, for example, a wood-grain pattern. In this case, decorative sheet220is decorated in a wood-grain tone. The decoration of the wood-grain tone is an example of being decorated suitably for the object. With this configuration, as illustrated inFIG.10A, while controller50controls display unit10in the non-display mode, a user will visually recognize the decoration of the wood-grain tone formed on decorative sheet220. That is, the appearance of display device200is harmonious with an appearance of wall300. This makes display device200difficult to be visually recognized as being embedded into wall300. In other words, decorative sheet220can prevent display device200from being seen.

Further, as illustrated inFIG.10B, while controller50controls display unit10in the display mode, a user can visually recognize a video displayed by display unit10. The user can visually recognize, for example, a clear video that is seen standing out from wall300and in which appearance of a moire pattern is prevented.

As described above, the intermediate layer of display device200according to the present embodiment is diffusion layer230that diffuses light received from display unit10, the clearance (an example of a distance) between decorative layer222and display unit10is at most 3 mm, and diffusion layer230has a haze value ranging from 0.4% to 7.0%, inclusive. Further, the intermediate layer is diffusion layer230that diffuses light received from display unit10, the distance between decorative layer222and display unit10is at most 2 mm, and diffusion layer230has a haze value (an example of a second haze value) ranging from 0.4% to 11.3%, inclusive. Further, the intermediate layer is diffusion layer230diffusing light received from display unit10and has an adhesiveness for causing display unit10and decorative layer222to adhere to respective opposite surfaces of diffusion layer230in order to stick display unit10and decorative layer222together. In addition, the haze value of diffusion layer230ranges from 0.4% to 23.5%, inclusive.

These enable display device200to prevent a moire pattern that is caused to appear by a decorative pattern of decorative layer222and display unit10, while preventing degradation in clarity of display (occurrence of blurring). Display device200, which includes decorative layer222, is therefore capable of preventing degradation in quality of an image displayed.

Further, the haze value of diffusion layer230ranges from 0.6% to 7.0%, inclusive.

This enables display device200to further prevent the degradation in quality of an image displayed.

Further, diffusion layer230has a parallel beam transmittance (an example of a second parallel beam transmittance) of at least 70.4%.

This enables display device200to provide a display having a desired brightness in the display mode.

Further, the parallel beam transmittance of diffusion layer230is at least 87.5%.

This enables display device200to provide a brighter display in the display mode.

Further, display device200further includes at least one of a half-mirror layer and a polarizing half-mirror layer (e.g., half-mirror layer30according to Embodiment 1), the at least one of the half-mirror layer and the polarizing half-mirror layer being disposed between diffusion layer230and decorative layer222.

Since diffusion layer230is disposed at a position close to display unit10, this enables display device200to prevent a video from being blurred and prevent a moire pattern from appearing while keeping a high clarity of the video. In addition, since display device200includes the half-mirror layer, it is possible to set a high transmittance to decorative layer222. That is, display device200is capable of displaying a video of a high luminance value. Display device200is therefore capable of further preventing the degradation in quality of an image displayed.

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

The display devices according to embodiments have been described above based on the embodiments; however, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and the like.

The components illustrated in the accompanying drawings or described in the detailed descriptions may therefore include not only components that are essential to solving the problem but also components that are not essential to solving the problem but are provided to describe the technique described above. Therefore, the non-essential components should not be construed as being essential just because the non-essential components are illustrated in the accompanying drawings or described in the detailed descriptions.

For example, the descriptions of the above-described embodiments have been given of the configuration in which the display device includes the decorative sheet; however, the display device is not limited to this configuration. It is only required that the display device include the display unit, the intermediate layer, and the decorative layer. For example, the decorative layer may be provided integrally with the intermediate layer. In this case, the decorative layer may be disposed on a surface of a substrate included in the intermediate layer, the surface being on a front side of the display device.

The descriptions of the above-described embodiments have been given of an example in which the intermediate layer (e.g., the half-mirror layer, the diffusion layer, etc.) does not change in its optical state; however, the intermediate layer is not limited to this. For example, the intermediate layer may have a configuration in which its optical state is changed by an application of a voltage. The intermediate layer may have a configuration in which, for example, an application of a voltage brings the intermediate layer into a first state in which the intermediate layer has a high optical reflectivity or a high optical diffusibility and decreasing the applied voltage brings the intermediate layer into a second state in which the intermediate layer has an optical reflectivity or an optical diffusibility that is lower than in the first state.

The descriptions of the above-described embodiments have been given of a case where the haze value is a haze value of the decorative sheet (e.g., the decorative layer and the substrate); however, the haze value may be a haze value of the decorative layer alone. That is, the above-described haze value may be a value that indicates a degree of diffusion of light that is incident on the decorative layer and emitted from the decorative layer (light of a video).

The descriptions of the above-described embodiments have been given of a case where the parallel beam transmittance is a parallel beam transmittance of the decorative sheet (e.g., the decorative layer and the substrate); however, the parallel beam transmittance may be a parallel beam transmittance of the decorative layer alone. That is, the above-described parallel beam transmittance may indicate a parallel beam transmittance for light that is incident on the decorative layer and emitted from the decorative layer (light of a video).

The descriptions of the above-described embodiments have been given of an example in which the display device is disposed with at least a part of the display device being embedded into the object; however, the disposition is not limited to the embedded disposition. For example, the display device may be fixed on a surface of an object. For example, the display device may be stuck on a surface of an object.

The video displayed by the display unit in the above-described embodiments is not limited to a particular video; the video may be a television image (e.g., a television image of 4K resolution) or may be an icon display or a segment display (e.g., a seven-segment display).

The description of Embodiment 2 described above has been given of an example in which the diffusion layer is disposed between the display unit and the half-mirror layer; however, the disposition of the diffusion layer is not limited to this, and the diffusion layer may be disposed between the half-mirror layer and the decorative layer. It should be noted that the diffusion layer is preferably disposed at a position close to the display unit and preferably disposed between the display unit and the half-mirror layer from a viewpoint of maintaining a high clarity of a video.

the present disclosure may include embodiments obtained by making various modifications on the above embodiments which those skilled in the art will arrive at, or embodiments obtained by selectively combining the elements and functions disclosed in the above embodiments, without materially departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present disclosure is applicable to a display device to be attached to an object.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST