Electronic display having a deformable surface

Abstract

A three-dimensional (3D) display system can include a peg array consisting of a plurality of pegs. Each peg can be individually addressable and designed to move along one or more axes. The 3D display system can also include an induction array having a plurality of electromagnetic coils that generate an electromagnetic field. The electromagnetic field can induce a magnetic force on at least one peg to move the peg along the axis to an actuated position. The 3D display can include a display screen that expands into a 3D topography through contact with at least one peg in an actuated position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] 〔Cross - Reference to Related Applications〕 This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 873,464, entitled "ELECTRONIC DISPLAY WITH DEFORMABLE SURFACE", filed on Jul. 12, 2019, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to electronic displays having deformable surfaces, and more particularly to systems and methods for providing images on electronically controllable three - dimensional (3D) surfaces.

Background Art

[0003] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of technologies that may be related to the various aspects of the present disclosure described below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in showing the reader the background context and facilitating a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, these descriptions should not be construed as an admission of prior art, but should be read from the above - mentioned perspective.

[0004] Display technology can be implemented to provide an image of perceived depth to an observer and create an illusion using an image projected onto a flat or two - dimensional (2D) surface (e.g., a projection screen). Among 3D systems, there are those that use wearable devices such as glasses or goggles to separate the observer's field of view from each other to help create such an effect. Generally, 3D displays can provide a more realistic, exciting, and / or immersive experience to the observer. However, since the projected image underlying the 3D illusion is a flat one that does not include parallax and dynamic shading, which are characteristics of objects having depth, the illusion of real depth is weakened.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The following summarizes some embodiments within the same scope as the subject matter of the original claims. These embodiments do not limit the scope of the claimed subject matter, but rather merely illustrate an overview of possible forms of this subject matter. In fact, this subject matter can include various forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments shown below.

[0006] In one embodiment, a three-dimensional (3D) display system can include a peg array consisting of a plurality of pegs. Each peg can be individually addressable and can be designed to move along one or more axes. The 3D display system can also include an induction array having a plurality of electromagnetic coils that generate an electromagnetic field. The electromagnetic field can induce a magnetic force on at least one peg to move the peg to an operating position along the axis. The 3D display can include a display screen that extends to a 3D topography through contact with at least one peg in the operating position.

[0007] In another embodiment, a 3D display can include a peg array that includes a plurality of pegs and a peg drive system that operates at least one of the pegs from a first position to a second position so that the peg array forms a specific topography. The 3D display can also include an optical generator that emits light from the surface of the peg. Further, the light emitted from each peg can form an image that corresponds to a specific topography as a whole.

[0008] In yet another embodiment, a method of providing a 3D display can include supplying current to one or more electromagnetic coils to induce a magnetic force within one or more pegs of a peg array. Then, the induced magnetic force can move the pegs to positions related to the topography. The method can also include activating one or more light sources disposed at the tips, sides, or both of the pegs to display at least a portion of an image. The method can further include coordinating the movement of the pegs and the activation of the light sources such that an image corresponding to the topography is displayed while the pegs are in positions related to the topography.

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, one or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. For the sake of brevity in explaining these embodiments, not all the features of the implementation are described herein. It should be understood that in any such implementation development in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the specific objectives of the developer, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints that may vary depending on the implementation. Furthermore, although such development efforts can be complex and time-consuming, they should be understood as routine endeavors in design, fabrication, and manufacturing for those skilled in the art who benefit from the present disclosure.

[0012] Forming a realistic immersive environment using a projection medium or a display medium is complex. These media are rendered as three-dimensional (3D) illusions and can be viewed through 3D glasses or the like. However, this illusion can be effective for an observer in a stationary position but tends to break down at the edges and at more extreme angles. 3D projection is often used in situations such as theaters where there are seats at predictable positions having a desired viewing angle to maintain the illusion, but in many cases, the immersive environment is more interactive. The observer moves more freely within the environment and views the displayed image from various angles, including more extreme angles. A further problem in generating a 3D illusion within an immersive environment is that the dynamic shading that the observer may want to see is not performed by a planar projection. Furthermore, planar projection lacks a parallax effect, that is, it does not change in appearance when viewed from different angles. Therefore, it is desirable to create a stronger 3D illusion in such an environment.

[0013] Projection mapping onto irregular or shaped surfaces can create additional depth. However, projection mapping technology requires a static or stationary projection surface. Further, projection mapping involves complex scanning and alignment processes before an illusion can be rendered, and the illusion breaks down if the surface features and the projected image are misaligned. In some cases, a live actor can push against a flexible screen to create life-size impressions. However, such implementations have been found to be labor-intensive and / or limit the possibility of displaying dynamic video or images on the screen simultaneously with changes in topography.

[0014] The present technology facilitates 3D display technologies that have improved characteristics contributing to depth perception and provide a realistic, stimulating, and / or more immersive experience to an observer without relying on complex image alignment. Thus, in some embodiments, a display having a 3D surface and a configurable or variable topography can be implemented to improve the viewing experience. Further, this 3D display can depict an image corresponding to the variable topography. For example, when a human face is optically displayed on the screen of the 3D display, simultaneously the screen can extend towards the observer with the general topography of a human face. By changing the screen topography simultaneously with a stream of images (e.g., video), an improved user experience with enhanced realism and / or 3D sharpness can be achieved. That is, the projected image is embedded in the deformable surface.

[0015] To cause such movement of the 3D display, an array of actuatable elements, such as moveable pegs, can be arranged behind the flexible display screen. The individual actuatable elements can be moved individually or in groups to compress and position various points on the display screen and can be individually addressable to form a variable topography across the flexible display screen. Each element can be operated individually or in groups by a drive device to push and / or pull the display screen from a 2D (e.g., flat) stationary position (e.g., neutral position) to generate a 3D topography.

[0016] Also, the 3D display can include an optical generator that provides an image to be displayed on the flexible display screen. In some embodiments, one or more projectors can be utilized to project an image onto the viewing side of the flexible display screen. In some scenarios, multiple projectors can be used to reduce the shadows cast by the topography of the screen. In addition to or instead of this, the 3D display can also be backlit and / or can project an image through the flexible display screen from the element side of the flexible display screen. For example, these elements can include light emitting diodes at or around the element tip and / or can include an optical fiber cable terminated at the element tip. As can be appreciated, the 3D display can be of any suitable size depending on the implementation. For example, the 3D display can be "life-sized" and placed on a wall of a room or building, or can be "travel-sized" and incorporated into a personal handheld device, etc.

[0017] Based on these, FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example 3D display system 10 including a controller 12 and a 3D display 14. The controller 12 can assist in controlling the operation of the 3D display 14 and / or processing image and / or depth data to coordinate the dynamic topography and the image to be displayed. Therefore, the controller 12 can include a processor 16, a memory 18, a motion controller 20, and / or an optical controller 22. The processor 16 can include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more programmable logic devices such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and programmable array logic (PAL) devices, or any combination thereof. The memory 18 can be any suitable memory for storing data to be processed by the processor 16 and can include one or more tangible non-transitory computer-readable media. For example, the memory 18 can include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), rewritable non-volatile memory such as flash memory, a hard drive, and / or an optical disk, etc. It should be understood that the functions of the controller 12 can be achieved through a single device or distributed among multiple devices. For example, the motion controller 20 can be separated from the optical controller 22.

[0018] The 3D display 14 can include a display screen 24, an array of actuatable elements shown herein as a peg array 26, a peg drive system 28, and an optical generator 30. As described herein, the display screen can be pushed and / or pulled from an equilibrium position by the pegs of the peg array 26 so as to change the topography of the display screen 24. Further, the peg array 26 can include a plurality of pegs that move operatively via the peg drive system 28. The peg drive system 28 can include a plurality of peg drivers that move the pegs to desired positions either alone or in conjunction with each other. The peg drive system 28 and the peg array 26 can be configured such that each individual peg of the peg array 26 is individually addressable. The optical generator 30 can include one or more visual output portions such as LEDs and / or optical fibers adjacent to the display screen 24 (e.g., attached to the tips and / or sides of the pegs).

[0019] For illustrative purposes, FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded view of an example peg array 26 that forms the display screen 24. Generally, the display screen 24 can include an elastic material such as spandex or other stretchable material. Further, the display screen 24 can have a sufficient transmittance such that when used with an optical generator 30 on the back side (e.g., emitting from the back side 32 of the display screen 24), an image is clearly displayed on the viewing side 34 of the display screen 24 (e.g., as from an observation area). For example, in one embodiment, the display screen 24 can transmit incident light greater than 50%, greater than 70%, or greater than 90% from the back side 32 of the display screen 24 to the viewing side 34. Also, the display screen 24 can be of a suitable thickness to withstand the pressure of the pegs 36 during deformation while maintaining elasticity and, in some embodiments, low diffusivity. For example, the display screen 24 can have a diffusivity low enough to maintain the desired level of clarity of the displayed image as seen by an observer, depending on the material used.

[0020] The peg 36 of the peg array 26 can be pushed into the display screen 24 as indicated by the arrow 38 with respect to the peg 36 in the neutral position 40, forming a protrusion 42 that protrudes from the observation side 34 of the display screen 24. It should be understood that the display screen 24 can fix the edge 44 of the display screen 24 so as to keep the display screen 24 in a taut state. In some embodiments, by maintaining a particular peg 36 (e.g., peg 46) in a state where it is displaced less from the neutral position 40 than some other neighboring peg 36 (e.g., peg 48) that is significantly displaced from the neutral position 40, the display screen 24 can exhibit a concave surface 50 that improves the fineness of the protrusion 42. For example, in some embodiments, the vacuum caused by the displacement of the peg 36 can prevent the display screen 24 from becoming tent-shaped around the peg 36 with a greater displacement. In addition to or instead of this, this vacuum can also be maintained by a pump (e.g., a mechanical vacuum pump). Further, in addition to or instead of this, the concave surface 50 in the display screen 24 can be improved by adhering the peg 36 to the display screen 24. In such an embodiment, the movement of the peg 36 can be adjusted so that the adhesive bond is maintained without excessive stress.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the pegs 36 of the peg array 26 have generally the same shape and size (having the same diameter and the same length dimension and having the same cross-sectional shape and / or end shape) and are formed of the same material. However, it should be understood that the peg array 26 can also include pegs 36 of different sizes, materials, and / or shapes depending on the desired end effect.

[0022] The protrusion 42 formed by the peg 36 and engraved on the display screen 24 to be visible on the display side 34 can serve to provide a realistic 3D experience to the observer without the accompaniment of additional hardware (e.g., 3D goggles, parallax screens, etc.). In addition to or instead of this, the protrusion 42 can also be utilized as a tactile feedback such that the observer can feel a dynamically changing 3D model and / or view an image simultaneously. For example, the protrusion 42 can simulate an interactive 3D map while maintaining the ability to display an image on the same surface, or provide a Braille output. It should be understood that the display screen 24 and the peg array 26 can be oriented in a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, or any suitable angle to achieve a desired 3D demonstration. Further, although this specification describes illuminating the display screen 24 from the back side 32, in some embodiments, the display screen 24 can be omitted and 3D images and topography can be viewed directly through the peg 36. Further, in some embodiments, the display screen 24 can be divided into a plurality of sub-screens each covering a different group of pegs 36. By maintaining the plurality of sub-screens, a more exaggerated angle and / or a concave surface can be shown.

[0023] Figure 3 is a schematic exploded view of a peg array example 26 and a peg drive system example 28 that includes a plurality of pegs 36. In some embodiments, the peg drive system 28 can include an alignment support 52 and / or an induction array 54. The alignment support 52 can include one or more holes 56 that help keep the pegs 36 in line during operation. For example, the alignment support 52 can align and maintain each peg 36 or group of pegs within each hole 56 formed through the alignment support 52 such that the pegs 36 can move in a uniform direction as they are positioned or moved to different positions without intersecting or interfering with each other. Each hole 56 can have a size and shape that allows each peg 36 to move in a desired direction of movement (e.g., along a single axis) while preventing movement of each peg 36 in an undesirable direction (e.g., along another axis). Further, in some embodiments, the alignment support 52 can be in the same plane as the neutral position 40 of the pegs 36 and / or can be coplanar with a plane corresponding to the neutral position 40 of the pegs. Additionally, the alignment support 52 can also support, for example, the display screen 24 (e.g., via fixation of the edge 44 of the display screen 24). As shown, the alignment support 52 provides a frame through which the pegs 36 configured to move relative to the alignment support 52 operate. The pegs 36 are shown moving generally orthogonal to the plane of the alignment support 52, although other configurations are contemplated. For example, the holes 56 and the induction array can be shaped or oriented to direct the movement of one or more of the pegs 36 during operation to form an acute angle with the plane of the alignment support 52.

[0024] Although the neutral position 40 is shown as existing within a single plane, in some embodiments, the neutral position 40 of the peg 36 can also form a preset topography. For example, the neutral position 40 can form a general face, body part, terrain, or other desired topology, and the peg 36 can be actuated to promote a dynamic change in the topology from the neutral position 40 of the preset topology. Further, in some embodiments, the alignment support 52 and / or the induction array 54 can be non-planarly shaped so that the alignment support 52 and / or the induction array 54 hold the peg 36 at the neutral position 40 in a preset topology.

[0025] The induction array 54 can apply a force (e.g., electromagnetic, mechanical, etc.) that compresses the display screen 24 to the peg 36 and / or cause such a force within the peg 36. In some embodiments, the induction array 54 and the alignment support 52 can be incorporated into a single component.

[0026] The induction array 54 can include a plurality of electromagnetic coils 58 attached to the base 60 to assist in the formation of an electromagnetic field. Further, in some embodiments, the base of the induction array 54 can include a printed circuit board (PCB). Thus, the electromagnetic coils 58 can be disposed and / or integrated within the base 60 for support and / or attached to the base 60. Further, depending on the implementation, the base 60 can be reinforced for additional support (e.g., rPCB). Also, the induction arrays 54 can be distributed uniformly within a single plane or arranged in an alternating pattern. For example, in some embodiments, the electromagnetic coils 58 associated with a particular peg 36 can be at different distances from the alignment support 52 and / or the neutral position 40. Arranging the induction arrays 54 in an alternating pattern can provide additional space on the PCB, thereby allowing for a more compact peg array 26 and / or reducing interference between adjacent electromagnetic coils 58. In some embodiments, to facilitate the movement of the pegs 36, the electromagnetic coils 58 can be part of a linear motor such as a stepper motor (e.g., a hybrid linear stepper motor, a variable reluctance linear stepper motor, etc.). Further, in some embodiments, the peg 36 can have a magnetic core and / or can include one or more coils disposed on the peg 36 to facilitate direct induction movement of the peg 36 without using individual driver motors.

[0027] For purposes of illustration, FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the forces acting on one or more individual pegs 36 during the generation of the protrusion 42. Although only a single peg 36 is shown as an example, the disclosed embodiments can also apply to additional pegs 36 of the peg array 26. The electromagnetic force is adjusted to actuate each peg 36 to a desired position relative to the alignment support 52 (FIG. 3). For example, in one embodiment, each peg 36 can be associated with a rest or neutral position 40 and at least one actuation or protrusion position representing the total movable range of the peg 36. Further, in some embodiments, each peg 36 can take one or more intermediate positions between the rest position and the maximum actuation position. Within the context of the peg array 26 (FIG. 2), the pegs can collectively form different patterns or shapes corresponding to the protrusions 42. Further, the protrusions 42 are dynamic, and the individual pegs 36 can respond to different control instructions such that they move independently of each other between the actuation position and the rest position to dynamically assume new patterns. As disclosed herein, the protrusions 42 can also provide haptic feedback in response to user input, e.g., based on a user touch.

[0028] During operation, an electromagnetic field 64 can be induced by passing a current 62 through the electromagnetic coil 58 of the induction array 54. In some embodiments, the peg 36 can have magnetic properties (e.g., a magnetic core, a magnetic ring, a magnetic coil, etc.) such that the magnetic field 64 promotes a forward magnetic force 66 along the axis 67 to move the peg 36 from the neutral position towards the display screen 24 to the operating position and form at least a portion of the protrusion 42. In one embodiment, the peg 36 is configured to operate in the forward or reverse direction along an axis 67 that generally coincides with the longest dimension of the peg 36. The peg 36 can operate relative to the electromagnetic coil 58 that remains generally stationary during its movement. Also, the display screen 24 can generate an opposing tension 68 that extends to push the peg 36 back. When the tension 68 and the forward magnetic force 66 are balanced, a stationary position of the peg 36 and the protrusion 42 from the display screen 24 can be achieved. If the display screen 24 is further extended, the tension 68 exerted on the peg 36 also increases. Therefore, to achieve a larger protrusion 42 (e.g., a larger displacement from the neutral position 40), a larger forward magnetic force 66 can be generated to counteract the tension 68. To generate a larger forward magnetic force 66, the current 62 can be increased under processor control. Further, the induction array 54 can supply different currents 62 to different electromagnetic coils 58 to form protrusions 42 of various displacements (e.g., move different pegs 36 different distances from the neutral position 40). In some embodiments, the peg 36 can include a flange 70 to prevent the peg 36 from displacing beyond a threshold. For example, the flange 70 can contact the base 60 and / or the alignment support 52 of the induction array 54 when the peg 36 is at its maximum displacement to prevent the peg 36 from moving further. In some embodiments, suppressing movement can help keep the tension 68 below a tear threshold to reduce wear on the display screen 24.

[0029] To return the peg 36 to the neutral position 40 or a position not significantly displaced from the neutral position 40, the current 62 supplied to the associated electromagnetic coil 58 may be reduced or removed. For example, removing the current 62 from the electromagnetic coil 58 that drives the peg 36 allows the tension 68 of the display screen 24 to move the peg 36 back to the neutral position. In addition to or instead of this, the flow of the current 62 through the electromagnetic coil 58 can be reversed to generate an opposing magnetic force 72. The opposing magnetic force 72 can help quickly return the peg 36 to a position not significantly displaced or to the neutral position 40. Furthermore, the ability to quickly move the peg 36 in and out of the display screen 24 can also enable rapid changes in the dynamic topography of the protrusion 42 and thus of the display screen 24.

[0030] In addition to or instead of this, the electromagnetic interaction between the peg 36 and the induction array 54 can also facilitate discrete intermediate positions of the peg 36 relative to the neutral position 40. For example, as shown by the cut-out portion 76 of the induction array 54 in FIG. 5, instead of relying only on the force balance between the tension 68 and the forward magnetic force 66, both the forward magnetic force 66 and the reverse magnetic force 74 can be considered simultaneously with the tension 68. To achieve independent braking positions (e.g., preset stop positions with different displacements from the neutral position 40) for each peg 36, a plurality of electromagnetic coils 58 with alternating directions of current 62 can be provided in series for each peg 36. For example, the first electromagnetic coil 58A conducts the current 62 in the first direction to generate a counterclockwise electromagnetic field 64A (as shown in the reference system of FIG. 5), and the second electromagnetic coil 58B can conduct the current 62 in the second direction to generate a clockwise electromagnetic field 64B (as shown in the reference system of FIG. 5). Then, the electromagnetic fields 64A, 64B can act on one or more magnetic components of the peg 36 (such as a magnetic core, magnet, or magnetic coil attached to the peg 36) to provide the magnetic forces 66, 74. The current 62 in each electromagnetic coil 58 can be adjusted by the spacing between the electromagnetic coils 58 so that the magnetic forces 66, 74 hold the peg 36 in a specific position (e.g., when displaced from the neutral position 40). For example, the counterclockwise magnetic field 64A can interact with one or more peg coils 80 and / or other magnetic components of the peg 36 to provide the reverse magnetic force 74. Similarly, the clockwise magnetic field 64B can interact with the peg coil 80 and / or other magnetic components of the peg 36 to provide the forward magnetic force 66. As the individual peg coils 80 and / or other magnetic components approach the electromagnetic coil 58, the magnitude of each forward or reverse magnetic force 66, 74 also increases. Conversely, as the individual peg coils 80 and / or other magnetic components move away from the electromagnetic coil 58, the magnitude of each forward or reverse magnetic force 66, 74 also decreases. Therefore, the peg 36 can be maintained in a specific position by changing the current 62 passing through each electromagnetic coil 58. Additionally, the current 62 in the electromagnetic coil 58 can be reversed to generate an opposite magnetic force 72.Although FIG. 5 shows two electromagnetic coils 58, it should be understood that a series of electromagnetic coils 58 can include any suitable number of electromagnetic coils 58 for each peg 36. Further, in some embodiments, one or more electromagnetic coils 58 can surround a group of pegs 36 and simultaneously cause magnetic forces 66, 74 on multiple pegs 36.

[0031] Furthermore, when determining the current 62, the tension 68 of the display screen 24 can also be considered. For example, when maintaining the balance of the forward magnetic force 66, the tension 68 can be added to the reverse magnetic force 74 to achieve a specific position of the peg 36. Further, the tension 68 can be determined more accurately using the positions of the surrounding pegs 36. Further, in some embodiments, the magnetic forces 66, 74 can be made significantly (e.g., one digit, two digits, three digits, or four digits or more) larger than the tension 68 according to the magnitude of the current 62. Therefore, depending on the implementation, the tension 68 can also be ignored.

[0032] As described above, the peg coil 80 can interact with the electromagnetic fields 64A, 64B to promote the respective magnetic forces 66, 74 on the peg 36. The peg coils 80 can be arranged equidistantly from each other on the peg 36 and / or concentrated in a specific region of the peg 36 and provided at non-uniform intervals relative to each other. Further, the peg coil 80 can include various thicknesses along the length of the peg 36. Increasing the thickness and / or the density of the peg coil 80 can directly increase the magnitudes of the magnetic forces 66, 74 applied to the peg 36. Therefore, by changing the position, density, and / or thickness of the peg coil 80 on the peg 36, more specific control of the movement of the peg can be enabled.

[0033] Peg 36 can also include a light source as part of the optical generator 30. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a peg example 36 having various image display techniques. Peg 36 is shown as having a cylindrical profile and a circular end face 82, but it should be understood that it can be in any suitable shape such as cylindrical, rectangular, conical, etc. In some embodiments, each peg 36 can generate light equivalent to a pixel of the display. For example, the end face 82 of each peg 36 can abut against the display screen 24 to produce light emission such that the pegs 36 of the peg array 26 form the desired image as a whole. This light emission can occur from one or more LEDs 84 and / or through the use of optical fibers. For example, the optical fiber cable 86 can have a termination 88 at the end face 82 of the peg 36. Thus, the light traveling within the optical fiber cable 86 can be irradiated from the end face 82 of the peg 36 onto the display screen 24. The wiring of the LED 84 and / or the optical fiber cable 86 can be arranged within the peg 36 and / or along the outer surface of the peg 36 so as to be connectable to the optical driver and / or the optical controller 22. In addition to or instead of this, the termination 88 of the LED 84 and / or the optical fiber cable 86 can also be arranged along the side surface 90 of the peg 36 so as to emit light laterally with respect to the end face 82 of the peg 36. The light emission from the side surface 90 of the peg 36 can enable improved illumination of the display screen 24, for example when some of the pegs 36 extend significantly beyond adjacent pegs 36. Thus, the shadow and / or the illuminated portion of the image can be displayed more accurately. In addition to or instead of this, the display screen 24 can also include permanent or semi-permanent image features such as paint, texturing, or other suitable aesthetics on the viewing side 34 depending on the implementation. Further, although in this specification the peg array 26 and the peg drive system 28 are described as being used with the lighting effect and / or the optical generator 30, it should be understood that they can be implemented without the lighting effect and instead provide a dynamic 3D topography separate from the displayed image.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 7, the controller 12 can receive the 3D content 92 and generate image data 94 and motion data 96 for the optical generator 30 and the actuator array 54. For example, the 3D content 92 can be decomposed into a 2D image and a height map corresponding to the specific topography of the peg array 26. For example, in one embodiment, the 3D content 92 can be decomposed into a plurality of components for processing and / or implementation. For example, the 3D content can include four data components such as a red component, a green component, a blue component, and a grayscale component for each pixel. In one embodiment, the red, green, and blue components can represent the RGB color space used by the optical controller 22, and the grayscale component can represent the displacement amount from the neutral position 40. It should be understood that any suitable components such as a chromatic color space, a gamma color space, etc. can also be used.

[0035] In some embodiments, the controller 12 and / or the optical controller 22 can process the image data 94 corresponding to the 2D image (e.g., RGB) into a format suitable for projection by the light sources (e.g., LEDs and / or optical fibers) of the pegs 36. For example, the optical controller 22 can convert the image data 94 to a resolution that matches the peg array 26. Further, the optical controller 22 can also drive the optical generator 30 to supply power to the light sources. Similarly, the motion controller 20 can convert the motion data 96 including the height map into a format that the peg array 26 can simulate. Also, the motion controller 20 can pass a current 62 through the electromagnetic coil 58 based on the motion data 96 to position the individual pegs 36.

[0036] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an example process 98 for implementing the 3D display system 10. The 3D display system 10 receives 3D content to be displayed (process block 100) and can generate motion data 96 and image data 94 that are compatible with the peg array 26 from this 3D content (process block 102). Also, the motion data 96 can be used to supply a current 62 to one or more electromagnetic coils of the induction array 54 (process block 104). The current 62 in the electromagnetic coil 58 can induce an electromagnetic field 64 that can cause magnetic forces 66, 74 to act on the peg 36. Thus, by changing the current 62, the movement and positioning of the individual pegs 36 of the peg array 26 can be controlled (process block 106). Further, the movement and positioning of the peg 36 can form protrusions 42 on the display screen 24 for a more realistic 3D effect. Also, one or more light sources (e.g., LEDs, optical fibers, etc.) can be activated based on the image data 94 (processing block 108). The light sources within and / or attached to the peg 36 can be controlled, for example, to generate an overall image on the display screen 24 (process block 110). Further, the control of the movement and the generated image can be coordinated such that the topography of the peg array 26 or the display screen 24 corresponds to the displayed image (process block 112). Further, a plurality of images and topographies can be generated in sequence to provide a dynamic 3D display.

[0037] In this specification, only some features of the present invention are illustrated and described, but many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the present invention. Further, although the reference flowchart of the above process 98 is shown in a given order, in some embodiments, the illustrated steps can be rearranged, changed, deleted, and / or performed simultaneously. Also, the reference flowchart of process 98 is shown as an exemplary tool, and additional decisions and / or process blocks can be added depending on the implementation.

[0038] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, articles such as "a", "an", and "the" are intended to mean that these elements are present one or two or three or more. The terms "comprising", "including", and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements other than the recited elements may exist. Also, it should be understood that references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" of the present disclosure are not intended to be construed as precluding the existence of additional embodiments that also include the recited features.

[0039] The technology claimed and shown in this specification refers to and applies to tangible things and specific examples of a practical nature that truly improve the art and are thus not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Further, if any of the claims appended at the end of this specification include one or more elements designated as "means for [performing]... [function]" or "steps for [performing]... [function]", such elements should be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). On the other hand, for any claim that includes elements designated in any other form, such elements should not be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

Description of Reference Numerals

[0040] 24 Display screen 26 Peg array 32 Back side of the display screen 34 Observation side of the display screen 36 Peg 38 Arrow 40 Neutral position 42 Protrusion 44 Edge of the display screen 46 Peg 48 Peg 50 Concave surface

Claims

1. A three-dimensional (3D) display system comprising: a peg array including a plurality of pegs each individually addressable and configured to move along at least one axis; an induction array including a plurality of electromagnetic coils configured to induce a magnetic force on at least one of the plurality of pegs and generate an electromagnetic field configured to move the at least one of the plurality of pegs to an operating position along the at least one axis, the induction array including a first electromagnetic coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils and a second electromagnetic coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils, the first electromagnetic coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils being configured to generate a first electromagnetic field, and the second electromagnetic coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils being configured to generate a second electromagnetic field opposite to the first electromagnetic field; a display screen configured to extend to a 3D topography through contact with at least the one of the plurality of pegs at the operating position; A 3D display system characterized by comprising the above.

2. The first electromagnetic field is configured to induce a first magnetic force on at least one of the plurality of pegs to move the at least one of the plurality of pegs in a first direction along the at least one axis, and the second electromagnetic field is configured to induce a second magnetic force on at least one of the plurality of pegs to move the at least one of the plurality of pegs in a second direction opposite to the first direction along the at least one axis, and the first magnetic force and the second magnetic force are configured to hold at least one of the plurality of pegs in an equilibrium state at the operating position. The 3D display system according to Claim 1.

3. Comprising a controller configured to generate the electromagnetic field by passing a current through at least one of the plurality of electromagnetic coils corresponding to at least one of the plurality of pegs, the controller being configured to change the current to change the position of at least one of the plurality of pegs. The 3D display system according to Claim 1.

4. At least one of the plurality of pegs includes one or more peg coils configured to interact with the electromagnetic field to induce a magnetic force on at least one of the plurality of pegs. The 3D display system according to claim 1.

5. Comprising an optical generator configured to facilitate the display of an image on the display screen. The 3D display system according to claim 1.

6. The optical generator includes a projector. The 3D display system according to claim 5.

7. The optical generator includes a light source within or attached to an end face of at least one of the plurality of pegs, and the end face of at least one of the plurality of pegs is configured to contact the display screen. The 3D display system according to claim 5.

8. Comprising an alignment support including a plurality of apertures configured to operate through the interior of the plurality of pegs, and at least one of the plurality of pegs is configured to operate through at least one corresponding aperture of the plurality of apertures along the at least one axis. The 3D display system according to claim 1.

9. The induced magnetic force on at least one of the plurality of pegs is canceled by a tension acting on at least one of the plurality of pegs by the display screen. The 3D display system according to claim 1.

10. The display screen includes an elastic material having a transmittance greater than 50%. The 3D display system according to claim 1.

11. A three-dimensional (3D) display, A peg array including a plurality of pegs, A peg drive system configured to operate at least one of the plurality of pegs from a first position to a second position along at least one axis so that the peg array forms a specific topography, the induction array comprising a plurality of electromagnetic coils configured to induce a magnetic force on at least one of the plurality of pegs, wherein at least one of the plurality of pegs is configured to move relative to the plurality of electromagnetic coils when operating from the first position to the second position through at least one corresponding aperture of the plurality of apertures along the at least one axis, the peg drive system; An optical generator configured to emit light from the surface of one or more of the plurality of pegs, wherein the light emitted from the one or more of the plurality of pegs forms an image corresponding to the specific topography, the optical generator; A display screen disposed between the observation area and the peg array and in contact with the peg array; Comprising; The specific topography is perceived through one or more protrusions from the display screen, and the image is transmitted through the display screen; The induction array includes a first electromagnetic coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils and a second electromagnetic coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils, wherein the first electromagnetic coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils is configured to generate a first electromagnetic field, and the second electromagnetic coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils is configured to generate a second electromagnetic field opposite to the first electromagnetic field; A 3D display characterized by this.

12. At least one of the plurality of pegs includes a plurality of peg coils disposed on or within at least one of the plurality of pegs and operating with at least one of the plurality of pegs, and along the length of at least one of the plurality of pegs, the density of the peg coils, the thickness of the peg coils, or both change; The 3D display according to claim 11.

13. The peg drive system includes a rigid printed circuit board (rPCB); The 3D display according to claim 11.

14. The optical generator includes one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to be disposed on the surface of the one or more pegs among the plurality of pegs and emit light corresponding to a part of the image. The 3D display according to claim 11.

15. The optical generator includes a plurality of optical fiber cables configured to emit light corresponding to a part of the image, and each optical fiber cable of the plurality of optical fiber cables terminates at a corresponding surface of the one or more pegs among the plurality of pegs. The 3D display according to claim 11.

16. The surface of the one or more pegs among the plurality of pegs includes an end face, a side face, or both of the one or more pegs among the plurality of pegs. The 3D display according to claim 11.

17. A method for providing a three-dimensional (3D) display, supplying current to one or more electromagnetic coils configured to induce a magnetic force that moves one or more pegs of a peg array to positions related to topography on one or more magnetic peg coils of the one or more pegs of the peg array; turning on one or more light sources disposed at a tip, a side face, or both of the one or more pegs of the peg array and configured to display at least a part of an image; coordinating the movement of the one or more pegs of the peg array and the turning on of the one or more light sources such that the image corresponding to the topography is displayed while the one or more pegs of the peg array are present at the positions related to the topography; including the one or more magnetic peg coils include a first magnetic peg coil among the one or more magnetic peg coils and a second magnetic peg coil among the one or more magnetic peg coils, and the step of supplying the current includes the step of the first magnetic peg coil among the one or more magnetic peg coils generating a first electromagnetic field and the step of the second magnetic peg coil among the one or more magnetic peg coils generating a second electromagnetic field opposite to the first electromagnetic field. A method characterized by the above.

18. Receiving 3D content, and processing the 3D content into motion data and image data, wherein the movement of the one or more pegs of the peg array is based on the motion data, and the lighting of the one or more light sources is based on the image data, The method according to claim 17.

Images