JP7720030B2 - Aerial input device, aerial input display device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an aerial input device and an aerial input display device having an aerial input device.

Input devices are known that input information based on information displayed on the display surface of a display device. One such input device is a contact-type position detection sensor, known as a touch panel sensor, that is provided on the display surface.

Currently, there is a demand for non-contact position detection sensors to prevent contact infection of viruses and other pathogens. Infrared sensors are known as sensors that can detect position without touching a display surface or the like. A non-contact position detection sensor can detect the position of an object, such as a finger, by placing the object in a detectable position. By placing such a non-contact position detection sensor at a position away from the display surface of a display device so that it can detect an object, information based on the detected position is input. Therefore, a user can input information displayed on the display surface without touching the display surface.

It is being considered to install such a non-contact position detection sensor in an existing display device. By utilizing an existing display device, it is possible to realize, at low cost, an input device that allows for contactless input of information based on the information displayed on the display surface. However, because the detection position to which the non-contact position detection sensor is sensitive is invisible to the user of the device, the user may not be able to properly recognize the detection position. This could result in the inability to properly input information or the user unintentionally touching the display surface.

In addition to such non-contact position detection sensors, it is also possible to provide an aerial imaging device that forms an image in the air, as described in Patent Document 1, for example. When the aerial imaging device is combined with a non-contact position detection sensor, the position of the image formed by the aerial imaging device corresponds to the position to which the non-contact position detection sensor is sensitive. By observing the image formed by the aerial imaging device, the user can recognize the position to which the non-contact position detection sensor is sensitive. This makes it possible to input information appropriately without touching the display surface.

WO 2009/131128

However, aerial imaging devices such as those described in Patent Document 1 have optical layout constraints due to factors such as the positional relationship between the illumination components and optical elements used for imaging, and the user's observation position. This makes it difficult to install such an aerial imaging device in an existing display device. It is particularly difficult to install an aerial imaging device in an existing display device in a space-saving manner. In other words, it is difficult to create a device that allows users to input information appropriately without touching the display surface at low cost and in a small space using an existing display device.

The object of the present invention is to easily and space-savingly install an aerial imaging device on an existing display device that allows users to recognize positions that can be detected by a non-contact position detection sensor.

The aerial input device of the present invention comprises:
A lighting element;
a hologram sheet that forms a recorded image on an imaging surface using light from the illumination member;
a position detection sensor having sensitivity at a detection position corresponding to the imaging surface,
the detection position is spaced apart from the hologram sheet,
The distance between the illumination member and the hologram sheet is less than the length of the imaging plane in a first direction, which is the direction in which the hologram sheet is irradiated with light from the illumination member projected onto the sheet surface of the hologram sheet.

The aerial input device of the present invention comprises:
A second illumination member;
a second hologram sheet that forms an image recorded by light from the second illumination member on a second imaging plane,
The second illumination member may be disposed in a different direction from the illumination member with respect to the hologram sheet.

In the aerial input device of the present invention,
the illumination member and the second illumination member are provided at positions facing each other in the first direction,
The second hologram sheet may be disposed adjacent to the hologram sheet in the first direction.

In the aerial input device of the present invention,
the hologram sheet is disposed closer to the illumination member than the second illumination member,
The second hologram sheet may be disposed closer to the second illumination member than the illumination member.

In the aerial input device of the present invention, the second hologram sheet may be laminated on the hologram sheet.

In the aerial input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a plurality of light sources aligned in a direction along the sheet surface of the hologram sheet.

In the aerial input device of the present invention, the light emission of the multiple light sources may be controlled separately.

In the aerial input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a light source and a lens disposed between the light source and the hologram sheet.

In the aerial input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a light source and a prism disposed between the light source and the hologram sheet.

In the aerial input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a light source and a light transmission direction control film disposed between the light source and the hologram sheet.

In the aerial input device of the present invention, the illumination member may include a light source and a shielding member that covers the light source from the side opposite the hologram sheet.

In the aerial input device of the present invention, the detection position may be located between the illumination member and the hologram sheet in a direction normal to the sheet surface of the hologram sheet.

In the aerial input device of the present invention, the size of the image recorded on the hologram sheet may increase with increasing distance from the illumination member.

The aerial input device of the present invention may further include a reflecting member that reflects light from the illumination member toward the hologram sheet.

The aerial input display device of the present invention comprises:
a display device having a display surface for displaying an image;
The hologram sheet is provided with an air input device provided on the display surface.

The aerial input display device of the present invention may further include a support capable of supporting the lighting member at a distance from the display surface.

The aerial input display device of the present invention may further include a support capable of supporting the position detection sensor at a distance from the display surface.

In the aerial input display device of the present invention,
the image includes a periodic structure;
The size of a pattern included in the image displayed on the display surface may be larger than the pitch of the periodic structure of the image.

In the aerial input display device of the present invention, the image may be formed at a position that overlaps a pattern included in the image displayed on the display surface.

This invention allows an aerial imaging device that allows users to recognize positions detectable by a non-contact position detection sensor to be easily and space-savingly installed on an existing display device.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an aerial input display device. FIG. 2 is a top view showing an example of an image displayed on the display device. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. FIG. 4 is a side view of the lighting member. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the illumination member. FIG. 6 is a top view showing an example of an image formed by an aerial imaging device. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a hologram sheet. FIG. 8 is a perspective view for explaining the position detection sensor. FIG. 9 is an example of a top view of an aerial input display device. FIG. 10 is a top view of another example of the aerial input display device. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for manufacturing a hologram. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for manufacturing a hologram. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for manufacturing a hologram. FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing an example of the aerial input display device in a state where an image is formed. FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing another example of the aerial input display device in a state where an image is formed. FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the aerial input device. FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining another modified example of the aerial input device. FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining still another modified example of the aerial input device.

One embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Note that in the drawings accompanying this specification, the scale and aspect ratios have been appropriately altered and exaggerated from their actual sizes for ease of illustration and understanding.

Note that "sheet surface" refers to the surface that coincides with the planar direction of the target sheet-like component when viewed overall and from a global perspective.

In addition, terms used in this specification that specify shapes, geometric conditions, and their degrees, such as "parallel," "orthogonal," and "identical," as well as length and angle values, are not to be construed as being bound by strict meanings, but rather as including the range within which similar functions can be expected.

Figure 1 shows an example of an aerial input display device 1. As shown in Figure 1, the aerial input display device 1 has a display device 5, a support 9, and an aerial input device 10. The aerial input display device 1 displays an image using the display device 5 and forms an image in the air using the aerial input device 10. A user of the aerial input display device 1 can simultaneously view an image displayed on the display surface 6 of the display device 5 and an image formed at a position separated from the display surface 6. The user can also input information into the aerial input display device 1. Typically, a user of the aerial input display device 1 can input information into the aerial input display device 1 without touching the display surface 6 by placing an object such as a finger at the position of the image formed in the air. For example, a user of the aerial input display device 1 can input information that they have selected one of multiple options, such as "yes," "no," or "A," "B," "C," or "D."

The display device 5 has a display surface 6. The display device 5 is capable of displaying an image on the display surface 6. The image displayed on the display surface 6 can be observed by a user of the aerial input display device 1. The display device 5 can be any display device, such as a liquid crystal display, plasma display, or organic EL display. The display surface 6 of such a display device 5 is typically a glass surface.

Alternatively, the display device 5 may display an image by transmitting light through a printed transparent film or the like, or may display an image using light and dark by blocking part of the light with a light-blocking material. In this case, the display device 5 includes a light-emitting body that emits light and a predetermined pattern portion, such as a transparent film printed with a pattern corresponding to the image to be displayed or a light-blocking material of a shape corresponding to the image to be displayed. The surface of the transparent film or the non-formed portion of the light-blocking material becomes the display surface 6. As the light-emitting body, it is preferable to use a surface light source device that emits light in a planar manner, for example, to ensure that the intensity of light passing through the predetermined pattern portion is uniform.

Figure 2 shows an example of an image displayed on the display surface 6 of the display device 5. The image includes a picture 7. In the example shown in Figure 2, the letters A, B, C, and D are displayed as the pictures 7 on the display surface 6, each in four rectangular frames. The pictures 7 indicate the options to be input on the aerial input display device 1.

The support 9 supports the lighting member 30, second lighting member 40, and position detection sensor 13 (described below) of the aerial input device 10. The support 9 allows the lighting member 30, second lighting member 40, and position detection sensor 13 to be supported at a distance from the display surface 6 of the display device 5. The support 9 is attached to the outer frame of the display device 5. The support 9 can adjust the distance between the lighting member 30, second lighting member 40, and position detection sensor 13 and the display surface 6 continuously or in steps.

The aerial input device 10 forms an image in the air and allows information to be input by placing an object, such as a finger, at a position corresponding to the image. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 3, the aerial input device 10 is placed on the side of the display surface 6 of the display device 5. The aerial input device 10 has an aerial imaging device 20 and a position detection sensor 13. In the aerial input device 10, the aerial imaging device 20 forms an image in the air, and the position detection sensor 13 detects the presence of an object at a detection position 13a where it is sensitive. By detecting the presence of an object, information about the detected position can be input. Furthermore, the detection position 13a where the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive corresponds to the position where the aerial imaging device 20 forms an image.

As shown in FIG. 3 , each component of the aerial input device 10 is arranged on the display surface 6 side of the display device 5. Therefore, the aerial input device 10 can be retrofitted to an existing display device 5. In other words, by providing the aerial input device 10 to an existing display device 5, it can function as the aerial input display device 1. In particular, the aerial input device 10 is arranged so that the hologram sheet 50 and the second hologram sheet 60 are provided on the display surface 6 of the display device 5.

As shown in FIG. 3, the aerial imaging device 20 has an illumination member 30, a second illumination member 40, a hologram sheet 50, and a second hologram sheet 60. When irradiated with light from the illumination member 30, the hologram sheet 50 forms a recorded image 58 on an imaging plane 57. When irradiated with light from the second illumination member 40, the second hologram sheet 60 forms a recorded image 68 on an imaging plane 67. The formed images 58, 68 are observed by the user. Note that in this specification, "image" refers to both the image recorded on the hologram sheet and the image formed on the imaging plane.

The following describes each component of the aerial input device 10 and the aerial imaging device 20.

The illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 emit light that forms the basis of the image formed by the aerial input device 10. The illumination member 30 emits light onto the hologram sheet 50, and the second illumination member 40 emits light onto the second hologram sheet 60. The light emitted by the illumination member 30 includes a wavelength that reproduces the image recorded on the hologram sheet 50. Similarly, the light emitted by the second illumination member 40 includes a wavelength that reproduces the image recorded on the second hologram sheet 60. The second illumination member 40 is positioned in a different direction from the illumination member 30 relative to the hologram sheet 50. Specifically, the illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 are positioned opposite each other in the first direction d1 across the hologram sheet 50 and the second hologram sheet 60. The first direction d1 is the direction in which light is irradiated onto the hologram sheet 50 from the illumination member 30 projected onto the sheet surface of the hologram sheet 50, and is also the direction in which light is irradiated onto the second hologram sheet 60 from the second illumination member 40 projected onto the sheet surface of the second hologram sheet 60. The direction in which light is irradiated onto the hologram sheet 50 from the illumination member 30 is the direction of the optical axis of the illumination member 30, in other words, the direction in which the brightness of the light irradiated from the illumination member 30 is the highest. The direction projected onto the sheet surface of the hologram sheet 50 is the direction when observed from the normal direction nd of the hologram sheet 50.

As shown in FIG. 3, the illumination member 30 includes a light source 31, an optical member 35, and a light-blocking member 39. Similarly, the second illumination member 40 includes a second light source 41, a second optical member 45, and a second light-blocking member 49. The illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 have the same configuration. The configuration of the illumination member 30 will be described below, but the second illumination member 40 can also have a similar configuration.

Figure 4 shows a side view of the illumination member 30 observed from the first direction d1. As shown in Figure 4, multiple light sources 31 are arranged along a second direction d2 that is non-parallel to the first direction d1. The second direction d2 is a direction along the sheet surface of the hologram sheet 50, and is, for example, a direction perpendicular to the first direction d1. In other words, the hologram sheet 50 extends in the first direction d1 and the second direction d2. For example, an LED light can be used as the light source 31. The light emitted by the light source 31 includes a wavelength that reproduces the image 58 recorded on the hologram sheet 50. The light emission of the multiple light sources 31 is controlled individually by an external control device (not shown). For example, the light emission of the multiple light sources 31 is controlled in pairs, every other light source 31 in the second direction d2.

An optical element 35 is also positioned between the light source 31 and the hologram sheet 50. In the example shown in Figures 3 and 4, the optical element 35 is provided facing the light source 31. The optical element 35 optically acts on light traveling from the light source 31 toward the hologram sheet 50. Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of the light source 31 and the optical element 35. In the example shown in Figure 5, the optical element 35 includes a lens 35a, a prism 35b, and a light transmission direction control film 35c. However, the example shown is not limited to this, and the optical element 35 may include only one of the lens 35a, the prism 35b, and the light transmission direction control film 35c, or any combination thereof. Alternatively, the optical element 35 may include other elements.

Lens 35a refracts the light emitted from light source 31 in a diffused manner to form parallel light. For example, lens 35a is a Fresnel lens, a cylindrical lens, or the like. Prism 35b refracts the light emitted from light source 31 in a direction toward hologram sheet 50. Light transmission direction control film 35c transmits light emitted from light source 31 that is directed toward hologram sheet 50 and blocks light other than that directed toward hologram sheet 50. Typically, light transmission direction control film 35c is a louver film.

As clearly shown in Figure 3, the light-blocking member 39 covers the light source 31 from the side opposite the hologram sheet 50. The light-blocking member 39 blocks light emitted from the light source 31 that travels in the opposite direction from the hologram sheet 50. The light-blocking member 39 protrudes in the first direction d1 beyond the light source 31 and optical member 35 to easily block light traveling in the opposite direction from the hologram sheet 50. The length by which the light-blocking member 39 protrudes beyond the light source 31 and optical member 35 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 10 mm or less. The light-blocking member 39 is preferably a dark color, particularly black, to easily absorb light.

The hologram sheet 50 is irradiated with light containing a predetermined wavelength to form a recorded image 58 on an image forming surface 57 spaced apart from the hologram sheet 50. The second hologram sheet 60 is irradiated with light containing a predetermined wavelength to form a recorded second image 68 on a second image forming surface 67 spaced apart from the second hologram sheet 60. The wavelength of light used by the hologram sheet 50 to form the image 58 may be the same as or different from the wavelength of light used by the second hologram sheet 60 to form the second image 68. More specifically, the hologram sheets 50 and 60 diffract light to direct incident light toward a predetermined position, forming the images 58 and 68 on the image forming surfaces 57 and 67. In particular, in the illustrated example, the image forming surfaces 57 and 67 are located directly in front of the display surface 6. In the illustrated example, the hologram sheets 50 and 60 form images 58 and 68 on the side where light from the illumination members 30 and 40 is incident.

As shown in FIG. 3, the second hologram sheet 60 is arranged adjacent to the hologram sheet 50 in the first direction d1. More specifically, the hologram sheet 50 is arranged closer to the illumination member 30 than the second illumination member 40 in the first direction d1, and the second hologram sheet 60 is arranged closer to the second illumination member 40 than the illumination member 30. It is preferable that the hologram sheet 50 and the second hologram sheet 60 are arranged so that the sheet surfaces define the same plane. Note that the hologram sheet 50 and the second hologram sheet 60 may be formed integrally.

The hologram sheet 50 forms an image 58 on an image plane 57 when illuminated with light from the illumination member 30. The hologram sheet 50 is formed to easily form the image 58 using light illuminated from the direction of the illumination member 30. The second hologram sheet 60 forms a second image 68 on a second image plane 67 when illuminated with light from the second illumination member 40. The second hologram sheet 60 is formed to easily form the second image 68 using light illuminated from the direction of the second illumination member 40. It is preferable that the illumination direction of light that makes it easy for the hologram sheet 50 to form the image 58 and the illumination direction of light that makes it easy for the second hologram sheet 60 to form the second image 68 are different from each other.

It is preferable that the visible light transmittance of the hologram sheets 50, 60 be high so that the display surface 6 of the display device 5 can be observed through the hologram sheets 50, 60. Specifically, the visible light transmittance of the hologram sheets 50, 60 is preferably 50% or higher, and more preferably 80% or higher. The visible light transmittance can be determined as the average value of the transmittance at each wavelength when measured using a spectrophotometer (Shimadzu Corporation's "UV-3100PC," compliant with JIS K 0115) within the measurement wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

Figure 6 shows a specific example of an image 58 recorded on the hologram sheet 50. In the example shown in Figure 6, the image 58 includes a periodic structure that is periodically arranged at a pitch p. The pitch p depends on the size of the display device 5, but is, for example, 5 mm or more and 50 mm or less. In the example shown, the periodic structure is a plurality of dots. However, the periodic structure is not limited to the example shown, and may be lines, pictures, character strings, etc. Furthermore, the image 58 does not have to include a periodic structure. For example, the image 58 may include irregularly arranged dots.

The light source 31 of the illumination member 30 is preferably positioned to match the position of the image 58 recorded on the hologram sheet 50. In the example shown in Figure 6, the light source 31 is positioned in the second direction d2, where the images 58 are periodically arranged. In this case, the light from the light source 31 clearly forms the image 58.

As shown in FIG. 6, the image 58 recorded on the hologram sheet 50 varies in size in the first direction d1. More specifically, the image 58 becomes larger as it moves away from the illumination member 30. As an example, the image 58 closest to the illumination member 30 is a point with a diameter of 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm. As it moves away from the illumination member 30 in the first direction d1, the diameter of the image 58 increases by 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm. The largest image 58 has a diameter of 2 mm to 2.5 mm. Similarly, the second image 68 recorded on the second hologram sheet 60 becomes larger as it moves away from the second illumination member 40.

Figure 7 also shows an example of the configuration of a hologram sheet 50. As shown in Figure 7, the hologram sheet 50 includes a base layer 51, a hologram layer 53 supported by the base layer 51, a bonding layer 52 that bonds the base layer 51 and the hologram layer 53, a surface layer 54 that is laminated on the hologram layer 53 and forms the surface of the hologram sheet 50, and an adhesive layer 55 for bonding the hologram sheet 50 to the display surface 6 of the display device 5.

The substrate layer 51 supports the hologram layer 53. The substrate layer 51 is what is generally called a transparent film that transmits wavelengths in the visible light wavelength band (380 nm to 780 nm). The substrate layer 51 may be made of any material that is transparent and can adequately support the hologram layer 53, but examples include polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and cyclic polyolefin. Furthermore, in consideration of transparency, adequate support and durability of the hologram layer 53, the substrate layer 51 preferably has a thickness of 10 μm or more and 100 μm or less.

The bonding layer 52 bonds the base layer 51 and the hologram layer 53. The bonding layer 52 can be made of a variety of adhesive or sticky materials. It is also preferable for the bonding layer 52 to have a high visible light transmittance. An acrylic adhesive is a typical example of a material for the bonding layer 52. The thickness of the bonding layer 52 is, for example, 5 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

The hologram layer 53 functions to focus incident light on the imaging surface 57 in the hologram sheet 50. The hologram layer 53 is preferably a volume hologram (also known as a Lippmann hologram). In the illustrated example, the hologram sheet 50 focuses an image 58 on the side where light from the illumination member 30 is incident. Therefore, the hologram layer 53 is a reflection hologram that focuses an image by reflecting light. The hologram layer 53 can be made of, for example, a hardened silver halide photosensitive material, dichromated gelatin, a crosslinked polymer, or a photopolymer. The thickness of the hologram layer 53 is, for example, 1 μm to 100 μm, and more preferably 5 μm to 40 μm.

The surface layer 54 forms the surface of the hologram sheet 50 and functions as a protective layer to protect the hologram layer 53 from the outside. Any transparent material capable of adequately protecting the hologram layer 53 may be used, including polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and cyclic polyolefin. The thickness of the surface layer 54 is, for example, 10 μm to 100 μm. The surface layer 54 may also be imparted with other functions. Examples of functions that may be imparted to the surface layer 54 include antibacterial, antiviral, alcohol-resistant, low-reflectivity (LR), scratch-resistant hard coat (HC), infrared-shielding (reflective), ultraviolet-shielding (reflective), antifouling, and bonding. The surface layer 54 may also be imparted with two or more functions. In particular, imparting antibacterial and antiviral functions to the surface layer 54 can prevent contact infection with bacteria and viruses even if a user comes into contact with the hologram sheet 50. Additionally, because the surface layer 54 is alcohol-resistant, the surface of the hologram sheet 50 can be disinfected with alcohol. Disinfecting the surface with alcohol can prevent contact infection with bacteria, viruses, etc. even if a user comes into contact with the hologram sheet 50.

The adhesive layer 55 is a layer for adhering the hologram sheet 50 to the display surface 6 of the display device 5. The adhesive layer 55 can be peeled off from the member to which it has been adhered, and it is preferable that it can be re-adhered after being peeled off. It is also preferable that the adhesive layer 55 has a high visible light transmittance. Examples of such adhesive layers 55 include urethane-based adhesives, silicone-based adhesives, and acrylic-based adhesives. The thickness of the adhesive layer 55 is, for example, 5 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

The configuration of the hologram sheet 50 has been described with reference to Figure 7, but the second hologram sheet 60 can also have the same configuration as the hologram sheet 50 described above.

The position detection sensor 13 detects the position of an object in a sensitive area, particularly a surface. The position detection sensor 13 may detect not only the position but also the movement of an object. The position detection sensor 13 is, for example, a frame-shaped component. The position detection sensor 13 detects the position of an object, for example, by infrared light and/or by capacitance. As shown in FIG. 8, the position detection sensor 13 as an infrared sensor includes, for example, a detection unit 13a that detects infrared light and a retroreflection unit 13b that reflects infrared light. The detection unit 13a is provided at an inner corner of the rectangular frame-shaped position detection sensor 13, and the retroreflection unit 13b is provided, for example, inside the rectangular frame-shaped position detection sensor 13. The position detection sensor 13 detects the position of an object at the detection position 13a, which is spaced apart from the hologram sheet 50. The position detection sensor 13 is configured and positioned so that it has detection sensitivity at a position corresponding to the imaging planes 57 and 67 on which the images 58 and 68 are formed. In other words, the detection position 13a to which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive is indicated by the images 58 and 68 formed on the imaging surfaces 57 and 67.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show an example and another example of a top view of the aerial input display device 1. In the example shown, the letters A, B, C, and D are displayed within four rectangular frames on the display surface 6 of the display device 5, and images 58 and 68 are formed on imaging surfaces 57 and 67 on the display surface 6. The size of the picture 7 displayed on the display surface 6 is larger than the pitch p of the periodic structure of the images 58 and 68. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the images 58 and 68 generated by the aerial input device 10 are formed over the entire area where they overlap the display surface 6. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the images 58 and 68 generated by the aerial input device 10 are formed only at positions where they overlap the picture 7 included in the image displayed on the display surface 6.

Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in Figure 9. In the example shown in Figures 9 and 10, the position detection sensor 13 detects the presence of an object at a position overlapping the letters A, B, C, and D displayed on the display surface 6. In this type of air input device 10, when a user points at a letter drawn on the display surface 6 with an object such as a finger F at a detection position 13a where the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive, the position detection sensor 13 detects the pointed position. The letter being pointed at by the user is identified from the position on the display surface 6 corresponding to the detected position. By identifying the letter being pointed at, information about the letter being pointed at by the user can be input.

Detection position 13a is located between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 in the normal direction nd to the sheet surface of the hologram sheet 50. Furthermore, detection position 13a is located between the second illumination member 40 and the second hologram sheet 60 in the normal direction nd to the sheet surface of the second hologram sheet 60.

The illumination member 30 is provided near the hologram sheet 50 to prevent the overall size of the aerial input device 10 from increasing. Specifically, the distance D1 between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 is equal to or less than the sum of the lengths of the imaging plane 57 and the second imaging plane 67 in the first direction d1. Alternatively, the distance D1 between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 is equal to or less than the length of the display surface 6 of the display device 5 in the first direction d1. Similarly, the distance between the second illumination member 40 and the second hologram sheet 60 is equal to or less than the sum of the lengths of the imaging plane 57 and the second imaging plane 67 in the first direction d1. Alternatively, the distance between the second illumination member 40 and the second hologram sheet 60 is equal to or less than the length of the display surface 6 of the display device 5 in the first direction d1. Alternatively, the distance D1 between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 may be equal to or less than the length of the imaging plane 57 in the first direction d1. Alternatively, the distance between the second illumination member 40 and the second hologram sheet 60 may be equal to or less than the length of the second imaging plane 67 in the first direction d1. As described above, the first direction d1 is the direction in which light from the illumination member 30 is irradiated onto the hologram sheet 50, projected onto the sheet surface of the hologram sheet 50, and is also the direction in which light from the second illumination member 40 is irradiated onto the second hologram sheet 60, projected onto the sheet surface of the second hologram sheet 60.

As described above, the hologram sheet 50 forms an image on the side where light from the illumination member 30 is incident. In other words, the illumination member 30 is located on the same side of the hologram sheet 50 as the imaging surface 57. The distance D2 between the imaging surface 57 and the hologram sheet 50 is preferably 10 mm or more and 100 mm or less, and more preferably 20 mm or more and 50 mm or less.

The detection position 13a at which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive may coincide with the imaging planes 57, 67 where the images 58, 68 are formed, or may be closer to the hologram sheet 50 than the imaging planes 57, 67. However, it is preferable that the detection position 13a be farther from the hologram sheet 50 than the imaging planes 57, 67. In other words, it is preferable that the distance D2 between the imaging planes 57, 67 and the hologram sheets 50, 60 be shorter than the distance D3 between the detection position 13a at which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive and the hologram sheets 50, 60. Specifically, the distance D2 between the imaging planes 57, 67 and the hologram sheets 50, 60 is preferably 1 mm to 20 mm shorter, and more preferably 5 mm to 10 mm shorter, than the distance D3 between the detection position 13a at which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive and the hologram sheets 50, 60.

Next, we will explain the operation of the aerial input device 10.

As shown in FIG. 11 , first, light is irradiated onto the hologram sheet 50 from the illumination member 30, and then light is irradiated onto the second hologram sheet 60 from the second illumination member 40. The light irradiated onto the hologram sheet 50 is diffracted at the portion of the hologram sheet 50 where interference fringes are generated in the hologram layer 53. That is, the hologram layer 53 diffracts the light based on the recorded pattern. The light diffracted by the hologram layer 53 is focused on the imaging plane 57, forming an image 58 based on the recorded pattern. Similarly, the light irradiated onto the second hologram sheet 60 forms a second image 68 on the second imaging plane 67. In this way, images 58 and 68 are formed in the air by the light from the illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40. That is, the light irradiated from the illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 becomes the reproduction light that reconstructs the hologram.

A position detection sensor 13 with detection sensitivity is disposed at a position corresponding to the imaging surfaces 57, 67. By placing an object such as a user's finger F at a detection position 13a where the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive, the position detection sensor 13 detects the position of the object such as the finger F. The position detection sensor 13 allows the aerial input device 10 to identify the position pointed at by the object such as the finger F and input information about that position. In particular, the detection position 13a where the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive can be easily recognized by the images 58, 68 formed on the imaging surfaces 57, 67.

Next, the manufacturing method of the hologram layer 53 and the hologram sheet 50 will be described with reference to Figures 12 to 14. The second hologram sheet 60 can also be manufactured using a similar method.

First, as shown in FIG. 12, a hologram-sensitive material 97a and a pattern mask 93 are provided on a glass substrate 91. Examples of hologram-sensitive material 97a include silver halide-sensitive material, dichromated gelatin, cross-linked polymers, and photopolymers. Photopolymers, in particular, are preferred as the material for the hologram-sensitive material 97a because they are dry materials that harden when irradiated with ultraviolet light and are suitable for mass production. The photopolymer contains at least one photopolymerizable compound and a photopolymerization initiator. The pattern mask 93 has openings 93a. The openings 93a block light in areas where the openings 93a are not provided, but allow light to pass through in areas where the openings 93a are provided. The openings 93a form a pattern shape in the pattern mask 93 that corresponds to the position of the image 58 formed by the hologram sheet 50. For example, the pattern mask 93 does not have openings 93a in the position that overlaps with the image 58 formed by the hologram sheet 50.

Next, as shown by the arrows in Figure 12, ultraviolet light is irradiated through the pattern mask 93. The ultraviolet light is blocked in areas where the pattern mask 93 does not have openings 93a. On the other hand, in areas where the openings 93a are provided, the ultraviolet light passes through the pattern mask 93 and is irradiated onto the hologram sensitive material 97a. The hologram sensitive material 97a irradiated with ultraviolet light hardens. That is, the hologram sensitive material 97a hardens in areas other than the pattern shape corresponding to the pattern mask 93. The hardened areas of the hologram sensitive material 97a become insensitive areas 97b where no hologram is recorded. That is, even if light for imaging a hologram is irradiated later, no hologram will be imaged in the insensitive areas 97b.

Then, as shown in Figure 13, the pattern mask 93 is removed. A first hologram master 95 is placed on the side of the glass substrate 91 opposite the side on which the hologram-sensitive material 97a is provided. A hologram is recorded entirely on the first hologram master 95. In this state, light, specifically a parallel beam of light, is irradiated onto the hologram-sensitive material 97a, as indicated by the arrows in Figure 13. The light directly irradiating the hologram-sensitive material 97a serves as reference light, while the diffracted light that passes through the hologram-sensitive material 97a and is diffracted by the first hologram master 95 serves as object light. The object light and reference light interfere with each other, generating interference fringes, which are light-dark patterns, in the hologram-sensitive material 97a. These interference fringes are then recorded on the photosensitive hologram-sensitive material 97a. On the other hand, no interference fringes are recorded in the insensitive portions 97b. Interference fringes are recorded at a position that overlaps with the image 58 formed by the hologram sheet 50, and a second hologram master 97 is produced from the hologram sensitive material 97a.

The light irradiated onto the hologram sensitive material 97a, i.e., the object light and reference light, may be, for example, an argon ion laser (wavelengths 457.9 nm, 476.5 nm, 488.0 nm, 514.5 nm), a krypton ion laser (wavelength 647.1 nm), a helium-neon laser (wavelength 632.8 nm), or a YAG laser (wavelength 532 nm). The light of the wavelengths irradiated here is included in the light irradiated from the illumination member 30.

Then, as shown in FIG. 14, the hologram sensitive material 53a forming the hologram layer 53 and the second hologram master 97 manufactured in the above-described process are positioned apart from each other. The distance between the hologram sensitive material 53a and the second hologram master 97 is the distance between the hologram layer 53 and the imaging plane 57 where the image 58 recorded in the manufactured hologram layer 53 is formed. In other words, by adjusting the distance between the hologram sensitive material 53a and the second hologram master 97, the distance between the hologram layer 53 and the imaging plane 57 where the image 58 recorded in the hologram layer 53 is formed can be adjusted. In the example shown in FIG. 14, a substrate 92 made of glass, transparent resin, or the like is provided between the hologram sensitive material 53a and the second hologram master 97 to separate the hologram sensitive material 53a and the second hologram master 97 by the desired distance. Alternatively, the illustrated example is not limiting, and the space between the hologram sensitive material 53a and the second hologram master 97 may be air or the like, as long as they are separated by the desired distance. Thereafter, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 14, light is irradiated onto the hologram sensitive material 53a, thereby generating interference fringes, which are light and dark patterns, within the hologram sensitive material 53a, similar to the manufacturing process of the second hologram master 97 described above. The interference fringes are generated at the positions where the interference fringes are generated in the second hologram master 97, i.e., at positions that overlap with the image 58 formed by the hologram sheet 50. In this manner, the hologram layer 53 is manufactured.

The manufactured hologram layer 53 is bonded to the base layer 51 via the bonding layer 52, and an adhesive layer 55 is provided on the side of the base layer 51 opposite to the side on which the hologram layer 53 is provided. Furthermore, a surface layer 54 is provided on the side of the hologram layer 53 opposite to the side on which the base layer 51 is provided. In this manner, the hologram sheet 50 shown in Figure 7 is manufactured. A peelable separator may be provided on the adhesive layer 55 to prevent the adhesive layer 55 from unintentionally adhering to other components.

However, there is a demand for the installation of equipment on existing display devices that allows for the appropriate input of information without touching the display surface. In particular, there is a demand for such equipment to be installed easily, at low cost, and in a space-saving manner in order to take early measures against contact infection. However, simply installing a non-contact position detection sensor on an existing display device may result in the sensor not being able to properly recognize the detection position to which it is sensitive. For this reason, installing such a sensor on an existing display device makes it difficult to properly input information, and there is also the risk of unintentional contact with the display surface. On the other hand, equipment that combines an aerial imaging device and a non-contact position detection sensor is difficult to install in a space-saving manner on an existing display device due to optical layout constraints.

On the other hand, the aerial input device 10 of this embodiment has a position detection sensor 13. The detection position 13a, to which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive, is separated from the hologram sheet 50. In other words, the position detection sensor 13 can detect position in a non-contact manner. The aerial input device 10 also has an illumination member 30 and a hologram sheet 50. The hologram sheet 50 forms an image 58 on an imaging plane 57 using light from the illumination member 30. By arranging the illumination member 30, the hologram sheet 50, and the position detection sensor 13 on the side of the display surface 6 of an existing display device 5, the aerial input display device 1 can be easily constructed. Furthermore, the hologram sheet 50 makes it easy to recognize the imaging plane 57 on which the image 58 is formed. The detection position 13a, to which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive, corresponds to the imaging plane 57. By recognizing the imaging plane 57, a user of the aerial input device 10 can recognize the detection position 13a, to which the position detection sensor 13 is sensitive. Furthermore, the illumination member 30 and hologram sheet 50 are arranged together in a small space. The distance between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 is equal to or less than the length of the imaging plane 57 in the first direction d1, which is the direction in which light from the illumination member 30 is projected onto the surface of the hologram sheet 50. The illumination member 30 and hologram sheet 50 can be arranged in a small space on the display device 5. In other words, the aerial input device 10, which allows the user to recognize the detection position 13a detectable by the non-contact position detection sensor 13, can be easily and space-savingly arranged on an existing display device 5 to form the aerial input display device 1.

Furthermore, the illumination member 30 and the second illumination member 40 are disposed in positions facing each other in the first direction d1. The second hologram sheet 60 is disposed adjacent to the hologram sheet 50 in the second direction d2. Therefore, the imaging plane 57 on which the hologram sheet 50 forms the image 58 is adjacent in the second direction d2 to the second imaging plane 67 on which the second hologram sheet 60 forms the second image 68. This makes it possible to observe different images at different positions in a planar view.

Furthermore, the hologram sheet 50 is positioned closer to the illumination member 30 than the second illumination member 40, and the second hologram sheet 60 is positioned closer to the second illumination member 40 than the illumination member 30. Light from the illumination member 30 is more likely to be irradiated onto the hologram sheet 50. Therefore, the image 58 is more likely to be formed brightly. Similarly, light from the second illumination member 40 is more likely to be irradiated onto the second hologram sheet 60. Therefore, the second image 68 is more likely to be formed brightly.

The illumination member 30 includes multiple light sources 31 arranged in the second direction d2 along the sheet surface of the hologram sheet 50. The multiple light sources 31 allow light to be irradiated onto the entire hologram sheet 50, even if the illumination member 30 is positioned close to the hologram sheet 50. Therefore, an image 58 can be formed from the entire hologram sheet 50.

The light emission of the multiple light sources 31 is controlled independently. For example, the light emission of the multiple light sources 31 is controlled in pairs, every other pair in the second direction d2. In this case, when a certain pair of light sources 31 emits light, an image 58 is formed on the imaging plane 57 as shown in FIG. 15. When a certain pair of light sources 31 is turned off and another pair of light sources 31 emits light, the image 58 is formed on the imaging plane 57 at a position slightly shifted in the second direction d2 as shown in FIG. 16. In this way, by controlling the light emission of the multiple light sources 31, the position of the image 58 on the imaging plane 57 in the second direction d2 can be changed. This allows the image 58 to be formed at an appropriate position corresponding to the position from which the aerial input device 10 and the aerial input display device 1 are observed in the second direction d2. For example, the image 58 can be formed at an appropriate position that matches the eye level of the person observing the aerial input display device 1.

The illumination member 30 includes a lens 35a. The lens 35a converts the light from the light source 31 into parallel light. The parallel light from the illumination member 30 can be uniformly irradiated onto the entire hologram sheet 50. Therefore, an image 58 can be formed from the entire hologram sheet 50. Furthermore, uneven brightness can be reduced on the imaging surface 57.

The illumination member 30 includes a prism 35b. The prism 35b makes it easier for light from the light source 31 to be directed toward the hologram sheet 50. This allows the light from the illumination member 30 to be efficiently used and focused as an image 58 on the hologram sheet 50. Furthermore, because the light from the light source 31 is less likely to be directed toward anything other than the hologram sheet 50, the light from the illumination member 30 is less likely to be directly observed from the outside.

The illumination member 30 includes a light transmission direction control film 35c. The light transmission direction control film 35c blocks light from the light source 31 that is directed toward directions other than the hologram sheet 50. This makes it difficult for the light from the illumination member 30 to be directly observed from the outside.

The illumination member 30 includes a light-shielding member 39 that covers the light source 31 from the side opposite the hologram sheet 50. The light-shielding member 39 blocks light from the light source 31 that travels toward the side opposite the hologram sheet 50. This makes it difficult for the light from the illumination member 30 to be directly observed from the outside.

The light from the illumination member 30 decreases with increasing distance from the illumination member 30. In this embodiment, the size of the image 58 recorded on the hologram sheet 50 increases with increasing distance from the illumination member 30. Because a dark image 58 is observed to be large at positions farther away from the illumination member 30, the image 58 formed by the hologram sheet 50 on the image forming surface 57 can be recognized uniformly across the entire image forming surface 57. In other words, when light from the illumination member 30 is irradiated and the image forming surface 57 is observed with the human eye, the size of the image 58 appears to be of similar brightness from the side closer to the illumination member 30 to the side farther away. This observation pattern is also true for the image forming surface 67 and image 68 when the second hologram sheet 60 is used.

As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the picture 7 and the image 58 are observed to overlap. The size of the picture 7 included in the image displayed on the display surface 6 is larger than the pitch p of the periodic structure of the image 58. Therefore, the visibility of the picture 7 is less likely to be obstructed by the image 58.

As described above, image 58 indicates the detection position 13a detected by the position detection sensor 13. Picture 7 indicates the options to be input on the aerial input display device 1. As in the examples shown in Figures 9 and 10, image 58 is formed at a position where it overlaps picture 7, making it easy to recognize the position where an object such as a finger F should be placed.

As described above, the aerial input device 10 of this embodiment includes an illumination member 30, a hologram sheet 50 that forms an image 58 recorded by light from the illumination member 30 on an imaging plane 57, and a position detection sensor 13 sensitive to a detection position 13a corresponding to the imaging plane 57. The detection position 13a is spaced apart from the hologram sheet 50, and the distance between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 is equal to or less than the length of the imaging plane in the first direction d1, which is the direction in which the hologram sheet 50 is irradiated with light from the illumination member 30 and projected onto the surface of the hologram sheet 50. With this aerial input device 10, the illumination member 30, the hologram sheet 50, and the position detection sensor 13 can be easily provided on the side of the display surface 6 of an existing display device 5 to create an aerial input display device 1. Furthermore, the illumination member 30 and hologram sheet 50 are provided together in a small space. In this way, an aerial imaging device that allows users to recognize positions that can be detected by a non-contact position detection sensor can be easily installed on an existing display device in a space-saving manner.

The aerial input display device 1 and the aerial input device 10 may be installed in an automated teller machine (ATM), a ticket vending machine, an ordering machine, a vending machine, an image or photo printer, an amusement machine installed in an arcade, etc. Or, they may be installed in a moving object such as an automobile.

It should be noted that various modifications can be made to the aerial input display device 1 and the aerial input device 10 of the above-described embodiment.

Figure 17 shows an air input device 10 that is a modified example of this embodiment. In the air input device 10 shown in Figure 17, the second hologram sheet 60 is laminated on the hologram sheet 50.

With this aerial input device 10, the hologram sheet 50 forms an image 58 over the entire area where it overlaps the display surface 6, and the second hologram sheet 60 forms a second image 68. The user can observe the image 58 and the second image 68 overlapping each other.

Figure 18 shows an aerial input device 10 that is another modified example of this embodiment. The aerial input device 10 shown in Figure 18 further has a reflective member 17. The reflective member 17 reflects light from the illumination member 30 toward the hologram sheet 50. In the example shown, the reflective member 17 is provided in a position facing the illumination member 30 in the first direction d1 across the hologram sheet 50. The reflective member 17 may be any material that reflects light, such as a mirror.

With this type of aerial input device 10, the optical distance from the illumination member 30 to the hologram sheet 50 can be increased by reflecting light with the reflecting member 17. As the optical distance increases, the light from the illumination member 30 becomes closer to parallel light and is more likely to be uniformly irradiated across the entire hologram sheet 50. As a result, an image 58 with little unevenness in brightness can be formed across the entire hologram sheet 50.

The aerial input display device 1 may be connected to a sensor that detects the presence or approach of a person. In this case, the lighting member 30 emits light when the presence or approach of a person is detected. Because the lighting member 30 does not emit light while no person is present near the aerial input display device 1, the power consumed by the lighting member 30 can be reduced.

Also, as shown in FIG. 19 , the aerial input device 10 may further include a spacer 11 on the hologram sheet 50 side of the illumination member 30. The spacer 11 allows the distance between the illumination member 30 and the hologram sheet 50 to be adjusted. This allows light to be irradiated from the illumination member 30 onto the hologram sheet 50 at an appropriate distance and angle. Similarly, the aerial input device 10 may further include a second spacer 12 on the second hologram sheet 60 side of the second illumination member 40. By using the second spacer 12 to adjust the distance between the second illumination member 40 and the second hologram sheet 60, light can be irradiated from the second illumination member 40 onto the second hologram sheet 60 at an appropriate distance and angle.

Note that while several variations on the above-described embodiment have been described above, it is of course possible to combine multiple variations as appropriate.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Aerial input display device 5 Display device 6 Display surface 7 Picture 9 Support 10 Aerial input device 11 Spacer 12 Second spacer 13 Position detection sensor 13a Detection position 17 Reflecting member 20 Aerial imaging device 30 Illuminating member 31 Light source 35 Optical member 35a Lens 35b Prism 35c Light transmission direction control film 39 Light blocking member 40 Second illumination member 41 Second light source 45 Second optical member 49 Second light blocking member 50 Hologram sheet 51 Base layer 52 Bonding layer 53 Hologram layer 54 Surface layer 55 Adhesive layer 57 Imaging surface 58 Image 60 Second hologram sheet 67 Second imaging surface 68 Second image

Claims (18)

an aerial input device having an illumination member , a hologram sheet that forms a plurality of images recorded by light from the illumination member on an imaging plane , and a position detection sensor having sensitivity at a detection position corresponding to the imaging plane ;
a display device having a display surface for displaying an image ,
the hologram sheet is provided on the display surface,
the detection position is spaced apart from the hologram sheet,
a distance between the illumination member and the hologram sheet is equal to or less than a length of the imaging plane in a first direction, which is a direction in which the hologram sheet is irradiated with light from the illumination member and projected onto a sheet surface of the hologram sheet;
the plurality of images include periodic structures periodically arranged in two different directions;
An aerial input display device , wherein the size of a pattern included in the image displayed on the display surface is larger than the pitch of the periodic structure of the image . A second illumination member;
a second hologram sheet that forms an image recorded by light from the second illumination member on a second imaging plane,
The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , wherein the second illumination member is disposed in a direction different from that of the illumination member relative to the hologram sheet. the illumination member and the second illumination member are provided at positions facing each other in the first direction,
The aerial input display device according to claim 2 , wherein the second hologram sheet is disposed adjacent to the hologram sheet in the first direction. the hologram sheet is disposed closer to the illumination member than the second illumination member,
The aerial input display device according to claim 3 , wherein the second hologram sheet is disposed closer to the second illumination member than the illumination member. The aerial input display device according to claim 2 , wherein the second hologram sheet is laminated on the hologram sheet. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , wherein the illumination member includes a plurality of light sources arranged in a direction along the sheet surface of the hologram sheet. The aerial input display device according to claim 6 , wherein the light sources are individually controlled to emit light. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , wherein the illumination member includes a light source and a lens provided between the light source and the hologram sheet. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , wherein the illumination member includes a light source and a prism provided between the light source and the hologram sheet. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , wherein the illumination member includes a light source and a light transmission direction control film provided between the light source and the hologram sheet. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , wherein the illumination member includes a light source and a shielding member that covers the light source from the side opposite to the hologram sheet. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection position is located between the illumination member and the hologram sheet in a normal direction to a surface of the hologram sheet. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , wherein the size of each of the plurality of images recorded on the hologram sheet increases with increasing distance from the illumination member. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , further comprising a reflecting member that reflects light from the illumination member toward the hologram sheet. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , further comprising a support capable of supporting the illumination member at a distance from the display surface. The aerial input display device according to claim 15 , further comprising a support capable of supporting the position detection sensor at a distance from the display surface. an aerial input device having an illumination member, a hologram sheet that forms a plurality of images recorded by light from the illumination member on an imaging plane, and a position detection sensor having sensitivity at a detection position corresponding to the imaging plane ;
a display device having a display surface for displaying an image,
the hologram sheet is provided on the display surface,
the detection position is spaced apart from the hologram sheet,
a distance between the illumination member and the hologram sheet is equal to or less than a length of the imaging plane in a first direction, which is a direction in which the hologram sheet is irradiated with light from the illumination member and projected onto a sheet surface of the hologram sheet;
the plurality of images includes a periodic structure;
An aerial input display device, wherein the size of a pattern included in the image displayed on the display surface is larger than the pitch of the periodic structure of the image. The aerial input display device according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of images are formed at positions that overlap a pattern included in an image displayed on the display surface.