Display, method for projecting image, and method for manufacturing display

Abstract

The invention relates to a display for representing an image, comprising: a condenser lens array (12) having a plurality of condenser lenses (14); a projection lens array (16) having a plurality of projection lenses (18); a plurality of optical channels (22), each comprising at least one condenser lens (14) and one projection lens (18) and designed to project an image (24) to be displayed by the display; and a plurality of light collecting lenses (26) arranged between optical paths of adjacent light collecting lenses (14). Each light collecting lens is designed to collect incident light and divert it to an area outside the projection lens.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a display for displaying images, a system having such a display, a method for projecting images, and a method for manufacturing images. In particular, this invention relates to a light field device for a 3D display for direct viewing. Background Technology

[0002] Light field displays provide glasses-free and fatigue-free 3D viewing. Compared to holographic methods, light field displays require less computation and allow for larger display sizes, see [1].

[0003] For this type of display, 3D images are displayed by reconstructing a light field. Figure 8a The diagram illustrates a typical architecture of such a light field display. A slide array 1002 illuminates the light field containing information about an object. A basic image 1004, projected by a lens (or microlens) array 1006, is superimposed in region 1008 in the space in front of or behind the display, thus giving the observer a 3D impression.

[0004] Figure 8b A schematic front view of a light field display 1000 is shown, in which a slide 1004 is shown. i,j The corresponding positioning, where i refers to the array relative to the projection lens 1006 i,j The row, and j-finds the array relative to the projection lens 1006 i,j The list.

[0005] An example of a light field display that relies on this architecture is described in [2]. However, this architecture has drawbacks.

[0006] For light field displays, the substrate mask needs to be precisely positioned approximately ±1 pixel relative to the projection lens across the entire array. In practice, the substrate mask and the lens array are produced using different methods and then rigorously aligned and assembled. The tight assembly tolerances require specialized manufacturing techniques, such as replication in modified mask aligners [3] or advanced injection molding techniques [4].

[0007] This specialized manufacturing technique limits the size of the display and simultaneously increases the cost of scaling up to the size of the display.

[0008] Therefore, there will be a need for displays that allow for large sizes without significant additional costs and that allow for high viewing quality. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to provide a display for displaying images, a method for projecting images, and a method for manufacturing a display, which allows for the provision of high-quality images without limiting the size of the display while maintaining low cost.

[0010] This objective is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0011] According to an embodiment, a display for displaying (or representing) images includes a condenser lens (or microlens) array having multiple condenser lenses. The display includes a projection lens array having multiple projection lenses and multiple optical channels, each optical channel including at least one condenser lens and one projection lens and configured to project an image to be displayed by the display. The display includes multiple light-collecting lenses arranged between the optical paths of adjacent condenser lenses. Each light-collecting lens is configured to collect incident light and deflect it to a region outside (or away from) the projection lenses. This deflection outside the projection lenses (which in embodiments may include scattering or blocking light) prevents the light from hindering image quality. Simultaneously, these light-collecting lenses can be manufactured simultaneously with the condenser lenses and (if applicable) the projection lenses, avoiding complex positioning of the condenser lens array and the projection lens array. Since the workload for aligning two lens arrays is avoided, large displays can also be manufactured without increasing costs.

[0012] According to an embodiment, a method for projecting an image includes irradiating a condenser lens array having a plurality of condenser lenses, wherein at least one corresponding condenser lens forms a portion of an optical channel with a corresponding projection lens in a projection lens array, and the projection lens is configured to project an image to be displayed on a display. The method includes redirecting light from gaps between adjacent condenser lenses onto a region outside the optical channel.

[0013] According to an embodiment, a method for manufacturing a display includes manufacturing a condenser lens array having a plurality of condenser lenses and a projection lens array having a plurality of projection lenses. The method is performed such that each of the plurality of optical channels includes at least one condenser lens and one projection lens, and is configured to project an image to be displayed on the display. The method is performed such that a plurality of light-collecting lenses are formed between the optical paths of adjacent condenser lenses, and each light-collecting lens collects incident light and directs it to a region outside the projection lenses. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be discussed in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the display according to an embodiment;

[0016] Figure 2a A schematic front view of at least a portion of a display having a two-dimensional arrangement of lenses according to an embodiment;

[0017] Figure 2b for Figure 2a A schematic cross-sectional side view of the display;

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of at least a portion of a display according to an embodiment, wherein non-imaging regions are arranged between opposing lens arrays and the non-imaging regions are embedded relative to the projection lens.

[0019] Figure 4a is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a display according to an embodiment, wherein at least the non-imaging area is arranged in a region raised relative to the projection lens;

[0020] Figure 4b This is a schematic front view of the display shown in Figure 4a;

[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic block diagram of the system according to an embodiment;

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of a method for projecting an image according to an embodiment;

[0023] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8a Here is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a known light field display; and

[0025] Figure 8b for Figure 8a A schematic front view of a light field display. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Before discussing embodiments of the invention in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that the same components, objects and / or structures, or components, objects and / or structures having the same function or the same effect, have the same reference numerals in different drawings, such that the descriptions of these components in different embodiments are interchangeable or applicable to each other.

[0027] The embodiments described below are described in the context of a number of detailed features. However, embodiments may also be implemented without these detailed features. Additionally, for reasons of understandability, circuit block diagrams are used as an alternative to detailed descriptions to describe embodiments. Furthermore, details and / or features of individual embodiments may be readily combined with each other unless the contrary is explicitly described.

[0028] The following embodiments relate to a display for displaying images, at least one symbol, etc., a method for projecting images, and a method for manufacturing a display. Some displays used herein, or displays manufactured herein, may be referred to as light field displays. However, embodiments of the invention are not limited thereto, and different implementations of the display are also permitted, for example, implementations as projection displays using projection screens. This does not conflict with some embodiments designed for displays such that the display is configured to display at least a portion of an image in a three-dimensional effect. This means that at least a portion of the image is displayed such that it appears to be positioned at one or more different distances in front of or behind the display. In a three-dimensional light field display for direct viewing, it is advantageous to make all channels visible at corresponding positions on the display. According to advantageous embodiments, this can be distributed to small to very small clusters of optical channels, such as 5, 10, 15, 16, etc. In advantageous embodiments, the geometry of the channel cross-sections is chosen that allows for a high area fill factor for the entire arrangement, such as quadrilateral or hexagonal geometry. Consistent with the symmetry of quadrilateral or hexagonal arrays, channel clusters with 4, 9, 16... channels (quadrilateral) or 3, 7... channels (hexagon) can prove to be applicable or advantageous.

[0029] In the case of screen projection, 3D information is not always lost, but may become visible, such as the blurring of signs / patterns or images at other distances from the displayed graphics. The advantageous implementation of redirecting unwanted light to different areas via light-gathering lenses is therefore also maintained for displays not implemented as light field displays.

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional side view of the display 10 according to an embodiment is shown.

[0031] The display 10 includes a condenser lens array 12 having a plurality of condenser lenses 141-145, wherein the plurality of condenser lenses 14 may be arranged in at least one row, at least one column, or any other one-dimensional or two-dimensional arrangement. The number of condenser lenses is as needed, and is, for example, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 10 or more, approximately at least 20 or more.

[0032] Additionally, the display 10 includes a projection lens array 16 having a plurality of projection lenses 181-185. The plurality of optical channels 221-225 may each include one of a condenser lens 14 and an associated projection lens 18, and are configured to project an image 24 to be displayed by the display 10. The image 24 is, for example, an arrow, and any other image, pattern, or picture may also be projectable. As an alternative to arranging a single condenser lens 14 in the optical channels, a higher number of condenser lenses may be arranged, meaning that a single and a higher number of condenser lenses may be associated with projection lenses. This configuration may be the same for all channels or different between channels. In the case of more condenser lenses, they may, for example, include different shapes for displaying different images or signs. Therefore, the embodiment is not limited to projecting a single image. According to the embodiment, the optical channels may be subdivided into at least a first subset for displaying a first image and at least a second subset for displaying a second image. The projection positions of the images may thus overlap to display overlapping images, or may be spatially separated or non-intersecting. Different images in different optical channels or groups may be configured with different colors here. Different colors can be used for color mixing in overlapping images. Alternatively, it is also possible to easily display the same or different images or patterns side by side in different colors.

[0033] To display a more complex overall image having at least two individual images, it is also possible to arrange optical channels together for jointly displaying corresponding individual images within a cluster of corresponding individual images, such that the condenser lenses of the cluster are implemented in the same or similar manner. Alternatively or additionally, sub-arrays of optical channels forming at least a portion of the overall array may be formed, including adjacent channels, wherein the condenser lenses may be shaped to correspond to different sub-images and thus differ from each other.

[0034] For color presentation, in the embodiments described herein, there are two concepts that, although different from each other, can be combined with one another. As discussed above, the embodiments provide a mixed array of different individual channels. In this case, for example, similar to a Bayer pattern, it may be advantageous to arrange each channel as a component of the array with color filters channel by channel. This configuration is particularly advantageous for direct viewing of the display. For arranging channel clusters, spatial color segmentation by corresponding color filters and / or collimated light sources (such as LEDs of different colors) is also possible.

[0035] At least one of the plurality of light-collecting lenses 261-264 may be arranged between the optical paths of adjacent condenser lenses 141 and 142, 142 and 143, 143 and 144 and / or 144 and 145. This applies to both adjacent condenser lenses with different optical paths and condenser lenses with the same optical path. These condenser lenses are configured to collect incident light and direct it toward an area outside the projection lens 18. The light-collecting lens may at least partially achieve the goal of keeping the incident light outside the projection area of ​​the image 24, and may also be referred to as a blocking lens or a blocking lens. The collection of light may, for example, at least partially include focusing or beaming, but this is not absolutely necessary. However, at least partially focusing or beaming the incident light allows for error tolerance relative to the positioning inaccuracies of the target relative to the light captured and collected by the light-collecting lens 26.

[0036] Display 10 is configured, for example, to receive light 28 that may, but does not necessarily, be collimated and is provided by an optional light source 32. Thus, light source 32 may be configured to provide light 28 as collimated light to condenser lens array 12.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, each of the plurality of condenser lenses 14 of the condenser lens array 12 is configured to image a light source (such as light source 32) illuminating the condenser lens onto a projection lens 18 associated with the condenser lens. This can be understood as Köhler illumination, for which collimated light can be advantageously used, even though this is not absolutely necessary for implementing the invention.

[0038] According to an embodiment, one or more of the light-collecting lenses 26 are configured to direct incident light onto non-imaging regions 341-344 associated with the respective light-collecting lens. Each of the non-imaging regions may be implemented individually or integrally as a light-absorbing region and / or a light-scattering region or a combination thereof. At least one of the non-imaging regions 341-344 may include or form a light-absorbing region, which includes an arrangement of metal layers, particularly a chromium layer arrangement.

[0039] like Figure 1 As exemplarily illustrated, embodiments provide a condenser lens array 12 and a projection lens array 16 arranged on opposite sides of a lens substrate 38. Simultaneous fabrication of the condenser lens array 12 and the projection lens array 16, and optionally the light-collecting lens 26, allows for precise and low-error positioning of the lenses relative to each other. However, this does not preclude the possibility, according to embodiments, fabricating the condenser lens array 12 and the projection lens array 16 on separate, individual substrates, followed by assembly. For example, this allows for the arrangement of non-imaging areas in the plane between the lens arrays 12 and 16.

[0040] The precise location of the non-imaging region 34 along the imaging direction 36 (from the light source 32 toward the image 24) can be implemented in different ways. For example, such as Figure 1 As illustrated, the surface of the projection lens array 16 can serve as a grounding region or deposition region for the non-imaging region 34. Alternatively or additionally, the non-imaging region can also be disposed between the plane of the condenser lens array 12 and the plane of the projection lens array 16, in the form of an aperture structure, etc., which is arranged in the substrate 38 supporting the condenser lens array 12 and / or the projection lens array 16.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the non-imaging regions 34 may be arranged to be raised relative to the plane of the projection lens 18, as will be described in more detail below. Furthermore, the use of non-imaging regions is a way to achieve high-quality imaging of the image 24. It is also conceivable that the light captured by the light-collecting lens 26 may be redirected to an area outside the image 24, where this does not interfere with the image 24.

[0042] Figure 2 shows a schematic front view of at least a portion of a display 20 according to an embodiment. A condenser lens 14 is illustrated in an exemplary three-column and three-row matrix arrangement. 1,1 -14 3,3 Light-collecting lens 26 1,1 -26 3,4 Arranged in condenser lens 14 1,1 -14 3,3 In the gaps between them. Its segmentation into three columns and four rows is merely exemplary, and it can continue, for example, in additional rows and enclose the condenser lens 14. 3,1 -14 3,3 .like Figure 2a As illustrated, according to an embodiment, a condenser lens 14 may be implemented. 1,1 -14 3,3 The contour of the lens is such that it matches at least a sub-region of the image to be displayed on the monitor (such as image 24). Condensing lens 14 1,1 -14 3,3 It can also be called a shaping lens. For example, a condenser lens 14 1,1 -14 3,4 Each can be formed as an eccentric lens segment, or may include such eccentric lens segments. Light-collecting lens 26 1,1 -26 3,4 It can also be used to fill the condenser lens 14 1,1 -14 3,3 The area between and towards the edge of the display 20.

[0043] If using condenser lens 14 1,1 -14 3,3As illustrated by the matching geometry, each of the optical channels of the display can be configured to display a fundamental image among a plurality of matching fundamental images. The plurality of optical channels are configured to image the plurality of fundamental images as overlapping in a projection plane (such as the projection plane of a light field display or the target area of ​​a projection screen), as in the area where image 24 is displayed and / or perceived by an observer in a three-dimensional effect. This is possible for both displaying the image onto the projection area and for the light field display.

[0044] like Figure 2a As illustrated, the condenser lens array 12 may include a lens array with irregular edges, which may be adjusted, for example, according to a portion of the image to be displayed.

[0045] Figure 2b A schematic cross-sectional side view of the display 20 is shown. The condenser lens 14 is illustrated through edge rays 421-426 and central rays 441-443. 1,1 -14 3,1 It is configured to focus the incident light onto plane 46, which corresponds to the plane of projection lenses 181-183.

[0046] In other words, Figure 2a -b illustrates the configuration of the incident lens array. The shaper lens 14a consists of or includes eccentric lens segments to redirect incident light from the collimating light source toward the center of the opening of the projection lens. "Blocking" lenses 26 of arbitrary size are disposed between the shaper lenses to direct light away from the transmission region of the projection lens, for example, by directing light toward the center of the non-imaging dead zone of the projection lens array, which is covered, for example, by an absorption aperture layer 34.

[0047] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional side view of at least a portion of a display 30 according to an embodiment is shown, wherein a condenser lens array 12, together with light-gathering lenses 261-264, is arranged on or molded onto a first lens substrate 381. A projection lens array 16 is formed or shaped on, for example, a second lens substrate 382 and non-imaging regions 341-346, which in this embodiment may also form the aperture for the optical channel of the display 30, and may be arranged between substrates 381 and 382. The non-imaging regions may be arranged in the plane between the condenser lens array and the projection lens array 16. This difference between display 30 and display 10 is, for example, because the non-imaging regions may be arranged in the gap between adjacent projection lenses on the surface or in the middle of the projection lens substrate, and thus on the same surface or in the middle on which the projection lens 14 is arranged. In both cases, the non-imaging regions 34 may define the aperture of the projection lens 14.

[0048] Despite the relative positioning of substrates 381 and 382, ​​the design of light-collecting lenses 261-264 can be easily carried out because the imaging planes of these lenses can be adjusted with high tolerance, as long as the light-collecting lenses 141-145 allow imaging outside the non-imaging areas 341-346 and the light from the light-collecting lenses illuminates the non-imaging areas.

[0049] One, more, or all of the light-collecting lenses 26 of the display described herein can be configured to focus incident light 28 onto an associated non-imaging area within a tolerance range of 20%, 15%, particularly preferably 10%, or less relative to the focal length of the light-collecting lens 26. In an implementation of the display 30, this tolerance range may be more lenient, as a relatively large area is available for capturing the collected light.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown in the illustration, and also in Figure 3 In this document, some displays described herein can be configured such that the combination of the condenser lens array 12 and the light-collecting lens defines the optically active incident side of the display. This can cover at least 90% of the incident side of the display, meaning that at least 90% or more of the light 28 incident on the display is fed to the condenser lens or light-collecting lens. This allows for particularly high efficiency or low optical loss. According to some embodiments, a plurality of light-collecting lenses 26 can be configured such that the amount of light incident on the plurality of light-collecting lenses is completely diverted to the non-imaging region 34 within a tolerance of up to 10%, up to 7%, or up to 5%, preferably less than 1%. In embodiments of the displays described herein, the condenser lens array 12 and / or the projection lens array 16 can be formed as a microlens array. This allows for particularly good reproducibility of the display.

[0051] Figure 4a shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a display according to an embodiment. In the implementation of the display 40, the non-imaging region 34 may be arranged at the raised regions 481-484, for example, as a coating. The non-imaging region 34 may be arranged, for example, as a color layer. Thus, the raised regions 481-484 may at least reach the height plane 52. The height plane 52 may be at least partially defined by the apex of the projection lens 18 and describes the height at which the projection lens 18 rises relative to the substrate 38 along the imaging direction 36. Preferably, the raised regions 481-484 protrude at least slightly beyond the height plane 52, which makes the application of the non-imaging region 34 or the color layer or coating easier relative to contamination of the projection lens 18, and contamination will be avoided.

[0052] Figure 4b A schematic front view of the display 40 is shown. Figure 4b It is obvious that the non-imaging region 34 and the raised regions 481-484 of Figure 4a can be implemented by an aperture or projection lens 18 1,1 -183,3 A disconnected or interrupted integrated area.

[0053] At least one raised region 48 may be together with the projection lens 18 1,1 -18 3,3 They can be manufactured together, for example, within the same manufacturing process, such as injection molding. It is also possible to produce at least one raised region separately, which may already have a non-imaging region 34, and then arrange it on the substrate 38; however, this avoids the complexities involved in precise alignment.

[0054] In the implementation of the display 40, light is incident on the light-collecting lens 26. 1,1 -26 3,4 The focusing of light onto at least one non-imaging region 34 can occur independently, such as for example, with the light-collecting lens 26. 1,1 As illustrated. However, this is not absolutely necessary, as can be achieved, for example, by using a focusing lens 26. 3,1 As illustrated, this allows for complete avoidance of stray light and eliminates the need for focusing.

[0055] The non-imaging region 34 may, but does not necessarily, limit the aperture used for the optical channel. However, the optical channel may be limited by the non-imaging region 34 if the aperture angle of the condenser lens 14 and / or the associated projection lens 18 is unnecessarily large.

[0056] Projection lens 18 1,1 -18 3,1 Lens segments can be formed as regular or off-center segments, with off-center segments having advantages when turning the image, see, for example, projection lens 18. 3,1 .

[0057] Refer to Figure 4a and Figure 4b The discussion can also be readily applied to other embodiments of the invention in other displays described herein. According to an embodiment, at least one condenser lens in the condenser lens array may be configured to project a first subset of light incident on the condenser lens onto an associated projection lens and to redirect a second subset of the incident light onto at least one non-imaging area arranged adjacent to the associated projection lens. Thus, condenser lens 14 1,1 -14 3,1 At least one of them may not completely focus the incident light onto the associated projection lens 18. 1,1 -18 3,3 Above, but focusing at least a portion of the incident light onto the projection lens 18. 1,1 -18 3,1 On adjacent non-imaging areas, the resulting loss can be perceived as gray levels in the displayed image.

[0058] Each condenser lens, used as an alternative or supplement to directing light onto non-imaging areas for displaying grayscale levels, comprises a diffuser formed by statistical roughness or deterministic micro-optical patterning of the condenser lens surface. Alternatively or additionally, the condenser lens may be formed as a free-form lens to couple a corresponding portion of the optical power via the lens geometry. Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible for one or more condenser lenses to comprise at least two or more condenser lens sub-regions, which may correspondingly functionally subdivide the area to which the incident light is irradiated. Each of these solutions is suitable for separating the aforementioned first subset from the second subset.

[0059] According to embodiments of the display described herein, the arrangement of the condenser lens and / or the projection lens may include at least six, at least eight, or more, approximately at least 20 lenses arranged in at least three columns and at least three rows. A higher number of lenses, a higher number of rows, and / or a higher number of columns is readily possible because larger displays can also be manufactured in a precise manner.

[0060] Figure 5 A schematic block diagram of a system 50 according to an embodiment is shown. The system may include a display 10' as described herein. The display 10' may be substantially configured to match one of displays 10, 20, 30 and / or 40, wherein the image 24 may, for example, be composed of one or more sub-images 541-542. n Formed, where n ≥ 1. Different sub-images 541-54 n The positioning relative to each other can be adjusted as needed and via the optical elements of the display. According to an embodiment, multiple displays may be used, and / or the displays may be configured to project several sub-areas of the entire image 24 to be displayed.

[0061] For example, system 50 may be configured to provide or include a contactless keyboard. The image 24 to be displayed may include keys of a keyboard that appear to float in front of the display. Therefore, the respective sub-areas 541-54 n It can be associated with buttons. Using the sensor device of system 50, it can detect whether the user has touched sub-images 541-54. n One of them interacts with the sub-image 54 in one way or another, thereby allowing the system 50 to determine that a keystroke has been triggered.

[0062] Non-contact keyboards can be displayed as floating structures, for example, using 3D effects, as if they are floating freely in space.

[0063] For example, alternative implementations of system 50 may involve taillights or brake lights or different lighting devices that may, but do not necessarily, be installed in or form part of a vehicle. Such luminous devices can be used to display one or more three-dimensional signs in an area such as automotive headlights. Thus, markings, warning messages, or different information segments can form at least a portion of the image to be displayed.

[0064] According to an embodiment, system 50 can also be configured as vehicle headlights and configured to display image 24 for dynamic communication with different road users. For example, this could be a direction display, speed change, or other information. Preferably, this is displayed in front of a diffuse radiation background generated by scattering non-imaging areas. On the other hand, this can also achieve, for example, the far-field distribution required for optical standards and 3D sign imaging.

[0065] The display described herein can be configured, either alone or in combination with other displays, to display multi-component signs, symbols, or graphics. Two possibilities are particularly conceivable here. Several signs can be displayed by showing individual signs in each channel, or different signs can be arranged to be distributed across several channels. For implementations as so-called direct-view (3D) displays, it is advantageous to arrange channels displaying individual signs that are closely adjacent to each other, such as RGB Bayer patterns, as in combination. Figure 1 This is not required in the case of screen projection. The brightness of individual signs can be controlled by the number of projection channels used. This means that different sub-regions of the overall image or different sub-patterns of the overall pattern can be set to an equal or different number of optical channels (for controlling brightness).

[0066] Figure 6 A schematic flowchart of a method 600 for projecting an image according to an embodiment is shown. Step 610 includes illuminating a condenser lens array having a plurality of condenser lenses, wherein a corresponding projection lens forms a portion of an optical channel with a corresponding condenser lens in the projection lens array, and the projection lens is configured to project an image to be displayed on a display. Step 620 includes redirecting light from the gaps between adjacent condenser lenses onto a region outside the optical channel.

[0067] Figure 7 A schematic flowchart of method 700 according to an embodiment is shown. Step 710 includes manufacturing a condenser lens array having a plurality of condenser lenses and a projection lens array having a plurality of projection lenses (as in a separate or combined manufacturing step). The method is performed such that the plurality of optical channels each include a condenser lens and a projection lens, and are configured to project an image to be displayed on a display. The method is further performed such that a plurality of light-collecting lenses are arranged between the optical paths of adjacent condenser lenses, and such that each light-collecting lens collects incident light and directs it to an area outside the projection lenses.

[0068] Manufacturing 710 may specifically include an injection molding process. As another step, method 700 may independently include manufacturing non-imaging regions that are separable or continuous as target regions of the light-collecting lens by performing a coating or coloring process on a region of the projection lens substrate that is raised relative to the projection lens, as shown in conjunction with Figure 4a and... Figure 4b The discussion.

[0069] In other words, the embodiments propose a modified architecture for a light field display or other display, wherein Figure 8a The slide array shown in -b is formed by an array of irregularly shaped incident or input lenses (i.e., condenser lenses and light-gathering lenses) to display individual or fundamental images. This can produce, for example... Figure 1 The diagram shows a dual-sided MLA (microlens array) architecture.

[0070] The display presented herein, such as a light field display, comprises an incident array of irregularly shaped lenses 14 / 26 and an array of projection lenses 18 at the exit side. The fundamental image of each channel is generated by a combination of a condenser lens or shaper lens 14 and a blocker region 26. In the simplest case, these regions consist of only one lens. The shape of the aperture of the shaper lens is identical to the geometry of the fundamental image. The shaper lens acts as a condenser lens, imaging the light source into the addressed projection lens, thus enabling Köhler illumination and imaging of the shaper lens. In contrast, the blocker lens guides the incident light so that it is not imaged by the addressed projection lens. This can be achieved, for example, by focusing the image of the light source onto the blocker aperture or non-imaging region 34, or onto a non-imaging flat area between adjacent projection lenses having optional scattering behavior, the blocker aperture or non-imaging region being, for example, embedded below or raised relative to the projection lens; or by guiding the light onto an adjacent projection lens. However, this last possibility is not preferred because it will cause channel crosstalk and produce unwanted ghost-like images.

[0071] Generally, it is advantageous, or in some embodiments, that the contour of each shaper region is the same as the contour of the image to be projected. This contour may be filled by one or more shaper lenses. This also applies to blocking areas. Dividing the area into multiple shaper / blocker lenses can help reduce lens droop, which facilitates manufacturing. For simplicity, it is assumed that an area is displayed by only a single lens. This has the advantage of homogeneity in terms of image brightness (intuitive displays) or illuminance (projection displays).

[0072] and Figure 8a Similarly, the projection lens directs the aperture of the shaper lens toward the far field; see [link to related documentation]. Figure 1 Image 24 in the image.

[0073] Furthermore, the gray levels in the displayed image can be generated by manipulating the light distribution of the shaper lens so that only a portion of the incident light is directed to the imaging lens 18, while the remaining light is sent to the blocking region 34 between the projection lenses 18. This division into a transmitting portion and a blocking portion can be achieved, for example, by scattering light onto the shaper lens through a diffuser (a special free-form arrangement of light distributed in a controlled manner) or by subdividing the lens into multiple lenses, some of which guide light to the blocking dead zone, as in the case of scanning a halftone image.

[0074] By using a specially shaped form-block region arrangement at the incident MLA, the function of the slide mask can be realized as pure refraction using the same manufacturing techniques as those used for projection lenses.

[0075] In order to suppress the possibility of crosstalk and improve the resolution of the display, the aperture layer that blocks the dead space just below the projection lens can be moved to the middle distance between the projection lens and the incident lens array to act as an aperture stop. This remote aperture stop introduces vignetting into the system by cutting off off-axis rays and improves the resolution of the projection system at the expense of transmission[5].

[0076] Figure 3 The diagram shows a light field display with such a remote aperture stop. Because the array of aperture stops 34 is further away from the projection lens, stray light generated due to channel crosstalk or misalignment can be effectively blocked before it reaches the projection lens.

[0077] The alignment precision required for this embedded aperture stop relative to the lens array is much lower (about an order of magnitude) than the lateral positioning precision required for the basic image relative to the addressed projection lens. The relaxed alignment tolerance makes it easier to manufacture, for example, through two-component plastic injection molding or injection molding with an inserted metal aperture sheet.

[0078] The embodiments of the present invention provide the following advantages in particular:

[0079] ●Relaxed tolerances for alignment of two lens arrays; optional aperture mask layers provide easier alignment and assembly.

[0080] ● 3D motion is generated by eliminating the stencil mask and using a pure refractive component for the option of producing grayscale levels in the displayed image.

[0081] ● Light field displays can be produced using simple injection molding technology.

[0082] ● The use of grayscale and reflow motherboard processes allows for the simple and efficient manufacture and assembly of micro-optical components.

[0083] The embodiments can be particularly applied to:

[0084] ● Decorative art installations

[0085] ● 3D icons / symbols used for advertising and brand promotion, such as exterior car badges.

[0086] ●General photoforming

[0087] ● 3D effects in the car's turn indicators / taillight clusters.

[0088] ● Non-contact interface for public buildings / operating rooms.

[0089] Although some aspects are described in conjunction with the device, it should be understood that these aspects also represent the description of the corresponding method, such that blocks or components of the device should be understood as corresponding method steps or features of the method steps. Similarly, aspects described in conjunction with or described as method steps also represent the description of corresponding blocks, details, or components of the corresponding device.

[0090] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of the principles of the invention. It should be understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention is intended to be limited only by the scope of the following claims, and not by the specific details presented herein through the description and discussion of the embodiments.

[0091] References

[0092] [1]Park, JH, Hong, K., & Lee, B. (2009). Recent progress in three-dimensional information processing based on integral imaging. Applied Optics, 48(34), H77-H94.

[0093] [2]S. Jensch et.al., DE102017210762A1 - Lighting device for a motorvehicle, BMW AG, Realeyes GmbH.

[0094] [3]P. Dannberg et al., "Wafer-Level Hybrid Integration of ComplexMicro-Optical Modules", Micromachines 2014, 5, 325-40.

[0095] [4]F. von Laffert et. al., DE102011000947A1 - Flat 3D display unit,Realeyes GmbH.

[0096] [5]W. S. Smith, Modern Optical Engineering, 2 nd edition, 3.4 "TheEffect of Lens Shape and Stop Position on the Aberrations".

Claims

1. A display for displaying images, comprising: A condenser lens array (12) having multiple condenser lenses (14); A projection lens array (16) having multiple projection lenses (18); Multiple optical channels (22), each including at least one condenser lens (14) and a projection lens (18), are configured to project an image (24) to be displayed on a display. Multiple light-collecting lenses (26) are arranged between the optical paths of adjacent light-collecting lenses (14); Each light-collecting lens (26) is configured to collect incident light and direct it to an area outside the projection lens (18).

2. The display of claim 1, wherein at least a subset of the plurality of light-collecting lenses (26) is configured to deflect incident light onto a non-imaging region (34) associated with the light-collecting lenses (26), between the projection lenses (18) or between the optical channels (22).

3. The display of claim 2, wherein the non-imaging region (34) includes a light absorption and / or light scattering region.

4. The display of claim 2 or 3, wherein at least one non-imaging region includes a light-absorbing region, the light-absorbing region including a metal layer arrangement, particularly a chromium layer arrangement.

5. The display according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the non-imaging area (34) is arranged in a region (48) where the plane (52) of the projection lens (18) is raised relative to the plurality of projection lenses (18).

6. The display as claimed in claim 5, wherein the non-imaging area (34) is arranged at the raised area (48) as a coating, particularly having a color layer.

7. The display according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the non-imaging area (34) is arranged in the plane between the projection lens array (16) and the condenser lens array (12).

8. The display according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the projection lenses (18) of the projection lens array (16) are formed on or in the surface of the projection lens substrate (38; 382); and the non-imaging region (34) is arranged in the intermediate region between adjacent projection lenses (18) on or in the surface of the projection lens substrate (38; 382).

9. The display according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the non-imaging region (34) defines the aperture of the projection lens (18).

10. The display according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein at least one of the plurality of light-collecting lenses (26) is configured to focus incident light onto a non-imaging region (34) within a tolerance of 20% of the focal length of the light-collecting lens (26).

11. The display according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the combination of the light-concentrating lens array (12) and the plurality of light-collecting lenses (26) preferably completely, at least 90%, covers the light-active incident side of the display, and the plurality of light-collecting lenses (26) are configured to completely, within a tolerance of up to 10%, redirect the light incident on the plurality of light-collecting lenses (26) to the non-imaging area (34).

12. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the contour of the condenser lens (14) of the condenser lens array (12) matches at least a sub-region of an image to be displayed on the display.

13. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the condenser lenses (14) of the condenser lens array (12) includes an off-center lens segment.

14. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the condenser lens array (12) is arranged on the opposite side of the lens substrate (38) on one side with the light-collecting lens and on the other side with the projection lens array (16).

15. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the condenser lens array (12) comprises an array of lenses including irregular edges.

16. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of optical channels (22) include a first subset for displaying an image as a first image (541) and a second subset for displaying a second image (542).

17. The display of claim 16, configured to display a first image (541) in a first color and a second image (542) in a second color.

18. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims is configured as a projection display and / or a light field display.

19. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims is configured to display at least a portion of the image (24) in a three-dimensional effect.

20. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the focusing lens array (12) is formed as a microlens array and the projection lens array (16) is formed as a microlens array.

21. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of optical channels (22) is configured to display a fundamental image of a plurality of matching fundamental images; wherein the plurality of optical channels (22) are configured to image the plurality of fundamental images as overlapping in a projection plane.

22. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of condenser lenses (14) is configured to image a light source (32) illuminating the condenser lens (14) into a projection lens (18) associated with the condenser lens (14).

23. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a subset of the projection lens (18) is formed as an off-center lens segment.

24. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one condenser lens (14) of the condenser lens array (12) is configured to project a first subset of light incident on the condenser lens onto an associated projection lens (18) and to redirect a second subset of the incident light onto at least one non-imaging region (34) arranged adjacent to the associated projection lens.

25. The display of claim 24, wherein at least one condensing lens of the condensing lens array (12) comprises at least one of the following: ●Diffuser; ●Free-form lenses; and ● Multiple focusing lens sub-regions; This is to separate the first subset from the second subset.

26. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, comprising a light source (32) configured to provide collimated light as incident light (28) to a condenser lens array (12).

27. The display as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the arrangement of the condenser lens (14) and / or the arrangement of the projection lens (18) comprises at least six lenses arranged in at least three columns and at least two rows.

28. A system (50) comprising a display as described in any of the preceding claims.

29. The system of claim 28, comprising: Multiple monitors; or The display includes multiple sub-regions, which are configured to project different sub-regions (54) of the overall image (28) to be displayed.

30. The system of claim 28 or 29, comprising a non-contact keyboard, wherein the image to be displayed includes the keys of the keyboard.

31. The system of claim 30, configured to display the contactless keyboard as a floating structure.

32. The system of claim 28 or 29, comprising automotive lights, particularly taillights or brake lights, wherein the image is a three-dimensional mark in the area of ​​the automotive lights.

33. The system of claim 28 or 29, configured as a vehicle light and configured to dynamically display images for communication with another road user.

34. A method (600) for projecting an image, comprising: Illumination (610) is applied to a condenser lens array having a plurality of condenser lenses, wherein at least one corresponding condenser lens forms part of an optical channel with a corresponding projection lens in the projection lens array, and the projection lens is configured to project an image to be displayed on a display. The light is redirected (620) from the gap between adjacent condenser lenses to the area outside the optical channel.

35. A method (700) for manufacturing a display, comprising: Manufacturing (710) a condenser lens array having multiple condenser lenses and a projection lens array having multiple projection lenses; Each of the multiple optical channels includes at least one condenser lens and a projection lens, and is configured to project an image to be displayed on a display. This allows multiple light-gathering lenses to be arranged between the optical paths of adjacent light-gathering lenses; and This allows each light-collecting lens to gather the incident light and direct it to an area outside the projection lens.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the manufacturing step includes an injection molding process.

37. The method of claim 35 or 36, comprising: At least one non-imaging area (34) is generated as the target area of ​​the light-collecting lens by performing a coating process on the region (48) of the projection lens substrate that is raised relative to the projection lens.

Images