Reflector with designed angle of collecting and reflecting light

Abstract

A reflective liquid crystal display (RLCD) is provided. The RLCD includes a base surface, one or more first reflector units, and one or more second reflector units. Each first reflector unit defines a first reflective surface, and each first reflector unit is positioned on the base surface such that each first reflective surface defines a downward inclined surface in a first orientation direction. Each second reflector unit defines a second reflective surface, and each second reflector unit is positioned on the base surface such that each second reflective surface defines a downward inclined surface in a second orientation direction. The first orientation direction is perpendicular to the second orientation direction.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority under Section 119 of the United States Patent Act to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 403,331, filed on September 2, 2022, the contents of which are relied upon by this application and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to reflector designs for reflective liquid crystal displays (RLCDs). Background Art

[0004] RLCDs have lower energy consumption relative to other displays, which makes them desirable for certain uses. RLCDs can be used in a variety of applications, including mobile phones, e-readers, retail display tags / labels, information displays, and public signage. RLCDs often do not have any backlight units, and the efficiency and image brightness of RLCDs are usually related to the design of the reflector in the RLCD and how the reflector collects and reflects the input light.

[0005] In the past, two approaches have been used in RLCD to control reflected light. Under the first approach, an isotropic embedded reflector (IICR) is used. This IICR is a "bump"-like reflective texture made by photolithography technology on the inside of the liquid crystal display (LCD) unit. Under the second approach, a light control film (LCF) is used. This LCF is a refractive index / birefringence gradient film used to guide light. When applied, none of these options can give satisfactory performance. For IICR, photolithography and subsequent etching give a symmetrical reflective texture (e.g., a hemispherical surface) and there is no possibility to control the curvature of the reflector surface. Therefore, limited light collection and reflection efficiency can be achieved using IICR. For LCF, since a laminated film is provided outside the RLCD front glass and polarizer, a parallax problem is created. Furthermore, LCF introduces birefringence and reduces the contrast (CR) of the RLCD. Summary of the invention

[0006] Various embodiments provided herein relate to RLCDs with improved designs. Reflector units provide methods that can be optimized to provide efficient light collection and reflection for specific use cases. Reflector units can be provided within the RLCD to provide more uniform light reflection in angular space. Further, reflector units can be suitable for micro-replication manufacturing, making it more cost-effective to manufacture reflector units.

[0007] A reflector having reflector units can be provided, and the specific design of the reflector and the reflector units therein can be optimized to meet the needs of a specific use case. In some embodiments, the reflector units can be provided with a consistent geometry, but the geometry of the reflector units can be different in other embodiments, wherein the size and / or base shape of the reflector units can be different in other embodiments. Further, the reflector units can be oriented with the same or different unit orientations.

[0008] Depending on the number of reading orientations required for a particular use case, an appropriate reflector design may be obtained. For a reflector design for an RLCD that requires N different reading orientations, each reflector should have reflector units oriented in N different unit orientations. For example, where a particular use case requires four different reading orientations, reflector units may be provided in a reflector having four different unit orientations. Reflector units may be positioned in unit orientations, for example, perpendicular to each other, opposite to each other, etc., and this may allow further optimization of the reflector for a particular use case.

[0009] The reflector units can be organized in reflector blocks, and such reflector blocks can be mosaicked across the available coverage area so as to, for example, completely cover the available coverage area. Further, in the case where the reflector includes reflector units with different orientation directions, the reflector block can include reflector units with each different orientation direction used in the reflector. In other words, each different orientation direction is represented in a single reflector block. In this way, the reflector block can be kept uniform across the entire display. Further, the size of a given reflector block should be less than or equal to the size of a single pixel within the display. In this regard, uniformity from pixel to pixel can be maintained by specifically arranging the reflector units and controlling the reflector blocks relative to the pixels.

[0010] To maximize light collection and reflection efficiency, the number of different unit orientations in the reflector design may preferably be the same as the number of different reading orientations required for a particular use case. Further, the light collection and reflection efficiency of a reflector is proportional to the effective reflective surface area of ​​the reflector. Therefore, the reflector and the reflector units therein may be designed to cover the available surface area to maximize the light collection and reflection efficiency of the reflector.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, a reflective liquid crystal display (RLCD) is provided. The RLCD includes a base surface, one or more first reflector units, and one or more second reflector units. Each of the first reflector units (multiple) and each of the first reflector units (multiple) are positioned on the base surface so that each of the first reflector units (multiple) define a downward slope in a first orientation direction. Each of the second reflector units (multiple) define a second reflective surface, and each of the second reflector units (multiple) are positioned on the base surface so that each of the second reflective surfaces (multiple) define a downward slope in a second orientation direction. The first orientation direction is perpendicular to the second orientation direction.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first reflector unit(s) may cover a first coverage area, the second reflector unit(s) may cover a second coverage area, and the first coverage area may be larger than the second coverage area. In some embodiments, each of the first reflector units(s) and each of the second reflector units(s) are geometrically identical, and wherein each of the first reflector units(s) is positioned on the base surface at a different orientation than each of the second reflector units(s).

[0013] In some embodiments, the base surface may define a coverage area, and the (multiple) first reflector units and the (multiple) second reflector units completely cover the coverage area. Additionally, in some embodiments, each of the (multiple) first reflector units and each of the (multiple) second reflector units may define a base having a base shape. The first group of reflector units includes at least one of the one or more first reflector units or the one or more second reflector units. Each reflector unit in the first group of reflector units defines a first base shape. The second group of reflector units includes at least one of the one or more first reflector units or the one or more second reflector units. Each reflector unit in the second group of reflector units defines a second base shape. The second base shape is different from the first base shape. In addition, in some embodiments, the first group of reflector units may include a first reflector unit in the (multiple) first reflector units and a second reflector unit in the (multiple) second reflector units. In some embodiments, the base shape is selected from the group consisting of: triangle, rectangle, square, pentagon, hexagon, and other polygonal shapes.

[0014] In some embodiments, the reflector block may include a first reflector unit in the first reflector unit(s) and a second reflector unit in the second reflector unit(s). In addition, in some embodiments, the reflector block may define a reflector block base shape, the base surface may define a coverage area, and the reflector block base shape may be inlaid to cover all the coverage area. Additionally, in some embodiments, the reflector block may cover the reflector block coverage area, and the reflector block coverage area is smaller than the area of ​​the pixel.

[0015] In some embodiments, each first reflective surface in the first reflector unit(s) and each second reflective surface in the second reflector unit(s) may define a curvature. Additionally, in some embodiments, this curvature may be three-dimensional. Additionally, in some embodiments, the curvature may be radially curved, parabolically curved, asymmetrically curved, polygonally curved, or include a sinusoidal curvature.

[0016] In some embodiments, the RLCD may further include one or more third reflector units. Each of the (multiple) third reflector units may define a third reflective surface. Further, each of the (multiple) third reflector units may be positioned on the base surface so that each of the (multiple) third reflector surfaces defines a downward slope in the third orientation direction. The third orientation direction may be different from the first orientation direction and the second orientation direction. Additionally, in some embodiments, the RLCD may further include one or more fourth reflector units. Each of the (multiple) fourth reflector units may define a fourth reflective surface. Further, each of the (multiple) fourth reflector units may be positioned on the base surface so that each of the (multiple) fourth reflector surfaces defines a downward slope in the fourth orientation direction. The fourth orientation direction may be different from the first orientation direction, the second orientation direction, and the third orientation direction. In addition, in some embodiments, the first reflective surface or the second reflective surface may have a smooth finish. In some embodiments, the first reflective surface or the second reflective surface may have a rough finish.

[0017] In another exemplary embodiment, a reflective liquid crystal display (RLCD) is provided. The RLCD includes a base surface, one or more first reflector units, and one or more second reflector units. Each of the first reflector units (multiple) defines a first reflective surface and a first base, and each of the first reflector units (multiple) is positioned on the base surface so that each of the first reflector units (multiple) defines a downward slope in a first orientation direction. Further, each of the first bases in the first reflector units (multiple) has a first base shape. Each of the second reflector units (multiple) defines a second reflective surface and a second base, and each of the second reflector units (multiple) is positioned on the base surface so that each of the second reflective surfaces in the second reflector units (multiple) defines a downward slope in a second orientation direction. Further, each of the second bases in the second reflector units (multiple) has a second base shape, and the first base shape is different from the second base shape.

[0018] In another exemplary embodiment, a reflective liquid crystal display (RLCD) is provided. The RLCD includes a base surface, one or more first reflector units, and one or more second reflector units. Each of the first reflector units (multiple) defines a first reflective surface, and each of the first reflector units (multiple) is positioned on the base surface so that each of the first reflector units (multiple) defines a downward slope in a first orientation direction. Further, each of the first reflective surfaces (multiple) is curved and defines a first curvature. Each of the second reflector units (multiple) defines a second reflective surface, and each of the second reflector units (multiple) is positioned on the base surface so that each of the second reflective surfaces (multiple) defines a downward slope in a second orientation direction. Each of the second reflective surfaces (multiple) is curved and defines a second curvature. Further, the first orientation direction is different from the second orientation direction, and the first curvature is different from the second curvature.

[0019] In another exemplary embodiment, a reflective liquid crystal display (RLCD) is provided. The RLCD includes a base surface and a reflector unit. Each of the reflector units defines a reflective surface, and the reflector unit is positioned on the base surface so that each of the reflective surfaces in the reflector unit defines a downward slope in a directional direction. The base surface defines a coverage area, and the reflector unit completely covers the coverage area. In some embodiments, the RLCD may also include a reflector block. The reflector block may include a plurality of reflector units with different directional directions, and the reflector blocks may be inlaid to completely cover the coverage area.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment, a reflective liquid crystal display (RLCD) is provided. The RLCD includes a base surface, a plurality of pixels, and a plurality of reflector blocks. Each of the plurality of reflector blocks includes one or more first reflector units and one or more second reflector units. Each of the first reflector units (multiple) defines a first reflective surface, and each of the first reflector units (multiple) is positioned on the base surface so that each of the first reflector units (multiple) defines a downward slope in a first orientation direction. Each of the second reflector units (multiple) defines a second reflective surface, and each of the second reflector units (multiple) is positioned on the base surface so that each of the second reflector units (multiple) defines a downward slope in a second orientation direction. Each of the plurality of pixels includes at least one reflector block.

[0021] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of reflector blocks may further include one or more third reflector units and one or more fourth reflector units. Each of the third reflector units (multiple) may define a third reflective surface, and each of the third reflector units (multiple) may be positioned on the base surface so that each third reflective surface of the third reflector unit defines a downward slope in the third orientation direction. Each of the fourth reflector units (multiple) may define a fourth reflective surface, and each of the fourth reflector units (multiple) may be positioned on the base surface so that each fourth reflective surface of the fourth reflector unit defines a downward slope in the fourth orientation direction. The first orientation direction, the second orientation direction, the third orientation direction, and the fourth orientation direction are different. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least 1.5 reflector blocks may be provided in each of the plurality of pixels. Furthermore, in some embodiments, at least 2 reflector blocks may be provided in each of the plurality of pixels. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Having described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0023] Figures 1A to 1D is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display provided in different orientations according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0024] Figure 1E is another schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary reflector unit and reflection of reflected light off the reflector unit according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0025] Figure 2A is a perspective view showing an exemplary reflector unit having a flat reflective surface according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0026] Figure 2B is a perspective view showing an exemplary reflector unit having a curved reflective surface according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0027] Figure 2C is to show some embodiments discussed herein, Figure 2C A cross-sectional view of an exemplary reflector unit of FIG.

[0028] Figure 2D is a cross-sectional view showing an exemplary reflector unit having a polygonally curved reflective surface formed by several flat surfaces according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0029] Figure 3 is a bottom view showing various exemplary reflector units having different base shapes according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0030] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D is a schematic diagram showing a reflector having a plurality of reflector units mosaicked around an available coverage area according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0031] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C is a schematic diagram showing a reflector having a plurality of reflector units tessellated around a usable coverage area according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0032] Fig. 6A is a schematic diagram illustrating a reflector having a plurality of reflector units mosaicked around a usable coverage area according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0033] FIG. 6B to FIG. 6C is a schematic diagram showing a reflector having a plurality of reflector units tessellated around a usable coverage area according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0034] Fig. 7A is a perspective view showing a reflector having a plurality of reflector units having a rectangular base shape and a curved reflective surface according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0035] Figure 7B is to show some embodiments discussed herein, Fig. 7A an enhanced stereoscopic view of a reflector unit;

[0036] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing two reflector units having curved reflective surfaces according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0037] Fig. 9 is a graph showing exemplary radiance in angular space values ​​for a reflector unit according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0038] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C is a graph showing exemplary angular distributions of reflected light from different reflector units according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0039] Fig.11A is a graph showing normalized reflected light power and angular distribution of reflected light in a vertical direction obtained for various reflector units having different structural widths according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0040] Fig. 11B is a graph showing normalized reflected light power and angular distribution of reflected light in the horizontal direction obtained for various reflector units having different structural widths according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0041] Fig. 12A is a schematic diagram illustrating exemplary light collection angles of a display according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0042] Fig. 12B is a graph showing the reflection efficiency and detector light collection cone angle for various reflector units having different sizes according to some embodiments discussed herein; and

[0043] Fig.13 is a front view showing an exemplary display having a plurality of pixels according to some embodiments discussed herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, the invention can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein; rather, the embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. The same reference numerals generally refer to similar elements throughout the text. For example, reference numerals 222, 422A, 422B, 522A, 522A", and 622A' are each intended to refer to a reflector unit.

[0045] Figures 1A to 1D are schematic diagrams illustrating an exemplary display 100 provided in different orientations. Figures 1A to 1D shows a typical reading of an RLCD using a spherical coordinate system. Figure 1A , a display 100 is shown. The display 100 allows ambient light 104 to be reflected to form reflected light 106, and the reflected light 106 can be projected toward the viewer 102. Figures 1A to 1D As shown in , depending on the location of the light source (e.g., ceiling, wall, direct light, etc.), the display 100 can receive ambient light 104 from different angles, provide the ambient light 104 relative to the display 100, and rotate the display 100 to make it work in different orientations. Figure 1A In FIG. 1 , the display 100 is oriented in a landscape orientation, wherein the reference point 110 is provided toward the right. Figure 1B In , the display 100 is oriented in a portrait orientation, wherein the reference point 110 is provided toward the bottom of the display 100. As a further example, in Figure 1C In FIG. 1 , the display 100 is oriented in a landscape orientation, wherein the reference point 110 is provided toward a left portion of the display 100. Additionally, in Figure 1D In the example of FIG. 1 , the display 100 is oriented in a portrait orientation, wherein the reference point 110 is provided toward the top of the display 100. Figures 1A to 1D In each of the examples shown in FIG. 1 , the directional direction 108 of the reflector unit in the display 100 points upward so that the ambient light 104 can be reflected at an appropriate angle to direct the reflected light 106 toward the viewer 102. Reflector units and their directional directions are discussed further herein.

[0046] exist Figures 1A to 1D, ambient light 104 can be reflected from a reflector unit in the display at a first reflection angle (θ) to form reflected light 106. In addition, reflected light 106 can extend in the XY plane and the incident ambient light plane, and the second reflection angle (ω) can separate the X axis from the reflected light 106. The collection solid angle space can be used to receive ambient light 104. In general, the light collection efficiency of a reflector is inversely proportional to the collection solid angle space of the reflector, and the efficiency of the reflector's use of ambient light is inversely proportional to the collection solid angle space of the reflector. Therefore, the design of the reflector in the display should be optimized based on the typical use of RLCD so that the ambient light can be most effectively utilized while still meeting the required requirements of a given display. It should be noted that in various exemplary embodiments, the design can be optimized by changing the geometry of the reflector unit provided in the reflector. For example, the base shape, the curvature of the reflective surface, the surface bevel angle, or the size of the reflector unit can be changed to optimize the light properties. Additionally or alternatively, the number of different directional directions of the reflector unit in the reflector can be changed. However, this design can be optimized in a variety of other ways.

[0047] Figure 1E Further details are provided regarding the operation of the reflector unit and how light is reflected by it. The reflector unit 122 may have a bevel angle (α). Ambient light 104 may be incident at a vertical center angle (θ c ) and the horizontal center angle of incidence is directed toward the reflector unit 122. The reflector unit 122 can be configured such that the ambient light 104 is reflected to form the reflected light 106 and such that the reflected light 106 is directed toward the viewer 102. By way of non-limiting example, the vertical center angle of incidence (θ c ) may be 30 degrees, and the bevel angle (α) may be approximately 15 degrees, so that the reflected light is directed upward toward the viewer 102. The ambient light 104 can be directed to the reflector unit at a horizontal center angle of incidence. This horizontal center angle of incidence may be zero degrees, and the reflector unit 122 may be configured so that it does not change the horizontal direction of the reflected light relative to the ambient light. In other words, the vectors of the ambient light and the reflected light are strictly at Figure 1E travels in the plane shown in - the vector does not have any horizontal component moving into Figure 1E The page in or out of the page.

[0048] exist Figure 2A and Figure 2B An exemplary reflector unit is shown in . Figure 2A A perspective view of an exemplary reflector unit 222 having a flat reflective surface 212 is shown. The reflector unit 222 can define a first orientation direction, and the first orientation direction points to Figure 2AThe reflector unit 222 may have a base 214 having a rectangular shape. The base 214 may have a base horizontal width (W h ) and base vertical width (W v ). Horizontal width of base (W h ) can take a variety of values. For example, the base horizontal width (W h ) may be between 5 microns and 100 microns, between 10 microns and 50 microns, approximately 14.4 microns, approximately 21.6 microns, or approximately 28.8 microns. However, other values ​​may be used for the base horizontal width (W h ). Further, the vertical width of the base (W v ) can also take a variety of values. For example, the base vertical width (W v ) may be between 5 microns and 100 microns, between 10 microns and 50 microns, or approximately 24.3 microns. However, other values ​​may be used for the base vertical width (W v In some embodiments, it may be beneficial to make the base horizontal width (W h ) and base vertical width (W v ) is small enough so that the horizontal and vertical widths of the reflector block are smaller than the size of a pixel. The reflected light 106 can be provided with an angular distribution by scattering by roughening the reflective surface.

[0049] In addition, the reflector unit 222 may also have a rear wall 216, and the rear wall 216 may define a rear wall angle (β) and a height (H). The rear wall angle (β) may be defined as an angle between the base 214 and the rear wall 216. The height (H) may be the maximum height of the rear wall 216. The horizontal width (W) of the base h ), vertical width of base (W v), height (H), and other parameters may be varied to obtain the desired performance characteristics of the reflector unit 222 and to maximize the number of reflector units in the available coverage area. The back wall angle (β) may be 90 degrees in some embodiments, between 75 and 95 degrees in some embodiments, between 80 and 90 degrees in some embodiments, or about 85 degrees in some embodiments. However, a variety of back wall angles (β) may be used, and this may be beneficial in allowing the reflector unit 222 to be manufactured with a lower back wall angle (β) tolerance. In addition, the reflective surface 212 may define a downward slope in the first orientation direction, and this downward slope may define a reflective surface slope angle (α). The reflective surface slope angle (α) may be defined as an angle between the base 214 and the reflective surface 212. This reflective slope angle (α) may take a variety of values. For example, the range of the reflective slope angle (α) may be from five degrees to fifty degrees, from five degrees to thirty degrees, from five degrees to twenty degrees, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the reflective slope angle (α) is approximately 9.5 degrees.

[0050] Figure 2B 2 is a perspective view showing another exemplary reflector unit 222A having a curved reflective surface 212A. The curved reflective surface 212A may still define a similar Figure 2A The reflective surface 212 of the reflective surface 212 may be downwardly sloped at a reflective surface slope angle (α). The curved reflective surface 212A may have a vertical centerline 213A, and the curved reflective surface 212A may define a certain curvature along the vertical centerline 213A. In the illustrated embodiment, the curvature along the vertical centerline 213A is radial so as to define a vertical radius of curvature (R v ). Alternatively, the curved reflective surface 212A may have a horizontal centerline 213B, and the curved reflective surface 212A may define a certain curvature along the horizontal centerline 213B. In the illustrated embodiment, the curvature along the horizontal centerline 213B is radial so as to define a horizontal radius of curvature (R h ). However, in other embodiments, the curvature along the vertical centerline 213A and the horizontal centerline 213B may take other forms, such as parabolic curvature, sinusoidal curvature, or some other curvature. Further, this curvature may generally have a radial curvature in most locations and may deviate from the radial curvature near the edge of the curved reflective surface 212A. The reflector unit 222A may also define a rear wall 216A. Although the rear wall 216A may have a reduced height in certain areas due to the curvature in the curved reflective surface 212A, the rear wall 216A may be similar to the rear wall 216A in other respects. Figure 2A The rear wall 216. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The reflector units 222, 222A may be small reflector units.

[0051] The appropriate reflector unit 222, 222A may be selected to meet the needs of a given use case. For example, a reflector unit having a flat reflective surface or a curved reflective surface may be selected, and the parameters of a given reflector unit may be adjusted to optimize the angular space of light collection and the efficiency of light collection and reflection. For example, the reflective surface bevel angle (α), the base horizontal width (W h ), vertical width of base (W v ), vertical radius of curvature (R v ), and horizontal radius of curvature (R h ) can be adjusted to optimize the performance of the reflector units 222, 222A. Further, multiple reflector units 222 can be used together to form a reflector. In some embodiments, the reflector units 222 can have a consistent geometric design, but in other embodiments, at least some of the reflector units 222 used to form the reflector can have different geometric designs.

[0052] In order for the RLCD to operate efficiently, the reflector should be able to effectively collect ambient light in a collection solid angle space determined by typical use cases. The collected ambient light can be reflected, and the reflected light can be redirected in the direction of the viewer with a certain vertical and horizontal spread. Due to the reversibility of light propagation, the light collection angle space of the reflector will be the same as the angle space of the reflected light. Therefore, the reflector should be designed with a collection solid angle space that is equal to or greater than the larger of (1) the target angle space of light collection and (2) the angle space of reflected light.

[0053] Figure 2C to Figure 2D 2 and 3 show further details about an exemplary reflective surface of a reflector unit. Both figures show cross-sectional views of an exemplary reflector unit. Figure 2C In the embodiment, the reflector unit 222A is provided with a curved reflective surface 212A, wherein the reflective surface has a smooth and continuous curvature. Figure 2D The reflector unit 222B in the embodiment provides a curvature in the reflecting surface 212B along a horizontal direction among the plurality of flat surfaces. Figure 2C The cross section shown in Figure 2B The horizontal center line 213B extends in the same plane as the Figure 2D The cross section shown in can be disposed at a similar location in another reflector unit. In addition, a smooth, continuous curvature, or multiple flat surfaces can be used to form a curvature along the vertical centerline 213A or along other locations in the reflector unit.

[0054] Additionally, the texture of the reflective surface can be varied to optimize the reflector for a given use case. For example, the reflective surface can be provided with a smooth finish to reduce the amount of scattering of reflected light reflected from the reflective surface. As another example, the reflective surface can be provided with a rough finish to increase the amount of scattering of reflected light reflected from the reflective surface. In some embodiments, the finish of the reflective surfaces within a reflector can be similar so that a similar amount of scattering occurs at each reflective surface. However, in other embodiments, the finish of the reflective surface can vary between different reflective units, and this may be beneficial in situations where it is desired to increase the amount of scattering in certain reading directions.

[0055] An additional parameter that can be adjusted is the base shape of the reflector unit. Figure 3 is a bottom view showing various exemplary reflector units having different base shapes. For example, the reflector unit may have a triangular base shape 318A, a square base shape 318B, a rectangular base shape 318C, a pentagonal base shape 318D, or a hexagonal base shape 318E. The reflector unit may be provided on a base surface in the display, and the base surface may define a usable coverage area. The base shape may be selected to maximize the area covered by the reflector unit or to maximize the angular space for light collection and the efficiency of light collection and reflection. In some embodiments, the parameters of the reflector unit may be such that the entire usable coverage area is covered. Although Figure 3 Five different base shapes are shown in FIG. 1 , but various other base shapes may be provided such as other polygonal shapes or other shapes with curved edges.

[0056] Although individual reflector units are shown in the preceding figures, multiple reflector units may be used together to form a reflector. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D is a schematic diagram showing a reflector having multiple reflector units mosaicked around the available coverage area. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D In , each reflector unit has a square base shape and all reflector units are geometrically identical to each other. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D In each of the , the orientation direction of each reflector unit is indicated by an arrow. The reflector units can be arranged to meet the needs of a specific use case and form a uniform reflector with high light collection and reflection efficiency.

[0057] First Look Figure 4A , the reflector unit 422A in the reflector 420A is provided with a directional direction. This directional direction is Figure 4AThe center point is upward, but this directional direction can be provided in other directions in other embodiments. Further, a reflector block 424A can be formed. Assuming that each reflector unit 422A has the same directional direction, the reflector block 424A may include only one reflector unit 422A. However, in the case where reflector units with different directional directions are provided, the reflector block may have at least one different reflector unit so that each different directional direction is represented in the reflector block. In this way, the reflector blocks can be mosaicked across the available coverage area so that the light properties can become relatively uniform across the entire display. The size of the reflector block 424A can be designed so that the reflector block 424A is smaller than or equal to the display 1356 (see Fig.13 ) in a single pixel 1354 (see Fig.13 ). In other embodiments, at least 1.5 reflector blocks may be provided in each pixel. Further, at least two reflector blocks may be provided in each pixel. By providing a reflector block smaller than the size of a single pixel, the reflector unit and the reflector block may be arranged relative to the pixel so that the amount of light provided at each pixel may remain relatively uniform.

[0058] Where one orientation is used for reflector unit 422A, light collection and reflection efficiency may be maximized. Thus, where a given use case requires one reading orientation, a reflector similar to reflector 420A may be ideal for maximizing light collection and reflection efficiency. However, it may be desirable to provide additional orientations where the display and reflectors therein may be used in different reading orientations.

[0059] Watch now Figure 4B , a schematic diagram is provided showing a reflector 420B, which includes reflector units that are mosaicked around an available coverage area and provide two different orientation directions. The first reflector unit 422A may have a first orientation direction in an upward direction (a downward slope in the upward direction), and the second reflector unit 422B may have a second orientation direction toward the right. In this case, the reflector block 424B may include at least one first reflector unit 422A and at least one second reflector unit 422B, and the reflector block 424B may be mosaicked across the available coverage area. Since reflector units with two different orientation directions are provided, the reflector 420B can be effectively used for two different reading orientations. Since the total reflection area is divided into two parts to solve two different reading orientation situations, Figure 4B The light collection and reflection efficiency of reflector 420B is only Figure 4A The light collection and reflection efficiency of reflector 420A is approximately half of that of reflector 420A. However, the benefit of efficiency received in both directional directions still outweighs the reduction in efficiency in each directional direction.

[0060] Now transfer to Figure 4C , provides a schematic diagram showing a reflector 420C having a plurality of reflector units mosaicked around an available coverage area. Figure 4C In the example of , three directional directions are provided in the reflector unit. The first reflector unit 422A has a first directional direction upward, the second reflector unit 422B has a second directional direction toward the right, and the third reflector unit 422C has a third directional direction downward. The reflector block 424C may include the first reflector unit 422A, the second reflector unit 422B, and the third reflector unit 422C, so that the reflector block 424C represents the directional directions of the reflector units in the reflector 420C. By using reflector units with three different directional directions, the reflector 420C can be used for three reading orientations. Since the total reflection area is divided into three parts that respectively solve the three reading orientation situations, Figure 4C The light collection and reflection efficiency of reflector 420C is approximately Figure 4A The light collection and reflection efficiency of reflector 420A is one third. However, the benefit of efficiency received in three directional directions still outweighs the reduction in efficiency in each directional direction.

[0061] Watch now Figure 4D , provides a schematic diagram showing a reflector 420D having a plurality of reflector units mosaicked around an available coverage area. Figure 4D In the illustrated embodiment, the reflector unit is shown to have four different directional directions. The first reflector unit 422A has a first directional direction in an upward direction, the second reflector unit 422B has a second directional direction toward the right direction. The third reflector unit 422C has a third directional direction in a downward direction. And the fourth reflector unit 422D has a fourth directional direction toward the left direction. The reflector block 424D may include the first reflector unit 422A, the second reflector unit 422B, the third reflector unit 422C, and the fourth reflector unit 422D, so that the reflector block 424D represents the directional directions for the reflector units in the reflector. By using reflector units with four different directional directions, the display and the reflector 420D therein can be used in four reading orientations. Since the total reflection area is divided into four parts, four reading orientation situations are respectively solved, so Figure 4D The light collection and reflection efficiency of the reflector 420D is approximately Figure 4A The light collection and reflection efficiency of reflector 420A is one-quarter that of reflector 420A. However, the benefit of efficiency received in four directional directions still outweighs the reduction in efficiency in each directional direction.

[0062] exist Figure 4DIn the embodiment shown in , four orientation directions can be provided, each 90 degrees apart - the first orientation direction can be oriented at an angle of 0 degrees (upward), the second orientation direction can be oriented at an angle of 90 degrees (toward the right), the third orientation direction can be oriented at an angle of 180 degrees (downward), and the fourth orientation direction can be oriented at an angle of 270 degrees (toward the left). Although Figure 4D Reflector units are shown having directional directions toward the left, right, up, and down, but the reflector units may have other directional directions (eg, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, or 50 degrees offset from the first directional direction of reflector unit 422A).

[0063] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D The reflector unit shown in FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C and FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C Other reflector blocks shown may have flat or curved reflective surfaces. Additionally or alternatively, reflector units may have different curvatures. In some embodiments, reflector units in different directional directions may have different reflective surfaces, so that the reflective surface is optimized for the expected light source in each usage direction. This may be useful for optimizing the reflector for a specific use case. Similarly, in some embodiments, a pixel may include various types of reflector units and / or various ratios of reflector units in different directional directions, so that the light efficiency of each pixel can be effectively adjusted according to the needs of the use case. It should be noted that different relative sizes of reflector units can also be used.

[0064] Although the square base shape is used FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D , but a rectangular base shape may be used in other embodiments while still covering the available coverage area. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C A schematic diagram of a reflector having multiple reflector units mosaicked around the available coverage area is shown. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C In an embodiment, the reflector units each have a rectangular base shape.

[0065] First refer to Figure 5A, a reflector 520A having multiple reflector units is shown. The first reflector unit 522A has a first directional direction in an upward direction, the second reflector unit 522B has a second directional direction toward the right direction, the third reflector unit 522C has a third directional direction toward the left direction, and the fourth reflector unit 522D has a fourth directional direction in a downward direction. Each reflector unit can have a consistent geometric design, and different reflector units can simply be oriented differently. In the illustrated embodiment, the reflector block 524A includes a first reflector unit 522A, a second reflector unit 522B, a third reflector unit 522C, and a fourth reflector unit 522D. Therefore, each directional direction can be represented in a single reflector block 524A. In addition, the size of the reflector block 524A can be equal to or smaller than the size of the pixel 1354 (see Fig.13 ), and it may be beneficial so that pixels 1354 on display 1356 (see Fig.13 ) can maintain a more uniform appearance. Where four reading orientations are desired for a given use case, reflector 520A may be desirable.

[0066] exist Figure 5B , reflector 520B is shown as having reflector units oriented along two different orientation directions. Figure 5B , a reflector 520B having a plurality of reflector units is shown. The first reflector unit 522A' has a first orientation direction toward the right, and the second reflector unit 522B' has a second orientation direction upward. A single reflector block 524B may include at least one first reflector unit 522A' and at least one second reflector unit 522B'. In the illustrated embodiment, each reflector block 524B includes three first reflector units 522A' and two second reflector units 522B'.

[0067] exist Figure 5B In the reflector 520B, the total area covered by the first reflector unit 522A' is different from the total area covered by the second reflector unit 522B'. The first reflector unit 522A' may account for approximately sixty percent of the available coverage area, and the second reflector unit may account for approximately forty percent of the available coverage area. However, these percentages may be changed in other embodiments. The total area dedicated to each directional direction can be adjusted to optimize the efficiency of light collection and reflection for each corresponding directional direction. In some embodiments, although each of the first reflector unit 522A' and the second reflector unit 522B' is geometrically consistent, the geometry of the reflector units may be different to optimize the performance of the reflector units.

[0068] Now transfer to Figure 5C, a reflector 520C having a plurality of reflector units is shown. The first reflector unit 522A" has a first directional direction in an upward direction, the second reflector unit 522B" has a second directional direction toward the right, the third reflector unit 522C" has a third directional direction toward the left, and the fourth reflector unit 522D" has a fourth directional direction in a downward direction. Although the second reflector unit 522B" and the third reflector unit 522C" are identical in geometry, the reflector units have different geometries in other respects. Within a single reflector block 524C, a first reflector unit 522A", a second reflector unit 522B", a third reflector unit 522C", and a fourth reflector unit 522D" are provided so that they represent each directional direction within the reflector block 524C. Due to the different sizes of the reflector units, the area covered by each type of reflector unit may be different. For example, the area of ​​the first reflector unit 522A" may be smaller than the area of ​​the fourth reflector unit 522D".

[0069] By providing different base shapes, various mosaic patterns can be used with the reflector unit. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C Shows various alternative base shapes and tessellation patterns that can be deployed. First Look Fig. 6A , a schematic diagram showing a reflector 620A is provided, which has a plurality of reflector units inlaid around an available coverage area. In the illustrated embodiment, the reflector units each have a consistent geometric shape, and the orientation of different reflector units can be varied. The reflector units each have a hexagonal base shape. Further, the first reflector unit 622A has a first orientation direction in an upward direction, the second reflector unit 622B has a second orientation direction toward the right, and the third reflector unit 622C has a third orientation direction in a downward direction. The reflector block 624 may include at least one of these various reflector units. Although the reflector block 624 includes one of each of the first reflector unit 622A, the second reflector unit 622B, and the third reflector unit 622C, in some embodiments, the reflector block 624 may be adjusted to include additional reflector units (e.g., additional second reflector unit 622B).

[0070] FIG. 6B to FIG. 6C A schematic diagram of multiple reflector units mosaicked around the available coverage area is shown. FIG. 6B to FIG. 6C In the illustrated embodiments, the base shape of the reflector unit is different. Figure 6B In the embodiment, the reflector 620B has a plurality of reflector units, including a first reflector unit 622A' having a triangular base shape and a second reflector unit 622B' having a hexagonal base shape. Figure 6C, the reflector 620C includes a first reflector unit 622A" having an octagonal base shape and a second reflector unit 622B" having a square base shape. FIG. 6B to FIG. 6C are examples of some of the mosaic patterns that can be formed using reflector units, and a wide variety of other mosaic patterns can be used. The ability to use reflector units with different shapes allows one to maximize the area covered by the reflector units (and / or tailor the light reflection efficiency to meet requirements, as mentioned herein). Note that using different shapes may be particularly beneficial in situations where the available coverage area is not only rectangular in shape. For example, in situations where a display has rounded edges at its corners, it may be beneficial to use a base shape other than a rectangular or square base shape.

[0071] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B A perspective view of a reflector unit having a rectangular base shape is shown in FIG. Fig. 7A , a perspective view showing a reflector 720 in which a reflector unit 722 is disposed is provided herein. The reflector unit 722 has a rectangular base shape and a curved reflective surface. Each reflector unit 722 may have a Fig. 7A The viewing angle shown is upward and toward the unit orientation on the left. Since each reflector unit has the same unit orientation, the reflector block 724 can include one reflector unit 722, and the other reflector units in the reflector 720 can be geometrically consistent with the reflector unit 722. Further, each reflector unit 722 can have a rectangular base with a base horizontal width (W h ) and base vertical width (W v ). These values ​​may be similar to those described elsewhere herein.

[0072] The reflective surface 212A of the reflector unit 722 (see Figure 2B ) may be relative to the base surface 214 (reference Figure 2B ) to control the direction of the reflected light. Further, the reflective surface may be curved to control the collection light angle range (or the reflected light angle range) in the vertical and / or horizontal directions. Fig. 7A As shown in FIG. , reflector units 722 are tiled together to form reflector 720 .

[0073] Further details on the reflector unit are given in Figure 7B, which provides an enhanced stereoscopic view showing the reflector unit 722. As shown, the reflector unit 722 can have a curved reflective surface with a three-dimensional curvature. The three-dimensional curvature can have curvatures at a vertical curvature centerline 726A and a horizontal curvature centerline 726B. Various types of curvatures can be provided on these centerlines, including but not limited to, for example, radial curvature, parabolic curvature, sinusoidal curvature, asymmetric curvature, polygonal curvature (see Figure 2D ) etc. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the curvature at the centerline (vertical curvature centerline 726A and horizontal curvature centerline 726B) is a radial curvature, and the vertical curvature radius (R v ) is defined at the vertical centerline of curvature 726A, and the horizontal radius of curvature (R h ) is defined by the horizontal centerline of curvature 726B.

[0074] Reflector unit 722 and other reflector units described in this article can be manufactured by micro-imprinting technology. A master stamp can be generated with the designed features. Further, varnish can be applied to a glass substrate, then stamped and cured using a stamp. The feature surface can be metallized or coated with a high reflective material to achieve a target reflectivity. Such technologies can help to manufacture reflector unit 722 and reflectors described in this article in a cost-effective manner. Further, the reflector using a reflector unit with consistent geometry and / or a more simplified geometry can also improve the cost efficiency of manufacturing.

[0075] exist Figure 8 Further details about the reflector unit are shown in . Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of two reflector units 822 having curved reflective surfaces 812A is shown. Figure 8 A cross-sectional view showing the Fig. 7A An exemplary cross-sectional view of the reflector unit 822 is provided in the yz plane in FIG. The reflector unit 822 may have a Figure 8 The viewing angle shown in FIG. 1 is a cell orientation pointing to the left, where the curved reflective surface is tilted downward toward the left. p ) is provided in a full layer 828. The full layer 828 may have a transparent material, and the full layer thickness (t p ) may be greater than the height of the reflector unit 822. Further, the reflector unit 822 may be provided on the base surface 830, and the reflector unit 822 may each have a base vertical width (W v ).

[0076] Fig. 9A graph of exemplary radiance in angular space values ​​for a reflector unit is shown. On the y-axis, the radiance in angular space is provided, with the unit of radiance in angular space being Watts / (sr*cm 2 ). On the x-axis, the associated x-coordinate angle is provided in degrees. As shown, the radiance is highest at zero degrees, and the radiance value may be above zero within the range of -4.0 degrees to 4.0 degrees. Outside this range, the radiance of a given reflector unit will be zero or a very small amount close to zero. The incident ambient light can be a collimated beam with a divergence angle of ~2 degrees, and the vertical center incidence angle (c) and horizontal center incidence angle (ω) of the ambient light are 2.5° and 1.2°, respectively. c ) can be 30 degrees and 0 degrees respectively.

[0077] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C Graphs showing exemplary angular distributions of reflected light for different reflector units. Fig. 10A In FIG. 1 , a graph for a reflector cell having a cell width of 14.4 micrometers is shown. Fig. 10B In FIG. 1 , a graph of a reflector cell having a cell width of 21.6 micrometers is shown. Fig. 10C , a graph for a reflector cell having a cell width of 28.8 micrometers is shown. Fig. 10A For a reflector unit, the radiance in angular space is approximately 0.0005 at all positions within the angular distribution. Fig. 10B For a reflector unit, the radiance in angular space is approximately 0.0003 at all positions within the angular distribution. Fig. 10C For the reflector unit, the radiance in angle space is about 0.0002 at all positions within the angle distribution. For each curve, the radiance in angle space remains relatively uniform within the angle distribution.

[0078] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B A graph showing the normalized reflected light power and the angular distribution of the reflected light obtained for various reflector units having different structural widths but the same curvature in the vertical and horizontal directions is shown. Fig.11A , a graph is shown, where the x-axis reflects the angle in degrees and the y-axis reflects the normalized reflected light power. The normalized reflected light power is equal to the reflected light power at a given angle divided by the angular spatial peak value ( Fig. 9) times 100. This graph provides a cross-sectional angular distribution along the vertical centerline of curvature 726A. A first plot line 1136, a second plot line 1134, and a third plot line 1132 are shown. The first plot line 1136 is for a rectangular reflector cell having a cell width of 14.4 microns, the second plot line 1134 is for a rectangular reflector cell having a cell width of 21.6 microns, and the third plot line 1132 is for a rectangular reflector cell having a cell width of 28.8 microns. As shown, a first plot line 1136 for a 14.4 micron reflector unit may have a normalized reflected light power value of approximately 0.36 between -9.9 and 9.9 degrees, a second plot line 1134 for a 21.6 micron reflector unit may have a normalized reflected light power value of approximately 0.24 between -9.9 and 9.9 degrees, and a third plot line 1132 for a 28.8 micron reflector unit may have a normalized reflected light power value of approximately 0.18 between -9.9 and 9.9 degrees. For each plot line, the normalized reflected light power value may be generally uniform within an associated angle of -9.9 and 9.9 degrees, and further details regarding uniformity over a range of viewing angles are provided in the table below.

[0079] Watch now Fig. 11B , shows a graph where the x-axis reflects the angle in degrees and the y-axis reflects the normalized reflected optical power. This graph provides a cross-sectional angle distribution along the horizontal centerline of curvature 726B. A first plot line 1142, a second plot line 1140, and a third plot line 1138 are shown. The first plot line 1142 is for a rectangular reflector cell having a cell width of 14.4 microns, the second plot line 1140 is for a rectangular reflector cell having a cell width of 21.6 microns, and the third plot line 1138 is for a rectangular reflector cell having a cell width of 28.8 microns. As shown, a first plot line 1142 for a 14.4 micron reflector unit may have a normalized reflected light power value of approximately 0.36 between -11.9 and 11.9 degrees, a second plot line 1140 for a 21.6 micron reflector unit may have a normalized reflected light power value of approximately 0.24 between -17.9 and 17.9 degrees, and a third plot line 1138 for a 28.8 micron reflector unit may have a normalized reflected light power value of approximately 0.18 between -24.9 and 24.9 degrees. For each plot line, the normalized reflected light power value may be generally uniform within the relevant angle, and further details regarding uniformity over the viewing angle range are provided in the table below.

[0080] Table 1

[0081]

[0082] Table 1 above provides the performance of different reflectors. For the first case, a reflector is provided having a rectangular reflector unit with a unit width of 14.4 microns. Such a reflector can have a viewing angle ranging from -9.9 degrees to 9.9 degrees in the vertical direction. Such values ​​in the vertical direction can correspond to Fig.11A The first plot line 1136 of FIG. Further, the uniformity of light reflection in the vertical direction may be 94.1 percent. In the horizontal direction, the reflector of the first case may have a viewing angle ranging from -11.9 degrees to 11.9 degrees. Further, the uniformity of light reflection in the horizontal direction may be up to 98.8%. Such values ​​in the horizontal direction may correspond to Fig. 11B The first plot line 1142 .

[0083] For the second case, a reflector is provided having a rectangular reflector unit with a horizontal unit width of 21.6 microns. Such a reflector can have a viewing angle ranging from -9.9 degrees to 9.9 degrees in the vertical direction. Further, the uniformity of light reflection in the vertical direction can be 94.5 percent. Such a value in the vertical direction can correspond to Fig.11A In the horizontal direction, the reflector of the first case may have a viewing angle ranging from -17.9 degrees to 17.9 degrees. Further, the uniformity of light reflection in the horizontal direction may be 97.1%. Such values ​​in the horizontal direction may correspond to Fig. 11B A second plot line 1140 is shown.

[0084] For the third case, a reflector is provided having a rectangular reflector unit with a horizontal unit width of 28.8 microns. Such a reflector can have a viewing angle ranging from -9.9 degrees to 9.9 degrees in the vertical direction. Further, the uniformity of light reflection in the vertical direction can be 91.4 percent. Such a value in the vertical direction can correspond to Fig.11A In the horizontal direction, the reflector of the first case may have a viewing angle ranging from -24.9 degrees to 24.9 degrees. Further, the uniformity of light reflection in the horizontal direction may be 96.1%. Such values ​​in the horizontal direction may correspond to Fig. 11B The third plot line 1138 .

[0085] As shown in Table 1 above, the reflector design enables the reflected light to be evenly distributed in the target angle space. In each case shown in the table, the uniformity of light reflection in the vertical direction is greater than 91%. Further, in each case shown in the table, the uniformity of light reflection in the horizontal direction is greater than 96%. Further, the viewing angle range in the horizontal direction can be changed by changing the horizontal width of the reflector unit, and this can be done without changing the viewing angle range in the vertical direction.

[0086] In the case where the RLCD is used with a vertical light collection angle of 30 degrees, this design can enable the RLCD to have a vertical light collection angle of 30 degrees ± 10 degrees. Further, depending on the horizontal width (W h ), this design can achieve a horizontal light collection angle (ω) of 0 degrees ± 12 degrees, 0 degrees ± 18 degrees, or 0 degrees ± 25 degrees. Figure 1A This value is obtained when the yz plane is within the yz plane.

[0087] The uniformity values ​​provided in Table 1 above can be calculated by dividing the minimum normalized reflected optical power within the viewing angle by the maximum normalized reflected optical power within the viewing angle, and the uniformity values ​​are provided as a percentage. Figures 9 to 11B , using a reflector with reflector elements that share the same element orientation. In the model, the vertical curvature (R v ) is 198.5 μm, and the horizontal curvature of the reflector unit (R h ) is 99.2 microns, and the vertical width of the reflector unit (W v ) is 24.3 microns, and the structure height (H) of the reflector unit is 4 microns. Depending on the specific situation, the horizontal width (W h ) is 14.4 microns, 21.6 microns, or 28.8 microns. Further, the reflective surface bevel angle (α) is 9.5 degrees, and the back wall angle (β) is 85 degrees. The reflective surface has a reflectivity of 95 percent. Further, the full layer thickness (t p )(See Figure 8 ) is 4.2 microns. The refractive index of the whole layer at 550 nanometers is 1.55. Further, the vertical center incident angle (θ c ) is 30 degrees, the horizontal center incident angle (ω c ) is 0 degrees. Further, the base plane of the reflector lies in the yz plane, and the observer is assumed to be located in the base normal along the x-axis. These values ​​are merely exemplary values ​​that may be used in the design of reflectors and / or various reflector units, and may be adjusted to optimize the efficiency of a given reflector and / or reflector unit while meeting the requirements of a particular use case.

[0088] Additionally, Fig. 12A is a schematic diagram showing exemplary light collection angles for a display. A reflected light collection cone 1246 may be formed by light reflected from the display. As shown, the reflected light collection cone 1246 may have a light collection cone angle (γ). The reflected light may be redirected in the direction of the viewer, which is typically in the direction of the normal to the display. For example, Fig. 12A, the reflected light is redirected toward the observer towards the right side. The reflected light can be redirected with a certain vertical and horizontal expansion, as represented by the reflected light collection cone 1246.

[0089] Now transfer to Fig. 12B , provides a graph showing the reflection efficiency on the y-axis and the light collection cone angle on the x-axis. The light collection cone angle can be provided in degrees. This graph includes a first plot line 1252, a second plot line 1250, and a third plot line 1248. The first plot line 1252 shows a light having a horizontal width (W) of 14.4 microns. h ) of the reflector unit. The second plot line 1250 shows a reflector unit with a horizontal width (W of 21.6 microns). h ) of the reflector unit. The third plot line 1248 shows a reflector unit with a horizontal width (W of 28.8 microns). h ) of the reflector unit. As shown, the first plot line 1252 has the highest reflection efficiency at a given light collection cone angle, and the third plot line 1248 has the lowest reflection efficiency at a given light collection cone angle. Therefore, as the horizontal width (W) of the reflector unit increases, h ) increases, which will generally result in a decrease in reflection efficiency.

[0090] Fig.13 A front view of an exemplary display 1356 having a plurality of pixels 1354 is shown. The reflector block may cover a reflector block coverage area on the base surface, and the reflector block coverage area may be equal to or less than the area of ​​a single pixel 1354 of the reflective liquid crystal display. By doing so, the configuration of the reflector unit and the reflector block makes it possible to maintain uniformity from pixel to pixel. Further, in the case where the reflector includes reflector units with different orientation directions, the reflector block may include a reflector unit with each different orientation direction used in the reflector. In other words, each of the different orientation directions may be represented by a single reflector block. In this way, the reflector block and the pixel 1354 may be kept uniform across the display 1356.

[0091] in conclusion

[0092] Benefiting from the teachings presented in the above description and the associated drawings, those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs will think of many modifications and other embodiments of the present invention set forth herein. Thus, it should be understood that embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications and other embodiments are expected to be included within the scope of the present invention. In addition, although the above description and the associated drawings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that different combinations of elements and / or functions can be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. In this regard, for example, combinations of different elements and / or functions as explicitly described above are also expected to be within the scope of the present invention. Although specific terms are used herein, they are only used in general descriptive meanings, not for the purpose of limitation.

Claims

1. A reflective liquid crystal display, comprising: a base surface; one or more first reflector units, wherein each of the one or more first reflector units defines a first reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more first reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each first reflective surface of the one or more first reflector units defines a downward slope in a first orientation direction; and one or more second reflector units, wherein each of the one or more second reflector units defines a second reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more second reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each second reflective surface of the one or more second reflector units defines a downward slope in a second orientation direction; The first orientation direction is perpendicular to the second orientation direction.

2. The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 1, wherein the one or more first reflector units cover a first coverage area, wherein the one or more second reflector units cover a second coverage area, and wherein the first coverage area is larger than the second coverage area.

3. The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 1, wherein each of the one or more first reflector units and each of the one or more second reflector units are geometrically consistent, and wherein each of the one or more first reflector units is positioned on the base surface in a different orientation from each of the one or more second reflector units. 4 . The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 1 , wherein the base surface defines a coverage area, and wherein the one or more first reflector units and the one or more second reflector units completely cover the coverage area.

5. The reflective liquid crystal display of claim 4 , wherein each of the one or more first reflector units and each of the one or more second reflector units defines a base having a base shape, wherein a first group of reflector units includes at least one of the one or more reflector units or the one or more second reflector units, wherein each of the first group of reflector units defines a first base shape, wherein a second group of reflector units includes at least one of the one or more first reflector units or the one or more second reflector units, wherein each of the second group of reflector units defines a second base shape, and wherein the second base shape is different from the first base shape. 6 . The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 5 , wherein the first group of reflector units includes a first reflector unit among the one or more first reflector units and a second reflector unit among the one or more second reflector units.

7. The reflective liquid crystal display of claim 5, wherein the base shape is selected from the group consisting of: triangle, rectangle, square, pentagon, hexagon, and other polygonal shapes.

8. The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 1, wherein the reflector block comprises a first reflector unit among the one or more first reflector units and a second reflector unit among the one or more second reflector units.

9. The reflective liquid crystal display of claim 8, wherein the reflector blocks define a reflector block base shape, wherein the base surface defines a footprint, and wherein the reflector block base shape is tessellated to cover all of the footprint.

10. The reflective liquid crystal display of claim 8, wherein the reflector block covers a reflector block coverage area, and wherein the reflector block coverage area is smaller than an area of ​​a pixel. 11 . The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 1 , wherein each first reflective surface of the one or more first reflector units and each second reflective surface of the one or more second reflector units define a curvature.

12. The reflective liquid crystal display of claim 11, wherein the curvature is three-dimensional. 13 . The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 11 , wherein the curvature is radially curved, parabolically curved, asymmetrically curved, polygonally curved, or includes a sinusoidal curvature.

14. The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 1, further comprising: one or more third reflector units, wherein each of the one or more third reflector units defines a third reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more third reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each third reflective surface of the one or more third reflector units defines a downward slope in a third directional direction, The third orientation direction is different from the first orientation direction and the second orientation direction.

15. The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 14, further comprising: one or more fourth reflector units, wherein each of the one or more fourth reflector units defines a fourth reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more fourth reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each fourth reflective surface of the one or more fourth reflector units defines a downward slope in a fourth directional direction; The fourth orientation direction is different from the first orientation direction, the second orientation direction, and the third orientation direction.

16. The reflective liquid crystal display of claim 1, wherein the first reflective surface or the second reflective surface has a smooth finish.

17. The reflective liquid crystal display of claim 1, wherein the first reflective surface or the second reflective surface has a rough finish.

18. A reflective liquid crystal display, comprising: Base surface; one or more first reflector units, wherein each of the one or more first reflector units defines a first reflective surface and a first base, wherein each of the one or more first reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each first reflective surface of the one or more first reflector units defines a downward slope in a first orientation direction, wherein each first base of the one or more first reflector units has a first base shape; and one or more second reflector units, wherein each of the one or more second reflector units defines a second reflective surface and a second base, wherein each of the one or more second reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each second reflective surface of the one or more second reflector units defines a downward slope in a second orientation direction, wherein each second base of the one or more second reflector units has a second base shape; and Wherein the first base shape is different from the second base shape.

19. A reflective liquid crystal display, comprising: Base surface; one or more first reflector units, wherein each of the one or more first reflector units defines a first reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more first reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each of the first reflective surfaces of the one or more first reflector units defines a downward slope in a first directional direction, wherein each of the one or more first reflector surfaces of the one or more first reflector units is curved and defines a first curvature; and one or more second reflector units, wherein each of the one or more second reflector units defines a second reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more second reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each second reflective surface of the one or more second reflector units defines a downward slope in a second orientation direction, wherein each second reflector surface of the one or more second reflector units is curved and defines a second curvature, Wherein the first orientation direction is different from the second orientation direction, and wherein the first curvature is different from the second curvature.

20. A reflective liquid crystal display, comprising: Base surface; and reflector units, wherein each of the reflector units defines a reflective surface, wherein the reflector units are positioned on the base surface so that each reflective surface of the reflector units defines a downward slope in a directional direction, Wherein the base surface defines a coverage area, and the reflector unit completely covers the coverage area.

21. The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 20, further comprising a reflector block, wherein the reflector block comprises a plurality of reflector units having different orientation directions, wherein the reflector block is mosaicked to completely cover the coverage area.

22. A reflective liquid crystal display, comprising: Base surface; Multiple pixels; a plurality of reflector blocks, wherein each reflector block of the plurality of reflector blocks comprises: one or more first reflector units, wherein each of the one or more first reflector units defines a first reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more first reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each first reflective surface of the one or more first reflector units defines a downward slope in a first orientation direction; and one or more second reflector units, wherein each of the one or more second reflector units defines a second reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more second reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each first reflective surface of the one or more second reflector units defines a downward slope in a second orientation direction; and Each pixel of the plurality of pixels comprises at least one reflector block.

23. The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 22, wherein each of the plurality of pixels is provided with at least 1.5 reflector blocks.

24. The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 22, wherein each of the plurality of pixels is equipped with at least two reflector blocks.

25. The reflective liquid crystal display according to claim 22, wherein each of the plurality of reflector blocks further comprises: one or more third reflector units, wherein each of the one or more third reflector units defines a third reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more third reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each third reflective surface of the one or more third reflector units defines a downward slope in a third directional direction; one or more fourth reflector units, wherein each of the one or more fourth reflector units defines a fourth reflective surface, wherein each of the one or more fourth reflector units is positioned on the base surface so that each fourth reflective surface of the one or more fourth reflector units defines a downward slope in a fourth directional direction; The first orientation direction, the second orientation direction, the third orientation direction, and the fourth orientation direction are different.

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