Optical display device

Abstract

An optical display device arranged to create a sky scene perception, the optical display device comprising: a collimated light generation system comprising: a collimated light source for generating a collimated light beam; a first optical expansion system; a second optical expansion system; a diffused light generating system, and; an output aperture through which the output light is projected, a diffused light generation system arranged to generate a diffused sky light component in the output light, and a collimated light generation system arranged to generate a collimated sunlight component in the output light, the first optical expansion system is arranged to expand the collimated light beam in a first expansion direction onto the output aperture as a collimated sunlight component, and the second optical expansion system is arranged to expand the collimated light beam in a second expansion direction onto the output aperture as a collimated sunlight component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to electrically operated optical display devices for creating artificial sky light, wherein an observer experiences a sky scene perception when looking into an output aperture of the device. Background Art

[0002] In EP 3181999 A, a device for producing a skylight perception is provided. The device generates a collimated light beam from a light source and a collimating lens array. The collimated light beam is transmitted directly to (e.g., without folding the light beam via a reflective member) and passes through a partially transparent diffuse light generator. A portion of the collimated light beam is scattered by the diffuse light generator as blue diffuse light by Rayleigh scattering to provide an artificial skylight component, and a portion of the collimated light beam passes through the diffuse light generator to provide an artificial sunlight component.

[0003] Such devices are expensive and complex to construct because they require a large array of light sources to achieve an intensity representative of sunlight and require precise alignment of the light sources and a separate collimating lens array. In addition, such devices may be complex to achieve representative depth perception.

[0004] Therefore, despite the effort that has been invested in the development of such devices, further improvements are desirable. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present disclosure provides an optical display device that is arranged to create a sky scene perception in output light. The optical display device includes: a collimated light generating system; a diffuse light generating system, and; an output aperture through which the output light is projected. The diffuse light generating system is arranged to generate a diffuse sky light (e.g., blue, purple, orange, or other color of the sky) component in the output light. The collimated light generating system is arranged to generate a collimated sunlight (e.g., white and / or yellow) component in the output light, which can be observed as a sun-like disk projected at infinity. In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system includes one or more of the collimated light sources, which may include a light source and a collimating system / component, which is arranged to collimate the light from the light source into a collimated light beam.

[0006] [Beam expansion]

[0007] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system comprises a first optical expansion system, and a second optical expansion system. The first optical expansion system is arranged to expand the collimated light beam to an output aperture as a collimated sunlight component in a first expansion direction, and the second optical expansion system is arranged to expand the collimated light beam to an output aperture as a collimated sunlight component in a second expansion direction. In an embodiment, the second expansion direction is different from the first expansion direction (e.g., not colinear).

[0008] By implementing a first optical expansion system to expand a collimated light beam (e.g., a light beam after the collimation system) in a first direction when viewed at the output aperture, and implementing a second optical expansion system to expand the collimated light beam in a second direction different from the first direction when viewed at the output aperture, a single collimated light source can be expanded while maintaining collimation at the output aperture. This can avoid multiple collimated light sources to cover separate sections of the output aperture.

[0009] As used herein, the term "expanding onto the output aperture" may refer to expanding a collimated beam via various means upstream of the output aperture, which has the net effect of expanding the collimated beam in a particular direction (e.g., perpendicular to the beam propagation direction) such that when the beam is incident on the output aperture, it covers a larger area on the output aperture. Thus, the expansion direction may be defined as the expansion length that covers the output aperture.

[0010] In an embodiment, the first optical expansion system is separate from the second optical expansion system. In an embodiment, the second optical expansion system is arranged to expand the light after (e.g., downstream and separate from) the first optical expansion system. By first expanding the collimated light beam in one direction and then not simultaneously expanding the collimated light beam in another direction, a controlled and precise expansion can be achieved.

[0011] In an embodiment, the first optical expansion system is arranged to generate a first expanded collimated beam from the collimated beam, and the second optical expansion system is arranged to generate a second expanded collimated beam from the first expanded collimated beam.

[0012] In an embodiment, the first optical expansion system does not expand the collimated light beam in the second direction (including substantially not expanding it), and / or the second optical expansion system does not expand the collimated light beam in the first expansion direction (including substantially not expanding it).

[0013] In an embodiment, the first optical expansion system and the second optical expansion system are arranged to make the collimated light uniform (e.g., equally (including substantially equally) expanded) and / or linearly expanded (e.g., only along a line, not in other directions in the corresponding expansion direction) in the associated first expansion direction and the second expansion direction. By implementing linear uniform expansion, the sunlight component of the output light can be uniform and can therefore more realistically represent sunlight.

[0014] As used herein, the term "uniform" may refer to equal characteristics of light, for example, with respect to one or more of: color; intensity; collimation; power; other relevant characteristics as perceived by an observer.

[0015] In an embodiment, the average divergence angle of the expanded collimated beam (e.g., from one or both of the beam expansion systems) is within 10% or 5% or 2.5% of the divergence angle of the collimated beam. By this implementation, the optical expansion system can maintain properly collimated light while expanding the beam.

[0016] In an embodiment, the first optical expansion system and / or the second optical expansion system is configured to expand the collimated light beam in the first direction and the second direction respectively by at least 2 times or 3 times or 5 times or 10 times, wherein the optional maximum value is 20 times or 30 times. By this implementation, a single collimated light beam can be expanded to cover most of the output aperture.

[0017] In an embodiment, the collimated light beam extends to (including substantially to) the extension of the output aperture in said direction in at least one of said directions. With this arrangement, a single light source can cover all output apertures in at least one direction, which can eliminate the need for many light sources.

[0018] In an embodiment, the first expansion direction and the second expansion direction are orthogonal to each other on the output aperture. In an embodiment, the output aperture extends in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, wherein the first direction is aligned with the transverse direction and the second direction is aligned with the longitudinal direction. With this arrangement, two optical expansion systems can be used to cover the entire output aperture.

[0019] In an embodiment, the first optical expansion system includes: a prism sheet arranged to be tilted relative to the propagation direction of the incident collimated light beam, and arranged to expand the collimated light beam into a first expanded collimated light beam. By arranging the collimated light beam to be projected obliquely onto the first prism sheet, the light beam is incident on the length of the prism sheet greater than the width of the light beam, so a large expansion degree can be achieved by selecting a specific tilt angle (e.g., 2 degrees to 30 degrees or 5 degrees to 20 degrees). The prism sheet can expand the light beam by reflection or reflection and refraction.

[0020] In an embodiment, the prism sheet is arranged for transmitting or reflecting a collimated light beam therethrough.In an embodiment, the prism sheet is arranged to be tilted relative to the tilted aperture.

[0021] In an embodiment, the second optical expansion system includes: a second prism sheet, which is arranged to be inclined relative to the propagation direction of the incident first expanded collimated light beam, and is arranged to expand the first collimated light beam into a second expanded collimated light beam. In an embodiment, the first prism sheet is inclined relative to the second prism sheet. By arranging the collimated light beam to be projected obliquely onto the second prism sheet, the light beam is incident on the length of the prism sheet greater than the width of the light beam, so a large degree of expansion can be achieved by selecting a specific tilt angle (for example, 3 degrees to 30 degrees or 5 degrees to 20 degrees). The prism sheet can expand the light beam by reflection or reflection and refraction.

[0022] In an embodiment, the second prism sheet is arranged on and may be flush with the output aperture, and projects the second expanded collimated light beam through the output aperture as a collimated sunlight component. By arranging the second prism sheet to overlap the output aperture (e.g., when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the output aperture), and preferably aligned in the same plane as the output aperture, the device may be compact and / or facilitate assembly.

[0023] In an embodiment, a collimated light source comprises a light source and a collimation system for receiving light from the light source and generating a collimated light beam therefrom, wherein the collimation system is an off-axis parabolic reflector. The off-axis parabolic reflector may provide a cost-effective collimation system.

[0024] In an embodiment, the light source is projected to the collimation system via a coupling system. The coupling system may provide convenient expansion of the light beam from the light source before it is collimated by the collimation system. The coupling system may include one or more of the following: a prism; a light pipe; a lens (e.g., a convex lens).

[0025] In an embodiment, a collimated light source (comprising one or more of the following: a light source; a coupling system; a collimating system) is arranged so as not to interfere with light projected from the collimating system and / or the first prism sheet (e.g., by observation angle-dependent components and / or positional arrangements).

[0026] [Observation Control]

[0027] In an embodiment, the viewing control system is arranged to shield at least a portion of the collimated light generating system and / or the diffuse light generating system when viewing through the output aperture.

[0028] By arranging the observation control system to completely or partially reduce the visibility of the collimated light generating system (e.g., one or more of the light source, the collimation system, and mounting components for the components) and / or the diffuse light generating system (e.g., the light source and / or the diffuser) relative to if the observation control system was omitted, a more realistic perception of the sky scene can be provided without opposing visual cues.

[0029] In an embodiment, the viewing control system at least partially overlaps with the output aperture. By arranging the viewing control system to overlap with the output aperture (e.g., the output aperture is aligned with a plane defined by the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction, and overlaps when viewed along a normal to the plane), the viewing control system can conveniently blur the component.

[0030] In an embodiment, the viewing control system includes a viewing angle dependent component that is configured to be optically transparent (including substantially optically transparent) from a first viewing angle range and optically opaque (including substantially optically opaque) from a second different viewing angle range.

[0031] By implementing a component with variable opacity based on the viewing angle (the opacity may include blurring), the component can be arranged to prevent / reduce visibility of the aforementioned components of the device (e.g., one or more of the following: light source; collimating component, and; prism sheet) at specific viewing angles, such as when the incident angle to the output aperture is high (e.g., greater than 60 degrees or 70 degrees or 80 degrees or 85 degrees), the component can be opaque.

[0032] In an embodiment, the observation control system comprises a reflector system arranged to reflect light (e.g. collimated light and / or pre-collimated light) from the light source around the light source and / or the collimation system and / or the prism sheet of the first optical expansion system.

[0033] By implementing a reflector system to reflect light around the collimated light source / prism sheet (e.g., such that the reflected light overlaps the collimated light source / prism sheet when viewed from a plane defined by the lateral and longitudinal directions), the visibility of the collimated light source / prism sheet from the output aperture can be reduced.

[0034] In an embodiment, the reflector system includes one or more reflective members arranged to reflect collimated light from the collimation system in opposite directions (including substantially opposite directions) and at different depths (including substantially different depths). By implementing the reflector system to reflect the collimated light back through the collimated light source in a longitudinal direction opposite to projection and at a depth such that the reflector system is located between the collimated light source and the output aperture, the visibility of the collimated light source from the output aperture can be reduced.

[0035] In an embodiment, the reflector system includes a support member arranged in a line of sight between the output aperture and the collimated light source (eg, the light source and / or the collimation system), visible from a predetermined viewing angle.

[0036] In an embodiment, the support member is arranged with an outer surface which is diffusive and may be white. In an embodiment, the support member is arranged to prevent the collimated light source from being visible from a predetermined viewing angle. In an embodiment, the light source is arranged to not overlap the output aperture.

[0037] [Beam Hypothesis]

[0038] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system comprises: a first collimated light source, and; a second collimated light source, wherein the collimated light generating system is arranged with a first collimated light beam and a second collimated light beam, and the first collimated light beam and the second collimated light beam are projected from the respective first collimated light source and the second collimated light source through the output aperture.

[0039] In an embodiment, the first collimated light beam and the second collimated light beam are superimposed on each other. In an embodiment, the first collimated light beam and the second collimated light beam are superimposed on each other with a common central axis (including substantially common). The superimposed collimated light beam is projected through the output aperture as a collimated sunlight component.

[0040] By implementing a first collimated light source and a second collimated light source, each of which projects a collimated light beam that is superimposed on each other such that they share the same common central axis, the intensities of the two beams can be superimposed to produce a beam of greater intensity than would be implemented by a single light source, which can be more representative of sunlight. Furthermore, the color component of the superimposed collimated light beam can be conveniently controlled by varying the proportion of light from each collimated light source, for example to provide a more yellow or whiter sunlight component.

[0041] As used herein, the term "central axis" may refer to an axis about which a center point of a beam of collimated light projected from one of the collimated light sources is centered. As used herein, the term "common" with respect to the central axis may refer to the axes being precisely aligned or sufficiently aligned, for example to provide the appearance of a single beam of sunlight having uniform intensity over the beam projection area.

[0042] In an embodiment, the first collimated light source comprises a light source and a collimation system, and the second collimated light source may comprise a light source and a collimation system.Alternatively, the first collimated light source and the second collimated light source may comprise separate light beams derived from a common single light source and / or collimation system.

[0043] In an embodiment, the first beam and the second beam are uniform (including substantially uniform). By implementing the first beam and the second beam as uniform (e.g., at the output aperture), precise alignment of the central axis can be avoided. In an embodiment, the first beam and the second beam completely overlap each other, for example, such that at least one beam completely overlaps each other, and both can completely overlap each other at the output aperture.

[0044] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system comprises a light mixing element arranged to superimpose light beams from a first collimated light source and a second collimated light source. The light mixing element may be arranged to superimpose the light beams from the first collimated light source and the second collimated light source with the common central axis. The light mixing element may project the collimated sunlight component / superimposed collimated light beam to the output aperture. By implementing a light mixing element (such as a prism sheet), the light beams may be conveniently superimposed on each other.

[0045] In an embodiment, the light beam from the first collimated light source and the light beam from the second collimated light source are projected to the light mixing element in different directions. These different directions may be opposite in the lateral component and / or the longitudinal component of the direction. By projecting the light beams to the light mixing element from different directions, these light beams can be conveniently combined.

[0046] In an embodiment, the light beam from the first collimated light source and the light beam from the second collimated light source are projected onto a light mixing element, wherein the central axis of the light mixing element is projected onto (including substantially projected onto) a common intersection point. By arranging the light beams to intersect at a common (including substantially common) center point, which may be located on or in the light mixing element, they may be conveniently combined.

[0047] In an embodiment, the superimposed collimated beams are projected to have a central axis that intersects (including substantially intersects) the center of the output aperture. As used herein, the term "center" relative to the output aperture may refer to being exactly at the center of the output aperture or substantially at the center when considering a plane defined by the longitudinal and transverse directions, e.g. offset by no more than 95% or 90% of the longitudinal length or transverse width of the output aperture.

[0048] In an embodiment, the superimposed collimated light beams cover the entire output aperture. By arranging the light beams to project through the entire output aperture, a realistic simulation of sunlight can be provided. As used herein, the term "entire" with respect to the output aperture may refer to complete coverage, e.g. 100%, or substantially complete coverage, e.g. at least 95%, of the surface area defined by the longitudinal and transverse planes.

[0049] In an embodiment, the light mixing element comprises a prism sheet. In an embodiment, the prism sheet is arranged to overlap with the output aperture and may be coplanar with the output aperture. By arranging the prism sheet to overlap, for example, substantially or completely in a plane defined by the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, and to be coplanar (including substantially coplanar) with the output aperture, the device can be easily assembled and can be compact.

[0050] In an embodiment, the prism sheet is substantially arranged in a depth direction and a lateral direction, and may be tilted with respect to the depth direction.

[0051] In an embodiment, the prism sheet is arranged to redirect the collimated light beams and project the superimposed collimated light beams to the output aperture.

[0052] In an embodiment, the prism sheet includes a symmetrical prism projection portion. The prism projection portion may be symmetrical about a symmetry axis perpendicular to an incident direction of the first collimated light beam and the second collimated light beam.

[0053] In an embodiment, the light source of the first collimated light source is independently controllable relative to the light source of the second collimated light source. By implementing the light sources as independently controllable, the electrical circuit system can control the intensity of either light source to change the proportion of the collimated sunlight component from either light source. In an embodiment, the first collimated light source and the second collimated light source have different colors (e.g., CCT or other color model), so that the color of the collimated sunlight component can be controlled by controlling the intensity of the light source.

[0054] In a similar manner, the light source of the diffuse light generating system may be independently controllable relative to the first collimated light source and / or the second collimated light source (where the second collimated light source is present). This arrangement may enable control of the proportion of the diffuse skylight component and the proportion of the collimated sunlight component in the output light.

[0055] [Unsuperimposed beams]

[0056] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system is arranged with first and second collimated light beams projected through the output aperture from first and second collimated light sources to combine with each other and have laterally aligned and longitudinally offset central axes.

[0057] By implementing the first and second beams so that they are combined with each other and also so that they have laterally aligned and longitudinally offset central axes projected across the output aperture, they can conveniently cover the entire output aperture, but with individually controllable portions. As used herein, the term "combined" with respect to beams may refer to beams having edges that are completely or substantially aligned (e.g., such that overlap or gaps between adjacent edges are minimal).

[0058] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system includes a projection element arranged with: a first portion to receive a first collimated light beam and direct the light beam to an output aperture; a second portion to receive a second collimated light beam and direct the light beam to the output aperture (e.g., such that both light beams are directed to the output aperture in the same direction). The projection element can be implemented as a prism sheet, wherein the prisms of the first portion are configured differently from the cross-sectional portion, processing different projection directions of the first collimated light beam and the second collimated light beam.

[0059] In an embodiment, the light beam from the first collimated light source and the light beam from the second collimated light source are projected to the projection element in different directions.In an embodiment, the projection element is arranged to direct the first collimated light beam and the second collimated light beam to cover the entire output aperture.

[0060] [Oblique projection]

[0061] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system comprises a reflective member, and the output aperture has a perimeter extending in a first plane defined by the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction, and the reflective member is arranged to project light obliquely onto the first plane inclined relative to both the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction.

[0062] By implementing the method of projecting light obliquely (e.g., diagonally) in an overlapping manner onto the output aperture (or in the plane in which the output aperture resides), the optical path taken by the light of the collimated light generating system can be conveniently folded to maximize the distance, which can improve the visual perception of the sunlight component at infinity.

[0063] In an embodiment, the reflective member is positioned to at least partially overlap the output aperture. By arranging the reflective member on the output aperture, a small form factor of the device can be achieved. In addition, it can enable the devices to be arranged side by side with substantially no gap between adjacent output apertures of the devices.

[0064] In an embodiment, the reflective member is an off-axis parabolic reflector arranged to reflect the light as collimated light. Such an arrangement may provide a cost-effective collimating configuration.

[0065] In an embodiment, the reflective member is inclined with respect to a first plane and a second plane defined by the depth direction and the longitudinal direction and / or a plane defined by the depth direction and the transverse direction.

[0066] In an embodiment, pre-collimated light from the light source is projected obliquely onto the first plane. By arranging the light source to project light obliquely (e.g., diagonally) onto the output aperture (or in the plane where the output aperture resides), the optical path taken by the light of the collimated light generating system can be conveniently folded to maximize the distance, which can improve the visual perception of the sunlight component at infinity.

[0067] In an embodiment, the coupling system (e.g., a prism) is arranged to transmit pre-collimated light from the light source (e.g., directly) to the reflective member. In an embodiment, the pre-collimated light is projected obliquely onto the first plane. By arranging the coupling system to project the light obliquely (e.g., diagonally) onto the output aperture (or in the plane where the output aperture resides), the optical path taken by the light of the collimated light generating system can be conveniently folded to maximize the distance, which can improve the visual perception of the sunlight component at infinity.

[0068] In an embodiment, the coupling system is positioned to at least partially overlap the output aperture.By arranging the coupling system on the output aperture, a small form factor of the device may be achieved.

[0069] In an embodiment, the light source is positioned to at least partially overlap the output aperture.By arranging the light source over the output aperture, a small form factor of the device may be achieved.

[0070] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system comprises a first prism sheet arranged to project the redirected collimated light from a reflective member to an output aperture, wherein the reflective member projects the collimated light (e.g., directly) to the first prism sheet. In an embodiment, the first prism sheet is arranged to redirect the collimated light by reflection and / or refraction. The first prism sheet may be tilted relative to the depth direction.

[0071] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system comprises a second prism sheet arranged to receive collimated light from (e.g., directly or via a reflective member) a first prism sheet, wherein the second prism sheet is arranged in a first plane. In an embodiment, the second prism sheet is arranged to redirect the collimated light by reflection and / or refraction. In an embodiment, the diffuse light generator is arranged in the first plane.

[0072] [Off-Axis Collimator]

[0073] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system comprises an off-axis reflective member, wherein the off-axis reflective member is arranged to receive light from the light source and project the collimated light to the output aperture as a sunlight component.

[0074] By implementing the off-axis reflective member as a collimation system, the light beam can be conveniently folded and collimated. The folding of the light beam can make the distance between the light source and the output aperture larger, which can increase the perception of the light source at infinity. For a given distance between the light source and the output aperture, the folding of the light beam can enable the optical display device to be arranged in a smaller form factor.

[0075] In an embodiment, the off-axis reflective member has a reflective surface and a planar rear surface, wherein the rear surface is arranged with an edge aligned with one or more of the following (including substantially aligned with a small angle, such as a 0 to 20 degree tilt): a longitudinal direction of the device; a lateral direction, and; a depth direction.

[0076] In an embodiment, the off-axis reflective member is arranged with at least one edge parallel (including substantially parallel) to one or more of the following: a transverse direction; a longitudinal direction; a depth direction. By having at least one edge parallel to said directions, the device can be conveniently assembled.

[0077] [Projection over the entire output aperture]

[0078] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system includes a single light source (which may be the only light source of the collimated light generating system) and a collimating system (which may be the only collimating system of the collimated light generating system), and the output aperture extends rectangularly in the lateral and longitudinal directions, and the collimated light generating system is arranged to project collimated light from the single light source onto the entire output aperture.

[0079] By implementing a collimated light generating system to project a collimated sunlight component to cover the entire output aperture with light extended from a single light source, a cost effective device can be provided, which can facilitate assembly. In addition, the device can have a high level of accuracy because there is no problem of integrating light from different sources in the collimated sunlight component.

[0080] In an embodiment, the collimated light generating system is arranged to reflect the collimated light beam internally at least once or twice or three times before the collimated light beam is output as a collimated sunlight component. The maximum number of reflections may be 4 or 5 or 6 times. By reflecting the collimated light beam internally, the optical path from the light source to the output aperture is increased, which may improve the perception of the sun at infinity.

[0081] In an embodiment, a single light source may implement the first optical expansion system and / or the second optical expansion system and all features associated therewith. A single light source and collimation system may be implemented as a first collimated light source (e.g., but without a second collimated light source) and all features associated therewith.

[0082] [Application / Parts Kit]

[0083] The present disclosure provides a kit of parts for assembly into an optical display device as described in any of the preceding embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0084] The present disclosure provides use of an apparatus as described in any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein for creating sky scene perception.

[0085] [method]

[0086] The present disclosure provides a method for creating sky scene perception.

[0087] In an embodiment, the method comprises: expanding light from a collimated beam in a first direction when viewed at an output aperture; expanding light from the collimated beam in a second direction when viewed at the output aperture, and; outputting the expanded collimated light as a collimated sunlight component.

[0088] In an embodiment, the method comprises: using a viewing control system to blur at least a portion of the collimated light generating system when viewed through the output aperture. In an embodiment, the method comprises: using a viewing control system to blur at least a portion of the diffuse light generating system when viewed through the output aperture.

[0089] In an embodiment, the method comprises: projecting collimated light beams from a first collimated light source and a second collimated light source as a superimposed collimated light beam around a common central axis, and; outputting the superimposed collimated light beam as a collimated sunlight component.

[0090] In an embodiment, the method comprises projecting collimated light from a single light source across the output aperture.

[0091] In an embodiment, the method comprises projecting collimated light beams from a first collimated light source and a second collimated light source through an output aperture, wherein the light beams are arranged to combine with each other and have laterally aligned and longitudinally offset central axes.

[0092] In an embodiment, the method comprises: transmitting collimated light obliquely onto an output aperture, and; outputting the collimated light through the output aperture as a collimated sunlight component.

[0093] In an embodiment, the method comprises: outputting diffuse light as a diffuse skylight component. In an embodiment, the method comprises: transmitting the light to a diffuse light generator to generate the diffuse light.

[0094] The method may implement any feature of any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0095] The foregoing overview is provided for the purpose of summarizing some embodiments to provide a basic understanding of aspects of the subject matter described herein. Therefore, the above-mentioned features are merely examples and should not be interpreted as narrowing the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. In addition, the above-mentioned and / or the foregoing embodiments may be combined in any suitable combination to provide additional embodiments. Other features, aspects and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following detailed description, drawings and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0096] Aspects, features, and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements.

[0097] Figure 1 1 is a system block diagram showing an optical display device according to an embodiment.

[0098] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1A plan view of an embodiment of an optical display device in a plane defined by a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction.

[0099] Figure 3 It is by Figure 2 A side view of a plane defined by a longitudinal direction and a depth direction of an optical display device.

[0100] Figure 4 It is by Figure 2 An end view of a plane defined by a lateral direction and a depth direction of an optical display device.

[0101] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 1 A plan view of an embodiment of an optical display device in a plane defined by a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction.

[0102] Figure 6 It is by Figure 5 A side view of a plane defined by a longitudinal direction and a depth direction of an optical display device.

[0103] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 1 A perspective plan view of an embodiment of an optical display device in a plane defined by a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction.

[0104] Figure 8 It is by Figure 7 A side view of a plane defined by a longitudinal direction and a depth direction of an optical display device.

[0105] Fig. 9 It is by Figure 7 An end view of a plane defined by a lateral direction and a depth direction of an optical display device.

[0106] Fig.10 It shows Figure 1 An elevation perspective plan view of an embodiment of an optical display device on a plane defined by a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction.

[0107] Description of Reference Numerals

[0108] 2 Devices

[0109] 4 Collimated light generation system

[0110] 16. First collimated light source

[0111] 18 Light Source

[0112] 22 Beam

[0113] 20 Collimation System

[0114] 32 Off-Axis Parabolic Reflector

[0115] 24 collimated beams

[0116] 108 Central axis of the light beam

[0117] 34 First optical expansion system

[0118] 38 first prism (light mixing element)

[0119] 40 First expanded collimated beam

[0120] 36 Second optical expansion system

[0121] 52 Second prism

[0122] 54 Second extended collimated beam

[0123] 60 Second collimated light source

[0124] 62 Second collimated beam

[0125] 110 Central axis of the beam

[0126] 42 Observation Control System

[0127] 44 Reflector System

[0128] 46 first reflecting member

[0129] 48 second reflecting member

[0130] 50 Support components

[0131] 56 Viewing angle dependent components

[0132] 6 Diffuse light generation system

[0133] 26 Diffuser

[0134] 28 Light Source

[0135] 8 Output Aperture

[0136] 10 Output light

[0137] 12 Collimated sunlight component

[0138] 14 Diffuse skylight component

[0139] 30 Shell. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0140] Before describing several embodiments of the device, it should be understood that the device is not limited to the details of construction or process steps set forth in the following description. It will be clear to those skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure that the device can have other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in various ways.

[0141] This disclosure may be better understood in light of the following explanations:

[0142] As used herein, the term "optical display device" or "device" may refer to an electrically operated optical device capable of providing a sky scene perception to an observer when the observer gazes at the output aperture of the device. The device may be sized so that it is suitable for attachment to a ceiling or wall of a room or building, for example, its lateral dimension and / or longitudinal dimension is less than 1.5 meters, 2 meters, or 3 meters.

[0143] As used herein, the term "perception of infinite depth" may refer to the perception of the depth of an object (e.g., the sky and / or the sun) in three dimensions as being infinitely far away from an observer with stereoscopic vision (i.e., binocular vision). The perception of infinite depth may be provided by one or more of the following monocular or binocular vision cues presented to the observer as the observer views the output aperture of the device: motion parallax; occlusion; aerial perspective; accommodation; stereopsis; convergence, and; other relevant cues. The condition of infinite depth may be determined based on the same and / or similar alignment of the gaze vectors of the observer's eyes when viewing the device as when viewing the sky and / or the sun in real life. The condition of infinite depth based on motion parallax may be determined based on the image of the sun appearing to be projected (e.g., moving) from the same location as the observer moves laterally and / or longitudinally through the output aperture. The observer user may maintain the same gaze vector associated with infinite depth during the motion.

[0144] As used herein, the term "sky scene perception" may refer to a virtual sky scene constructed by the device that is sufficiently representative (e.g., in terms of the chromaticity and spatial distribution of light) so that an observer perceives the sky scene as if they were in the real world.

[0145] As used herein, the term "sky scene" may refer to a scene that includes the sky observed by an observer when looking through a window of a structure (e.g., in one of the side walls or ceiling). A sky scene may include a skylight component and a sunlight component as defined herein. It may include a circular (including substantially circular) sun-colored image of the sunlight component surrounded by the blue sky (or other color representative of the sky) of the skylight component.

[0146] As used herein, the term "sky light" or "sky light component" or "diffuse light component" may refer to artificial light that is representative of sky light (e.g., excluding a direct sunlight component), which may include daylight, sunset, or sunrise. It may represent sky light with respect to one or more of the following: color, for example, as defined by CCT (Correlated Color Temperature) (e.g., 5000 to 10000); diffuseness; brightness distribution or intensity; other suitable parameters, and; variation of any of the above across the output aperture of the device. The diffuse light component may be uniform, such that, for example, the diffuse light component does not vary by more than 10% or 20% or 30% or 40% across the output aperture with respect to one or more of the following: color diffuseness; brightness distribution; intensity and other suitable parameters. More specifically, the one or more parameters may be uniform to the extent that, over at least 90% of the output aperture, for any given circular area of ​​10 mm diameter over the output aperture, the one or more parameters do not vary by more than 10%, 20%, 30%, or 40%. In a specific example, the HWHM solid angle of diffuse light propagation is at least 4 times greater, 9 times greater, or 16 times greater than the opposite HWHM solid angle of sunlight measured in Sr.

[0147] As used herein, the term "sunlight" or "sunlight component" or "direct light component" may refer to artificial light that is representative of sunlight. It may be representative of sunlight with respect to one or more of: color, e.g., as defined by CCT (e.g., 3000 to 5000K, which is less than the correlated color temperature of the skylight component); divergence (e.g., the divergence angle of the light may be no greater than 5 degrees or 2 degrees or 1 degree or 0.5 degrees); brightness distribution or intensity; other suitable parameters, and; variations of any of the above across the output aperture of the device. In a specific example, the brightness distribution of the sunlight may have a narrow peak in the angular distribution around the propagation direction that subtends a HWHM solid angle of less than 0.2 sr or 0.3 sr. The sunlight component may be uniformly projected onto the output aperture, e.g., such that the average propagation direction within a circle of 10 mm diameter at any position on the output aperture does not vary by more than 2% or 5% or 10%. The sunlight may appear to a user as a disk at infinity when looking at the device.

[0148] As used herein, the term "collimated light" may refer to light that has been processed by a collimated light generating system, which may form a sunlight component.

[0149] As used herein, the term "output aperture" may refer to a viewing window of the device into which an observer may gaze. The output aperture may be 0.5 to 2 m x 0.5 to 2 m. The output aperture outputs the output light generated by the device. The output aperture may be defined by a transparent panel, which may include glass or plastic or may not include such a member, it may, for example, include a void instead of such a member.

[0150] As used herein, the term "reflective member" may refer to an object capable of reflecting an image by specular reflection. It may include a member having any surface, wherein the texture or roughness of the surface is smaller (smoother) than the wavelength of the incident light. It may include a surface formed of one or more of the following reflective materials: metal; metal oxide, and; dielectric material. Examples thereof include silver, aluminum, titanium oxide-based materials (including titanium dioxide or titanium trioxide). Any of the above substances may be applied as a thin coating on a glass carrier.

[0151] As used herein, the term "reflective member" may refer to an object capable of reflecting an image by specular reflection. It may include a member having any surface, wherein the texture or roughness of the surface is smaller (smoother) than the wavelength of the incident light. It may include a surface formed of one or more of the following reflective materials: metal; metal oxide, and; dielectric material. Examples thereof include silver, aluminum, titanium oxide-based materials (including titanium dioxide or titanium trioxide). Any of the above substances may be applied as a thin coating on a glass carrier.

[0152] As used herein, the term "diffuse light generator" or "diffuse light generating system" may refer to a single (e.g., collimating member) or distributed system capable of generating a diffuse light component (e.g., light scattered at many angles compared to one angle of specular reflection). The diffuse light generator may generate diffuse light by reflecting incident light as diffuse light, or may be at least partially transparent and generate diffuse light in light transmitted therethrough, for example, by particles suspended in a transparent material. The diffuse light generator may be implemented as one or more of: particles for scattering light; conical micro-cones; micro-lenses; quantum dots; surface features, including surface etching, and; other suitable embodiments.

[0153] As used herein, the term “scattering light” may refer to a process performed by a diffuse light generator on incident light to generate diffuse light, and any process may include Rayleigh scattering.

[0154] As used herein, the term "particles for scattering said light" may refer to particles having a diameter selected for scattering some or all wavelengths of visible light. The diameter of the particles may be micrometer-scale or nanometer-scale (e.g., to operate in the Rayleigh regime). The diffuse light generator may include said particles arranged in a medium. Examples include titanium dioxide suspended in PMMA.

[0155] As used herein, the term "light guide panel" may refer to a generally planar member arranged to act as a waveguide to transmit light in an in-plane direction (e.g., by total internal reflection). The light guide panel may be edge lit, for example, by a light source. The light guide panel may be implemented as a diffuse light generator, for example, particles in the light guide panel scatter light to enable it to leave the waveguide.

[0156] As used herein, the term "light source" may refer to any arrangement capable of generating artificial light. It may include an arrangement that transforms an electric current into luminous radiation. The light may have a wavelength in the range of 400 to 700 nm. The light source may include one or more of the following: a white light source, or a white light source perceived by the eye, such as an incandescent lamp, a fluorescent lamp, a mercury vapor discharge lamp; an LED or a white light laser diode (i.e., such that the main source is combined with a phosphor or several phosphors) or a combination of LEDs or laser diodes of different colors, and; other suitable light sources. The light source may include a light guide for receiving light from the emitting portion and transmitting the light to an output surface, for example by total internal reflection. The light source may be arranged to emit at a CCT of 3K to 20K, or to emit on a daylight track. The brightness distribution does not vary by more than 20% over any circular area with a diameter of 10 mm.

[0157] As used herein, the term "color system" may refer to an arrangement capable of imparting a particular color to light (e.g., from a light source). The color may represent a sky scene, including daylight, sunset, or sunrise. A color system may, for example, include a filter. A color system may be applied to a skylight or sunlight component.

[0158] As used herein, the term "collimated light generating system" may refer to a single or distributed (e.g., more than one) collimated light source for producing a collimated light beam. The collimated light generating system may include a collimating member / system, which may be implemented as one or more of the following: a lens, including a Fresnel lens; a parabolic reflector; a closed-cell structure, the light is projected through the hole of the closed-cell structure, and; other suitable systems. The collimated light generating system may include a light source for outputting light to be collimated by the collimating member (e.g., a dedicated or general light source for collimated light). In the case where the light source is a laser or other light source with a suitable collimated output, the collimating member may be omitted. The collimating system may consist of only a single collimating member and an optional single light source.

[0159] As used herein, the term "prism sheet" may refer to a prism arrangement on a planar member that maintains the initial collimation of an incident light beam, but that expands the light beam. The expansion may be achieved by reflection or reflection and / or refraction. An example of such an arrangement is disclosed in WO 2017048569 A.

[0160] As used herein, the term "electrical circuit system" or "circuit system" or "control electrical circuit system" may refer to one or more hardware and / or software components, examples of which may include: an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC); electronic / electrical components (which may include a combination of transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors, etc.); one or more processors; non-volatile memory (e.g., implemented by one or more memory devices), which non-volatile memory may store one or more software or firmware programs; combinational logic circuits; interconnections of the above. The electrical circuit system may be located entirely at the device, or distributed between one or more of the following: the device; an external device; a server system.

[0161] As used herein, the term "processor" or "processing resource" may refer to one or more units for processing, examples of which include ASICs, microcontrollers, FPGAs, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), state machines, or other suitable components. The processor may be configured to execute a computer program, for example, a computer program may take the form of machine-readable instructions, which may be stored in a non-transitory memory and / or programmable logic. The processor may have various arrangements corresponding to those discussed for the circuit system. As used herein, any machine-executable instructions or computer-readable media may be configured to cause the disclosed method to be performed, for example, by an apparatus or system as disclosed herein, and may therefore be used synonymously with the term method or with each other.

[0162] As used herein, the term "communication resource" or "communication interface" may refer to hardware and / or firmware for electronic information transmission. Communication resources / interfaces may be configured for wired communication ("wired communication resources / interfaces") or wireless communication ("wireless communication resources / interfaces"). Wireless communication resources may include hardware for transmitting and receiving signals over the air, and may include various protocol implementations, such as the 802.11 standard described in the Institute of Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the Bluetooth Special Interest Group from the Kilcrane Wash. TM Wired communication resources may include: Universal Serial Bus (USB); High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) or other protocol implementations. The device may include communication resources for wired or wireless communication with external devices and / or server systems.

[0163] As used herein, the term "external device" or "external electronic device" or "peripheral device" may include electronic components external to the device, such as those electronic components arranged in the same location as the machine or those electronic components remote from the device, which communicate with the device through a computer network. The external device may include a communication interface for communicating with the machine and / or server system. The external device may include the following devices, including: a smart phone; a PDA; a video game controller; a tablet computer; a laptop computer; or other similar devices.

[0164] [General System]

[0165] refer to Figure 1 The apparatus 2 for creating a sky scene perception in output light comprises a collimated light generating system 4, a diffuse light generating system 6, and an output aperture 8 through which output light 10 is projected. The collimated light generating system 4 generates a collimated sunlight component 12 in the output light 10. The diffuse light generating system 6 generates a diffuse sky light component 14 in the output light 10.

[0166] In a variant embodiment not shown: the diffuse light generating system is omitted, for example so that the sky scene only comprises sunlight.

[0167] [First example]

[0168] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 , a first example of an apparatus 2 includes a collimated light generating system 4 having a first collimated light source 16. The first collimated light source 16 includes a light source 18 and a collimation system 20. The light source 18 projects a light beam 22 to the collimation system 20, which processes the received light to output a collimated light beam 24, which forms the collimated sunlight component 12 in the output light 10.

[0169] In a variant embodiment not shown: the collimated light generating system comprises more than one collimated light source and / or collimation system.

[0170] As in Figure 3 and Figure 4 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the diffuse light generating system 6 comprises a diffuser 26 arranged as a waveguide through which the collimated sunlight component 12 is projected. The diffuse light generating system 6 comprises a dedicated diffuse light source 28 which emits light into the edge of the diffuser 26. The diffuser 26 comprises particles (not shown) which scatter the light reflected internally from the light source 28. The light emitted from the light source 28 is retained within the diffuser 26 by total internal reflection until it encounters the particles and is scattered, thereby enabling it to exit the diffuser 26 as the diffuse skylight component 14. The portion of the collimated sunlight component 12 that encounters the particles may also be scattered in this way.

[0171] In variant embodiments not shown, the dedicated diffuse light source may be omitted from the diffuse light generating system, wherein the diffuse sky light component is provided by the portion of the collimated light scattered by the transparent member; the diffuser may be arranged alternatively, for example, the diffuser may form an output aperture; other diffuse light generating systems are also conceivable.

[0172] The output aperture 8 is planar and aligned in the longitudinal direction 100 and the transverse direction 102. The thickness of the device 2 is arranged in the depth direction 104. The housing 30 containing the components of the device 2 described herein extends in the longitudinal direction 100, the transverse direction 102, and the depth direction 104.

[0173] The collimation system 20 of the collimated light generating system 4 includes an off-axis parabolic reflector 32 that receives the light beam 22 from the light source 18 to generate a collimated light beam 24 .

[0174] The light beam 22 is transmitted to the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 by a coupling system (not shown). The coupling system expands the light beam 22 so that it is projected over the entire extension (including substantially the entire extension) of the off-axis parabolic reflector 32. The coupling system includes a light pipe (which may be straight or tapered to expand the light) to receive light from the light source 18 at a first end and provide the light beam 22 at a second end.

[0175] In variant embodiments not shown, the coupling system is alternatively arranged and includes: a prism arranged to receive light from a light source and refract the light to provide a light beam, and; other suitable arrangements, including combinations of those disclosed.

[0176] The off-axis parabolic reflector 32 includes a curved reflector surface that is generally arranged on a support having a planar rear surface. The planar rear surface of the parabolic reflector 32 is arranged to be aligned in a longitudinal plane defined by the longitudinal direction 100 and the depth direction 104. Specifically, the planar rear surface is arranged on the inside of the side panel of the housing 30. This arrangement can facilitate assembly.

[0177] The off-axis parabolic reflector enables folding of the beam 22 (via reflection) and combined collimation. Folding the beam 22 in this manner increases the distance that the collimated sunlight component 12 travels between the light source 18 and the output aperture 8, which can increase the perception of the sun being at infinity.

[0178] In a variant embodiment not shown: the off-axis parabolic reflector is tilted in one or more of: a longitudinal plane around the depth axis or the longitudinal axis; a transverse plane defined around the transverse axis by the transverse direction 102 and the depth direction 104. The tilt may be provided by an adjustable mount that enables fine tuning of the orientation of the reflector surface. The tilt may be less than 5 or 10 degrees.

[0179] In variant embodiments not shown, the collimation system is alternatively arranged to include one or more of the following: the collimation system additionally includes a first collimator (e.g., a lens) upstream or downstream of the coupling system; it is arranged as one or more collimating lenses instead of or in addition to the off-axis parabolic reflector.

[0180] The collimated light generating system 4 comprises a first optical expansion system 34, and a second optical expansion system 36. The first optical expansion system 34 is arranged to expand the collimated light beam 24 onto the output aperture 8 as the collimated sunlight component 12 in a first expansion direction, which is a transverse direction 102 in this example. The second optical expansion system is arranged to expand the collimated light beam 24 onto the output aperture 8 as the collimated sunlight component 12 in a second expansion direction, which is a longitudinal direction 100 in this example. The optical expansion systems 32, 34 are arranged to expand the collimated light beam 24 while maintaining substantially the same degree of collimation applied by the collimation system 20. The first optical expansion system 34 is separate from and upstream of the second optical expansion system 36.

[0181] In a variant embodiment not shown: the first optical expansion system is integrated with the second optical expansion system, for example, by means of an integrated prism sheet.

[0182] The first optical expansion system 34 includes a first prism sheet 38. Figure 2As best seen in FIG. 1 , the plane of the first prism sheet 38 (on which the associated prisms are aligned) is tilted at an angle α to the propagation direction of the incident collimated light beam 24 from the collimation system 20. The tilt is substantially relative to a transverse plane (defined by the transverse direction 102 and the depth direction 104) and about the depth axis 104. The tilt angle can be between 5 degrees and 30 degrees. The tilt causes the collimated light beam 24 to be projected onto substantially the entire first prism sheet 34. The prisms of the first prism sheet 38 reflect and / or refract the collimated light beam 24 respectively over the length of the first prism sheet 38. The first prism sheet 38 is configured to project the first expanded collimated light beam 40 substantially in the longitudinal direction 100. Therefore, the first expanded collimated light beam 40 is expanded to a transverse component of the length of the first prism sheet 38, which is substantially set to the transverse dimension of the output aperture 8.

[0183] It will be appreciated that with this arrangement, the first prism sheet 38 can expand the incident collimated light beam 24 (in the direction normal to the propagation direction) by more than 2, 3 or 5 times. The maximum expansion of 10 or 20 or 30 can be determined by the power of the light source and the resolution of the individual prisms.

[0184] refer to Figure 3 , the first prism sheet 38 is additionally tilted at an angle β relative to the transverse plane and about the transverse axis 102. The tilt angle can be 5 degrees to 30 degrees. This enables the first expanded collimated light beam 40 to be projected to an optional viewing control system 42, which includes a reflector system 44, as will be discussed.

[0185] The light source 18 and optional coupling system are arranged so as not to interfere with light projected from the first prism sheet 38 and / or the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 .

[0186] refer to Figure 2 , the light source 18 and the optional coupling system are arranged behind the reflective surface of the first prism sheet 38 in the longitudinal direction 100. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The light source 18 and the optional coupling system are arranged above the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 and the first prism sheet 38 in the depth direction 104, between the components and the output aperture 8.

[0187] In variant embodiments not shown, it will be understood that the light source 18 and optional coupling system may be otherwise arranged so as not to interfere with light projected from the first prism sheet 38 and / or the off-axis parabolic reflector, such as below the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 and the first prism sheet 38, or so as not to interfere with other suitable arrangements.

[0188] The viewing control system 42 is arranged to shield at least a portion of the collimated light generating system 4 and / or the diffuse light generating system 6 when viewed through the output aperture 8 .

[0189] The reflector system 44 is configured to hide the collimating system 20, the light source 18, and the first prism sheet 38 when an observer views through the output aperture 8. The reflector system 44 additionally increases the distance that the collimated sunlight component 12 is projected through between the light source 18 and the output aperture 8, which may increase the perception of the sun being at infinity.

[0190] The reflector system 44 comprises a first reflecting member 46 (e.g. a mirror) for specularly reflecting the first expanded collimated light beam 40. The first reflecting member 46 is aligned in the plane of the output aperture 8 at the end of the device opposite to the output aperture 8. The first reflecting member 46 reflects the first expanded collimated light beam 40 to a second reflecting member 48.

[0191] The reflector system 44 includes a subsequent second reflective member 48 (e.g., a mirror) for specularly reflecting the first expanded collimated light beam 40. The second reflective member 48 is substantially arranged on the transverse plane at the end of the device opposite to the first prism sheet 38. The second reflective member 48 is tilted at an angle ψ relative to the transverse plane around the transverse axis 102. The tilt angle can be 5 to 30 degrees.

[0192] The second reflecting member 48 reflects the first expanded collimated light beam 40 to and forms a part of the second expansion optical system 36, as will be discussed.

[0193] The reflector system 44 includes a support member 50 that is aligned parallel to the first expanded collimated light beam 40 reflected from the second reflective member 48. The support member 50 has a diffuse and white outer surface. The support member 50 prevents / reduces the visibility (e.g., from certain viewing angles) of the collimation system 20; the light source 18 and the first prism sheet 38 when viewed by an observer through the output aperture 8.

[0194] In variant embodiments not shown: the support member is alternatively aligned, for example, it is arranged to be tilted relative to the direction of the proximal collimated light beam so that the collimated light beam causes a shadow on the support member; the support member can be formed of other surface finishes, for example for mirror reflection; the support member can be arranged to hide the collimation system, the light source (for example, instead of the first prism sheet); the first reflective member is tilted relative to the output aperture; the second relative member is aligned with the transverse plane and can include a Fresnel arrangement to give the equivalent of an inclined mirror reflection; the support member can be omitted.

[0195] The second optical expansion system 36 comprises a second prism sheet 52. The plane of the second prism sheet 52 (on which the associated prisms are aligned) is aligned with the output aperture 8.

[0196] As discussed, the second reflective member 48 is tilted so that the first expanded collimated light beam 40 is projected onto substantially the entire second prism sheet 52. The prisms of the second prism sheet 52 refract and / or reflect the first expanded collimated light beam 40, respectively, over the length of the second prism sheet 52, and are transmissive so that light is transmitted therethrough as the second expanded collimated light beam 54. The second prism sheet 52 is configured to project the second expanded collimated light beam 54 generally in the depth direction 104 (e.g., at an angle of 0 to 40 degrees with the depth direction). Thus, the second expanded collimated light beam 54 is expanded to a longitudinal component of the length of the second prism sheet 52, which is the longitudinal dimension of the output aperture 8.

[0197] As discussed above, the second expanded collimated light beam 54 is transmitted through the diffuser 26. The second expanded collimated light beam 54 is projected through the output aperture 8 as the collimated sunlight component 12.

[0198] In variant embodiments, the second prism sheet is alternatively arranged to include an angle with the output aperture; the second prism sheet only partially extends over the output aperture; one or both prism sheets are replaced by a similarly functional optical device (e.g., a single prism).

[0199] The viewing control system 42 further includes a viewing angle dependent member 56 configured to be optically transparent from a first viewing angle range and at least partially optically opaque from a second different viewing angle range. Lumisty Products Inc. provides Lumisty visual control film model W-0055. The example transitions from transparent to frosted at an incident angle greater than 55 degrees. The viewing angle dependent member 56 is arranged in the plane of the output aperture 8 and completely overlaps the output aperture. It is downstream of the diffuser 26 and the second prism sheet 52.

[0200] In variant embodiments not shown: the viewing angle dependent component may be omitted; the viewing angle dependent component is instead arranged to include an overlap with only certain parts of the output aperture, for example arranged where the collimated light source is visible, or arranged upstream of the diffuser.

[0201] [Second to fourth examples]

[0202] In variant embodiments not shown, various structural modifications of the first example can be implemented, all of which are compatible in relation to the other examples:

[0203] In a second example, the second beam expansion system is omitted so that the first prism sheet projects light to the output aperture. In this variation, the first prism sheet can be reflective as in the first example, or transmissive so that light to the output aperture is transmitted via reflection from or through the second prism sheet, respectively.

[0204] In a third example, the second prism sheet is alternatively reflective, such that it reflects light to an output aperture, where the output aperture is located at the other end of the device in the depth direction (rather than being transmissive as in the first example). With this arrangement, the first reflective member can be omitted, such that the first prism sheet transmits light directly to the second reflective member, which transmits light to the second prism sheet, or alternatively, the first prism sheet can transmit light directly to the second prism sheet (thus the reflector system can be omitted).

[0205] In a fourth example, the reflector system is omitted and the first prism sheet transmits light directly to the second prism sheet, in which example the second prism sheet may be transmissive such that light to the output aperture is transmitted through the second prism sheet.

[0206] [Fifth example]

[0207] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the fifth example of the device 2, there are two collimated light sources, both of which are expanded by a shared beam expansion system, as will be discussed. The fifth example shares all compatible features and variations with the first example, which are not repeated for the sake of brevity. Where compatible, the second to fourth examples may also implement two collimated light sources as in the fifth example.

[0208] In the fifth example, the collimated light generating system 4 comprises: a first collimated light source 16, and; a second collimated light source 60. The collimated light generating system 4 is arranged with a first collimated light beam 24 and a second collimated light beam 62, both projected through the output aperture 8.

[0209] The first collimated light beam 24 and the second collimated light beam 62 are superimposed on each other such that they have a common central axis 108, 110. The superimposed collimated light beam 64 is projected through the output aperture 8 as the collimated sunlight component 12.

[0210] In a variant embodiment not shown: the collimated light beams are superimposed on one another without aligning their central axes, for example, the axes may be aligned longitudinally and offset laterally, or vice versa, etc.

[0211] The first collimated light source 16 includes a dedicated light source 18 and a collimation system 20. The second collimated light source 60 includes a dedicated light source 18 and a collimation system 20.

[0212] In the case of two separate light sources, each light beam of the first collimated light source and the second collimated light source can be independently controlled by the electrical circuit system. In a first variant, the first light beam and the second light beam can be configured to be projected with different color beams (this can be achieved by a color system), so that the color (e.g., expressed in CCT) and / or the intensity of the collimated sunlight component can be controlled by controlling the intensity of the light source. In a second variant, the first light beam and the second light beam can be configured to be projected with the same color beam (including substantially the same color), so that the intensity of the collimated sunlight component can be controlled by controlling the intensity of either collimated light source, for example, one of the collimated light sources can be turned off for a low energy mode.

[0213] In a variant embodiment not shown: the first collimated light source and the second collimated light source comprise separate light beams originating from a common single light source and / or collimation system.

[0214] Here, for the sake of brevity, the arrangement of the first collimated light source 16 is generally described and is similar to the first example. It should be understood that since the second collimated light source 60 is arranged symmetrically about the central longitudinal axis of the device, the same description applies to the second collimated light source.

[0215] As in Figure 5 As best seen in FIG. 1 , light source 18 projects light beam 22 with a substantial component in longitudinal direction 100 onto off-axis parabolic reflector 32 and obliquely onto the plane of output aperture 8. Light source 18 also projects with a component in opposite lateral direction 104 and depth direction 104.

[0216] As in Figure 5 , the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 is tilted relative to the longitudinal direction 100 so that the longitudinal component of the light beam 22 incident on the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 is subsequently reflected in the opposite longitudinal direction as a collimated light beam 24. The off-axis parabolic reflector 32 is also tilted relative to the transverse direction 102 and the depth direction 104 so that the collimated light beam 24 undergoes changes in said directions.

[0217] Thus, the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 of the collimating system 20 is arranged to project the collimated light beam 24 substantially obliquely (e.g., not aligned with and tilted relative to the longitudinal direction 100 or the transverse direction 102) onto the plane of the output aperture 8 in an at least partially overlapping manner.

[0218] Due to said tilting, the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 is arranged to partially overlap the output aperture 8. In a variant embodiment not shown, the off-axis parabolic reflector is arranged not to overlap the output aperture, for example it may be set back from the output aperture in a lateral direction.

[0219] The collimated light generating system 4 comprises a light mixing element, which in this example is a first prism sheet 38. The first prism sheet 38 is arranged to be aligned with the transverse direction 102 and to have a tilt angle β with the transverse plane and around the transverse axis 102.

[0220] Unlike the first example, the reflector system 44 is omitted, and the first prism sheet 38 projects directly onto the second prism sheet 52 (as discussed with respect to the fourth example).

[0221] The first prism sheet 38 is symmetrically arranged around a central longitudinal axis and includes individually symmetrical prism components. In this manner, the prism receives the collimated light beam 24 from the first collimated light source 16 and the second collimated light beam 62 from the second collimated light source 60, and projects a superimposed collimated light beam 64. The central axes 108, 110 of the collimated light beams 24, 62 can be viewed as intersecting at a common intersection point on the first prism sheet 38 (located at its center), and the superimposed collimated light beam 64 is projected from the intersection point.

[0222] The light source 18, at least a portion of the off-axis parabolic reflector 32, and the first prism sheet 38 are positioned so as not to overlap with the output aperture 8 when viewed in a plane defined by the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 This reduces their visibility from the output aperture 8. More in part, the light source 18 is arranged to be at approximately the same position as the output aperture 8 in the depth direction 104 to reduce / eliminate its visibility through the output aperture 8.

[0223] In embodiments comprising a coupling system for coupling the light beam 22 to the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 , the coupling system (eg, a prism or a light pipe) is arranged to not overlap the output aperture 8 .

[0224] The light source 18 and the optional coupling system are arranged not to interfere with the light projected from the first prism sheet 38 and / or the off-axis parabolic reflector 32. Unlike the first example, this is achieved by arranging the light source and the optional coupling system not to overlap with the output aperture. By this arrangement, it can be ensured that the light source and the optional coupling system are not visible through the output aperture and do not interfere with the light projected from the collimation system and / or the first prism sheet.

[0225] [Sixth to ninth examples]

[0226] In a sixth example not shown: the first collimated light source and the second collimated light source are alternatively arranged at opposite longitudinal ends of the device, and wherein the device of the fifth example is effectively divided into two halves in the lateral direction so that there are two separate first prism sheets, each of which receives light from one of the collimated light sources, and the second prism sheet acts as a light mixing element, wherein the intersection point is at the center of the second prism sheet.

[0227] In a seventh example, not shown: the fifth example is implemented with a single collimated light source, and the device is effectively divided into two halves in the lateral direction, so that the collimated light source of the fifth example is provided with the functional implementation of the first example.

[0228] In an eighth example not shown: the fifth example or the first example can be adapted so that a plurality of collimated light generating systems are arranged in a row so that each of the systems provides a separate collimated sunlight component as an adjacent rectangle in the lateral direction on a common output aperture. In such an example, it should be understood that the light source of the collimated light generating system and the collimation system can be projected from the same longitudinal end of the device or from both ends, for example, they can be staggered so that they are projected sequentially from opposite ends. By such an example, the collimated light beam has a central axis that is longitudinally aligned and laterally and offset.

[0229] In a ninth example not shown: the fifth example can be adapted so that two collimated light generating systems are arranged at two opposite longitudinal ends of the device so that each of the systems provides a separate collimated sunlight component as a contiguous rectangle in the longitudinal direction at the output aperture. With this example, the collimated light beam has a central axis that is laterally aligned and longitudinally and offset.

[0230] [Tenth Example]

[0231] refer to Figures 7 to 10 In the tenth example of the device 2, the fifth example is adapted to include: the first prism 38 sheet is transparent so that the collimated light is transmitted therethrough, and; a reflector system 44 similar to the first example is implemented, as will be discussed. The tenth example shares all compatible features and variations in common with the first example, which are not repeated for the sake of brevity.

[0232] In the tenth example, the collimated light generating system 4 comprises: a first collimated light source 16, and; a second collimated light source 60. The collimated light generating system 4 is arranged with a first collimated light beam 24 and a second collimated light beam 62, both projected through the output aperture 8.

[0233] For the fifth example, the first collimated light beam 24 and the second collimated light beam 62 are superimposed on each other such that they have a common central axis 108, 110. The superimposed collimated light beam 64 is projected through the output aperture 8 as the collimated sunlight component 12.

[0234] In variant embodiments not shown: the collimated light beams are superimposed on each other without aligning their central axes, for example, the axes may be aligned longitudinally and offset laterally, or vice versa; the second collimated light source may be omitted.

[0235] The first collimated light source 16 includes a dedicated light source 18 and a collimation system 20. The second collimated light source 60 includes a dedicated light source 18 and a collimation system 20.

[0236] In the case of two separate light sources, each beam of the first collimated light source and the second collimated light source can be independently controlled by the electrical circuit system. In a first example, the first light beam and the second light beam can be configured to be projected with different color beams (which can be achieved by a color system), so that the color (e.g., expressed in CCT) and / or the intensity of the collimated sunlight component can be controlled by controlling the intensity of the light source. In a second variant, the first light beam and the second light beam can be configured to be projected with the same color beam (including substantially the same color), so that the intensity of the collimated sunlight component can be controlled by controlling the intensity of either collimated light source, for example, one of the collimated light sources can be turned off for a low energy mode.

[0237] In a variant embodiment not shown: the first collimated light source and the second collimated light source comprise separate light beams originating from a common single light source and / or collimation system.

[0238] Here, for simplicity, the arrangement of the first collimated light source 16 is generally described and is similar to the first example. It should be understood that since the second collimated light source 60 is arranged symmetrically about the central longitudinal axis of the device 2, the same description applies to the second collimated light source.

[0239] As in Figure 7 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the light source 18 projects the light beam 22 with a substantial component in the opposite longitudinal direction 100 to the collimation system 22 arranged as an off-axis parabolic reflector 32, and obliquely to the plane of the output aperture 8. The light source 18 also projects with a component in the opposite lateral direction 104 and in the depth direction 104.

[0240] As in Figure 7 and Fig.10 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 is tilted relative to the longitudinal direction 100 so that the opposite longitudinal component of the light beam 22 incident on the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 is then reflected as a collimated light beam 24 in the longitudinal direction 100. Due to the tilt, the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 is arranged to overlap the output aperture. The off-axis parabolic reflector 32 is also tilted relative to the transverse direction 102 and the depth direction 104 so that the collimated light beam 24 undergoes changes in said directions.

[0241] Thus, the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 of the collimation system 20 is arranged to project the collimated light beam 24 substantially obliquely (eg, not aligned with the longitudinal direction 100 or the transverse direction 102) in an overlapping manner onto the plane of the output aperture 8.

[0242] The collimated light generating system 4 includes a light mixing element, which in this example is a first prism sheet 38. Figure 8 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the first prism sheet 38 is arranged to be aligned with the transverse direction 102 and to have a small tilt angle β with the transverse plane and about the transverse axis 102 .

[0243] The first prism sheet 38 is arranged to be tilted relative to the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 and forms part of the first optical expansion system 34, as previously discussed.

[0244] The first prism sheet 38 is symmetrically arranged around a central longitudinal axis and includes individually symmetrical prism components. In this manner, the prism receives the collimated light beam 24 from the first collimated light source 16 and the second collimated light beam 62 from the second collimated light source 60, and projects a superimposed collimated light beam 64. The central axes 108, 110 of the collimated light beams 24, 62 can be viewed as intersecting at a common intersection point on the first prism sheet 38 (located at its center), and the superimposed collimated light beam 64 is projected from the intersection point.

[0245] Unlike the first example, the reflector system 44 is arranged as a single reflective member 46. The first prism sheet 38 projects onto the reflective member 46, which then projects onto the second prism sheet 52. The first reflective member 46 (e.g., a mirror) is used to specularly reflect the first expanded collimated light beam 40. The first reflective member 46 is substantially arranged in a transverse plane at the end of the device opposite to the first prism sheet 38. As shown in Figure 8 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the first reflective member 46 is tilted about the transverse axis 102 relative to the transverse plane at an angle ψ. The tilt angle may be 5 to 30 degrees. The first reflective member 44 reflects the first expanded collimated light beam 40 to the second optical expansion system 36 and forms a part of the second optical expansion system, as previously discussed.

[0246] When viewed in a plane defined by the transverse and longitudinal directions, the light source 18 is positioned to overlap the output aperture 8, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 The light source 18 projects the light beam 22 obliquely onto the plane where the output aperture 8 is arranged, and onto the off-axis parabolic reflector 32. In an embodiment including a coupling system for coupling the light beam 22 to the off-axis parabolic reflector 32, the coupling system (e.g., a light pipe as discussed for the first example) is arranged to overlap the output aperture 8.

[0247] The light source 18, the optional coupling system, and the off-axis parabolic reflector 32 and the first prism sheet 38 are arranged to: not interfere with light projected from the first prism sheet 38 and / or the off-axis parabolic reflector 32, and; be at least partially obscured when viewed from outside the output aperture 8 (as discussed for the first example).

[0248] Specifically, as in Figure 8 As best seen in , the support member 50 is implemented in combination with the first reflective member 46 to avoid such interference by reflecting light around these components and by at least partially obscuring it when viewed from outside the output aperture 8.

[0249] As in Figure 7 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the light sources 18 of the first collimated light source 16 project substantially in opposite lateral directions 102, and the light sources 18 of the second collimated light source 60 project substantially in lateral directions 102. With this arrangement, the light sources may conveniently be arranged on the same carrier and / or may be arranged so as not to interfere with each other.

[0250] As used in this specification, any expressions in the style "at least one of A, B, or C" and the expression "at least one of A, B, and C" use the disjunctive conjunction "or" and the disjunctive conjunction "and" so that those expressions include any and all combinations and permutations of A, B, C, i.e., A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in any order, A and C in any order, B and C in any order, and A, B, C in any order. More or less than three features may be used in such expressions.

[0251] In the claims, any reference numerals placed between brackets shall not be interpreted as limiting the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps other than those listed in the claims. In addition, as used herein, the term "a or an" is defined as one or more than one. In addition, the use of introduction phrases such as "at least one" and "one or more" in the claims shall not be interpreted as implying that any particular claim containing such introduced claim elements by the indefinite article "a" or "an" will be limited to an invention containing only one such element, even if the same claim includes the introduction phrase "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article, such as "a" or "an". The same is true for the use of definite articles. Unless otherwise stated, terms such as "first" and "second" are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements described by such terms. Therefore, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate the temporal or other priority of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are cited in mutually different claims does not indicate that the combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0252] Unless otherwise expressly stated as incompatible, or physical or other aspects of the embodiments, examples or claims prevent such a combination, the features of the foregoing embodiments and examples and the following claims may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement, especially any suitable arrangement where there is a beneficial effect when doing so. This is not limited to any specified benefit only, but may result from an "after-the-fact" benefit. That is, the combination of features is not limited by the form described, in particular the form of the examples, embodiments (e.g., numbering) or the dependencies of the claims. In addition, this also applies to phrases "in one embodiment", "according to an embodiment", etc., which are merely stylistic forms of wording and should not be interpreted as limiting the following features to separate embodiments of all other instances of the same or similar wording. That is, references to "one", "an" or "some" embodiments may be references to any one or more and / or all embodiments or combinations thereof disclosed. Similarly, similarly, references to the "said" embodiment may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment.

[0253] The foregoing description of one or more embodiments provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An optical display device arranged to create a sky scene perception in output light, the device comprising: A collimated light generating system, the collimated light generating system comprising: a collimated light source, the collimated light source is used to generate a collimated light beam; a first optical expansion system, and; a second optical expansion system; a diffuse light generating system, and; an output aperture through which the output light is projected, the diffuse light generating system being arranged to generate a diffuse skylight component in the output light, and the collimated light generating system being arranged to generate a collimated sunlight component in the output light, The first optical expansion system is arranged to expand the collimated light beam to the output aperture in a first expansion direction as the collimated sunlight component, and the second optical expansion system is arranged to expand the collimated light beam onto the output aperture as the collimated sunlight component separately and subsequently in a second expansion direction, And the second expansion direction is different from the first expansion direction.

2. The optical display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first optical expansion system is separated from and upstream of the second optical expansion system, and the first optical expansion system does not expand the collimated light beam in the second direction, and / or the second optical expansion system does not expand the collimated light beam in the first expansion direction.

3. The optical display device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein: The first optical expansion system and the second optical expansion system are arranged to perform uniform expansion and / or consist of linear expansion of the collimated light in associated expansion directions.

4. An optical display device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein: The average divergence angle of the optically expanded collimated light beam is within 5% or 10% of the divergence angle of the collimated light beam.

5. An optical display device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein: The collimated light beam is expanded at least 3 times or 5 times in both directions.

6. An optical display device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein: The collimated light beam expands in at least one of the directions to an extent of the output aperture in the directions.

7. An optical display device as described in any one of the above items, wherein: The first expansion direction and the second expansion direction are orthogonal to each other on the output aperture.

8. The optical display device according to claim 7, wherein: The output aperture extends in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, wherein the first direction is aligned with the transverse direction and the second direction is aligned with the longitudinal direction.

9. An optical display device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein: The first optical expansion system comprises: A prism sheet is arranged to be inclined with respect to a propagation direction of the collimated light beam and is arranged to expand the collimated light beam into a first expanded collimated light beam.

10. An optical display device according to any claim 9, wherein: The prism sheet is arranged to transmit the collimated light beam therethrough.

11. The optical display device according to any one of claims 9 or 10, wherein: The prism sheet is arranged to be inclined relative to the inclined aperture.

12. The optical display device according to any one of claims 9 to 10, wherein: The second optical expansion system comprises: A second prism sheet is arranged to be inclined relative to a propagation direction of the first expanded collimated light beam and is arranged to expand the first expanded collimated light beam into a second expanded collimated light beam.

13. The optical display device according to claim 12, wherein: The second prism sheet is disposed on the output aperture and projects the second expanded collimated light beam through the output aperture as the collimated sunlight component.

14. The optical display device according to claim 13, wherein: The second prism sheet is arranged flush with the output aperture.

15. An optical display device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein: The collimated light source comprises a light source and a collimating system for receiving light from the light source and generating the collimated light beam from the light, wherein the collimating system is an off-axis parabolic reflector.

16. The optical display device according to claim 15, wherein: The collimated light source comprises a coupling system for projecting light from the light source to the collimating system, wherein the coupling system comprises one or more of a prism, a light guide, and a lens.

17. The optical display device according to claim 16 or claim 15 or claim 9, wherein: The collimated light source is arranged so as not to interfere with light projected from the collimating system and / or the prism sheet.

18. A kit of parts for assembly into an optical display device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. A method for creating a sky scene perception, the method comprising: expanding light from the collimated beam in a first direction when viewed at an output aperture; subsequently expanding said light from the collimated beam in a second, different direction when viewed at the output aperture, and; The expanded collimated light is output as a collimated sunlight component.

20. The method of claim 19, comprising: transmitting the light to a diffuse light generating system to generate a skylight component, and; Outputs diffuse light as a skylight component.

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