Display device component, display device and method for manufacturing the display device component

Abstract

A display device component comprises: an optical waveguide with a surface; a first material formed on a portion of the surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on a portion of the first material. The first material exhibits light-scattering properties.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Various transparent materials are already used as optical waveguides for total internal reflection. Examples of such waveguides include optical fibers and planar structures made of acrylic or glass.

[0002] However, total internal reflection based on the image can be "frustrated" by engraving marks into the surface of the optical medium (optical waveguide), causing some of the internally reflected light to be refracted externally and escape from the optical waveguide. Engraving marks into the surface of the optical medium allows for the creation of a variety of different optical symbols, where the image appears to "float" in space.

[0003] Fig. Figure 1 shows a conventional edge-lit sign, with a piece of acrylic 10 with a light source (LEDs) 20The edges are illuminated. The light is contained within the acrylic. 10 internally reflected, except where the light hits engraved regions ( 11 , 12 and 13 ) meets the critical angles (as in Fig. 2 shown) between acrylic 10 and air. The critical angles formed by the engraving process "frustrate" internal reflection and allow light to pass through these points ( 11 , 12 and 13 ) from the acrylic 10 to escape. The effect of this type of image creation is astonishing, as the light from the engraved images ( 11 , 12 and 13 ) seems to be the case.

[0004] As in Fig. As shown in 2, light will be emitted. 25 from a light source within the optical fiber 10 Total reflection occurs until it hits the engraved section 11. At the engraved section 11, part of the light is reflected. 25frustrated and like an escaped light 27 deflected out of the optical fiber. This deflection at the engraved section 11 causes the light to appear to originate from the engraved section 11.

[0005] However, this concept has disadvantages. Firstly, the images tend to be monochromatic, since the color of the light is the color of the light source.

[0006] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, this limitation can be overcome by using multiple acrylic parts or multiple optical fibers ( 10 , 16 and 18 ) are used, each containing an image ( 11 , 125 and 135 ) is engraved, which is assigned a specific color and is illuminated by a light source ( 20 , 22 and 24 ) is illuminated in this color.

[0007] This solution is complex and requires multiple etched optical fibers and multiple edge illumination sources.

[0008] A second disadvantage is that laser engraving machines draw lines, but not halftone patterns. Therefore, laser engraving is limited to line art and cannot provide the toning and / or density levels that can be achieved through halftoning or rasterization.

[0009] A third disadvantage of using laser engraving is that the optical fiber cannot be reused for other images once the image has been engraved.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need to provide a system or method that enables the emission of an image with several different colors from the surface of a single optical waveguide.

[0011] Therefore, there is a need to create a system or method that enables the emission of an image with variable tint or variable luminance levels from a surface of a single optical waveguide.

[0012] There is also a need to create a system or method that enables the emission of an image with several different colors from a surface of a single optical waveguide, while preserving the reusability of the optical waveguide for the emission of other images.

[0013] Furthermore, there is a need to create a system or method that enables the emission of an image with variable tint or variable luminance levels from a surface of a single optical waveguide, while preserving the reusability of the optical waveguide for the emission of other images. List of characters Fig. Figure 1 represents a conventional display system of an engraved optical waveguide; Fig. Figure 2 represents an engraved area of ​​a conventional display device of the engraved optical waveguide of Fig. 1 dar; Fig. Figure 3 represents a conventional display system of a multicolored engraved optical waveguide; Fig. Figure 4 is a graphical representation of Snell's law of refraction; Fig. 5 represents a refraction of light at the interface between two media; Fig. Figure 6 represents an optical fiber display system that uses marker materials to display an image; Fig. Section 7 describes the scattering and refraction properties of the optical fiber display system of Fig. 6, in which marking material is used; Fig. Figure 8 represents an optical fiber display system that uses a marker material with a rough surface to display an image; Fig. 9 presents the refractive properties of the optical fiber display system of Fig. 8, in which marking material is used; Fig. 10 is a table showing angular values ​​of different beam paths for light passing through the optical waveguide of Fig. 6 goes; Fig. Table 11 shows the angular values ​​of different beam paths for light passing through the optical waveguide of Fig. 8 goes; Fig. Figure 12 represents an optical waveguide display system that displays an image with several different colors emanating from a surface of a single optical waveguide; Fig. 13 represents an optical waveguide that has an image on its front and an image on its back; Fig. 14 represents another embodiment of an optical waveguide having an image on its front side and an image on its back side; Fig. 15 represents an additional embodiment of an optical waveguide having an image on its front side and an image on its back side; Fig. 16 represents another embodiment of an optical waveguide which has an image on its front side and an image on its back side; Fig. Figure 17 represents an optical fiber display system that displays a three-dimensional image; Fig. Figure 18 represents an optical waveguide that uses marker material to create an image and a white background; Fig. 19 represents an optical waveguide that uses a marker material with a rough surface that has been pre-printed onto a transparent medium; Fig. Figure 20 represents an optical waveguide that uses marking material that has been pre-printed onto a transparent medium; Fig. Figure 21 represents an optical waveguide which has an image on a rough surface on its front side and an image made of two layers of marker material on its back side; Fig. 22 represents an optical waveguide display system that displays an image with a white background and within it a colored or black image emanating from a surface of a single optical waveguide; Fig. 23 represents an optical waveguide display system that displays a black and white image printed using a white marker material, emanating from a surface of a single optical waveguide; Fig. Figure 24 represents multiple optical waveguides that create a display of an edge-illuminated three-dimensional image / object; Fig. Figure 25 represents an example of a printing system designed to print on a three-dimensional object. The Fig. 26 and Fig. 27 describe other embodiments of the printing system of Fig. 25, in which a double support element is used to allow movement of objects past a group of printheads; Fig. 28 represents a cabinet containing one of the items in Fig. 26 or Fig. 27 embodiments shown can be installed; Fig. 29 to Fig. Figure 32 represents the object holder and the movable attached element, which are in Fig. 26 or Fig. 27 are shown; Fig. 33 to Fig. 41 represent different configurations of object holders that are in Fig. 26 or Fig. 27 are shown, which can be used to hold different types of objects; Fig. Figure 42 represents an embodiment of the printing system which is useful in a manufacturing environment; Fig. Figure 43 represents an embodiment of an object holder in the printing system of Fig. 25, which enables the printing of a test pattern onto a sheet-shaped medium to verify a configuration of the system; Fig. 44 represents an embodiment of an element that is selectively attached to an object holder in the printing system of Fig. 25 can be attached to allow printing a test pattern onto a surface of the element to verify a configuration of the system. Fig. 45 represents a conventional optical waveguide with a rough cut edge; Fig. Figure 46 represents an optical waveguide with a conventional rough cut edge that has been smoothed with a marking material to create a smooth interface between the optical waveguide and a light source; and Fig. Figure 47 represents an optical waveguide with a conventional engraved image smoothed with a marking material to create a smooth optical waveguide surface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] For general clarification, please refer to the drawings. In some cases, the same reference symbols are used throughout the drawings to denote identical or equivalent elements. Please also note that the drawings are not necessarily to scale and that certain regions may be intentionally drawn disproportionately to better illustrate features and concepts.

[0015] As mentioned above, optical fibers are already used to enable a vehicle to display images. The principles of Snell's law are used to display the images.

[0016] According to Snell's law, the critical angle is the angle of incidence at which the angle of refraction is 90°. The angle of incidence is measured with respect to the normal (z-axis) at the refractive limit, as shown in Fig. 4 is shown.

[0017] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a light ray travels from the glass (n1) into the air (n2). The light emanating from the interface (x-axis) is deflected (at an angle θ). t ) towards the glass (n1). If the angle of incidence (the angle θ) i If the magnification is sufficiently high, the beam angle (in air) reaches 90 degrees. At this point, no light is emitted into the air. The critical angle Θ c is given by Snell's law: n 1 s i n θ i = n 2 s i n θ t

[0018] To determine the angle of incidence at which refraction occurs, Snell's law is reformulated as follows: s i n θ t = n 2 n 1 s i n θ t

[0019] To find the critical angle, one solves for the value of Θ. i up, when Θ t = 90°, from which sinθ follows t = 1. The resulting value of Θ i is equal to the critical angle Θ c .

[0020] Solving for Θ i If the angle is as follows, then the equation for the critical angle is as follows: θ c = θ i = a r c s i n ( n 2 n 1 )

[0021] If the angle of incidence is exactly the critical angle Θ c If the refracted ray is tangential to the boundary at the point of incidence (x-axis in the Fig. 4).

[0022] If light were to pass through an optical fiber, such as acrylic or glass (with a refractive index of 1.55), into air (with a refractive index of 1.00), the calculation would yield the critical angle for light from the optical fiber into the air as follows: θ c = a r c s i n ( 1.00 1.55 ) = 41.8

[0023] In this example, light that strikes the boundary at an angle of less than 41.8° with respect to the normal (z-axis) is Fig. 4) occurs (x-axis of Fig. 4), partially transmitted, while light traveling at larger angles to the normal (z-axis in Fig. 4) at the border, would be totally reflected.

[0024] Note that if the fraction n2 / n1 is greater than 1, the arcsine is undefined, meaning that total internal reflection does not occur even at very shallow angles of incidence or grazing angles. The critical angle is only defined if n2 / n1 is less than or equal to 1.

[0025] Fig. Figure 5 shows another example of the refraction of light at the interface between two media (air and water). As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, light is refracted at an angle Θ2 if the angle of incidence Θ1 of light passing from water into air is smaller than the critical angle Θ. c If, on the other hand, as in Fig. Figure 5 shows the angle of incidence Θ1 of light passing from water into air, the critical angle Θ c If this is the case, then the light is refracted in such a way that it travels parallel to the water / air interface. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, this will finally occur when the angle of incidence Θ1 of light passing out of water and into air is greater than the critical angle Θ. c , the light is reflected at an angle Θ2, resulting in total internal reflection of the incident light.

[0026] An alternative to the conventional engraving of an image on a transparent medium (an optical waveguide) is direct printing onto the transparent medium (the optical waveguide) with marking materials such as inks, UV-curable inks, toners, solid inks, etc., using a printing system.

[0027] In the various embodiments described below, an optical waveguide is used that has a refractive index significantly different from that of the surrounding medium (such as air). For example, an acrylic optical waveguide with a refractive index of approximately 1.5 can be used when the surrounding medium is air, which has a refractive index of approximately 1.

[0028] Furthermore, in the various embodiments described below, marking materials with a refractive index that is essentially the same as the refractive index of the optical waveguide are used.

[0029] For example, a marking material with a refractive index of about 1.4 can be used if the underlying optical waveguide has a refractive index of about 1.5.

[0030] In light of the examples discussed above, there are certain angles of incidence of light (for example, light emanating from an LED source) that cause the incident light to be totally reflected at a boundary between an optical waveguide and the air, but to be partially refracted externally at a boundary between a marker material (or marker materials) of the optical waveguide.

[0031] These different refractive indices make it possible to trap the incident light in regions where no marker material is present, while allowing light to pass through in regions where marker material is present.

[0032] After the light has been allowed into the marking material to illuminate the image, the light, or part of it, must escape from the marking material to prevent total reflection at the interface between the marking material and the air.

[0033] More precisely, in a case where the upper surface of the marking material is smooth, the angles of incidence at the interface between the marking material and the air are such that the light is reflected internally within the marking material and does not escape into the air and towards the viewer.

[0034] To allow the refraction of light at the interface between the marking material and air, so that light can escape from the marking material, Fig. 6 a fiber optic cable 10 a white marking material 40 on a visible surface ( 30 ) of the optical fiber 10It is printed. Then another (colored) marking material is used. 50 about the white marking material 40 printed.

[0035] Note that the marking material 40 It may be a transparent marking material with light-scattering properties or light-scattering particles embedded within it.

[0036] Furthermore, note that the marking material 40 light-scattering properties or light-scattering particles embedded within them, such that the light emitted by a light source 20 the incident light is scattered at several angles, such that at least one of the angles of the scattered light falls at an angle smaller than the critical angle onto the interface between the marking material and the air, so that the light escapes from the marking material 50 can escape into the air.

[0037] Note that the refractive index of the white marking material 40 the refractive index of the optical waveguide 10 is essentially the same, so that light from the optical waveguide 10 exits and into the white marking material 40 penetrates.

[0038] The white marking material 40 This causes the incoming light to be scattered in all directions, and some of it is lost from the white marking material. 40 exits in a straight line through the marking material 50 passes through, since the refractive index of the white marking material 40 the refractive index of the marking material 50 is essentially the same. Due to the angle of incidence, a portion of the light entering the marking material is 50 enters, is refracted externally at the interface between marking material and air, and goes towards the viewer ( 30 ).

[0039] Fig. Figure 7 is a graphical representation of the beam path in the printed optical waveguide. 10 from Fig. 6. As in Fig. As shown in 7, incident light 10 within the optical fiber 10 internally reflected. Since the refractive index of the white marking material 40 the refractive index of the optical waveguide 10 which is essentially the same, the incident light 25 at the interface of the optical fiber between the white marking material and the air from the optical fiber 10 out and penetrates the white marking material 40 a.

[0040] As soon as the incident light 25 on an embedded scattering particle 45 When it hits the surface, it is scattered at several angles, producing scattered light 26. Since the refractive index of the white marking material 40 the refractive index of the marking material 50Essentially the same, the scattered light 26 emerges from the white marking material. 40 out and penetrates the marking material 50 a.

[0041] Since the refractive index of the marking material 50 Since the refractive index of air differs significantly, light is reflected at the interface between the marking material and the air. 27 (broken) from the marking material 50 out and into the air when the angle of incidence of the scattered light is smaller than the critical angle of the interface between the marking material and the air.

[0042] To allow the refraction of light at the interface between the marking material and air, so that light can escape from the marking material, Fig. 8. Furthermore, another example of an optical fiber. 10 a (colored) marking material 50 on a visible surface ( 30) of the optical fiber ( 10 ) is printed. In this embodiment, an upper surface is printed. 55 of the marking material 50 designed so that the upper surface 55 It is rough, thus emulating an engraved surface.

[0043] Note that the refractive index of the marking material 50 the refractive index of the optical waveguide 10 is essentially the same, so that light from a light source 20 from the optical fiber 10 exits and into the marking material 50 penetrates.

[0044] Based on the angle of incidence of the light interacting with the rough surface at the interface between the marking material and air, a portion of the light entering the marking material is therefore 50 enters, is refracted externally at the interface between marking material and air and goes towards the viewer ( 30 ) there.

[0045] Fig. Figure 9 is a graphical representation of the beam path in the printed optical waveguide. 10 from Fig. 8. As in Fig. As shown in 9, incident light 25 within the optical fiber 10 internally reflected.

[0046] Since the refractive index of the marking material 50 the refractive index of the optical waveguide 10 which is essentially the same, the incident light 25 at the interface of the optical waveguide between marking material and air from the optical waveguide 10 out and penetrates the marking material 50 a.

[0047] Since the refractive index of the marking material 50 Since the refractive index of air differs significantly, light is reflected at the interface between the marking material and the air. 27 (broken) from the marking material 50out and into the air when the angle of incidence of the light changes. 25 smaller than the critical angle of the interface between the marking material and the air.

[0048] Fig. Table 10 provides an overview of the different beam paths through an optical fiber, as described in the Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows the beam path. More precisely, it is defined as light entering the optical waveguide from a light source (LED) on the left.

[0049] The light is refracted at an interface between the air and the optical fiber and internally reflected at multiple interfaces between the optical fiber and the air for all angles. At the interface between the optical fiber and white marker material, the light is partially refracted for some angles and scattered by the scattering particles in the white marker material.

[0050] The scattered light passes straight through the colored marking material (since the marking materials have similar refractive indices), and since the scattering has created many angles of incidence at the boundary between colored marking material and air, a large part of the light then exits the colored marking material and goes towards the viewer.

[0051] As in Fig. As shown in 10, light with angles of incidence Θ enters the atmosphere. i The light enters the optical waveguide at the far left angle (for example, from an LED) in the range of 0 to 90 degrees. The refraction angles Θ shown are... r1 are calculated based on Snell's law. The light rays along Θ r1 -paths encounter a boundary between optical waveguide and air, so that for all possible Θ r1 the light is totally reflected within the optical waveguide (indicated by #NUM! in dashed boxes). 61(specified). The value #NUM! indicates that there is no solution for a refracted ray.

[0052] After the light rays have bounced back and forth within the optical waveguide, they strike the boundary between the optical waveguide and the white marker material at the same angles at which they struck the boundary between the optical waveguide and the air.

[0053] Due to the difference in the refractive indices of air (1.0) and the white marker material (e.g., 1.4), and depending on the angle of incidence, some of the light is refracted externally into the white marker material instead of being reflected internally within the optical waveguide. The cells within the dashed boxes 62 in Fig. 10 names the light rays that are completely internally reflected at the interface between the optical waveguide and the air, and partially refracted externally at the interface between the optical waveguide and the white marker material. Thus, light enters the white marker material.

[0054] Since the white marking material scatters light at a number of different angles, these scattered light rays then pass directly through the colored marking material, as the colored and white marking materials have similar refractive indices. Due to the many angles of refraction at the boundary between the colored marking material and the air, many rays are not reflected internally but refracted externally and are visible to the observer.

[0055] Fig. Table 11 provides an overview of the different beam paths through an optical fiber, as described in the Fig. 8 and Fig. Figure 9 illustrates this. More precisely, the beam path is defined as light entering the optical fiber from a light source (LED) on the left. The light is refracted at an interface between the air and the optical fiber and internally reflected at several interfaces between the optical fiber and the air for all angles. For some angles, the light is partially refracted externally at the interface between the optical fiber and the marking material.

[0056] The externally refracted light passes through the marking material, and since the marking material has a rough surface that creates many angles of incidence at the boundary between the marking material and the air, a large part of the light escapes from the marking material and goes towards the viewer.

[0057] As in Fig. As shown in 11, light with angles of incidence Θ enters the atmosphere. i The light enters the optical waveguide at the far left angle (for example, from an LED) in the range of 0 to 90 degrees. The refraction angles Θ shown are... r1 are calculated based on Snell's law. The light rays along Θ r1 -paths encounter a boundary between optical waveguide and air, so that for all possible Θ r1 the light is totally reflected within the optical waveguide (indicated by #NUM! in dashed boxes). 63 (specified). The value #NUM! indicates that there is no solution for a refracted ray.

[0058] After the light rays have bounced back and forth within the optical waveguide, they strike the boundary between the optical waveguide and the marking material at the same angles at which they struck the boundary between the optical waveguide and the air.

[0059] However, due to the difference in the refractive indices of air (1.0) and the marking material (for example 1.4) and depending on the angle of incidence, some of the light is refracted externally into the marking material instead of being reflected internally within the optical waveguide.

[0060] The cells within the dashed boxes 64 in Fig. Equations 11 describe the light rays that are completely internally reflected at the interface between the optical waveguide and the air, and partially refracted externally at the interface between the optical waveguide and the marking material. Thus, light enters the marking material.

[0061] Because the marking material has a rough surface, it produces a number of different angles of incidence. Due to the many angles of refraction at the interface between the marking material and the air, many rays are not reflected internally but refracted externally and are visible to the observer.

[0062] In other words, all light entering the marking material is totally reflected at the boundary between the marking material and the air if the upper surface of the marking material is smooth. However, light will escape from the marking material if the critical angle is modified due to surface roughness.

[0063] As in Fig. Figure 11 shows the angles of incidence of the light rays (the cells within the dashed box). 65 ), which meet the boundary between marking material and air, the effect of surface roughness.

[0064] Thus, the surface roughness causes some of the light to be refracted externally at the boundary between the marking material and the air, leaving the marking material towards the viewer.

[0065] These cells of the dashed boxes 65 can be traced above the table, starting at a specific angle of incidence from the LED, where, where no marking material is present, they are reflected internally, refracted into the marking material, and then reflected out of the marking material due to the surface roughness.

[0066] Note that the surface roughness of the printed marking material can be increased by halftoning.

[0067] Fig. 12 represents an optical fiber display system, wherein an optical fiber 10 , when it passes through a light source 20 The images are illuminated and printed on them. 110 , 1120and 113 displays. Since the images 110 , 1120 and 113 on the optical fiber 10 When printed, the images may have different colors and do not depend on the color of the light source. 20 They will be reliant on it to define their color.

[0068] Furthermore, the images can 110 , 1120 and 113 the dual marking material construction of the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 or the marking material with a rough surface structure of the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 include.

[0069] Fig. 13 represents an optical fiber display system, wherein an optical fiber 10 , when it passes through a light source 20 when illuminated, it displays images that are projected onto both sides of the optical fiber. 10 have been printed. Since the images are printed on both sides of the optical fiber. 10The images will be printed depending on the surface side of the optical waveguide. 10 with reference to a viewing page 30 Differently constructed.

[0070] As in Fig. As shown in 13, it is located on one side of the optical waveguide. 10 (of the page under consideration, page 30) the image is constructed in the same way as in Fig. 6, wherein a white marking material 40 to the front side of the optical fiber 10 printing, followed by printing on a marking material 50 .

[0071] If the image is on the front surface of the optical waveguide 10 from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 40 and 50 ) from the viewer 30 seen.

[0072] What's next in Fig. As shown in 13, it is located on a rear surface of the optical waveguide. 10the image is constructed in a different way, using a marking material 55 to the rear surface of the optical fiber 10 is printed, followed by the printing of a white marking material. 45 .

[0073] If the image is on the back surface of the optical waveguide 10 from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 45 and 55 ) from the viewer 30 seen.

[0074] Note that the thickness of the optical waveguide 10 It can be such that it displays the images at different depths, causing one image to appear to float in front of the other.

[0075] Fig. 14 represents an optical fiber display system, wherein an optical fiber 10 , when it passes through a light source 20 when illuminated, it displays images that are projected onto both sides of the optical fiber. 10have been printed and from both sides ( 30 and 31 ) can be viewed. In this embodiment, the images are projected onto both sides of the optical waveguide using the same construction. 10 printed.

[0076] As in Fig. As shown in 14, it is located on a front surface of the optical waveguide. 10 (the viewing side) 30 ) the image onto a white marking material 40 printed on the front surface of the optical waveguide 10 has been printed.

[0077] If the image is on the front surface of the optical waveguide 10 from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 40 ) on the front surface of the optical fiber 10 from the viewer 30 and from the viewer 31 seen.

[0078] What's next in Fig. As shown in 14, it is located on a rear surface of the optical waveguide. 10 the image also from a white marking material 45 constructed that is located on the rear surface of the optical waveguide 10 has been printed.

[0079] If the image is on the back surface of the optical waveguide 10 from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 45 ) on the rear surface of the optical fiber 10 from the viewer 30 and from the viewer 31 seen.

[0080] Note that the thickness of the optical waveguide 10 It can be such that it displays the images at different depths, causing one image to appear to float in front of the other.

[0081] Fig. 15 represents an optical fiber display system, wherein an optical fiber 10 , when it passes through a light source20 when illuminated, it displays images that are projected onto both sides of the optical fiber. 10 have been printed, and both images can be seen from only one viewing side. In this embodiment, the images are printed on both sides of the optical waveguide using different constructions. 10 printed.

[0082] As in Fig. As shown in 15, it is located on one side of the optical fiber. 10 (of the side under consideration) 30 ) the image constructed in the same way as in Fig. 6, wherein a white marking material 40 to the front side of the optical fiber 10 printing, followed by printing on a marking material 50 .

[0083] If the image is on the front surface of the optical waveguide 10 from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 40 and 50) only from the viewer 30 be seen.

[0084] What's next in Fig. As shown in 15, it is located on a rear surface of the optical waveguide. 10 the image also from a white marking material 45 constructed that is located on the rear surface of the optical waveguide 10 has been printed.

[0085] If the image is on the back surface of the optical waveguide 10 from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 45 ) on the rear surface of the optical fiber 10 from the viewer 30 and from the viewer 31 be seen.

[0086] In other words, the embodiment of Fig. 15 the viewer's perception of the image 30 , but the viewer 31 The image can be projected onto the front surface of the optical waveguide. 10 cannot see.

[0087] As in Fig. As shown in 15, the image projected onto the front surface of the optical waveguide can also be 10 It will be a printed color image with a white background, visible only to the viewer. 30 is seen as a color image. In contrast, the image projected onto the rear surface of the optical waveguide is 10 A monochrome image is printed, which is perceived by the viewer. 30 and from the viewer 31 can be seen.

[0088] Note that the thickness of the optical waveguide 10 It can be such that it displays the images at different depths, causing one image to appear to float in front of the other.

[0089] Fig. 16 represents an optical fiber display system, wherein an optical fiber 10 , when it passes through a light source 20 when illuminated, it displays images that are projected onto both sides of the optical fiber.10 have been printed. In this embodiment, the images are printed on both sides of the optical waveguide using different constructions. 10 printed.

[0090] As in Fig. As shown in 16, it is located on a front surface of the optical waveguide. 10 (of the side under consideration) 30 ) the image is constructed using a marking material 50 to the front surface of the optical fiber 10 is printed.

[0091] What's next in Fig. As shown in 16, it is located on a rear surface of the optical waveguide. 10 the image also from a white marking material 45 constructed that is located on the rear surface of the optical waveguide 10 has been printed.

[0092] The image on the front surface of the optical waveguide 10It cannot be considered in isolation. The image on the back surface is for the viewer 30 visible through the plate.

[0093] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the image on the front can be a color image without a white background. The color image typically cannot be viewed on its own because there is no dispersion. The image on the back is a monochrome image marked with white marker material. 45 is created, which is perceived by the viewer 30 and from the viewer 31 can be considered.

[0094] When the front image and the back image are combined, the image on the front will be facing the viewer. 30 visible when the image is on the back (the white marking material) 45 ) which provides scattered light.

[0095] If the image is on the back surface of the optical waveguide 10from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 45 ) on the rear surface of the optical fiber 10 from the viewer 30 and from the viewer 31 be seen.

[0096] Note that the image on the back is transmitted through the optical fiber. 10 It should be visible through it. The image on the front can be a visible scattered light image or a transparent, non-visible image.

[0097] The image on the front can be sparse, so that there is a sufficiently transparent viewing area for the image on the back.

[0098] Note that the thickness of the optical waveguide 10 It can be such that it displays the images at different depths, causing one image to appear to float in front of the other.

[0099] Fig. Figure 17 represents a display device for showing three-dimensional images. Fig. 17 are multiple optical fibers ( 10 , 12 and 14 ) shown. Each optical waveguide is constructed in the same way as in the construction of the two-sided images in the embodiment of Fig. 13 printed with images on both sides of the optical waveguide.

[0100] More precisely, a white marking material is applied to a front surface of each optical waveguide (the side under consideration, page 30). 40 printed on the front surface of the optical fiber, followed by the printing of a marking material. 50 .

[0101] If the image on the front surface of the optical waveguide is from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 40 and 50 ) from the viewer 30 seen.

[0102] What's next in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, a marking material is applied to a rear surface of each optical waveguide. 55 printed on the rear surface of the optical waveguide, followed by printing a white marking material. 45 .

[0103] If the image on the back surface of the optical waveguide is from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 45 and 55 ) from the viewer 30 seen.

[0104] Fig. Figure 18 represents an optical waveguide capable of providing a white background for an image printed upon it. As in Fig. As shown in 18, a white marking material is used. 400 Printed across the entire image area. Then a marking material is applied. 50 onto the white marking material 400 printed.

[0105] Note that the white marking material 400exhibits a varying volumetric density of light-scattering particles, with the volumetric density of light-scattering particles along the surface of the optical waveguide increasing proportionally as the distance from a light source interface of the optical waveguide increases.

[0106] If the volumetric density of light-scattering particles did not change proportionally as the distance from the light source interface of the optical waveguide increased, most of the light near the light source interface would escape from the optical waveguide, and there would not be enough light to adequately illuminate an image in the center of the optical waveguide.

[0107] The light source interface is the interface (surface) of the optical waveguide that receives incident light from a light source.

[0108] An image is created using marking material. 50onto the white marking material 400 printed.

[0109] Fig. 19 represents an optical waveguide in which an image is first projected onto a transparent medium 70 is printed and the transparent medium 70 on the optical fiber 10 is attached. As in Fig. As shown in 19, a marking material is used. 50 with a rough surface 55 on the transparent medium 70 printed.

[0110] Note that the transparent medium 70 so on the optical fiber 10 It should be fastened so that there are no air gaps between the transparent medium and the surrounding area. 70 and the optical fiber 10 are available.

[0111] For example, the transparent medium 70 using a hardenable agent that can be rolled to remove air gaps prior to hardening, to which optical waveguides are connected.

[0112] Note that the transparent medium 70 a fiber optic cable can have a refractive index that is similar to the refractive index of the fiber optic cable 10 is essentially the same.

[0113] Fig. 20 represents an optical waveguide in which an image is first projected onto a transparent medium 70 is printed and the transparent medium 70 on the optical fiber 10 is attached. As in Fig. As shown in 20, a white marking material is used. 40 on the transparent medium 70 printed, followed by printing a marking material 50 .

[0114] Note that the transparent medium 70 so on the optical fiber 10 It should be fastened so that there are no air gaps between the transparent medium and the surrounding area. 70 and the optical fiber 10 are available.

[0115] For example, the transparent medium 70 using a hardenable agent that can be rolled to remove air gaps prior to hardening, to which optical waveguides are connected.

[0116] Note that the transparent medium 70 a fiber optic cable can have a refractive index that is similar to the refractive index of the fiber optic cable 10 is essentially the same.

[0117] Fig. 21 represents an optical fiber display system, wherein an optical fiber 10 , when it passes through a light source 20 when illuminated, it displays images that are projected onto both sides of the optical fiber. 10 have been printed. Since the images are printed on both sides of the optical fiber. 10 The images will be printed depending on the surface side of the optical waveguide. 10 with reference to a viewing page 30 Differently constructed.

[0118] As in Fig. 21 is shown on a front surface of the optical waveguide. 10 (of the page under consideration, page 30) the image in the same way as in Fig. 8 shown constructed, wherein a marking material 50 with a rough surface 55 to the front surface of the optical fiber 10 is printed.

[0119] If the image is on the front surface of the optical waveguide 10 from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 50 with the rough surface 55 ) from the viewer 30 seen.

[0120] What's next in Fig. 21 is shown on a rear surface of the optical waveguide. 10 the image is constructed in a different way, using a marking material 55 to the rear surface of the optical fiber 10is printed, followed by the printing of a white marking material. 45 .

[0121] If the image is on the back surface of the optical waveguide 10 from a light source 20 When illuminated, the printed image ( 45 and 55 ) from the viewer 30 seen.

[0122] Note that the thickness of the optical waveguide 10 It can be such that it displays the images at different depths, causing one image to appear to float in front of the other.

[0123] Fig. 22 represents an optical fiber 10 a figure that is capable of providing a white background for an image area 35 to provide. As in Fig. As shown in figure 22, a white marking material is used. 40 about the image area 35 printed to create a paper-like, uniform background.

[0124] Note that the white marking material 40 across the entire image area 35 It can be printed. Then a marking material is used. 57 onto the white marking material 40 printed.

[0125] Note that the marking material 57 can produce a black image, thereby creating a black and white image for display (illumination) on the optical fiber. 10 is provided.

[0126] Note that the white marking material 40 a varying volumetric density of light-scattering particles, whereby the volumetric density of light-scattering particles along the surface of the optical waveguide becomes proportionally larger as the distance from a light source interface of the optical waveguide increases.

[0127] The light source interface is the interface (surface) of the optical waveguide that receives incident light from a light source.

[0128] As in Fig. As shown in 22, the light that is in the optical waveguide 10 enclosed (internally reflected) in the white marking material 40 one and is marked by the white marking material 40 evenly scattered. The scattered light is then absorbed by the marking material. 57 The light is absorbed, producing either black or a color on each image. Essentially, the image is created by the absorption of light by the marking material. 57 generated through it.

[0129] Fig. 23 represents an optical fiber 10 a device that is capable of displaying a black and white image within an image area 35 to provide. As in Fig. As shown in figure 23, a white marking material is used. 40image by image within the image area 35 printed.

[0130] As in Fig. As shown in 23, the light that is in the optical waveguide 10 enclosed (internally reflected) in the white marking material 40 one and is marked by the white marking material 40 Scattered image by image. Some of the scattered light escapes from the white marking material. 40 The image is created by the scattering of light by scattering particles in the white marking material. 40 generated.

[0131] Note that by modulating the amplitude / intensity of the scattering according to the desired image, a tint can be provided within the image.

[0132] For example, by controlling a quantity of white marking material 40 , which is located in a specific region of the image area 35When printing, the degree (amplitude / intensity) of the scattering can be controlled. More precisely, the image appears brighter in a region when illuminated with edge light the stronger the scattering (the higher the amplitude / intensity).

[0133] In contrast, the image in the region appears darker when illuminated with edge light, the weaker the scattering (the lower the amplitude / intensity).

[0134] The use of a white marking material 40 To create an image, the effective generation of monochrome images is possible. Likewise, the use of a white marking material enables this. 40 , in order to create an image, the effective generation of grayscale images with large areas of dark regions.

[0135] Fig. 24 represents several optical fibers 10 These are used to generate a three-dimensional image. As in Fig. As shown in 24, this applies to each optical fiber. 10 a part of an image printed.

[0136] As in Fig. As shown in 24, for example, part of an image is shown. 80 to a surface of each optical waveguide 10 printed. As in Fig. Furthermore, part of an image is shown in 24. 82 on both sides of a subset of optical waveguides 10 printed. As in Fig. As shown in 24, it eventually becomes part of an image. 84 on both sides of each optical fiber 10 printed.

[0137] The images in Fig. 24 can be produced using any of the different printing methods (color, monochrome, surface roughness, volume diffusion, various color / white layering schemes, etc.) as described above.

[0138] Furthermore, any optical fiber can 10It can be printed independently and can be printed on one surface or on both surfaces.

[0139] Note that optical fibers 10 They can be evenly spaced. Furthermore, if images are printed on both surfaces of the optical waveguide, the distance between the waveguides can be adjusted to optimize viewing, and / or the thickness of the waveguides can be adjusted to optimize viewing.

[0140] Furthermore, note that the images should be sparse, so that there is enough transparent viewing area to allow images that lie at great depth to be visible.

[0141] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 24, each image on each optical waveguide represents a layer of the three-dimensional image or object. The image or object can be the outline of the outer surface in full color. Furthermore, the image or object can include internal structures to create an impression of hollowness.

[0142] Regarding the various embodiments described above, the optical waveguides used to illuminate the printed images can be easily reused by removing the marking material from the optical waveguide.

[0143] In other words, an image can first be printed onto an optical fiber intended for edge illumination using various marking materials such as liquid inks, UV-curable inks, toner and / or solid inks.

[0144] The printed image can then be removed from the optical fiber without affecting the optical quality of the surfaces. After the surface(s) of the optical fiber have been refurbished, the optical fiber can be reused to print a new image.

[0145] If, for example, UV-curable ink is used as a marking material, a solvent or cleaning solution, such as acetone, that does not damage the optical fiber material can be used with very little mechanical abrasion to remove the printed UV-curable ink. If necessary, minor scratches on the optical fiber can be repaired before it is reused.

[0146] In another example, in a case where hard glass is used as an optical waveguide, both chemical solvents, such as acetone, and mechanical agitation can be used to remove the marking material from the surface.

[0147] The cleaning method described above can also be used to remove only part of the marking material. If the optical fiber has both engraved and printed images, the cleaning methods described above can be used to remove the marking material without affecting the engraved image.

[0148] Finally, the above-mentioned cleaning methods can be used to remove the marking material from a double-sided (surface) printed optical fiber, to remove the marking material from both surfaces, or to remove the marking material from one surface.

[0149] The reusability of the optical waveguide surfaces enables ( 1 ) Test printing procedures with regard to reliability and correctness; ( 2 ) a preliminary viewing of an image using the optical waveguide and illumination before it is used; ( 3 ) a trial use, whereby a user can print and make a temporary fiber optic display and use it for a short time before making a permanent one; ( 4 ) a rental where a durable optical fiber can be used to print custom images that can be rented by a customer; ( 5 ) reuse, whereby the content can be modified as desired; and ( 6 ) a combination of engraving and printing, whereby only the content that is not intended to be permanent is removed.

[0150] Note that in the various embodiments described above, the optical waveguide is provided with edge illumination to illuminate the images printed on it.

[0151] Edge illumination is the illumination of the optical fiber at its side edge or the interface between the optical fiber and the light source. The side edge of the optical fiber or the interface between the optical fiber and the light source is essentially perpendicular or normal to the surface onto which the images are printed.

[0152] The side edge of the optical waveguide or the interface between the optical waveguide and the light source is preferably a smooth surface, and the angle of incidence of the light on the side edge of the optical waveguide or the interface between the optical waveguide and the light source is greater than the critical angle of the boundary between the air and the optical waveguide, so that the light can be totally reflected inside the optical waveguide.

[0153] Edge lighting can be provided by a single light source or by multiple light sources.

[0154] Furthermore, edge illumination can be provided at multiple side edges of the optical waveguide or light source interfaces of the optical waveguide.

[0155] Furthermore, it should be noted that optical waveguides can be flat planes, curved surfaces, or enclosed objects suitable for displaying images.

[0156] Please also note that the marking materials described above can be liquid inks, UV-curable inks, toners and / or solid inks.

[0157] Furthermore, it should be noted that the white marking material can be a white liquid ink, a white UV-curable ink, a white toner and / or a white solid ink that has light-scattering properties.

[0158] Furthermore, the white marking material need not be white; rather, the marking material referred to as white marking material can be colorless and be a clear liquid ink, a clear UV-curable ink, a clear toner, and / or a clear solid ink that exhibits light-diffusing properties. Additionally, the white marking material can be a clear liquid ink, a clear UV-curable ink, a clear toner, and / or a clear solid ink containing embedded light-diffusing particles.

[0159] The non-white marking material can be a colored liquid ink, a colored UV-curable ink, a colored toner and / or a colored solid ink, or the non-white marking material can be a black liquid ink, a black UV-curable ink, a black toner and / or a black solid ink.

[0160] Note that the non-white marking material may have light-absorbing properties.

[0161] It should also be noted that the non-white marking material may include infrared material to provide infrared illumination, ultraviolet light material to provide ultraviolet illumination, or fluorescent material to provide non-white illumination.

[0162] Note also that in the various embodiments described above, the white marker material and the non-white marker material are printed or formed onto the optical waveguide image by image. In other words, the marker material is only formed by printing in regions of the optical waveguide surface where an image is to be illuminated.

[0163] If, on the other hand, a white background is to be created, the white marking material is printed or formed on the entire surface of the optical waveguide, and only the non-white marking material is printed or formed image by image.

[0164] Image-wise printing or training means that the marking material is placed according to the image data of the image to be illuminated.

[0165] Note also that in the various embodiments described above and the claims specified below, optical waveguide means a physical structure (plane, strip or fiber), a transparent medium (plane, strip or fiber) or a translucent medium (plane, strip or fiber) that guides electromagnetic waves (light) in the optical spectrum.

[0166] Furthermore, in the various embodiments described above and the claims specified below, "optical waveguide" is understood to mean a physical structure (plane, strip, or fiber), a transparent medium (plane, strip, or fiber), or a translucent medium (plane, strip, or fiber) that facilitates total internal reflection of light as it travels through the medium. Examples of optical waveguides include glass, acrylic, fiber optics, etc.

[0167] Furthermore, in the various embodiments described above and the claims specified below, "optical waveguide" means a physical structure (plane, strip, or fiber), a transparent medium (plane, strip, or fiber), or a translucent medium (plane, strip, or fiber) that facilitates total internal reflection of light as it propagates through the medium. Examples of optical waveguides include glass, acrylic, fiber optics, etc.

[0168] It should also be noted that in the various embodiments described above and in the claims specified below, the formation of materials on the optical waveguide can be achieved by depositing one or more marking materials using an inkjet printer, an inkjet printing process, a xerographic printer, a xerographic printing process, a screen printer, a screen printing process, a solid ink printer, a solid ink printing process, a three-dimensional printer, a three-dimensional printing process, a plotter, a brush or a marking material applicator.

[0169] It should also be noted that in the various embodiments described above, the formation of materials can be achieved by forming or depositing one or more marking materials onto a thin, translucent substrate using an inkjet printer, an inkjet printing process, a xerographic printer, a xerographic printing process, a screen printer, a screen printing process, a solid ink printer, a solid ink printing process, a three-dimensional printer, a three-dimensional printing process, a plotter, a brush, or a marking material applicator, wherein the thin, translucent substrate is attached to the optical fiber by an adhesive, an electrostatic agent, or in some other way to allow easy mechanical removal of the marking material by peeling the thin, translucent substrate from the optical fiber.

[0170] Fig. 25 represents an example of a printing system 100 a device configured to print onto a three-dimensional object or onto an optical fiber using the methods described above. The printing system 100 indicates: a printhead arrangement 104 , a support element 108 , a component 112 , which is movable around the support element 108 is attached around, an actuator 116 , which is attached to the movable component 112 is interconnected, an object holder 120 , which is configured to be attached to the movable component 112 can be attached, and a control device 124 , which is operatively connected to the multiple printheads and the actuator.

[0171] As in Fig. The printhead arrangement shown in section 25 is shown below. 104The printheads are arranged in a two-dimensional configuration. Each printhead is fluidically connected to a supply of marking material (not shown) and is configured to eject marking material drawn from that supply. Some of the printheads may be connected to the same supply, or each printhead may be connected to its own supply, allowing each printhead to eject a different marking material. The control unit 124 is also equipped with an optical sensor 350 interconnected.

[0172] The support element 108 is positioned so that it is parallel to a plane formed by the printhead assembly, and as shown in the figure, it is oriented so that one end of the support element 108 exhibits a higher gravitational potential than the other end of the support element. This orientation allows the pressure system to 100have a smaller footprint than an alternative embodiment in which the printhead arrangement is horizontally oriented and the support element, the movable component and the object holder are configured to allow the object holder to move objects past the horizontally arranged printheads so that the printheads can eject marking material downwards onto the objects.

[0173] The component 112 is movable on the support element 108 It is attached so that the component can slide along the support element. In some embodiments, the component can 112 move in two directions along the support element. In other embodiments, the support element 108 configured to provide a return path to the lower end of the support element, thus forming a path for the movable component.

[0174] The actuator 116is with the movable component 112 interconnected, so that the actuator 116 the movable component 112 along the support element 108 can move and the object holder 120 , which is attached to the movable component 112 connected, can enable in one dimension of the two-dimensional printhead arrangement at the printhead arrangement 104 to walk past. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the object holder moves 120 an object 122 along the length dimension of the printhead assembly 104 .

[0175] The control unit 124 is configured with programmed commands stored in a memory 128 are stored, which is connected to the control unit so that the control unit can execute the programmed commands to operate components in the printing system 100 to activate.

[0176] Thus, the control unit 124 configured so that they control the actuator 116 activated to activate the object holder 120 at the printhead assembly 104 to move past and the printhead arrangement 104 to activate in order to eject marking material onto objects that are held by the object holder 120 be held while the object holder is attached to the printhead assembly 104 passes by. Furthermore, the control unit 124 configured to direct the inkjet nozzles within the printheads of the printhead assembly 104 so that they emit droplets whose masses are greater than the masses of droplets emitted by these printheads.

[0177] In one embodiment, the control device actuates 124 the inkjet nozzles in the printheads of the printhead assembly 104with launch signal waveforms that enable the inkjet nozzles to eject droplets, which produce droplets on the object surfaces with a diameter of approximately seven to ten mm. This droplet size is significantly larger than that of the droplets produced on the material receiving surface, with a mass of approximately 21 ng.

[0178] The in Fig. The system configuration shown in section 25 is particularly advantageous in several aspects. First, the vertical configuration of the printhead arrangement allows for... 104 and the supporting element 108 , as stated above, a smaller footprint for the system 100 than for a system configured with a horizontal orientation of the arrangement and the support element. The smaller footprint of the system allows for the system to be housed in a more compact space. 100 in a single cupboard 180 , as in Fig. Figure 28 shows an installation in retail outlets where no production takes place. After installation, various object holders, as described below, can be used with the system to print on a range of different goods whose appearance is unspecific until printing.

[0179] Another advantageous aspect of the in Fig. 25 systems shown 100 is the gap that exists between the object holder 120 transported objects and the printheads of the printhead assembly 104 is presented.

[0180] Furthermore, the control unit 124 with programmed commands for actuating the actuator 116 configured to move the object holder at speeds that minimize the air turbulence in the gap between the print head and the object surface, which is present in the system 100 is used to dampen.

[0181] An alternative embodiment of the system 100 is in Fig. 26 shown. In this alternative embodiment 200 The support element consists of two support elements. 208 , around which the movable component is mounted 212 appropriate.

[0182] This embodiment includes two fixed pulleys. 232 and a belt 236 , which is looped around the two pulleys to form an endless belt. The movable component 212 includes a third pulley 240 , which engages the endless belt to allow the third pulley to 240 as a reaction to the movement of the endless belt, which runs around the two pulleys 232 moves, rotates around the movable component and the object holder 220 to move.

[0183] In this embodiment, the actuator 216with one of the pulleys 232 interconnected, so that the control unit 224 can actuate the actuator to rotate the driven pulley and the endless belt around the pulleys 232 to move the control unit 224 can be configured with programmed commands stored in memory 228 are stored to power the actuator 216 to operate in two directions to move one of the pulleys 232 to rotate in two directions to adjust the movable component 212 and the object holder 220 in two directions on the printhead assembly 204 to move along.

[0184] In another alternative embodiment, which is described in Fig. Shown in section 27 is one end of the belt. 236 with a recording coil 244 functionally connected to the actuator 216 is functionally connected. The other end of the belt 236is fixed in position. The control unit 224 is configured with programmed commands that are stored in memory 228 are stored to control the device 224 to enable the actuator 216 to activate the recording coil 244 to rotate and wrap part of the belt length around the pickup spool 244 to wrap.

[0185] The belt 244 It also engages a rotating pulley. 248 on the movable component 212 is attached. Since the other end of the strap 236 Being fixed in position causes the rotation of the coil 244 that the movable component 212 the object holder moves past the print heads.

[0186] If the control unit 224 the actuator 216 activated to remove the belt from the spool 224 To unwind, the movable component sinks. 212off and allows the object holder to adjust the printhead arrangement 204 to sink past. This direction of movement is opposite to the direction in which the object holder moved when the actuator was activated to move a length of the belt. 236 to record.

[0187] This configuration, which uses a belt to move the movable component, differs from the one in Fig. 25 shown, in which the control unit 124 a linear actuator is used to move the movable component. 112 and the object holder 120 to move past the printhead assembly in two directions.

[0188] Regarding the printing device described above, the printing systems can incorporate a UV curing station below the printhead assembly when UV-curable inks are used as the marking material. By including a UV curing station in the printing system, a layer of UV-curable ink can be deposited and cured, and then a subsequent layer of UV-curable ink can be deposited, thus building up a three-dimensionally layered body of cured ink. In other words, the deposited layer is cured after each layer of UV-curable ink has been deposited, enabling the deposition of further layers to add depth to the deposited UV-curable ink, thereby producing a textured surface.

[0189] An example of an object holder 220 is in Fig. 29 shown. The object holder 220 a plate304 with openings 308 on, in which objects 312 The golf club heads in the figure are positioned for printing. A bar 316 is for selectively attaching the object holder 220 in the movable component 212 configured. The bar 316 exhibits defining characteristics 320 to ensure the correct positioning of the object holder 220 to support the holder on the component 212 to ensure that the components 208 is worn as in Fig. 26 is shown.

[0190] After correct positioning, operate the lever. 322 the bar 316 , to the holder 220 on the component 212 to secure. As shown in the figure, the component closes. 212 an input device 326 one, to obtain an identifier from the object holder 220 to retrieve as described below.

[0191] A perspective view of the object holder 220 is in Fig. 30 shown. In Fig. 30 is an identification mark 330 on a surface of the object holder 220 the input device 326 on the movable component 212 facing, when the holder is attached to the component 212 is secured. The input device 326 is with the in the Fig. 26 and Fig. 27 control unit shown 224 interconnected to create an identifier from the identification mark 330 to transmit to the control unit. The control unit is also designed to control the printhead arrangement. 204 and the actuator 216 ( Fig. 26 and Fig. 27) with reference to the input device 326 of the movable component 212 to activate the received identifier.

[0192] As used in this document, "identification mark" means machine-readable characters that embody information processed by the printing system. The characters can be mechanical, optical, or electromagnetic.

[0193] In one embodiment, the identification mark 330 a radio frequency identification (RID) tag and the input device 326 The movable component is an RFID reader.

[0194] In another embodiment, the identification mark 330 a barcode and the input device 326 of the movable component 212 is a barcode reader.

[0195] In another embodiment, in which mechanical markings are used for the identification mark, the markings are projections, indentations or combinations of projections and indentations in a material that can be read by a pre-tensioned arm scanning the surface of the identification mark.

[0196] In such an embodiment, the input device 326 It could be a cam tappet that converts the position of an arm, which scans the mechanical features, into electrical signals.

[0197] The control unit 224 is also configured with programmed commands that are stored in memory 228 are stored to contain the identifier provided by the input device 326 of the movable component 212 received, to be compared with identifiers stored in memory 328are stored, which is functionally connected to the control unit. In response to the fact that the identifier, which is from the input device 326 If the received value does not match any of the identifiers stored in memory, the control unit stops the actuator from being operated. 216 invalidated.

[0198] In another embodiment, the control unit 224 furthermore, configured with programmed commands stored in memory 328 are stored to contain the identifier provided by the input device 326 of the movable component 212 received, to be compared with identifiers stored in memory 328 are stored.

[0199] In this embodiment, the control device 224 in response to the fact that the identifier provided by the input device 326 is received, none of which corresponds to the identifiers stored in memory. 328stored, override the actuation of the printheads in the printhead assembly.

[0200] In these embodiments, the control device 224 configured to respond to the identifier provided by the input device 326 is received, none of which corresponds to the identifiers stored in memory. 328 are stored, the actuation of both the actuator and the actuator. 216 as well as the printhead arrangement 204 invalidated.

[0201] In all these embodiments, the control device 224 with a user interface 350 interconnected, as in the Fig. 25 to Fig. 27 is shown. The interface 350 indicates a display 360 , a detector 364 and an input device 368 , such as a keyboard.

[0202] The control unit 224is configured with programmed commands to operate the user interface to inform a user that the identifier provided by the input device 326 The received message did not match any of the identifiers in memory. Therefore, the user is able to understand the reason for the system shutdown.

[0203] Furthermore, the control unit 224 with programmed commands for operating the user interface 350 configured to inform the user of a system status that is linked to the identifier provided by the input device 326 The received version is not compatible.

[0204] For example, the control unit monitors 224The system uses the configuration of the printheads and the inks supplied to them. If the inks or printhead configuration cannot accurately and appropriately print the objects corresponding to the object holder, the user interface will display an error message. 350 from the control unit 224 activated to display a message to the user on the screen 360 to create the need to replace inks or to reconfigure the printhead arrangement.

[0205] The control unit 224 It also includes programmed commands for operating the user interface. 350 configured to inform the user about processing that needs to be performed. For example, some identifiers provided by the input device indicate 326The control unit will indicate that an object requires a pre-coating before printing or a post-coating after printing. 224 This example activates the user interface. 350 , to view the ad 360 to issue a message to the user that concerns one or both of the conditions.

[0206] The user interface 350 indicates: an advertisement 360 for alphanumeric messages, a keyboard 368 for data entry by a user and a reporter 364 , such as a warning light or an acoustic alarm to draw attention to displayed messages.

[0207] Fig. Figure 31 shows a front view of the object holder. 220 , the movable component 212 is assured, and Fig. Figure 32 shows a rear view of the object holder. 220to the movable component 212 .

[0208] Furthermore, the control unit 224 be configured to count how often an object holder attaches to or detaches from the movable component 212 is attached and removed. This count can be used to determine the number of objects that have been attached to and removed from the system. 100 The number of printed items is determined and stored. This count of printed items can then be used to order supplies for the continued operation of the system before supplies run out, or to generate a throughput report for various purposes.

[0209] The Fig. 33 to Fig. 41 form object holders 220 in various configurations for holding different types of items, and the holders 220 are attached to the movable component 212 secured. The object holders in the Fig. 33, Fig. 34, Fig. 35, Fig. 37, Fig. 38, Fig. 40 and Fig. 41 have at least one opening configured to hold an object for printing by means of an arrangement of printheads.

[0210] In Fig. 33 is the opening 308 configured to form a plate-shaped object 312 holds. In Fig. 34 is every opening 308 configured with a plurality of openings to accommodate a plurality of cup-shaped objects 312 holds. In Fig. 35 is every opening 308 configured with a plurality of openings to accommodate a plurality of covers 312 , such as the mobile phone cases shown. In Fig. 37 is the opening 308 configured to be a spherical object 312 holds. In Fig. 38 is every opening 308configured with a plurality of openings to fit a golf club head 312 holds.

[0211] In Fig. 41 is every opening 308 configured with a plurality of openings to form a bar 312 holding a pair of glasses. In Fig. In step 36, the object holder (not visible) is configured to hold a head guard. Fig. 39 indicates the object holder 220 two arms 404 on, which are configured to form a rectangular or cylindrical object 312 Keep between them.

[0212] As used herein, the term "arm" means a component with two ends, one end of which is attached to the object holder and the remaining part of the component is configured to hold the object on the object holder.

[0213] In Fig. 40 is the back side of the movable component. 212shown to illustrate the orientation in which an object holder (not visible) would hold a clothing item to allow printing on a surface of the item.

[0214] While the printing system described above 100 The system is particularly advantageous in environments where no production takes place. 500 , which in Fig. 42 is shown, more robust and suitable for production environments.

[0215] In the system 500 is a funding institution 504 configured to move objects from an object pool (not shown) to an object holder 508 delivers. The object holder 508 is configured to receive objects from the transport device 504 receives. The control unit 224 is with the transport equipment 504 , the actuator 216 and the arrangement of printheads 204 interconnected. The control unit 224is also configured with programmed commands that are stored in memory 228 are stored to power the transport system 504 to activate in order to move objects to the object holders 508 to deliver and to supply the actuator 216 to activate in order to move the objects held by the object holders past the arrangement of printheads.

[0216] This action enables the printheads to print on the objects, while the objects are attached to the arrangement of printheads. 204 walk by. A bucket can be provided to collect the objects from the object holders. 508 to be received after the objects have been printed.

[0217] In another embodiment, a different transport device is used. 512 configured so that they can retrieve objects from the object holders 508 receives, after the objects held by the object holders are removed by the printheads in the arrangement of printheads. 204have been printed. The control unit 224 is with the transport equipment 512 interconnected and activates the transport device 512 , to move the printed objects to a location away from the printing system, such as a container 516 , to transport.

[0218] Fig. 43 shows the object holder 308 from Fig. 35, which uses prestressed components 604 is configured. The prestressed components can be elastic components with a curvature formed at an unsecured end of the component, extending downwards onto the surface of the holder. 308 presses.

[0219] Parts of a planar medium 608 can occur between the pre-stressed components and the surface of the holder 308This is introduced to allow the flat structure to be held against the surface of the holder. A user can enter a test or setup mode via the user interface input device. 350 initiate the process as soon as the surface medium has been installed. In response, the control unit is activated. 224 the actuator 216 , to move the planar medium, which is attached to the object holder, past the printheads, while the control unit actuates the printheads to eject one or more test patterns onto the planar medium.

[0220] The system can use an optical sensor 354 , such as a digital camera, which is positioned to generate image data of the test pattern and the planar medium after the test pattern has been printed onto the planar object.

[0221] The control unit 224The control unit, which executes programmed commands, analyzes the image data of the test pattern on the flat medium to detect maintenance tasks, such as printhead alignment and malfunctioning ejectors within the printheads. The control unit also checks... 224 , whether the system is correctly configured to print the objects that correspond to the identifiers provided by the input device 326 were received and read from the identification tag on the object holder.

[0222] Alternatively, an object holder, such as the holder 308 , as in Fig. 44 shown, a component 658 exhibiting that is detachably attached to the object holder and that is a test area 662 exhibits. The test area 662 of the component 658 is a flat area made of a material such as Mylar that can be printed on by the system, by the optical sensor 354can be mapped and controlled by the control unit 224 It can be analyzed to identify problems with the system configuration.

[0223] Systems used in commercial environments print on objects in non-production settings. Some of these objects can be quite expensive, and the vendor doesn't want to waste them by printing test patterns on them. Since some of the objects have curved or complex geometries, molds that mimic the object's shape and geometry are provided for test runs through the system. These molds are designed to conform to the object's general contour but are made of a material like Mylar or similar, allowing images to be printed onto the mold, creating a visual representation and analysis to identify maintenance needs or to verify the system's configuration for printing on objects. Once the system is confirmed to be ready for printing on objects, the mold can be removed and wiped clean for later reuse.As an alternative to the form, a flat medium can be wrapped around an object so that it can be printed on and the image data can be analyzed without forming a permanent image on the object, since the object can be removed before printing.

[0224] Fig. 45 represents an optical fiber 10 that is, the cut edges 19 exhibits, with the cut edges 19 They are rough. More precisely, a raw sheet of optical fiber material is typically cut from a larger sheet of optical fiber material. During this cutting process, the edges are very rough after cutting.

[0225] A requirement for a good edge-lit display panel is a clean (optically transparent) or smooth edge to allow the illumination light to enter the panel efficiently. To achieve a clean (optically transparent) or smooth edge, the edges are conventionally polished (especially with glass) or heat-melted (using a torch for plastics such as acrylic) to create a smooth interface. These edge treatment methods are slow and typically not readily available in a printing environment.

[0226] As an alternative to the conventional method, the rough edges can be smoothed by coating the edge with a clear, curable ink. 80 be smoothed, as in Fig. Figure 46 is shown, and then the ink is cured. This application and curing of a clear curable ink smooths the edge, so that the edge is a clear (optically transparent) edge.

[0227] In a preferred embodiment, the curable ink is a UV-curable ink.

[0228] Note that a curable colored ink can be used if colored light is desired for illuminating the optical fiber.

[0229] Furthermore, it should be noted that the several curable colored inks can be applied in strips, so that depending on the position of the incident light hitting the edge, a range of different colors can be used to illuminate the optical waveguide.

[0230] By using a clear UV-curable fluid (an ink) to cure the cut edges ( 19) to coat the surface, and by curing the clear UV-curable fluid (the ink) with a UV source, the resulting edge becomes smooth and allows for good edge illumination.

[0231] As stated above, the fluid (the ink) fills the irregularities at the edge of the base material due to wetting. The UV / air interface is smooth due to surface tension. Since the UV materials have a refractive index similar to that of the optical waveguide materials, the UV / optical waveguide material interface does not produce any significant back reflection, despite the unevenness or roughness of the interface between the fluid (ink) coating and the optical waveguide material.

[0232] Fig. 47 represents an optical fiber 10 that represents an engraved area 11 exhibits, with the engraved area 11 It has a rough surface. Because of the engraved area. 11The optical fiber in its current state cannot be reused for illuminating another image because the engraved area 11 would also light up.

[0233] To enable the reuse of the optical fiber, the engraved area 11 , as in Fig. 47 shown, with a clear thermosetting ink 80 The surface is coated, and then the ink is cured. This application and curing of a clear, curable ink smooths the surface of the optical fiber, allowing the fiber to be reused to illuminate another image.

[0234] In a preferred embodiment, the curable ink is a UV-curable ink.

[0235] By using a clear UV-curable fluid (an ink) to cover the engraved area 11to coat the surface, and by curing the clear UV-curable fluid (the ink) with a UV source, the resulting surface becomes smooth, resulting in total reflection in the previously engraved area ( 11 ) is made possible.

[0236] In summary, a display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; a first material formed on a part of the surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on a part of the first material, wherein the first material has light-scattering properties.

[0237] The second material can be formed anywhere on top of the first material.

[0238] The display device component may further comprise a third material being formed on a part of the first material, wherein the part of the first material on which the second material is formed is different from the part of the first material on which the third material is formed.

[0239] The display device component may further comprise a third material being formed on a part of the second material.

[0240] The first material can be a marking material and the second material can be a marking material.

[0241] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0242] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0243] The third marking material can be a non-white colored marking material with a color different from a color of the second material.

[0244] The first material can be a white marking material; the second material can be a first non-white colored marking material; and the third material can be a second non-white colored marking material, wherein the first non-white colored marking material has a color different from a color of the second non-white colored marking material.

[0245] The first material and the second material are inks.

[0246] The first material and the second material are toner.

[0247] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; a first material formed on a part of the surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on a part of the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material.

[0248] The display device component may further comprise a third material being formed on a part of the first material, wherein the part of the first material on which the second material is formed is different from the part of the first material on which the third material is formed.

[0249] The display device component may further comprise a third material being formed on a part of the second material.

[0250] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0251] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0252] The third marking material can be a non-white colored marking material with a color different from a color of the second material.

[0253] The first material can be a white marking material; the second material can be a first non-white colored marking material; and the third material can be a second non-white colored marking material, wherein the first non-white colored marking material has a color different from a color of the second non-white colored marking material.

[0254] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface and a light source interface surface; a first material formed on the surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on a part of the first material; wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material; wherein the first material has a varying volumetric density of light-scattering particles, the volumetric density of light-scattering particles increasing proportionally along the surface of the optical waveguide as the distance from the light source interface surface increases.

[0255] The display device component may further comprise a third material being formed on a part of the first material, wherein the part of the first material on which the second material is formed is different from the part of the first material on which the third material is formed.

[0256] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; a first material formed on a part of the surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on the first material, wherein the second material has light-scattering properties.

[0257] The display device component may further comprise a third material being formed on a part of the surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the part of the surface of the optical waveguide on which the first material is formed is different from the part of the surface of the optical waveguide on which the third material is formed; wherein the second material is formed on the third material.

[0258] The display device component may further include the formation of a third material between the first material and the second material.

[0259] The first material can be a marking material and the second material can be a marking material.

[0260] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0261] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0262] The third material can be a non-white colored marking material with a color different from the color of the first material.

[0263] The second material can be a white marking material; the first material can be a first non-white colored marking material; and the third material can be a second non-white colored marking material, wherein the first non-white colored marking material has a color different from a color of the second non-white colored marking material.

[0264] The first material and the second material can be inks.

[0265] The first material and the second material could be toner.

[0266] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; a first material formed on a part of the surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on a part of the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the second material.

[0267] The display device component may further comprise a third material being formed on a part of the surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the part of the surface of the optical waveguide on which the first material is formed is different from the part of the surface of the optical waveguide on which the third material is formed.

[0268] The display device component may further include the formation of a third material between the first material and the second material.

[0269] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0270] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0271] The third material can be a non-white colored marking material with a color different from the color of the first material.

[0272] The second material can be a white marking material; the first material can be a first non-white colored marking material; and the third material can be a second non-white colored marking material, wherein the first non-white colored marking material has a color different from a color of the second non-white colored marking material.

[0273] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a first surface and a second surface; a first material formed on a part of the first surface of the optical waveguide; a second material formed on a part of the first material; a third material formed on a part of the second surface of the optical waveguide; and a fourth material formed on the third material; wherein the first material has light-scattering properties; the fourth material has light-scattering properties.

[0274] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0275] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the third material has a second refractive index, with the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0276] The first material can be a marking material and the fourth material can be a marking material.

[0277] The first material can be a white marking material and the fourth material can be a white marking material.

[0278] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0279] The white marking material could be toner.

[0280] The second material can be a marking material and the third material can be a marking material.

[0281] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material, and the third material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0282] The non-white colored marking material could be an ink.

[0283] The non-white colored marking material could be toner.

[0284] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a first surface and a second surface; a first material formed on a part of the first surface of the optical waveguide; a second material formed on the first material; a third material formed on a part of the second surface of the optical waveguide; and a fourth material formed on the third material; wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material; wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the fourth material.

[0285] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0286] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the third material has a second refractive index, with the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0287] The first material can be a marking material and the fourth material can be a marking material.

[0288] The first material can be a white marking material and the fourth material can be a white marking material.

[0289] The second material can be a marking material and the third material can be a marking material.

[0290] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material, and the third material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0291] A display device comprises an optical waveguide with a surface and a light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; a first material formed on a portion of the surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on the first material; wherein the first material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0292] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0293] The second material has a third refractive index, where the second refractive index is essentially the same as the third refractive index.

[0294] The first material can be a marking material.

[0295] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0296] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0297] The white marking material could be toner.

[0298] The second material can be a marking material.

[0299] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0300] The non-white colored marking material could be an ink.

[0301] The non-white colored marking material could be toner.

[0302] A display device comprises an optical waveguide with a surface and a light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; a first material formed on a portion of the first surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on the first material; wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0303] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, wherein the first refractive index is essentially equal to the second refractive index, and the second material has a third refractive index, wherein the second refractive index is essentially equal to the third refractive index.

[0304] The first material can be a marking material.

[0305] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0306] The second material can be a marking material.

[0307] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0308] A display device comprises an optical waveguide with a surface and a light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; a first material formed on a portion of the surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on the first material; wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; wherein the first material has a varying volumetric density of light-scattering particles; wherein the volumetric density of light-scattering particles along the surface of the optical waveguide increases proportionally with increasing distance from the light source interface.

[0309] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0310] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0311] A display device comprises an optical waveguide with a surface and a light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; a first material formed on a portion of the first surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on the first material; wherein the second material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0312] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0313] The second material has a third refractive index, where the second refractive index is essentially the same as the third refractive index.

[0314] The second material can be a marking material.

[0315] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0316] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0317] The white marking material could be toner.

[0318] The first material can be a marking material.

[0319] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0320] The non-white colored marking material could be an ink.

[0321] The non-white colored marking material could be toner.

[0322] A display device comprises an optical waveguide with a surface and a light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; a first material formed on a portion of the surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on the first material; wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the second material to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0323] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, wherein the first refractive index is essentially equal to the second refractive index, and the second material has a third refractive index, wherein the second refractive index is essentially equal to the third refractive index.

[0324] The second material can be a marking material.

[0325] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0326] The first material can be a marking material.

[0327] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0328] A display device comprises an optical waveguide with a first surface, a second surface, and a light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; a first material formed on a portion of the first surface of the optical waveguide; a second material formed on the first material; a third material formed on a portion of the second surface of the optical waveguide; and a fourth material formed on the third material; wherein the first material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide;wherein the fourth material has light-scattering properties in order to frustrate some of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0329] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0330] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the third material has a second refractive index, with the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0331] The first material can be a marking material and the fourth material can be a marking material.

[0332] The first material can be a white marking material and the fourth material can be a white marking material.

[0333] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0334] The white marking material could be toner.

[0335] The second material can be a marking material and the third material can be a marking material.

[0336] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material, and the third material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0337] The non-white colored marking material could be an ink.

[0338] The non-white colored marking material could be toner.

[0339] A display device comprises an optical waveguide with a first surface, a second surface, and a light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; a first material formed on a portion of the first surface of the optical waveguide; a second material formed on the first material; a third material formed on a portion of the second surface of the optical waveguide; and a fourth material formed on the third material; wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide;wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the fourth material in order to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0340] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0341] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the third material has a second refractive index, with the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0342] The first material can be a marking material and the fourth material can be a marking material.

[0343] The first material can be a white marking material and the fourth material can be a white marking material.

[0344] The second material can be a marking material and the third material can be a marking material.

[0345] The display device according to claim 12, wherein the second material can be a non-white colored marking material and the third material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0346] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination on an image printed on a light wave comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of an optical waveguide having a surface, wherein the first material has light-scattering properties, and (b) forming a second material on the first material.

[0347] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0348] The second material has a third refractive index, where the second refractive index is essentially the same as the third refractive index.

[0349] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0350] The first material can be formed using an inkjet printing device.

[0351] The first material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device.

[0352] The first material can be formed using a solid ink printing device.

[0353] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0354] The second material can be formed using an inkjet printing device.

[0355] The second material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device.

[0356] The second material can be formed using a solid ink printing device.

[0357] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination on an image printed on a light wave comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of an optical waveguide having a surface, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material, and (b) forming a second material on the first material.

[0358] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0359] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0360] The first material can be formed using an inkjet printing device.

[0361] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0362] The second material can be formed using an inkjet printing device.

[0363] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination of an image printed on a light wave comprises: (a) forming a first material on an optical waveguide having a surface and a light source interface surface, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material, the first material having a varying volumetric density of light-scattering particles, the volumetric density of light-scattering particles on the surface increasing proportionally with increasing distance from the light source interface surface; and (b) forming a second material on the first material.

[0364] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0365] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0366] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination of an image printed on a light wave comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of an optical waveguide having a surface and (b) forming a second material on the first material, wherein the second material has light-scattering properties.

[0367] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0368] The second material has a third refractive index, where the second refractive index is essentially the same as the third refractive index.

[0369] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0370] The second material can be formed using an inkjet printing device.

[0371] The second material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device.

[0372] The second material can be formed using a solid ink printing device.

[0373] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0374] The first material can be formed using an inkjet printing device.

[0375] The first material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device.

[0376] The first material can be formed using a solid ink printing device.

[0377] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination of an image printed on a light wave comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of an optical waveguide having a surface and (b) forming a second material on the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the second material.

[0378] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0379] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0380] The second material can be formed using an inkjet printing device.

[0381] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0382] The first material can be formed using an inkjet printing device.

[0383] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination of an image printed on a light wave with a first surface and a second surface comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of a first surface of an optical waveguide, wherein the first material has light-scattering properties; (b) forming a second material on the first material; (c) forming a third material on a portion of a second surface of the optical waveguide; and (d) forming a fourth material on the third material, wherein the fourth material has light-scattering properties.

[0384] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0385] The second material has a third refractive index, where the second refractive index is essentially the same as the third refractive index.

[0386] The first material can be a white marking material and the fourth material can be a white marking material.

[0387] The first material can be formed by an inkjet printing device and the fourth material can be formed by an inkjet printing device.

[0388] The first material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device and the fourth material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device.

[0389] The first material can be formed by a solid ink printing device and the fourth material can be formed by a solid ink printing device.

[0390] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material, and the third material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0391] The second material can be formed by an inkjet printing device, and the third material can be formed by an inkjet printing device.

[0392] The second material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device and the third material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device.

[0393] The second material can be formed by a solid ink printing device and the third material can be formed by a solid ink printing device.

[0394] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination on an image printed on a light wave comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of a first surface of an optical waveguide, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material; (b) forming a second material on the first material; (c) forming a third material on a portion of a second surface of the optical waveguide; and (d) forming a fourth material on the third material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the fourth material.

[0395] The optical waveguide has a first refractive index, and the first material has a second refractive index, the first refractive index being essentially equal to the second refractive index.

[0396] The first material can be formed by an inkjet printing device and the fourth material can be formed by an inkjet printing device.

[0397] The first material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device and the fourth material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device.

[0398] The first material can be formed by a solid ink printing device and the fourth material can be formed by a solid ink printing device.

[0399] The second material can be formed by an inkjet printing device, and the third material can be formed by an inkjet printing device.

[0400] The second material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device and the third material can be formed by a xerographic toner printing device.

[0401] The second material can be formed by a solid ink printing device and the third material can be formed by a solid ink printing device.

[0402] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; and a first material formed on a portion of the surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide, the second surface being non-smooth in order to frustrate some of the light reflected internally within the optical waveguide.

[0403] The display device component may further comprise a second material formed on a portion of the surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the second material has a third surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a fourth surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from; wherein the fourth surface is not smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide.

[0404] The first material can be a marking material.

[0405] The second material can be a marking material.

[0406] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0407] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material with a color different from the color of the first material.

[0408] The first material can be a first non-white colored marking material and the second material can be a second non-white colored marking material, wherein the first non-white colored marking material has a color different from a color of the second non-white colored marking material.

[0409] The first material could be ink.

[0410] The first material could be a toner.

[0411] A display device comprises an optical waveguide with a surface and a light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; and a first material formed on a portion of the surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the second surface is not smooth in order to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0412] The display device may further comprise a second material formed on a portion of the surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the second material has a third surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a fourth surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from; wherein the fourth surface is not smooth in order to frustrate a portion of the incident light that is totally reflected within the optical waveguide.

[0413] The first material can be a marking material.

[0414] The second material can be a marking material.

[0415] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0416] The second material can be a non-white colored marking material with a color different from the color of the first material.

[0417] The first material can be a first non-white colored marking material and the second material can be a second non-white colored marking material, wherein the first non-white colored marking material has a color different from a color of the second non-white colored marking material.

[0418] The first material could be ink.

[0419] The first material could be a toner.

[0420] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination of an image printed on a light wave comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of the surface of an optical waveguide, wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the second surface is not smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide.

[0421] The first material can be formed on part of the surface of the optical waveguide using a printing process, and the non-smooth second surface is formed by printing a halftone image onto the optical waveguide using the first material.

[0422] A display device comprises a first optical waveguide with a first surface, a second surface, and a first light source interface surface; a second optical waveguide with a third surface, a fourth surface, and a second light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the first light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the second light source interface surface to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within the second optical waveguide; a first material formed on a portion of the first surface of the first optical waveguide; and a second material formed on the first material.a third material formed on a portion of the second surface of the first optical waveguide; a fourth material formed on the third material; wherein the first material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the first optical waveguide; wherein the fourth material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the first optical waveguide; a fifth material formed on a portion of the third surface of the second optical waveguide; a sixth material formed on the fifth material; a seventh material formed on a portion of the fourth surface of the second optical waveguide; an eighth material formed on the seventh material;wherein the fifth material has light-scattering properties to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the second optical waveguide; wherein the eighth material has light-scattering properties to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the second optical waveguide.;

[0423] The first optical waveguide can be spaced apart from the second optical waveguide.

[0424] The distance between the first optical waveguide and the second optical waveguide can be equal to half the thickness of the first optical waveguide.

[0425] The first optical waveguide can be parallel to the second optical waveguide.

[0426] A display device comprises multiple optical waveguides, each optical waveguide having a front surface, a rear surface, and a light source interface surface; a light source, the light source directing light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surfaces of each optical waveguide to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within each optical waveguide; a first material is formed on each optical waveguide, the first material having light-scattering properties to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; each optical waveguide has a second material formed on the first material.wherein each optical waveguide has a third material formed on a portion of the rear surface of each optical waveguide; wherein each optical waveguide has a fourth material formed on the third material, the fourth material having light-scattering properties to frustrate some of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0427] The distance between individual optical waveguides can be equal to the thickness of an optical waveguide divided by the number of optical waveguides.

[0428] Each optical waveguide can be parallel to it.

[0429] A display device comprises multiple optical waveguides, each optical waveguide having a front surface, a rear surface, and a light source interface surface; a light source, the light source directing light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surfaces of each optical waveguide to provide total internal reflection of the incident light within each optical waveguide; each optical waveguide having a first material formed on a portion of the front surface of each optical waveguide; the first material having a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide; the second surface being non-smooth to frustrate some of the internal reflection of the light within the optical waveguide.

[0430] The distance between individual optical waveguides can be equal to the thickness of an optical waveguide divided by the number of optical waveguides.

[0431] Each optical waveguide can be parallel to it.

[0432] A display device component comprises a first optical waveguide having a first surface and a second surface; a second optical waveguide having a third surface and a fourth surface; a first material formed on a portion of the first surface of the first optical waveguide; a second material formed on the first material; a third material formed on a portion of the second surface of the first optical waveguide; a fourth material formed on the third material; wherein the first material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the first optical waveguide; wherein the fourth material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the first optical waveguide;a fifth material formed on a portion of the third surface of the second optical waveguide; a sixth material formed on the fifth material; a seventh material formed on a portion of the fourth surface of the second optical waveguide; an eighth material formed on the seventh material; wherein the fifth material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the second optical waveguide; wherein the eighth material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the second optical waveguide.

[0433] The first optical waveguide can be spaced apart from the second optical waveguide.

[0434] The distance between the first optical waveguide and the second optical waveguide can be equal to half the thickness of the first optical waveguide.

[0435] The first optical waveguide can be parallel to the second optical waveguide.

[0436] A display device component comprises multiple optical waveguides, each optical waveguide having a front surface and a rear surface; wherein a first material is formed on each optical waveguide, which is formed on a portion of the front surface of each optical waveguide, the first material having light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; wherein each optical waveguide has a second material formed on the first material; wherein each optical waveguide has a third material formed on a portion of the rear surface of each optical waveguide;wherein each optical waveguide has a fourth material formed on the third material, the fourth material having light-scattering properties to frustrate some of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0437] The distance between individual optical waveguides can be equal to the thickness of an optical waveguide divided by the number of optical waveguides.

[0438] Each optical waveguide can be parallel to it.

[0439] The display device component comprises multiple optical waveguides, each optical waveguide having a front surface and a rear surface; a first material is formed on each optical waveguide, which is formed on a portion of the front surface of each optical waveguide, the first material having a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide, the second surface being non-smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide;wherein a second material is formed on each optical waveguide, which is formed on a part of the rear surface of the optical waveguide, wherein each optical waveguide has a third material formed on the second material, wherein the third material has light-scattering properties to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0440] The distance between individual optical waveguides can be equal to the thickness of an optical waveguide divided by the number of optical waveguides.

[0441] Each optical waveguide can be parallel to it.

[0442] A display device component comprises multiple optical waveguides, each optical waveguide having a front surface and a rear surface; wherein a first material is formed on each optical waveguide, which is formed on a part of the front surface of each optical waveguide, the first material having light-scattering properties to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide, and wherein each optical waveguide has a second material formed on the first material.

[0443] The distance between individual optical waveguides can be equal to the thickness of an optical waveguide divided by the number of optical waveguides.

[0444] Each optical waveguide can be parallel to it.

[0445] A display device component comprises multiple optical waveguides, each optical waveguide having a front surface and a rear surface; wherein a first material is formed on each optical waveguide, which is formed on a part of the rear surface of each optical waveguide, wherein each optical waveguide has a second material formed on the first material, the second material having light-scattering properties to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0446] The distance between individual optical waveguides can be equal to the thickness of an optical waveguide divided by the number of optical waveguides.

[0447] Each optical waveguide can be parallel to it.

[0448] A display device component comprises multiple optical waveguides, each optical waveguide having a front surface and a rear surface; wherein a first material is formed on each optical waveguide, forming a portion of the surface of each optical waveguide; wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide, the second surface being non-smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is internally reflected within the optical waveguide.

[0449] The distance between individual optical waveguides can be equal to the thickness of an optical waveguide divided by the number of optical waveguides.

[0450] Each optical waveguide can be parallel to it.

[0451] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a first surface and a second surface; a first material formed on a portion of the first surface of the optical waveguide; a second material formed on a portion of the first material; and a third material formed on a portion of the second surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the third material has a first surface adjacent to the second surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the second surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the second surface is not smooth, so that it frustrates some of the light reflected internally within the optical waveguide; wherein the second material has light-scattering properties.

[0452] The first material can be a marking material and the third material can be a marking material.

[0453] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0454] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0455] The white marking material could be toner.

[0456] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material and the third material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0457] The non-white colored marking material could be an ink.

[0458] The non-white colored marking material could be toner.

[0459] The display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a first surface and a second surface; a first material formed on a portion of the first surface of the optical waveguide; a second material formed on a portion of the first material; and a third material formed on a portion of the second surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the third material has a first surface adjacent to the second surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the second surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the second surface is not smooth, so that it frustrates some of the light reflected internally within the optical waveguide; wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the second material.

[0460] The first material can be a marking material and the third material can be a marking material.

[0461] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0462] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0463] The white marking material could be toner.

[0464] The first material can be a non-white colored marking material and the third material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0465] The non-white colored marking material could be an ink.

[0466] The non-white colored marking material could be toner.

[0467] The display device component comprises multiple optical waveguides, each optical waveguide having a front surface and a rear surface; a first material is formed on each optical waveguide, which is formed on a portion of the front surface of each optical waveguide, the first material having a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide, the second surface being non-smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide;wherein a second material is formed on each optical waveguide, which is formed on a part of the rear surface of the optical waveguide, wherein each optical waveguide has a third material formed on the second material, wherein the third material has light-scattering properties to frustrate part of the total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide.

[0468] The first material can be a marking material and the second material can be a marking material.

[0469] The third material can be a white marking material.

[0470] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0471] The display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a front surface and a rear surface; a first material formed on a portion of the rear surface of the optical waveguide; a second material formed on the first material, wherein the second material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the totally reflected light within the optical waveguide; and a third material formed on the front surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the third material has a first surface adjacent to the front surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the front surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the second surface is not smooth, so that it frustrates a portion of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide.

[0472] The first material can be a non-white marking material.

[0473] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0474] The third material can be a non-white colored marking material.

[0475] The third material can be a non-white colored marking material with a color different from the color of the first material.

[0476] The display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a front surface and a rear surface; a first material formed on a portion of the rear surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the first material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the totally reflected light within the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on the front surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the second material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide.

[0477] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0478] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0479] The display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a front surface and a rear surface; a first material formed on the front surface of the optical waveguide material, wherein the first material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the totally reflected light within the optical waveguide; a second material formed on the first material; and a third material formed on the rear surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the third material has light-scattering properties to frustrate a portion of the totally reflected light within the optical waveguide.

[0480] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0481] The second material can be a non-white marking material.

[0482] The third material can be a white-colored marking material.

[0483] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide having a front surface and a rear surface; a first material formed on a portion of the front surface of the optical waveguide; and a second material formed on the rear surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the second material has light-scattering properties to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide.

[0484] The first material can be a non-white marking material.

[0485] The second material can be a white marking material.

[0486] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; and a first material formed image-wise on the surface of the optical waveguide to generate multiple image regions having the first material, wherein the first material has light-scattering properties; wherein the multiple image regions include a first subset of the multiple image regions with a first density of the first material and a second subset of the multiple image regions with a second density of the first material; wherein the first density of the first material is not equal to the second density of the first material in order to generate areas of different brightness.

[0487] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0488] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0489] The white marking material could be toner.

[0490] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; and a first material formed image-wise on the surface of the optical waveguide to generate multiple image regions comprising the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material; wherein the multiple image regions include a first subset of the multiple image regions with a first density of the first material and a second subset of the multiple image regions with a second density of the first material; wherein the first density of the first material is not equal to the second density of the first material in order to generate areas of different brightness.

[0491] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0492] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0493] The white marking material could be toner.

[0494] A display device comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; and a first material formed image-wise on the surface of the optical waveguide to create multiple image regions comprising the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material, wherein an amount of the first material is formed in each image region, and wherein the amount of the first material is modulated for each image region to create areas of different brightness.

[0495] The first material can be a white marking material.

[0496] The white marking material could be an ink.

[0497] The white marking material could be toner.

[0498] A method for producing and reusing an optical waveguide for use in an edge-illuminated display comprises (a) forming a first marker material that marks a portion of an optical waveguide having a surface, wherein the first marker material is a UV-curable ink and has light-scattering properties; (b) forming a second marker material on top of the first marker material; and (c) cleaning the surface of the optical waveguide with a solvent to remove the first marker material and the second marker material.

[0499] The solvent can be acetone.

[0500] The method may further include (d) mechanical scrubbing of the surface of the optical waveguide to assist in the removal of the first marking material and the second marking material.

[0501] A method for producing and reusing an optical waveguide for use in an edge-illuminated display comprises (a) forming a first marking material that marks a portion of an optical waveguide having a surface, wherein the first marking material is a UV ink having light-scattering properties; and (b) cleaning the surface of the optical waveguide with solvent to remove the first marking material.

[0502] The solvent can be acetone.

[0503] The method may further include (c) mechanical scrubbing of the surface of the optical waveguide to assist in the removal of the first marking material and the second marking material.

[0504] A method for producing and reusing an optical waveguide for use in an edge-illuminated display comprises (a) forming a first marker material on a portion of a surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the first marker material is a UV-curable ink and has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide, the second surface being non-smooth in order to frustrate some of the totally reflected light within the optical waveguide; and (b) cleaning the surface of the optical waveguide with a solvent to remove the first marker material.

[0505] The solvent can be acetone.

[0506] The method may further include (c) mechanical scrubbing of the surface of the optical waveguide to assist in the removal of the first marking material and the second marking material.

[0507] A method for smoothing a rough cut edge of an optical waveguide comprises (a) coating the surface of a rough cut edge of an optical waveguide with a curable fluid having a refractive index substantially equal to the refractive index of the optical waveguide; and (b) curing the fluid to form a smooth edge.

[0508] The curable fluid can be a clear UV-curable ink. The curable fluid can be a colored UV-curable ink.

[0509] A method for smoothing an engraved area of ​​a surface of an optical waveguide comprises (a) coating an engraved area of ​​a surface of an optical waveguide with a curable fluid having a refractive index substantially equal to the refractive index of the optical waveguide; and (b) curing the fluid to produce a smooth surface.

[0510] The curable fluid can be a clear UV-curable ink.

[0511] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; a removable transparent layer adhered to the surface of the optical waveguide; a first material formed on the removable transparent layer; and a second material formed on a part of the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material.

[0512] The first material can be a UV-curable marking material and the second material can be a UV-curable marking material.

[0513] The removable transparent layer can be: a clear removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a clear removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection. The removable transparent layer can also be: a colored removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a colored removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection.

[0514] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination on an image adhered to an optical waveguide comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of a removable transparent medium, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material; (b) forming a second material on the first material; and (c) bonding the removable transparent medium to a surface of an optical waveguide.

[0515] The first material can be a UV-curable marking material and the second material can be a UV-curable marking material.

[0516] The removable transparent layer can be: a clear removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a clear removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection. The removable transparent layer can also be: a colored removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a colored removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection.

[0517] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; a removable transparent layer adhered to the surface of the optical waveguide; a first material formed on a portion of the removable transparent layer; and a second material formed on a portion of the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the second material.

[0518] The first material can be a UV-curable marking material and the second material can be a UV-curable marking material.

[0519] The removable transparent layer can be: a clear removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a clear removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection. The removable transparent layer can also be: a colored removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a colored removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection.

[0520] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination of an image adhered to an optical waveguide comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of a removable transparent medium; (b) forming a second material on the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the second material; and (c) bonding the removable transparent medium to a surface of an optical waveguide.

[0521] The first material can be a UV-curable marking material and the second material can be a UV-curable marking material.

[0522] The removable transparent layer can be: a clear removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a clear removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection. The removable transparent layer can also be: a colored removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a colored removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection.

[0523] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; a removable transparent layer adhered to the surface of the optical waveguide; and a first material formed on a portion of a surface of the removable transparent layer; wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the removable transparent layer and a second surface away from the surface of the removable transparent layer; wherein the second surface is not smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide.

[0524] The first material can be a UV-curable marking material and the second material can be a UV-curable marking material.

[0525] The removable transparent layer can be: a clear removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a clear removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection. The removable transparent layer can also be: a colored removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a colored removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection.

[0526] A method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination of an image adhered to an optical waveguide comprises (a) forming a first material on a portion of the surface of a removable transparent medium, wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the removable transparent medium and a second surface away from the surface of the removable transparent medium, the second surface being non-smooth in order to frustrate some of the light reflected internally within the optical waveguide, and (b) bonding the removable transparent medium to a surface of an optical waveguide.

[0527] The first material can be a UV-curable marking material and the second material can be a UV-curable marking material.

[0528] The removable transparent layer can be: a clear removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a clear removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection. The removable transparent layer can also be: a colored removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a colored removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection.

[0529] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; a removable transparent layer adhered to the surface of the optical waveguide; and a first material formed image-wise on the surface of the removable transparent layer to generate multiple image regions comprising the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material; wherein the multiple image regions include a first subset of the multiple image regions with a first density of the first material and a second subset of the multiple image regions with a second density of the first material; wherein the first density of the first material is not equal to the second density of the first material in order to generate areas of different brightness.

[0530] The first material can be a UV-curable marking material and the second material can be a UV-curable marking material.

[0531] The removable transparent layer can be: a clear removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a clear removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection. The removable transparent layer can also be: a colored removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a colored removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection.

[0532] A display device component comprises an optical waveguide with a surface; a removable transparent layer adhering to the surface of the optical waveguide; and a first material formed image-wise on the surface of the removable transparent layer to create multiple image regions comprising the first material, wherein light-scattering particles are embedded in the first material, wherein an amount of the first material is formed in each image region, and wherein the amount of the first material is modulated for each image region to create areas of different brightness.

[0533] The first material can be a UV-curable marking material and the second material can be a UV-curable marking material.

[0534] The removable transparent layer can be: a clear removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a clear removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection. The removable transparent layer can also be: a colored removable transparent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection, or a colored removable translucent medium with a refractive index essentially the same as that of the optical waveguide to facilitate total internal reflection.

[0535] Various features and functions disclosed above, as well as other features and functions or alternatives thereof, can be combined to form many other different systems or applications. A person skilled in the art may in the future implement various currently unforeseen or unexpected alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements, which are also intended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

Claims

[1] Display device component comprising: an optical waveguide with a surface; and a first material that is formed on part of the surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide; the second surface is not smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide. [2] Display device component according to claim 1, further comprising a second material formed on a part of the surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the second material has a third surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a fourth surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from; the fourth surface is not smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide. [3] Display device component according to claim 1, wherein the first material is a marking material. [4] Display device component according to claim 2, wherein the second material is a marking material. [5] Display device comprising: an optical waveguide with a surface and a light source interface surface; a light source, wherein the light source directs light at an angle of incidence onto the light source interface surface to enable total internal reflection of the incident light within the optical waveguide; and a first material that is formed on part of the surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide; the second surface is not smooth in order to frustrate some of the incident light that is totally reflected within the optical waveguide. [6] Display device according to claim 5, further comprising a second material formed on a part of the surface of the optical waveguide; wherein the second material has a third surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a fourth surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from it; the fourth surface is not smooth in order to frustrate some of the incident light that is totally reflected within the optical waveguide. [7] Method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination of an image printed on a light wave, comprising: (a) Forming a first material on a part of a surface of an optical waveguide, wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the optical waveguide and a second surface away from the surface of the optical waveguide, wherein the second surface is not smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide. [8] Method according to claim 7, wherein the first material is formed on the part of the surface of the optical waveguide using a printing method, and wherein the non-smooth second surface is formed by printing a halftone image onto the optical waveguide using the first material. [9] Display device component, comprising: an optical waveguide with a surface; a removable transparent layer that adheres to the surface of the optical waveguide; and a first material that is formed on part of a surface of the removable transparent layer; wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the removable transparent layer and a second surface away from the surface of the removable transparent layer; the second surface is not smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is reflected internally within the optical waveguide. [10] Method for manufacturing a display device component to enable image-specific illumination of an image that adheres to an optical waveguide, comprising: (a) Forming a first material on a portion of a surface of a removable transparent medium, wherein the first material has a first surface adjacent to the surface of the removable transparent medium and a second surface away from the surface of the removable transparent medium, the second surface being non-smooth in order to frustrate some of the light that is internally reflected within the optical waveguide; and (b) Adhering the removable transparent medium to a surface of the optical waveguide.