CN114630759A - Light modulation component - Google Patents

Abstract

The light control member (10) is provided with a first light control unit (20) and a second light control unit (40) laminated on the first light control unit (20). The first dimming unit (20) may adjust visible light transmittance by applying a voltage. The second dimming unit (40) may adjust the haze value by applying a voltage. The first light control unit (20) has a first absorption-type polarizing plate (21) and a second absorption-type polarizing plate (22), a first liquid crystal cell (30) disposed between the first absorption-type polarizing plate (21) and the second absorption-type polarizing plate (22), and a reflection-type polarizing plate (23) disposed between the first absorption-type polarizing plate (21) and the first liquid crystal cell (30). The first liquid crystal cell (30) can switch between a state in which light is transmitted while maintaining the polarization direction and a state in which light is transmitted by changing the polarization direction by applying a voltage.

Description

Dimming parts

technical field

The present invention relates to a dimming component.

Background technique

Conventionally, an optical member that can switch between a translucent state, an opaque state, and a reflective state as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2010-211084 is known. In order to switch between the translucent state, the opaque state, and the reflective state, the optical member shown in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2010-211084 includes means for changing the transmission state of light and means for changing the diffusion state of light. As these units, a system using liquid crystal is also considered. This optical component has a fast response to switch between translucent, opaque, and reflective states. Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2010-211084 discloses that such an optical member is provided on a display surface of a display device.

On the other hand, a dimming member that can switch the transmission state of light is required. It is also considered that by using the optical member shown in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2010-211084 as a light-adjusting member, a light-adjusting member capable of switching a translucent state, an opaque state, and a reflective state can be obtained.

However, in the light control device, it is required to be able to switch to a transparent state which is more transparent than a translucent state. That is, it is required that a transparent state, an opaque state, and a reflective state can be switched in the observation from the side of the light-adjusting member. However, in the optical member described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-211084, only a translucent state, an opaque state, and a reflective state can be switched during observation from the side that is supposed to be able to be observed. On the other hand, only the transparent state and the opaque state can be switched during observation from the side where observation is not assumed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Invention to solve problem

The present invention has been made in consideration of this point, and an object of the present invention is to switch a transparent state, an opaque state, and a reflective state in a light-adjusting member.

technical solutions for problem solving

The dimming component of the present invention has:

a first dimming unit, which can adjust the visible light transmittance by applying a voltage;

The second dimming unit, which is stacked on the first dimming unit, can adjust the haze value by applying a voltage,

The first dimming unit has a first absorption type polarizing plate and a second absorption type polarizing plate, a first liquid crystal unit disposed between the first absorption type polarizing plate and the second absorption type polarizing plate, and a reflective polarizer disposed between the first absorption polarizer and the first liquid crystal cell,

The first liquid crystal cell can switch between a state of transmitting light while maintaining the polarization direction and a state of transmitting light by changing the polarization direction by applying a voltage.

In the dimming member of the present invention, the first dimming unit may be arranged so that the side on which the first absorption-type polarizing plate is arranged becomes the side facing the second dimming unit.

In the dimming member of the present invention, the first dimming unit may be arranged so that the side on which the second absorbing polarizing plate is arranged becomes the side facing the second dimming unit.

In the light control member of the present invention, the transmission axis of the first absorption-type polarizing plate and the transmission axis of the second absorption-type polarizing plate may be arranged in crossed Nicols.

In the dimming component of the present invention, the first dimming unit may have at least three visible light transmittances.

In the dimming component of the present invention, it may be:

The maximum visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit is more than 20%,

The minimum visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit is below 2%.

In the dimming component of the present invention, the second dimming unit may take at least three haze values.

In the dimming component of the present invention, it may be:

The maximum haze value of the second dimming unit is above 80%,

The minimum haze value of the second dimming unit is 15% or less.

In the light control member of the present invention, the difference between the maximum haze value and the minimum haze value of the second light control unit may be 80% or more.

In the dimming component of the present invention, it may be:

The first liquid crystal cell is in TN mode, VA mode, IPS mode or FFS mode.

In the dimming component of the present invention, it may be:

the second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage,

The second liquid crystal layer is a polymer dispersion type liquid crystal layer or a polymer network type liquid crystal layer.

In the light-adjusting member of the present invention, the second light-adjusting unit may have a reflectance of 10% or less when the haze value is the largest.

In the light control member of the present invention, the second light control unit may have a colored transparent layer.

In the dimming component of the present invention, it may be:

The second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage, and a second electrode layer that applies a voltage to the second liquid crystal layer,

The second electrode layer is colored.

In the dimming component of the present invention, it may be:

the second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage,

The second liquid crystal layer includes a dichroic dye.

In the dimming component of the present invention, it may be:

the second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage,

The end of the second liquid crystal layer is located outside of the end of the first absorption-type polarizing plate, the end of the second absorption-type polarizing plate, and the end of the reflective polarizing plate.

In the dimming component of the present invention, it may be:

the first liquid crystal cell has a first liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose direction is changed by applying a voltage,

the second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage,

The end portion of the second liquid crystal layer is located inward of the end portion of the first liquid crystal layer.

In the dimming component of the present invention, it may be:

The dimming member further includes: a transparent support that supports the first dimming unit and the second dimming unit; and a first bonding layer that connects the first dimming unit and the second dimming unit light unit bonding; a second bonding layer that bonds the transparent support and the second dimming unit,

The first dimming unit also has: a first adhesive layer, which adheres the reflective polarizing plate and the first liquid crystal cell; and a second adhesive layer, which adheres the second absorbing polarizing plate bonding with the first liquid crystal cell,

At least one of the first bonding layer, the second bonding layer, the first adhesive layer, and the second adhesive layer covers the end of the second light-adjusting unit.

According to the present invention, in the light control member, the transparent state, the opaque state, and the reflective state can be switched.

Description of drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an automobile in which a sun visor provided with a light control member of the present invention is disposed.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a light control member.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of a second liquid crystal cell of a second dimming cell, and is a diagram showing a state in which liquid crystal molecules are not aligned.

4 is a diagram for explaining an example of a second liquid crystal cell of a second light control unit, and is a diagram showing a state of alignment of liquid crystal molecules.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining another example of a second liquid crystal cell of the second dimming cell, and is a diagram showing a state in which liquid crystal molecules are not aligned.

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining another example of a second liquid crystal cell of the second dimming cell, and is a diagram showing a state in which liquid crystal molecules are aligned.

FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of a light control member in an observable state.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the action of an example of a light-adjusting member.

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the action of an example of a light control member.

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the action of an example of a light-adjusting member.

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the action of an example of a light control member.

FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the dimming member in an observable state.

FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the action of another example of the light control member.

FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the action of another example of the light control member.

FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining the action of another example of the light control member.

FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining the action of another example of the light control member.

17 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification of the light control member.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing another modification of the dimming member.

Detailed ways

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the drawings attached to this specification, for convenience of illustration and easy understanding, the scale and the aspect ratio and the like are appropriately changed and exaggerated from the actual scale and size.

In FIG. 1, as an example of the light control member 10 to which this embodiment is applied, the sun visor provided with the light control member 10 is shown. As shown in FIG. 1 , in an automobile 1 , a sun visor is arranged inside the vehicle 1 at a position facing the front windshield 5 . The sun visor can reduce the incident sunlight and the like that pass through the front windshield 5 , and provide the occupant of the automobile 1 with a good field of vision.

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the light control member 10 of the present embodiment. The light-adjusting member 10 is a plate-shaped member. When viewed from one side, the dimming member 10 can switch between a transparent state, an opaque state, and a reflective state. The transparent and opaque states can also be automatically adjusted based on, for example, the brightness detected by a sensor. In addition, the transparent state refers to a state in which the other side can be viewed from one side via the dimming member 10 . In addition, the opaque state refers to a state in which the other side cannot be viewed from one side via the light control member 10 . Therefore, the opaque state includes a state in which light is diffused and transmitted or a state in which light is blocked. In addition, the reflective state refers to a state in which one side can be observed when the dimming member 10 is observed from one side. As shown in FIG. 2 , the light control member 10 includes a first light control unit 20 , a second light control unit 40 , a first transparent support 11 and a second transparent support 12 , a first bonding layer 17 , and a second bonding layer 18. The second dimming unit 40 is stacked on the first dimming unit 20 . The first transparent support body 11 and the second transparent support body 12 support the first light control unit 20 and the second light control unit 40 . The first bonding layer 17 bonds the first dimming unit 20 and the second dimming unit 40 . The second bonding layer 18 bonds the first transparent support 11 and the second light adjustment unit 40 . In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the first dimming unit 20 and the second dimming unit 40 are arranged between the first transparent support 11 and the second transparent support 12 . More specifically, the first dimming unit 20 is disposed on the side closer to the second transparent support 12 than the second dimming unit 40 . That is, in the example shown in FIG. 2 , each component of the light control member 10 is divided into the first transparent support 11 , the second bonding layer 18 , the second light control unit 40 , the first bonding layer 17 , and the first light control The order of the unit 20 and the second transparent support 12 is stacked along the stacking direction dL.

The first transparent support body 11 and the second transparent support body 12 support the first light control unit 20 and the second light control unit 40 . The first transparent support body 11 and the second transparent support body 12 are plate-shaped members. It is preferable that the 1st transparent support body 11 and the 2nd transparent support body 12 contain at least one of acrylate and polycarbonate, and it is more preferable to contain acrylate. For example, the first transparent support body 11 and the second transparent support body 12 may have a structure in which polycarbonate is laminated between two acrylates. Moreover, 17,000 or more are preferable and, as for the molecular weight of the acrylate or polycarbonate contained in the 1st transparent support body 11 and the 2nd transparent support body 12, 20,000 or more are more preferable. If the first transparent support body 11 and the second transparent support body 12 are formed of such a material, even if the first transparent support body 11 and the second transparent support body 12 are damaged, the first transparent support body 11 and the second transparent support body 12 The edges of the fragments will not become sharp. Therefore, the risk of injury to the user of the light control member 10 can be reduced. However, it is not limited to this, The 1st transparent support body 11 and the 2nd transparent support body 12 may be formed of a glass film. When the first transparent support body 11 and the second transparent support body 12 are formed of glass films, in order to reduce the risk of injury to the user of the light control member 10 when the first transparent support body 11 and the second transparent support body 12 are damaged It is preferable to provide an explosion-proof sheet on the surface.

The first transparent support 11 and the second transparent support 12 have a thickness of 0.05 mm or more and 10 mm or less, and preferably have a thickness of 0.5 mm or more and 3 mm or less. If it is such a thickness, the 1st transparent support body 11 and the 2nd transparent support body 12 which are excellent in strength and optical characteristics can be obtained. Moreover, the 1st light control unit 20 and the 2nd light control unit 40 arrange|positioned between the 1st transparent support body 11 and the 2nd transparent support body 12 are deteriorated by the ultraviolet-ray from the outside. In order to suppress such deterioration of the first light control unit 20 and the second light control unit 40 , it is preferable that the first transparent support 11 and the second transparent support 12 contain an ultraviolet absorber. The 1st transparent support body 11 and the 2nd transparent support body 12 may be comprised with the same material and the same, or at least one of a material and a structure may be mutually different. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , in order to appropriately support the first light-adjusting unit 20 and the second light-adjusting unit 40 and at the same time reduce the light-weight of the light-adjusting member 10 , the first transparent support 11 may be thicker, and the second transparent support may be made thick. The support body 12 is thin.

In addition, "transparency" means the transparency of the degree which can see through the other side from one side of this transparent support body via the 1st transparent support body 11 and the 2nd transparent support body 12. Specifically, it means that the first transparent support 11 and the second transparent support 12 have a visible light transmittance of, for example, 30% or more, and more preferably 70% or more. The visible light transmittance is the average of the transmittance at each wavelength when measured using a spectrophotometer (“UV-3100PC” manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation, JIS K 0115 standard) in a measurement wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm value is specified.

The first bonding layer 17 bonds the first dimming unit 20 and the second dimming unit 40 . The second bonding layer 18 bonds the first transparent support 11 and the second light adjustment unit 40 . In the present embodiment, the first bonding layer 17 and the second bonding layer 18 are so-called OCA (Optically Clear Adhesive) or OCR (Optically Clear Resin). That is, the first bonding layer 17 and the second bonding layer 18 are transparent and have adhesiveness. The thicknesses of the first bonding layer 17 and the second bonding layer 18 are preferably 25 μm or more and 1000 μm or less. If the thickness is thinner than 25 μm, strain of the light-adjusting member cannot be absorbed by the bonding surface, so that air bubbles and defects of the light-adjusting member (for example, color unevenness accompanying liquid crystal GAP defect) are likely to occur. On the other hand, if the thickness is thicker than 1000 μm, it is disadvantageous in terms of mass productivity, price, and strength.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 2 , it is preferable that the second bonding layer 18 extends in the lamination direction dL at the end portion thereof, and covers the end portion of the second dimming unit 40 . Here, the edge part of each component means the edge part in the direction orthogonal to the lamination direction dL. In other words, it refers to the peripheral edge of each component in a plan view of the light control member 10 . In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the second bonding layer 18 is in contact with the first bonding layer 17 by extending in the lamination direction dL. However, the second bonding layer 18 only needs to cover the end of the second dimming unit 40 , and does not need to be in contact with the first bonding layer 17 . Alternatively, the end portion of the second dimming unit 40 may be covered by integrally forming the first bonding layer 17 and the second bonding layer 18 . However, the first bonding layer 17 and the second bonding layer 18 may not cover the end portion of the second dimming unit 40 without being limited to the illustrated example.

The first dimming unit 20 can adjust the visible light transmittance. By increasing the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 , the light incident on the first dimming unit 20 can be transmitted or reflected. In addition, by reducing the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 , the light incident on the first dimming unit 20 can be shielded from light. Here, when the visible light transmittance is 10 cm square or less, the measurement wavelength is 380 nm to 780 nm using a spectrophotometer (for example, "UV-3100PC" manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation, JISK0115 standard product). The average value of the transmittance at each wavelength when measured within the range is specified, and if it is 10 cm square or larger, it is measured using a color luminance meter (for example, "CS-150" manufactured by Konica Minolta Corporation). The average value of transmittance at each wavelength when measured in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm is specified.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the first dimming unit 20 includes a first absorbing polarizer 21 , a second absorbing polarizer 22 , a first liquid crystal cell 30 , a reflective polarizer 23 , a first adhesive layer 27 , and a first Two adhesive layers 28 . The first liquid crystal cell 30 is disposed between the first absorbing polarizer 21 and the second absorbing polarizer 22 . The reflective polarizer 23 is disposed between the first absorption polarizer 21 and the first liquid crystal cell 30 . The first adhesive layer 27 adheres the reflective polarizing plate 23 and the first liquid crystal cell 30 to each other. The second adhesive layer 28 adheres the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 and the first liquid crystal cell 30 . As shown in FIG. 2 or FIG. 7 to be described later, the first dimming unit 20 may be arranged such that the side where the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 is arranged becomes the side facing the second dimming unit 40 . Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 12 to be described later, the first dimming unit 20 may be arranged such that the side on which the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 is arranged becomes the side facing the second dimming unit 40 . The thickness of the first dimming unit 20 is, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 3 mm or less.

The first absorption type polarizing plate 21 and the second absorption type polarizing plate 22 have the following functions: decompose the incident light into two orthogonal polarized light components (p-polarized light component and s-polarized light component), and The linearly polarized light component (such as p-polarized light component) vibrating in the direction parallel to the transmission axis is transmitted, and the linearly polarized light component (such as s) vibrating in the other direction (direction parallel to the absorption axis) orthogonal to one direction is absorbed. polarized light component). In addition, the reflective polarizing plate 23 has the following function, especially the function of specular reflection: it decomposes the incident light into two orthogonal polarized light components (p-polarized light component and s-polarized light component), The linearly polarized light component (such as the p-polarized light component) vibrating in the direction parallel to the axis is transmitted, and the linearly polarized light component (such as the s-polarized light) vibrating in the other direction orthogonal to one direction (the direction parallel to the absorption axis) is reflected. quantity). The transmission axis of the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 and the transmission axis of the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 may be arranged in parallel Nicols, but are preferably arranged in crossed Nicols. In addition, the transmission axis of the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 and the transmission axis of the reflection-type polarizing plate 23 are arranged in parallel Nicols. Therefore, in the case where the transmission axis of the first absorption type polarizing plate 21 and the transmission axis of the second absorption type polarizing plate 22 are arranged in crossed Nicols, the transmission axis of the second absorption type polarizing plate 22 and the reflection type polarization The transmission axes of the plate 23 are arranged in crossed Nicols. Crossed Nicols means that the angle formed by the transmission axes of the two polarizing plates is 85° or more, preferably 86° or more, more preferably 87° or more, and most preferably 90°. The parallel nicols are arranged so that the angle formed by the transmission axes of the two polarizing plates is 5° or less, preferably 4° or less, more preferably 3° or less, and most preferably 0°.

The first adhesive layer 27 adheres the reflective polarizer 23 and the first liquid crystal cell 30 , and the second adhesive layer 28 adheres the second absorptive polarizer 22 and the first liquid crystal cell 30 . The first adhesive layer 27 and the second adhesive layer 28 are so-called OCA (Optically Clear Adhesive) or OCR (Optically Clear Resin). That is, the first adhesive layer 27 and the second adhesive layer 28 are transparent and have adhesiveness. It is preferable that the thickness of the 1st adhesive layer 27 and the 2nd adhesive layer 28 is 25 micrometers or more and 500 micrometers or less. If the thickness is thinner than 25 μm, strain of the light-adjusting member cannot be absorbed by the bonding surface, so that air bubbles and defects of the light-adjusting member (for example, color unevenness accompanying liquid crystal GAP defect) are likely to occur. On the other hand, if the thickness is thicker than 1000 μm, it is disadvantageous in terms of mass productivity, price, and strength.

The first liquid crystal cell 30 can switch between a state of transmitting light while maintaining the direction of polarized light and a state of transmitting light by changing the direction of polarized light by applying a voltage. The first liquid crystal cell 30 is arranged between the two polarizing plates 21 and 22 and is used, such as a VA (Vertical Alignment) method, a TN (Twisted Nematic) method, an IPS (In Plane Switching) method, or a FFS (Fringe Field Switching) method. )Way.

The first liquid crystal cell 30 includes a pair of first transparent substrates 31 and 32 , a pair of first electrodes 33 and 34 , a first liquid crystal layer 35 , and a sealing material 37 . The pair of first electrodes 33 and 34 are arranged between the pair of first transparent base materials 31 and 32 . The first liquid crystal layer 35 is disposed between the pair of first electrodes 33 and 34 . The sealing material 37 seals the first liquid crystal layer 35 between the pair of first transparent base materials 31 and 32 . Moreover, the 1st liquid crystal cell 30 contains the alignment film which is not shown in figure. The alignment film restricts the alignment of liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 35 .

The pair of first transparent base materials 31 and 32 is a member that supports each constituent element of the first liquid crystal cell 30 . The material of the pair of first transparent base materials 31 and 32 is preferably a material with high visible light transmittance. Specifically, when the first transparent substrates 31 and 32 are required to have high strength or to reduce liquid crystal unevenness, glass is preferably used as the first transparent substrates 31 and 32 . On the other hand, when the first transparent base materials 31 and 32 are required to be lightweight and shape processable, it is preferable to use resin as the first transparent base materials 31 and 32 . Examples of the resin used for the first transparent substrates 31 and 32 include cellulose acetate-based resins such as triacetate cellulose (TAC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyethylene naphthalate. Polyester resins such as ester (PEN), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene, polymethylpentene, EVA and other polyolefin resins, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, etc. Vinyl resin, acrylate resin, polyurethane resin, polysulfone (PEF), polyethersulfone (PES), polycarbonate (PC), polysulfone, polyether (PE), polyetherketone (PEK), ( Resins such as meth)acrylonitrile, cycloolefin polymers (COP), and cycloolefin copolymers are particularly preferred, and resins such as polycarbonates, cycloolefin polymers, and polyethylene terephthalate are particularly preferred. The visible light transmittance of the first transparent base materials 31 and 32 is preferably 90% or more. In addition, the first transparent substrates 31 and 32 preferably have a thickness of 300 μm or more and 1200 μm or less in the case of glass, for example, and preferably have a thickness of 30 μm or more and 250 μm in the case of polyethylene terephthalate, for example. thickness below. With such a thickness, the first transparent base materials 31 and 32 excellent in strength and optical properties can be obtained. The first transparent base materials 31 and 32 may be made of the same material and identically, or at least one of the material and the structure may be different from each other.

The first electrodes 33 and 34 are connected to a control device or the like, and supply driving power or a control signal to the first liquid crystal layer 35 . The first electrodes 33 and 34 are preferably formed of a transparent conductor such as indium tin oxide (ITO). In this case, the first electrodes 33 and 34 cannot be seen substantially from the outside, and the appearance of the light control member 10 can be improved. By applying a voltage to the first electrodes 33 and 34 , it is possible to control the alignment of liquid crystal molecules contained in the first liquid crystal layer 35 , which will be described later.

The first liquid crystal layer 35 contains liquid crystal molecules. The liquid crystal molecules contained in the first liquid crystal layer 35 are aligned in the direction by applying a voltage to the alignment film or the first electrodes 33 and 34 (not shown). That is, by applying a voltage to the first electrodes 33 and 34, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules is changed. For example, the liquid crystal molecules contained in the first liquid crystal layer 35 are aligned in the direction of the alignment film in a state where no voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35, and in a state where voltages are applied to the first electrodes 33 and 34, they are aligned along the direction of the alignment film. The orientation is carried out in the direction of the direction of the electric field based on the applied voltage.

The sealing material 37 surrounds the first liquid crystal layer 35 in a peripheral shape. That is, the sealing material 37 divides the first liquid crystal layer 35 . Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the sealing material 37 is provided between a pair of transparent base material 31,32. The sealing material 37 functions to prevent leakage of liquid crystal molecules constituting the first liquid crystal layer 35 from between the pair of first transparent base materials 31 and 32 , and also functions to adhere to the pair of first transparent base materials 31 and 32 to bind the two mutual fixation. The sealing material 37 can be formed of, for example, a thermosetting resin such as epoxy resin and acrylic resin, an ultraviolet curable resin, or the like.

The first dimming unit 20 can change the direction of the liquid crystal molecules of the first liquid crystal layer 35 in the first liquid crystal unit 30 by applying a voltage through the first electrodes 33 and 34 . The polarization direction of the light transmitted through the first liquid crystal cell 30 may vary according to the direction of the liquid crystal molecules. As an example, consider the case where the first liquid crystal cell 30 is of the TN method, and the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 and the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 are arranged in crossed Nicols. The first liquid crystal cell 30 of the TN mode rotates the polarization direction of the transmitted light by 90° in a state where no voltage is applied. Therefore, in the case where light having a polarized light component in a specific direction transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 passes through the first liquid crystal cell 30, in the first liquid crystal cell 30, the direction of the polarized light is rotated 90°. Thereby, light can be transmitted through the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 . On the other hand, the first liquid crystal cell 30 does not rotate the polarization direction of the transmitted light in a state where a voltage is applied. Therefore, when light having a polarized light component in a specific direction transmitted through the first absorptive polarizing plate 21 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 passes through the first liquid crystal cell 30 , the polarized light is not allowed to pass through the first liquid crystal cell 30 . direction rotation. Therefore, light cannot be transmitted through the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 . In this way, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 35 in the first liquid crystal cell 30 is changed by applying a voltage, whereby the transmission and shielding of light in the first light control cell 20 can be controlled. By applying such a voltage, the first dimming unit 20 can be adjusted to a state with high visible light transmittance and a state with low visible light transmittance.

The visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 is preferably adjusted to a maximum of 20% or more so that the area within 1 m can be sufficiently recognized through the dimming member 10 even at night. In addition, in order to be able to sufficiently recognize an area within 5 m through the dimming member 10 even at night, the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 is more preferably adjustable to be 27.5% or more. In addition, in order to maintain good visibility through the dimming member 10 even at night, the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 is preferably adjusted to be 30% or more. By making the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 sufficiently high, light can be sufficiently transmitted or reflected in the first dimming unit 20 . In addition, in order to block the external light dimming member 10 at night, it is preferable that the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 can be adjusted to a minimum of 2% or less. In addition, in order to block the external light dimming member 10 in the evening, it is more preferable that the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 can be adjusted to 1% or less. In addition, in order to sufficiently shield the external light dimming member 10 from light during the day, the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 is further preferably adjusted to be 0.5% or less. By making the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 sufficiently low, light can be sufficiently shielded in the first dimming unit 20 .

The second dimming unit 40 can adjust the haze value. By increasing the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 , the light incident on the second dimming unit 40 can be diffused and transmitted at the same time. In addition, by reducing the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 , it is possible to transmit light incident on the second dimming unit 40 with little diffusion. Here, the haze value is represented by the ratio of the diffuse transmittance of the target object to the total light transmittance, and refers to the diffusivity of light transmitted through the target object. In addition, the total light transmittance refers to the ratio of the amount of light transmitted through the target object to the amount of light entering the target object. The diffuse transmittance refers to the ratio of the amount of light transmitted through the target object in directions other than the straight direction, that is, the amount of diffusely transmitted light to the light incident on the target object. The total light transmittance and diffuse transmittance can be measured with a haze meter in accordance with JIS K 7361 (for example, manufactured by Murakami Color Institute, product number: HM-150).

As shown in FIG. 1 , the second dimming unit 40 includes a pair of second transparent substrates 41 and 42 , second electrodes 43 and 44 , and a second liquid crystal layer 50 . The second electrodes 43 and 44 are arranged between the pair of second transparent base materials 41 and 42 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is disposed between the second electrodes 43 and 44 . The thickness of the second dimming unit 40 is, for example, 100 μm or more and 500 μm or less.

The pair of second transparent base materials 41 and 42 is a member that supports each constituent element included in the second light-adjusting unit 40 . The material of the pair of second transparent base materials 41 and 42 is preferably a material having flexibility and high visible light transmittance. Examples of such second transparent substrates 41 and 42 include cellulose acetate resins such as triacetate cellulose (TAC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate ( Polyester resins such as PEN), polyolefin resins such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene, polymethylpentene, and EVA, vinyl resins such as polyvinyl chloride and polyvinylidene chloride resin, acrylate resin, polyurethane resin, polysulfone (PEF), polyethersulfone (PES), polycarbonate (PC), polysulfone, polyether (PE), polyetherketone (PEK), (methyl sulfone) ) resins such as acrylonitrile, cycloolefin polymers (COP), and cycloolefin copolymers, and resins such as polycarbonate, cycloolefin polymers, and polyethylene terephthalate are particularly preferred. However, the pair of second transparent base materials 41 and 42 may be made of film-like glass. The visible light transmittance of the second transparent base materials 41 and 42 is preferably 90% or more. In addition, at least one of the second transparent base materials 41 and 42 is not limited to colorless and transparent, and may be colored and transparent. Alternatively, a colored and transparent layer not shown, such as a hard coat layer, may be laminated on at least one of the second transparent substrates 41 and 42 . Here, “colored and transparent” means that the transmittance of light in a specific wavelength range is intentionally lowered, but the transmittance of visible light as a whole is increased. Specifically, the average transmittance of wavelengths from 380 nm to 780 nm is 50% or more, preferably 60%. %above. Moreover, when the 2nd transparent base materials 41 and 42 are polyethylene terephthalate, for example, it is preferable to have a thickness of 30 micrometers or more and 250 micrometers or less. With such a thickness, the second transparent base materials 41 and 42 excellent in strength and optical properties can be obtained. The second transparent base materials 41 and 42 may be made of the same material and identically, or at least one of the material and the structure may be different from each other.

The second electrodes 43 and 44 are connected to a control device or the like, and supply driving power or a control signal to the second liquid crystal layer 50 . The second electrodes 43 and 44 are preferably made of transparent conductors such as indium tin oxide (ITO), or poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS), which are colored and transparent. conductor is formed. In this case, the second electrodes 43 and 44 cannot be substantially recognized from the outside, and the appearance of the light control member 10 can be improved. In addition, in particular, when the second electrodes 43 and 44 are formed of PEDOT:PSS, the second electrodes can be formed by applying a material for forming the second electrodes 43 and 44 on the second transparent substrates 41 and 42. 43, 44. That is, the second electrodes 43 and 44 can be easily produced.

The second liquid crystal layer 50 contains liquid crystal molecules. The liquid crystal molecules contained in the second liquid crystal layer 50 control the direction of alignment by applying a voltage to the second electrodes 43 and 44 . That is, by applying a voltage to the second liquid crystal layer 50, the direction of the liquid crystal molecules is changed. For example, in a state where no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50, the liquid crystal molecules contained in the second liquid crystal layer 50 are not aligned. On the other hand, in a state where a voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50, the liquid crystal molecules contained in the second liquid crystal layer 50 are aligned in the direction of the electric field formed by the applied voltage.

The second dimming unit 40 can change the direction of the liquid crystal molecules of the second liquid crystal layer 50 by applying a voltage through the second electrodes 43 and 44 . The degree of diffusion of light transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 may vary according to the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules. Thus, the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 can be adjusted by applying a voltage. The second liquid crystal layer 50 is, for example, a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal layer (PDLC) having liquid crystal molecules 52 dispersed in a polymer 55 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , or a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal layer (PDLC) as shown in FIGS. It is a polymer network liquid crystal layer (PNLC) in which liquid crystal molecules 52 are arranged in the voids formed in the interior of the polymer network 56 made of resin in a three-dimensional mesh shape. In addition, the polymer dispersion type liquid crystal layer or the polymer network type liquid crystal layer includes a normal type in which the haze value is lowered in a state where no voltage is applied, and an inverse type in which the haze value is lowered in a state where a voltage is applied. Furthermore, the second liquid crystal layer 50 is not particularly limited, and either a normal type or an inverted type can be used.

The second liquid crystal layer 50 shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 is a common type of polymer-dispersed liquid crystal layer. The second liquid crystal layer 50 has a polymer 55 and a liquid crystal material 51 . The polymer 55 is composed of a resin cured product. The liquid crystal material 51 is arranged in the space formed in the polymer 55 . Spaces for accommodating the liquid crystal material 51 are dispersed in the polymer 55 . In this example, in a state where no voltage is applied as shown in FIG. 3 , the liquid crystal molecules 52 are along the wall surface of the polymer 55 forming the accommodation space of the liquid crystal material 51 . That is, the liquid crystal molecules 52 are not aligned. The refractive index in the short-side direction of the liquid crystal molecules 52 is different from the refractive index of the liquid crystal material 51 . Therefore, the light transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 is refracted according to the difference in refractive index of the liquid crystal material 51 and the liquid crystal molecules 52 . Since the interface of the liquid crystal material 51 and the liquid crystal molecules 52 is irregularly formed, light is also refracted in irregular directions. That is, the light transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 is diffused. In this way, in a state where no voltage is applied, the second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a high haze state, and diffuses the transmitted light to become opaque. On the other hand, in the state where the voltage is applied as shown in FIG. 4 , the liquid crystal molecules 52 follow the direction of the electric field generated by the voltage application in the accommodation space of the liquid crystal material 51 . That is, the liquid crystal molecules 52 are aligned. The refractive index in the longitudinal direction of the liquid crystal molecules 52 is the same as the refractive index of the liquid crystal material 51 . Therefore, the light transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 is not refracted and thus transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 without being diffused. In this way, in a state where a voltage is applied, the second liquid crystal layer 50 becomes a low haze state and becomes transparent. By applying such a voltage, the second dimming unit 40 can be adjusted to a state with a high haze value and a state with a low haze value.

The second liquid crystal layer 50 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 is a common type of polymer network type liquid crystal layer. The second liquid crystal layer 50 has a polymer network 56 and a liquid crystal material 51 . The polymer network 56 is composed of a cured resin. The liquid crystal material 51 is arranged in the space formed in the polymer network 56 . In this example, in a state where no voltage is applied as shown in FIG. 5 , the liquid crystal molecules 52 are along the wall surface of the polymer network 56 forming the accommodation space of the liquid crystal material 51 . That is, the liquid crystal molecules 52 are not aligned. The refractive index in the short-side direction of the liquid crystal molecules 52 is different from the refractive index of the liquid crystal material 51 . Therefore, the light transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 is refracted according to the difference in refractive index of the liquid crystal material 51 and the liquid crystal molecules 52 . Since the interface of the liquid crystal material 51 and the liquid crystal molecules 52 is irregularly formed, light is also refracted in irregular directions. That is, the light transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 is diffused. In this way, in a state where no voltage is applied, the second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a high haze state, and diffuses the transmitted light to become opaque. On the other hand, in the state where the voltage is applied as shown in FIG. 6 , the liquid crystal molecules 52 follow the direction of the electric field generated by the voltage application in the accommodation space of the liquid crystal material 51 . That is, the liquid crystal molecules 52 are aligned. The refractive index in the longitudinal direction of the liquid crystal molecules 52 is the same as the refractive index of the liquid crystal material 51 . Therefore, the light transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 is not refracted and thus transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 without being diffused. In this way, in a state where a voltage is applied, the second liquid crystal layer 50 becomes a low haze state and becomes transparent. By applying such a voltage, the second dimming unit 40 can be adjusted to a state with a high haze value and a state with a low haze value.

In addition, positive type liquid crystal molecules 52 are used in the normal type second liquid crystal layer 50 . On the other hand, negative-type liquid crystal molecules 52 are used in the reverse-type second liquid crystal layer 50, and the second liquid crystal layer is sandwiched by a pair of alignment films that can exert an alignment control force on the liquid crystal molecules 52 to maintain the vertical alignment 50.

In order to block the external light dimming member 10 at night, it is preferable that the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 can be adjusted to a maximum of 80% or more. In addition, in order to block the light control member 10 for external light in the evening, it is more preferable that the haze value of the second light control unit 40 can be adjusted to 85% or more. Furthermore, in order to sufficiently shield the external light dimming member 10 during the day, the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 is further preferably adjusted to 90% or more. By making the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 sufficiently high, the second dimming unit 40 can be made opaque by diffusing light. In addition, in order to be able to sufficiently recognize an area within 1 m through the light-adjusting member 10, the haze value of the second light-adjusting unit 40 is preferably adjusted to a minimum of 15% or less. In addition, in order to be able to sufficiently recognize an area within 5 m through the light-adjusting member 10, the haze value of the second light-adjusting unit 40 is preferably adjusted to be 10% or less. Furthermore, in order to keep the visibility through the light-adjusting member 10 good, the haze value of the second light-adjusting unit 40 is more preferably adjustable to be 5% or less. By making the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 sufficiently low, the second dimming unit 40 can be made sufficiently transparent.

In addition, the difference between the maximum haze value and the minimum haze value of the second dimming unit 40 is preferably 80% or more, more preferably 85% or more, so that the haze value can be clearly switched in the second dimming unit 40 .

Here, in the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the ordinary type, the maximum haze value of the second dimming unit 40 refers to the haze value in a state in which no voltage is applied to the second electrodes 43 and 44 (a state of 0V), The minimum haze value refers to a haze value in a state where a voltage of 50 V is applied to the second electrodes 43 and 44 with an AC wave of a rectangular wave having a duty ratio of 50% at 110 Hz. On the other hand, in the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the reverse type, the maximum haze value of the second dimming unit 40 refers to the application of an AC wave of a rectangular wave having a duty ratio of 50% to the second electrodes 43 and 44 at 110 Hz. The haze value in a state of a voltage of 50V, and the minimum haze value means a haze value in a state in which no voltage is applied to the second electrodes 43 and 44 (a state of 0V).

In the second dimming unit 40, the reflectance is preferably 10% or less, and more preferably 8% or less, in a state where the haze value is the largest. Here, the reflectance of the second dimming unit 40 refers to the reflectance (SCI) including regular reflection and diffuse reflection. The reflectance of the second dimming unit 40 can be measured by using, for example, a spectrocolorimeter and a colorimeter (CM-700d manufactured by Konica Minolta).

The reflectance of the second dimming unit 40 can be reduced by coloring the second dimming unit 40, preferably black, in a state where the haze value is the largest. The second dimming unit 40 may be colored by having, for example, a colored transparent layer. The colored transparent layer may be at least one of the second transparent base materials 41 and 42 , or may be a hard coat layer laminated on at least one of the second transparent base materials 41 and 42 . In addition, the second electrodes 43 and 44 may be colored and transparent.

Alternatively, the second liquid crystal layer 50 may contain the dichroic dye 53 . In the examples shown in FIGS. 3 to 6 , like the liquid crystal molecules 52 , the dichroic dyes 53 are arranged in the voids formed in the polymer 55 or inside the polymer network 56 . Like the liquid crystal molecules 52 , the dichroic dye 53 follows the wall surface of the polymer 55 or the wall surface of the polymer network 56 in a state where no voltage is applied. At this time, the second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a state of high haze, and furthermore, the color of the dichroic dye 53 is exhibited. The dichroic dye 53 may have various colors depending on its material, but is preferably black. On the other hand, in the state where the voltage is applied, the dichroic dye 53 is along the direction of the electric field generated by the voltage application. At this time, the second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a low haze state, and the color of the dichroic dye 53 does not appear. That is, the second liquid crystal layer 50 becomes transparent.

In addition, in the case where the second liquid crystal layer 50 does not contain the dichroic dye 53, in a state where a voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50, that is, in a low haze state, the total light transmittance of the second dimming unit 40 is preferably The total light transmittance of the second dimming unit 40 is preferably 50% or more in a state where no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 , that is, in a high haze state. In the case where the second liquid crystal layer 50 contains the dichroic dye 53, in a state where a voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50, that is, in a state in which the haze is low and the dichroic dye 53 does not exhibit a color, the second dimming unit The total light transmittance of 40 is preferably 20% or more. In addition, the total light transmittance of the second dimming unit 40 is preferably 10% or more in a state in which no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 , that is, in a high haze state and the dichroic dye 53 exhibits a color.

Here, as shown in FIG. 2 , in the dimming member 10 , the end of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is located more than the end of the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 , the end of the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 , and the reflection type The end portion of the polarizing plate 23 is positioned outside. In other words, the second liquid crystal layer 50 covers the entirety of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 , the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 . In addition, the end portion of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is positioned inward of the end portion of the first liquid crystal layer 35 . In other words, the second liquid crystal layer 50 and the sealing material 37 do not overlap. Here, the outer side refers to the side away from the center of the light control member 10 in the direction orthogonal to the lamination direction dL. In addition, the inner side refers to the side close to the center of the light control member 10 in the direction orthogonal to the lamination direction dL. The end portion of the first liquid crystal layer 35 refers to the contact surface with the sealing material 37 . In addition, the edge part of the 2nd liquid crystal layer 50 means the part along the edge which becomes the outer periphery of the polymer 55 or the polymer network 56. However, in the case where the end of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is positioned further outside than the end of the first absorption-type polarizer 21 , the end of the second absorption-type polarizer 22 , and the end of the reflection-type polarizer 23 , or when the end portion of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is positioned further inward than the end portion of the first liquid crystal layer 35 , the region in which the light control member 10 does not function increases. Therefore, the end of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is located on the outer side of the end of the first absorptive polarizer 21 , the end of the second absorptive polarizer 22 , and the end of the reflective polarizer 23 , or the second It is preferable that the length in which the end of the liquid crystal layer 50 is located inward from the end of the first liquid crystal layer 35 is shorter. Specifically, the end of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is located 0.4 mm or less outside the end of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 , the end of the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 , and the end of the reflective polarizing plate 23 . As for the position, the end of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is preferably located at a position 0.4 mm or less inward from the end of the first liquid crystal layer 35 . In addition, in FIG. 2 , the position of the end of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is indicated by the dotted line A, and the end of the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 , the end of the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 , and the reflective polarizing plate 23 The end portion is indicated by the dotted line B, and the end portion of the first liquid crystal layer 35 is indicated by the dotted line C.

Next, operations of one example and another example of the light control member 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 16 . FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an example of the light control member 10 . FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an example of the light control member 10 . In FIGS. 7 and 12 , components that can act on incident light are extracted from the dimming member 10 and are schematically shown. In FIGS. 8 to 11 and FIGS. 13 to 16 , single-directional arrows indicate the traveling direction of light, and double-headed arrows surrounded by circles indicate polarization states of light. In an example of the action of the dimming member 10 to be described below, the first liquid crystal layer 35 of the first dimming cell 20 is of the TN type, and the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 are positive Post Nicole configuration. Moreover, the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 is a common type of polymer-dispersed liquid crystal layer.

First, as shown in FIG. 7 , a description will be given of a dimming member in the case where the first dimming unit 20 is arranged so that the side where the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 is arranged is the side facing the second dimming unit 40 . 10 role. As shown in FIG. 7 , when the side where the first dimming unit 20 is arranged so that the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 is arranged becomes the side opposite to the second dimming unit 40, it is assumed that the first dimming unit 20 is adjusted from the first The dimming member 10 can be observed from the side of the light unit 20 . For example, in the case of using such a dimming member 10 as the sun visor shown in FIG. 1 , the first dimming unit 20 side is arranged on the inside of the vehicle, and the second dimming unit 40 side is arranged on the side facing the front windshield 5 . outside of the car.

First, a case where no voltage is applied to both the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 8 . The light L1 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L1 incident on the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 of the first dimming unit 20 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in the other direction. After that, in the first liquid crystal layer 35, the polarization direction of the light L1 is rotated by 90°. Thereby, the light L1 is not reflected or absorbed, but is transmitted through the second absorptive polarizer 22 and the reflective polarizer 23 and the first absorptive polarizer 21 arranged in crossed Nicols. The light L1 transmitted through the first dimming unit 20 is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a high haze state. Therefore, the light L1 is diffused and transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 at the same time. In this way, the light L1 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is emitted in a state of being diffused from the side of the second dimming unit 40 .

The light L2 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a high haze state. Therefore, the light L2 is diffused and transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 at the same time. The light L2 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the first dimming unit 20 . The light L2 is diffused, unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L2 incident on the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in one direction. Since the transmission axes of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 are arranged in parallel Nicols, the light L2 transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 is directly transmitted through the reflective polarizing plate 23 . After that, in the first liquid crystal layer 35, the polarization direction of the light L1 is rotated by 90°. Thereby, the light L2 is not absorbed, but is transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 arranged in crossed Nicols. In this way, the light L2 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the second dimming unit 40 is emitted in a state of being diffused from the side of the first dimming unit 20 .

From this, it can be understood that the dimming member 10 can be observed when the dimming member 10 is observed from the side of the first dimming unit 20 when no voltage is applied to both the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 . It is cloudy and opaque due to light diffusion, and even if the light control member 10 is observed from the second light control unit 40 side, the light control member 10 is cloudy and opaque due to light diffusion. In addition, when the reflectivity of the second dimming unit 40 is 10% or less in the state where the haze value is the largest, the first dimming unit 20 side and the second dimming unit 40 side are observed to be dark.

Next, a case where a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 9 . The light L3 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L3 incident on the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 of the first dimming unit 20 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in the other direction. After that, the light L3 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 without rotating the direction of the polarized light. Therefore, the light L3 is reflected by the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 arranged in crossed Nicols. The light L3 reflected by the reflective polarizing plate 23 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 again, and is emitted from the side of the first dimming unit 20 . In this way, the light L3 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is emitted from the side of the first dimming unit 20 .

The light L4 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a high haze state. Therefore, the light L4 is diffused and transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 at the same time. The light L4 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is diffused unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. A part of the light L4 is incident on the first dimming unit 20, and another part of the light L4 is absorbed by the interface between the second dimming unit 40 and the first dimming unit 20, for example, the first dimming unit 20 and the first bonding layer 17 or the interface between the second dimming unit 40 and the first bonding layer 17 is reflected. A part of the light L4 incident on the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in one direction. Since the transmission axis of the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 and the transmission axis of the reflection-type polarizing plate 23 are arranged in parallel Nicols, a part of the light L4 transmitted through the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 is directly transmitted through the reflection-type polarizing plate twenty three. After that, a part of the light L4 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 without rotating the direction of the polarized light. Therefore, a part of the light L4 is absorbed by the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 arranged in crossed Nicols. In this way, part of the light L4 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the second dimming unit 40 is absorbed by the dimming member 10 and is not emitted. On the other hand, another part of the light L4 reflected by the interface between the second dimming unit 40 and the first dimming unit 20 is incident on the second dimming unit 40 again and diffuses. In this way, the other part of the light L4 incident on the light control member 10 from the second light control unit 40 side is emitted in a state of being diffused from the second light control unit 40 .

From this, it can be understood that when a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 , when the dimming member 10 is viewed from the side of the first dimming unit 20 , the dimming member 10 is As a reflection surface observation of reflected light, when the light control member 10 is observed from the second light control unit 40 side, the light control member 10 is observed to be cloudy and opaque due to light diffusion. In addition, when the reflectivity of the second dimming unit 40 is 10% or less in the state where the haze value is the largest, it is observed that the second dimming unit 40 side is dark.

Next, a case where no voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and a voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 10 . The light L5 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L5 incident on the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 of the first dimming unit 20 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in the other direction. After that, in the first liquid crystal layer 35, the polarization direction of the light L5 is rotated by 90°. Thereby, the light L5 is not reflected or absorbed, but is transmitted through the second absorptive polarizer 22 and the reflective polarizer 23 and the first absorptive polarizer 21 arranged in crossed Nicols. The light L5 transmitted through the first dimming unit 20 is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a low haze state. Therefore, the light L5 is transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 without being diffused. In this way, the light L5 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is emitted from the side of the second dimming unit 40 .

The light L6 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a low haze state. Therefore, the light L6 is transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 without being diffused. The light L6 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the first dimming unit 20 . The light L6 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L6 incident on the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in one direction. Since the transmission axes of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 are arranged in parallel Nicols, the light L6 transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 is directly transmitted through the reflective polarizing plate 23 . After that, in the first liquid crystal layer 35, the polarization direction of the light L6 is rotated by 90°. Thereby, the light L6 is not absorbed, but is transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 arranged in crossed Nicols. In this way, the light L6 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the second dimming unit 40 is emitted from the side of the first dimming unit 20 .

From this, it can be understood that when the voltage is not applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50, if the dimming component 10 is observed from the side of the first dimming unit 20, it can be observed that the dimming component 10 can be adjusted. The optical member 10 is transparent, and even if the optical member 10 is viewed from the side of the second optical adjustment unit 40, the optical member 10 can be observed to be transparent.

Finally, a case where voltages are applied to both the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 11 . The light L7 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L7 incident on the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 of the first dimming unit 20 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in the other direction. After that, the light L7 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 without rotating the direction of the polarized light. Therefore, the light L7 is reflected by the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 arranged in crossed Nicols. The light L7 reflected by the reflective polarizing plate 23 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 again, and is emitted from the side of the first dimming unit 20 . In this way, the light L7 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is emitted from the side of the first dimming unit 20 .

The light L8 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a low haze state. Therefore, the light L8 is transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 without being diffused. The light L8 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the first dimming unit 20 . The light L8 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L8 incident on the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in one direction. Since the transmission axes of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 are arranged in parallel Nicols, the light L8 transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 is directly transmitted through the reflective polarizing plate 23 . After that, the light L8 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 without rotating the direction of the polarized light. Therefore, the light L8 is absorbed by the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 arranged in crossed Nicols. In this way, the light L8 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is absorbed by the dimming member 10 and is not emitted.

From this, it can be understood that when a voltage is applied to both the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 , when the dimming member 10 is viewed from the side of the first dimming unit 20 , the dimming member 10 is regarded as reflected light. If the dimming member 10 is observed from the second dimming unit 40 side, it can be observed that the dimming member 10 is black and shielded from light.

As described above, by applying voltages to the first dimming unit 20 and the second dimming unit 40, the states observed from the first dimming unit 20 side and the second dimming unit 40 can be controlled as shown in Table 1 below. side observed state.

Table 1

That is, it can be understood that in the light control member 10, the transparent state and the opaque state can be switched between the transparent state and the opaque state when viewed from the side of the first light control unit 20 by whether or not a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50. and reflection state. In addition, it can be understood that, in the observation from the second dimming unit 40 side, the transparent state and the opaque state are switched, but there is no reflection state, and the reflection of light is suppressed.

Next, as shown in FIG. 12 , the operation of the light-adjusting member 10 in the case where the side where the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 is arranged is the side facing the second light-adjusting unit 40 will be described. As shown in FIG. 12 , when the side where the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 is arranged is the side facing the second dimming unit 40 , it is assumed that the second dimming unit 40 can be viewed from the side Dimming component 10 . For example, in the case of using such a light control member 10 as the sun visor shown in FIG. 1 , the first light control unit 20 side is disposed on the vehicle outer side facing the front windshield 5 , and the second light control unit 40 side is disposed in Inside the car.

First, a case where no voltage is applied to both the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 13 . The light L9 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L9 incident on the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in one direction. Since the transmission axes of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 are arranged in parallel Nicols, the light L9 transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 is directly transmitted through the reflective polarizing plate 23 . After that, in the first liquid crystal layer 35, the polarization direction of the light L9 is rotated by 90°. Thereby, the light L9 is not absorbed, but is transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 arranged in crossed Nicols. The light L9 transmitted through the first dimming unit 20 is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a high haze state. Therefore, the light L9 is diffused and transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 at the same time. In this way, the light L9 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is emitted in a state of being diffused from the side of the second dimming unit 40 .

The light L10 incident on the dimming member 10 from the second dimming unit 40 side is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a high haze state. Therefore, the light L10 is diffused to transmit that through the second liquid crystal layer 50 at the same time. The light L10 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the first dimming unit 20 . The light L10 is diffused, unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L10 incident on the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 of the first dimming unit 20 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in the other direction. After that, in the first liquid crystal layer 35, the polarization direction of the light L10 is rotated by 90°. Thereby, the light L10 is not reflected or absorbed, but is transmitted through the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 and the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 arranged in crossed Nicols. In this way, the light L10 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the second dimming unit 40 is emitted in a state of being diffused from the side of the first dimming unit 20 .

From this, it can be understood that the dimming member 10 can be observed when the dimming member 10 is observed from the side of the first dimming unit 20 when no voltage is applied to both the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 . It is cloudy and opaque due to light diffusion, and even if the light control member 10 is observed from the second light control unit 40 side, the light control member 10 is cloudy and opaque due to light diffusion. In addition, when the reflectivity of the second dimming unit 40 is 10% or less in the state where the haze value is the largest, the first dimming unit 20 side and the second dimming unit 40 side are observed to be dark.

Next, a case where a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 14 . The light L11 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L11 incident on the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in one direction. Since the transmission axes of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 are arranged in parallel Nicols, the light L11 transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 is directly transmitted through the reflective polarizing plate 23 . After that, the light L11 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 without rotating the polarization direction. Therefore, the light L11 is absorbed by the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 arranged in crossed Nicols. In this way, the light L11 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is absorbed by the dimming member 10 and is not emitted.

The light L12 incident on the dimming member 10 from the second dimming unit 40 side is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a high haze state. Therefore, the light L12 is diffused and simultaneously transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 . The light L12 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the first dimming unit 20 . The light L12 is diffused, unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L12 incident on the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 of the first dimming unit 20 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in the other direction. After that, the light L12 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 without rotating the direction of the polarized light. Therefore, the light L12 is reflected by the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 arranged in crossed Nicols. The light L12 reflected by the reflective polarizing plate 23 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 again, and is incident from the first dimming unit 20 to the second dimming unit 40 . The light L12 is diffused and simultaneously transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 , and is emitted from the second dimming unit 40 side. In this way, the light L12 incident on the dimming member 10 from the second dimming unit 40 side is emitted in a state of being diffused from the second dimming unit 40 side.

From this, it can be understood that when a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50, if the dimming member 10 is observed from the side of the first dimming unit 20, the dimming can be observed. The member 10 is black and shielded from light, and when the light control member 10 is observed from the second light control unit 40 side, the light control member 10 is observed to be cloudy and opaque due to light diffusion. In addition, when the reflectivity of the second dimming unit 40 is 10% or less in the state where the haze value is the largest, it is observed that the second dimming unit 40 side is dark.

Next, a case where no voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and a voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 15 . The light L13 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L13 incident on the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in one direction. Since the transmission axes of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 are arranged in parallel Nicols, the light L13 transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 is directly transmitted through the reflective polarizing plate 23 . After that, in the first liquid crystal layer 35, the polarization direction of the light L13 is rotated by 90°. Thereby, the light L13 is not absorbed, but is transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 arranged in crossed Nicols. The light L13 transmitted through the first dimming unit 20 is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a low haze state. Therefore, the light L13 is transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 without being diffused. In this way, the light L13 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is emitted from the side of the second dimming unit 40 .

The light L14 incident on the dimming member 10 from the second dimming unit 40 side is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a low haze state. Therefore, the light L14 is transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 without being diffused. The light L14 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the first dimming unit 20 . The light L14 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L14 incident on the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 of the first dimming unit 20 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in the other direction. After that, in the first liquid crystal layer 35, the polarization direction of the light L14 is rotated by 90°. Thereby, the light L14 is not reflected or absorbed, but is transmitted through the second absorptive polarizer 22 and the reflective polarizer 23 and the first absorptive polarizer 21 arranged in crossed Nicols. In this way, the light L14 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the second dimming unit 40 is emitted from the side of the first dimming unit 20 .

From this, it can be understood that in the case where no voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and a voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 , if the dimming member 10 is observed from the side of the first dimming unit 20 , the dimming can be observed. The member 10 is transparent, and even when the dimming member 10 is viewed from the second dimming unit 40 side, the dimming member 10 can be observed to be transparent.

Finally, a case where voltages are applied to both the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 16 . The light L15 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L15 incident on the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in one direction. Since the transmission axes of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 are arranged in parallel Nicols, the light L15 transmitted through the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 is directly transmitted through the reflective polarizing plate 23 . After that, the light L15 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 without rotating the direction of the polarized light. Therefore, the light L15 is absorbed by the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 arranged in crossed Nicols. In this way, the light L15 incident on the dimming member 10 from the side of the first dimming unit 20 is absorbed by the dimming member 10 and is not emitted.

The light L16 incident on the dimming member 10 from the second dimming unit 40 side is incident on the second liquid crystal layer 50 of the second dimming unit 40 . The second liquid crystal layer 50 is in a low haze state. Therefore, the light L16 is transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 without being diffused. The light L16 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is incident on the first dimming unit 20 . The light L16 transmitted through the second dimming unit 40 is external light or the like, and is unpolarized light. That is, polarized light components in arbitrary directions are included. The light L16 incident to the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 of the first dimming unit 20 transmits only the linearly polarized light component vibrating in the other direction. After that, the light L16 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 without rotating the direction of the polarized light. Therefore, the light L16 is reflected by the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 arranged in crossed Nicols. The light L16 reflected by the reflective polarizing plate 23 is transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 again, and is incident from the first dimming unit 20 to the second dimming unit 40 . The light L16 is transmitted through the second liquid crystal layer 50 and is emitted from the second dimming unit 40 side. In this way, the light L16 incident on the dimming member 10 from the second dimming unit 40 side is emitted from the second dimming unit 40 side.

From this, it can be understood that when a voltage is applied to both the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 , when the dimming member 10 is viewed from the side of the first dimming unit 20 , the dimming member 10 can be observed to be black. When the light-adjusting member 10 is blocked from light, and the light-adjusting member 10 is viewed from the side of the second light-adjusting unit 40, the light-adjusting member 10 is observed as a reflecting surface for reflecting light.

As described above, by applying voltages to the first dimming unit 20 and the second dimming unit 40, the state observed from the first dimming unit 20 side and the state observed from the second dimming unit 40 side can be controlled as shown in Table 2 below to the state.

Table 2

That is, it can be understood that in the light control member 10, the transparent state and the opaque state can be switched between the transparent state and the opaque state when viewed from the second light control unit 40 side by whether or not a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50. and reflection state. In addition, it can be understood that the transparent state and the opaque state can be switched between the transparent state and the opaque state when viewed from the side of the first dimming unit 20 , but the reflection state is not present, and the reflection of light is suppressed.

In the description of the above functions, the first liquid crystal layer 35 of the first dimming unit 20 is of the TN mode. However, for example, the first liquid crystal layer 35 of the first dimming unit 20 may be of the VA type. When the first liquid crystal layer 35 is of the VA type, the polarization direction of the light transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 is rotated by 90° in a state where a voltage is applied. Therefore, the state of the light transmitted through the first dimming cell 20 when a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and when no voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35, and the liquid crystal of the first liquid crystal layer 35 are of the TN mode The opposite is true.

In addition, in the description of the above-mentioned functions, the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 and the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 are arranged in crossed Nicols. However, the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 and the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 may be arranged in parallel Nicols. When the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 and the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 are arranged in parallel Nicols, if the polarization direction is rotated by 90° in the first liquid crystal layer 35, the first absorption-type polarization is transmitted through the Light of one of the plate 21 and the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 is absorbed by the other. Therefore, the transmission through the first dimming unit 20 in the case where the polarization direction is rotated by 90° by applying a voltage to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the case where the polarization direction is not rotated by 90° by applying a voltage to the first liquid crystal layer 35 The state of the light is opposite to the case where the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 are arranged in crossed Nicols.

However, when a light-adjusting member is used as a sun visor of an automobile or the like, it is required to be in a transparent state in order to ensure the field of view through the sun visor, and in an opaque state in order to block external light, especially on the side of the automobile that is viewed from the occupant. , and in the reflection state in order to check the situation in the vehicle. That is, it is required that a transparent state, an opaque state, and a reflective state can be switched in the light-adjusting member. However, as described above, the optical member disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-211084 can only be switched to a translucent state, an opaque state, and a reflective state, and can only be switched to a side where observation is not assumed to be possible. Transparent state and opaque state. That is, when the optical member of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-211084 is applied to the sun visor as a light-adjusting member, only the translucent state, the opaque state, and the reflective state can be switched in observation from one side, or You can only switch between transparent and opaque states.

On the other hand, as for the light control member 10 of the present embodiment, as described above, in the example shown in FIG. 7 viewed from the side of the first light control unit 20 and in the example shown in FIG. When viewed from the second dimming unit 40 side, the transparent state, the opaque state and the reflective state can be switched. Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG. 7 when viewed from the side of the second light control unit 40 and the example shown in FIG. 12 when viewed from the side of the first light control unit 20 , there is no reflection state and light is reflected by Suppressed and less prone to accidental reflections.

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 7 , when the first dimming unit 20 is arranged so that the side where the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 is arranged is the side facing the second dimming unit 40, Even if no voltage is applied to both the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 , the dimming member 10 can switch the transparent state, the opaque state, and the reflective state. Therefore, the light-adjusting member 10 can be switched to the transparent state, the opaque state, and the reflective state in a power-saving manner.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 12 , when the first dimming unit 20 is arranged so that the side where the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 is arranged is the side opposite to the second dimming unit 40 , the dimming unit 20 can be adjusted to The first liquid crystal layer 35 having a relatively large weight among the components included in the light component 10 is arranged near the center of the light control component 10 . Therefore, the stability of the dimming member 10 can be improved.

In addition, in the case where the transmission axis of the first absorption type polarizing plate 21 and the transmission axis of the second absorption type polarizing plate 22 are arranged in parallel Nicols, if the transmission axis of the first absorption type polarizing plate 21 and the second absorption type polarizing plate 21 are If the transmission axis of the type polarizing plate 22 is slightly deviated from the parallel Nicol configuration, even if the polarization direction of the light transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 is rotated by 90°, the light transmitted through the first dimming unit 20 is likely to occur. Light. The reason for this is considered to be that the rotation of the polarization direction of the light transmitted through the first liquid crystal layer 35 is not only 90° completely, but also varies due to variations in the thickness of the first liquid crystal layer 35 and the like. That is, it is difficult to sufficiently block light in the first light control unit 20 of the light control member 10 . On the other hand, in the case where the transmission axis of the first absorption type polarizing plate 21 and the transmission axis of the second absorption type polarizing plate 22 are arranged in crossed Nicols, even if the transmission axis of the first absorption type polarizing plate 21 and the transmission axis of the second absorption type polarizing plate 22 are arranged in crossed Nicols, The transmission axis of the second absorptive polarizing plate 22 is deviated from the crossed Nicols configuration, so that the light transmitted through the first dimming unit 20 is not easily generated. That is, when the transmission axes of the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 and the transmission axes of the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 are arranged in crossed Nicols, compared with the case where they are arranged in parallel Nicols, In the first light-adjusting unit 20 of the light-adjusting member 10, it is easy to sufficiently block light. Therefore, it is preferable that the transmission axis of the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 and the transmission axis of the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 are arranged in crossed Nicols.

Therefore, in order to absorb more light in the first dimming unit 20 especially in the state where no voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35, it is preferable that the transmission axis of the first absorption type polarizing plate 21 and the second absorption type polarizing plate The transmission axes of 22 are arranged in crossed Nicols, and the liquid crystal molecules of the first liquid crystal layer 35 are driven by a VA system that does not rotate the polarization direction in the first liquid crystal layer 35 when no voltage is applied. In this case, in a state where no voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 , the minimum visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 can be set to 0.5% or less.

In addition, in the state where the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 is the largest, the reflectance is 10% or less. In the case of observing such a second dimming unit 40, it can be observed that the second dimming unit 40 is dark. Therefore, it is suppressed that the second light control unit 40 reflects light from the outside and the light control member 10 is difficult to be conspicuous.

Furthermore, the second liquid crystal layer 50 contains the dichroic dye 53 . According to the dichroic dye 53, when the second light adjusting unit 40 is in a high haze state, the second light adjusting unit 40 can be colored into any color, such as black. Since the second liquid crystal layer 50 contains the dichroic dye 53, the light control member 10 can be made less conspicuous when the second light control unit 40 is in a high haze state. Alternatively, when the second dimming unit 40 is in a high haze state, the appearance of the dimming component 10 can be coordinated with the surrounding environment.

For example, when a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 of the first dimming unit 20 in the above-mentioned example, the portion where the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 , the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 overlap Turns black without passing the light. When the end of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is located inward of the end of the first absorptive polarizer 21 , the end of the second absorptive polarizer 22 , and the end of the reflective polarizer 23 , The first absorption type polarizing plate 21 , the second absorption type polarizing plate 22 , and the reflective polarizing plate 23 have portions not covered by the second liquid crystal layer 50 . For example, when a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 in the above-mentioned example, the portion covered by the second liquid crystal layer 50 is observed to be cloudy and not covered by the second liquid crystal layer 50 . The covered part is black. That is, it can be observed that the cloudy part and the black part of the light control member 10 coexist. In particular, when the dimming member 10 is observed, the black part is more conspicuous than the cloudy part, and the appearance of the dimming member 10 is damaged.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the end of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is located more than the end of the first absorption-type polarizing plate 21 , the end of the second absorption-type polarizing plate 22 , and the end of the reflective polarizing plate 23 outside position. In other words, the second liquid crystal layer 50 covers the entirety of the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 , the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 and the reflective polarizing plate 23 . Therefore, for example, when a voltage is applied to the first liquid crystal layer 35 and no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 in the above-mentioned example, a black part is not observed, and the whole is cloudy. Therefore, the appearance of the light-adjusting member 10 is not easily damaged.

When the end portion of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is positioned outside the end portion of the first liquid crystal layer 35 , the second liquid crystal layer 50 overlaps with the sealing material 37 . The sealing material 37 can scatter the transmitted light. If the second liquid crystal layer 50 overlaps the sealing material 37, for example, in the case where no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 in the above-mentioned example, light is absorbed by the second liquid crystal layer 50 and the sealing material 37 at the overlapping portion. The liquid crystal layer 50 and the sealing material 37 scatter. Therefore, it can be observed that the portion where the second liquid crystal layer 50 and the sealing material 37 overlap is particularly white and conspicuous, and the appearance of the light-adjusting member 10 is impaired.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the end portion of the second liquid crystal layer 50 is positioned inward of the end portion of the first liquid crystal layer 35 . In other words, the second liquid crystal layer 50 and the sealing material 37 do not overlap. Therefore, for example, when no voltage is applied to the second liquid crystal layer 50 in the above-described example, no portion where the light is doubly scattered can be observed, and the whole is uniformly cloudy. Since there is no white conspicuous portion when viewed, the appearance of the dimming member 10 is not easily damaged.

In addition, the second bonding layer 18 covers the end of the second dimming unit 40 . By covering the end of the second light-adjusting unit 40 with the second bonding layer 18 , the ends of the second transparent substrates 41 and 42 of the second light-adjusting unit 40 and the end of the second liquid crystal layer 50 can be joined by the second bonding Layer 18 covers. Therefore, peeling of the second transparent base materials 41 and 42 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 from the end portions of the second transparent base materials 41 and 42 is suppressed. In addition, the infiltration of moisture or the like between the second transparent substrates 41 and 42 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 from the outside is suppressed. Therefore, deterioration of the second electrodes 43 , 44 and the like disposed between the second transparent substrates 41 , 42 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 is suppressed. That is, the deterioration of the performance of the dimming member 10 is suppressed.

As described above, the dimming member 10 of the present embodiment includes the first dimming unit 20 that can adjust the transmittance of visible light by applying a voltage, and the first dimming unit 20 that can adjust the haze value by applying a voltage. The second dimming unit 40 , the first dimming unit 20 has a first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and a second absorbing polarizing plate 22 , and a The first liquid crystal cell 30, and the reflective polarizing plate 23 disposed between the first absorbing polarizing plate 21 and the first liquid crystal cell 30, the first liquid crystal cell 30 can be switched in a state of maintaining the polarization direction by applying a voltage A state in which light is transmitted, and a state in which light is transmitted by changing the direction of polarized light. According to such a light-adjusting member 10, the transparent state, the opaque state, and the reflective state can be switched when viewed from the second light-adjusting unit 40 side.

Such a light-adjusting member 10 is not limited to the sun visor shown in FIG. 1 , and can be applied to, for example, an opening or a transparent portion such as a window of a moving object such as a building or an automobile.

In addition, various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments.

For example, the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 can be adjusted to not only a high state and a low state, but also an intermediate state by appropriately adjusting the voltage applied to the first dimming unit 20 . That is, the first dimming unit 20 can also take at least three visible light transmittances. Taking a certain visible light transmittance means that the visible light transmittance can be maintained. By setting the visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit 20 to an intermediate state, part of the light entering the first dimming unit 20 from the side of the first absorbing polarizer 21 can be transmitted and the other part of the light can be blocked, and the Part of the light incident on the first dimming unit 20 from the second absorbing polarizing plate 22 side is transmitted and the other part is reflected. Therefore, in the observation from the side of the first dimming unit 20, the first dimming unit 20 can be made semi-transmitting and semi-shielding, and in the observation from the side of the second dimming unit 40, the first dimming unit 20 can be made semi-transmitting and semi-shielding. Transflective. That is, the light-adjusting member 10 can be placed in a semi-transparent and semi-reflective state.

In addition, the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 can not only take a high state and a low state, but also can be adjusted to take an intermediate state by appropriately adjusting the voltage applied to the second dimming unit 40 . That is, the second dimming unit 40 may also take at least three haze values. Taking a certain haze value means that the haze value can be maintained. By setting the haze value of the second dimming unit 40 to an intermediate state, part of the light incident on the second dimming unit 40 can be transmitted and the other part can be diffused. Therefore, in the observation from the side of the first dimming unit 20, the first dimming unit 20 can be made semi-transmissive and semi-diffusing, and in the observation from the side of the second dimming unit 40, the first dimming unit 20 can be made semi-transmissive and semi-diffusing. Transmissive semi-diffusion or semi-reflective semi-diffusion. That is, the light-adjusting member can be set to a semi-transparent and semi-opaque state or a semi-reflective and semi-opaque state.

In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 2 , the second bonding layer 18 covers the end portion of the second dimming unit 40 . However, as shown in FIG. 17 , instead of the second bonding layer 18 covering the end of the second dimming unit 40 , the first bonding layer 17 may cover the end of the second dimming unit 40 , as shown in FIG. 18 , Instead of the second bonding layer 18 covering the end of the second light control unit 40 , the first adhesive layer 27 may cover the end of the second light control unit 40 . Alternatively, it is not limited to the illustrated example, and the second adhesive layer 28 may cover the end of the second dimming unit 40 . Furthermore, the first bonding layer 17 , the second bonding layer 18 , the first adhesive layer 27 , and the second adhesive layer 28 may cover the end portion of the second dimming unit 40 in multiple layers. That is, at least any one of the first bonding layer 17 , the second bonding layer 18 , the first adhesive layer 27 , and the second adhesive layer 28 may cover the end of the second dimming unit 40 . Even in this case, peeling of the second transparent substrates 41 and 42 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 from the end portions of the second transparent substrates 41 and 42 is suppressed, and moisture or the like penetrates into the second transparent substrate from the outside. The situation between the materials 41 and 42 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 is also suppressed. Therefore, deterioration of the second electrodes 43 , 44 and the like disposed between the second transparent substrates 41 , 42 and the second liquid crystal layer 50 is suppressed. That is, the deterioration of the performance of the dimming member 10 is suppressed.

Description of reference numerals

10 Dimming parts

11 The first transparent support

12 Second transparent support

17 First bonding layer

18 Second bonding layer

20 The first dimming unit

21 The first absorbing polarizing plate

22 Second absorbing polarizing plate

23 Reflective polarizer

27 The first adhesive layer

28 Second Adhesive Layer

30 The first liquid crystal cell

31, 32 The first transparent substrate

33, 34 The first electrode

35 The first liquid crystal layer

37 Sealing material

40 Second dimming unit

41, 42 Second transparent substrate

43, 44 Second electrode

50 Second liquid crystal layer

51 Liquid Crystal Materials

52 Liquid crystal molecules

53 Dichroic Pigments

55 Polymers

56 Polymer Networks

Claims (18)

1. A dimming component comprising: a first dimming unit, which can adjust the visible light transmittance by applying a voltage; The second dimming unit, which is stacked on the first dimming unit, can adjust the haze value by applying a voltage, The first dimming unit has a first absorption type polarizing plate and a second absorption type polarizing plate, a first liquid crystal unit disposed between the first absorption type polarizing plate and the second absorption type polarizing plate, and a reflective polarizer disposed between the first absorption polarizer and the first liquid crystal cell, The first liquid crystal cell can switch between a state of transmitting light while maintaining the polarization direction and a state of transmitting light by changing the polarization direction by applying a voltage. 2. The dimming component of claim 1, wherein, The first dimming unit is configured such that the side on which the first absorption-type polarizing plate is arranged becomes the side opposite to the second dimming unit. 3. The dimming component of claim 1, wherein, The first dimming unit is configured such that the side on which the second absorption-type polarizing plate is arranged becomes the side opposite to the second dimming unit. 4. The dimming member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The transmission axis of the first absorption-type polarizing plate and the transmission axis of the second absorption-type polarizing plate are arranged in crossed Nicols. 5. The dimming member according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The first dimming unit can take at least three visible light transmittances. 6. The dimming member according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The maximum visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit is more than 20%, The minimum visible light transmittance of the first dimming unit is below 2%. 7. The dimming member according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The second dimming unit may take at least three haze values. 8. The dimming member according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The maximum haze value of the second dimming unit is above 80%, The minimum haze value of the second dimming unit is 15% or less. 9. The dimming component according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The difference between the maximum haze value and the minimum haze value of the second dimming unit is 80% or more. 10. The dimming member according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein The first liquid crystal cell is in TN mode, VA mode, IPS mode or FFS mode. 11. The dimming component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: the second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage, The second liquid crystal layer is a polymer dispersion type liquid crystal layer or a polymer network type liquid crystal layer. 12. The dimming component according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein In the state where the haze value of the second dimming unit is the largest, the reflectance is 10% or less. 13. The dimming component of claim 12, wherein, The second dimming unit has a colored transparent layer. 14. The dimming component of claim 12 or 13, wherein, The second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage, and a second electrode layer that applies a voltage to the second liquid crystal layer, The second electrode layer is colored. 15. The dimming component according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: the second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage, The second liquid crystal layer includes a dichroic dye. 16. The dimming component according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: the second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage, The end of the second liquid crystal layer is located outside the end of the first absorption-type polarizing plate, the end of the second absorption-type polarizing plate, and the end of the reflective polarizing plate. 17. The dimming component according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein: the first liquid crystal cell has a first liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose direction is changed by applying a voltage, the second dimming unit has a second liquid crystal layer including liquid crystal molecules whose directions are changed by applying a voltage, The end portion of the second liquid crystal layer is located inward of the end portion of the first liquid crystal layer. 18. The dimming component according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein: The dimming member further includes: a transparent support that supports the first dimming unit and the second dimming unit; and a first bonding layer that connects the first dimming unit and the second dimming unit light unit bonding; a second bonding layer that bonds the transparent support and the second dimming unit, The first dimming unit also has: a first adhesive layer, which adheres the reflective polarizing plate and the first liquid crystal cell; and a second adhesive layer, which adheres the second absorbing polarizing plate bonding with the first liquid crystal cell, At least one of the first bonding layer, the second bonding layer, the first adhesive layer, and the second adhesive layer covers the end of the second light-adjusting unit.

Images