Three-dimensional surface display device and method of operating the same

Abstract

To provide a three-dimensional surface display including curved cells and an operation method therefor.SOLUTION: A three-dimensional surface display device includes a light source part LSP including a plurality of optical elements OPC, and a three-dimensional display part SSD on the light source part LSP. The three-dimensional display part SSD includes a polymer layer FCL, and light absorption patterns PTR embedded into the polymer layer FCL. The three-dimensional display part SSD includes a plurality of cell areas CEL (CEL1 to CEL3) arranged two-dimensionally, the light absorption patterns PTR are arranged within the plurality of cell areas CEL, the plurality of optical elements OPC are vertically overlapped with the plurality of cell areas CEL, respectively, and each of the plurality of cell areas CEL has a three-dimensional shape.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a three-dimensional surface display device and an operating method thereof, and more particularly, to a three-dimensional surface display device including curved cells and an operating method thereof.

Background Art

[0002] With the development and popularization of touch screen-based portable electronic devices and electronic information devices such as kiosks, the UI (User interface) and touch interface provided by planar visual information displays have become widespread worldwide. Currently, most planar touch interfaces only provide tactile feedback in the form of vibrations transmitted to the finger when the user touches the surface with the finger.

[0003] Tactile feedback controls the dynamic drive signal of an actuator (such as a motor, voice coil, etc.) and provides a feeling of clicking a button. There is also a tactile feedback technology in which the intensity of vibration varies depending on the contact force. However, the tactile information provided by adjusting the vibration signal waveform and intensity can only provide a feeling of operating the UI. Conventional tactile feedback is difficult to transmit a physical three-dimensional structure having visual information. Therefore, various studies have been conducted to embody a dot display or to represent the shape of visual information through physical deformation. As an example, a technique has been studied in which a flexible thin film on a magnet is protruded by adjusting the vertical position of blocks arranged in an array in a large motor system or by adjusting the vertical position of a magnet via pneumatic pressure.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a three-dimensional surface display device including curved cells via thermal stress.

[0005] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an operating method for the three-dimensional surface display device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The three-dimensional surface display device according to the concept of the present invention includes a light source unit including a plurality of light elements, and a three-dimensional display unit on the light source unit. The three-dimensional display unit includes a polymer layer and a light absorption layer filled in the polymer layer. The three-dimensional display unit includes a plurality of cell regions arranged two-dimensionally, the light absorption layer is disposed in the plurality of cell regions, the plurality of light elements are vertically superimposed on the plurality of cell regions respectively, and each of the plurality of cell regions has a three-dimensional shape.

[0007] The manufacturing method of the three-dimensional surface display device according to another concept of the present invention includes forming a light absorption layer on a carrier substrate, forming a preliminary polymer layer covering the light absorption layer on the carrier substrate, and curing the preliminary polymer layer to form a polymer layer. Curing the preliminary polymer layer includes irradiating the preliminary polymer layer with first light, and during the curing process, the light absorption layer heats a region of the preliminary polymer layer to apply thermal stress, and the region is cured to have a curved surface shape by the thermal stress.

[0008] In an operating method of a three-dimensional surface display device including a three-dimensional display unit having a first cell region with a curved surface shape and a light source unit, the three-dimensional display unit includes a polymer layer and a light absorption layer filled in the polymer layer. The light absorption layer includes a first light absorption pattern disposed in the first cell region, and the light source unit includes a first light element disposed under the first cell region. Another operating method of the three-dimensional surface display device according to another concept of the present invention includes irradiating the first light absorption pattern with first light from the first light element, the first light absorption pattern generating thermal energy upon receiving the first light, and using the thermal energy to heat the first cell region to a first temperature, and reducing the curvature of the first cell region by the first temperature.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] The three-dimensional surface display device according to the present invention selectively applies thermal stress only to the cell region through the light absorption layer during the effect process of the polymer layer. As a result, the cell region has a passive curved shape and has a shape memory characteristic due to the thermal history.

[0010] The three-dimensional surface display device according to the present invention can form a curved shape at a desired position and enable high-density cells. Further, the present invention can implement a three-dimensional surface display without using an external force such as pneumatic or hydraulic pressure. By deforming the curvature of a specific cell by an optical signal, it is possible to deform between a curved surface and a flat surface by turning on and off an optical element. Further, by adjusting the output of the optical element, the height of the cell can be changed.

[0011] The three-dimensional surface display device according to the present invention has high durability, high deformation stability, and high deformation repeatability. The present invention is applied to a thin and light Braille display for visually impaired persons. The present invention is applied to a thin and light tangible display.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

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Figure 8A

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Figure 8C

Figure 9

Figure 10A

Figure 10B

Figure 10C

Figure 11A

Figure 11B

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Figure 12A

Figure 12B

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Figure 14

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] To fully understand the configuration and effects of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be embodied in various forms and various modifications may be made. However, it is provided so that the disclosure of the present invention becomes complete by the description of the present embodiment and so that those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can fully know the scope of the invention.

[0014] In this specification, when a component is referred to as being on another component, it means that it may be directly formed on the other component or a third component may be interposed therebetween. Also, in the drawings, the thickness of the components is exaggerated for an effective explanation of the technical content. Throughout the specification, parts denoted by the same reference numerals indicate the same components.

[0015] In various embodiments of this specification, terms such as first, second, third, etc. are used to describe various components, but these components are not limited to such terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one component from another. The embodiments described and illustrated here also include their complementary embodiments.

[0016] The terms used in this specification are for explaining the embodiments and do not limit the present invention. In this specification, the singular form includes the plural form as well unless otherwise specifically mentioned in the text. The “comprises” and / or “comprising” used in the specification do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components of the recited component.

[0017] The three-dimensional surface display device of the present invention is used as a flexible element and / or a wearable element. The three-dimensional surface display device of the present invention includes various electronic devices applicable to flexible elements. Hereinafter, the three-dimensional surface display device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0018] FIGS. 1 to 5 are cross-sectional views for explaining the manufacturing process of the three-dimensional surface display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Referring to FIG. 1, a light absorption pattern PTR is formed on a carrier substrate CAS. The carrier substrate CAS is a transparent substrate through which light in a wide wavelength band (300 nm to 900 nm) is transmitted. The carrier substrate CAS includes a material having high rigidity and being heat-resistant. For example, the carrier substrate CAS includes a transparent inorganic material such as glass, or a transparent polymer selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polycarbonate (PC), cycloolefin polymer (COP), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and polystyrene (PS).

[0020] The light absorption patterns PTR are two-dimensionally arranged at intervals from each other. As an example, the light absorption patterns PTR are arranged at regular intervals. The light absorption pattern PTR performs a photothermal response function of absorbing light and generating heat. From a planar perspective, each of the light absorption patterns PTR has a circular (or radial) shape so that thermal stress is likely to be generated.

[0021] The light absorption pattern PTR is configured to have a photo-thermal effect that absorbs light (e.g., visible light or infrared light) and generates heat. The light absorption pattern PTR includes a photo-thermal material that absorbs light (e.g., visible light or infrared light) and releases heat. The light absorption pattern PTR includes an organic light-absorption material or an inorganic light-absorption material. For example, the light absorption pattern PTR includes at least one selected from the group consisting of PEDOT (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)), PEDOT:PSS (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene-poly(styrenesulfonic acid))), PEDOT / metal particle composite, PEDOT / oxide composite, graphene, carbon nanotube, and silver nanowire (AgNW).

[0022] As an example, the light absorption pattern PTR includes a polymer having flexibility and elasticity and a light-absorbing substance (or particles) dispersed therein. The polymer includes poly(dimethylsiloxane), acrylic elastomer, silicone rubber, or liquid crystal elastomer (LCE).

[0023] Referring to FIG. 2, a preliminary polymer layer PFCL covering the light absorption pattern PTR is formed on the carrier substrate CAS. Forming the preliminary polymer layer PFCL includes applying a liquid crystal polymer on the carrier substrate CAS. The forming of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL utilizes a surface coating method (e.g., spray coating or spin coating). The preliminary polymer layer PFCL includes a polymer and / or monomer capable of photocuring.

[0024] Referring to FIG. 3, it includes photocuring a preliminary polymer layer PFCL to form a polymer layer FCL. As an example of the present invention, photocuring the preliminary polymer layer PFCL includes irradiating a second light LI1 onto the first surface SF1 of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL and irradiating a second light LI2 onto the second surface SF2 of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL. The second surface SF2 of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL is the surface that contacts the carrier substrate CAS. The second surface SF2 of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL is the surface that exposes the light absorption pattern PTR. The first surface SF1 of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL is the surface that faces the second surface SF2.

[0025] A first light source LIS1 provided on the first surface SF1 of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL emits a first light LI1. The first light LI1 is UV light. The preliminary polymer layer PFCL is cured by the first light LI1 to form a polymer layer FCL.

[0026] A second light source LIS2 provided on the second surface SF2 of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL emits a second light LI2. As an example, a plurality of second light sources LIS2 are respectively provided under the light absorption pattern PTR. The plurality of second light sources LIS2 irradiate the second light LI2 toward each of the light absorption patterns PTR. The second light LI2 is light having a wavelength different from that of the first light LI1. For example, the second light LI2 is visible light or near-infrared light.

[0027] The light absorption pattern PTR irradiated with the second light LI2 emits thermal energy in response to the second light LI2. A region of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL in contact with the light absorption pattern PTR is selectively heated by the light absorption pattern PTR. Thereby, thermal stress is selectively applied to a region of the polymer layer FCL in contact with the light absorption pattern PTR. The physical properties of a region of the polymer layer FCL in contact with the light absorption pattern PTR may be different from those of other regions.

[0028] As another embodiment of the present invention, curing the preliminary polymer layer PFCL may only include irradiating a first light LI1 onto the first surface SF1 of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL. In other words, the second light LI2 may be omitted. Also in this case, the light absorption pattern PTR emits thermal energy in response to the first light LI1.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 4, the cured polymer layer FCL is detached from the carrier substrate CAS. When the polymer layer FCL is detached, the light absorption pattern PTR is also detached together with the polymer layer FCL. That is, the light absorption pattern PTR is embedded in the polymer layer FCL.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 5, a flexible film-like polymer layer FCL is obtained. The polymer layer FCL includes the light absorption pattern PTR. The polymer layer FCL includes a plurality of cell regions CEL. As an example, the plurality of cell regions CEL include first, second, and third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 that are sequentially arranged along a first direction D1. A light absorption pattern PTR is provided in each of the first, second, and third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3.

[0031] Each cell region CEL has a curved shape that bulges. This is because, as described above with reference to FIG. 3, thermal stress is selectively applied only to the cell region CEL by the light absorption pattern PTR. On the other hand, the region between the cell regions CEL is flat. The curvature of the cell region CEL is greater than the curvature between the cell regions CEL.

[0032] The curved surface structure of the cell region CEL is formed by the strain generated by the thermal stress. The curved surface structure of the cell region CEL has a thermal history. In other words, the cell region CEL has a shape memory characteristic due to the thermal history. When more heat is applied to the cell region CEL, the shape (for example, curvature) of the cell region CEL changes. When the temperature of the cell region CEL returns to normal temperature, it returns to the form as shown in FIG. 5.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a plan view for explaining a three-dimensional surface display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 6. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the three-dimensional surface display device includes a plurality of cell regions CEL. As an example, the plurality of cell regions CEL includes first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3. The first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 are arranged at regular intervals along a first direction D1.

[0034] The three-dimensional surface display device includes a three-dimensional display unit SSD and a light source unit LSP. The three-dimensional display unit SSD is laminated on the light source unit LSP. The three-dimensional display unit SSD is vertically separated from the light source unit LSP by a support unit SUP.

[0035] The three-dimensional display unit SSD has a multi-layer film shape. The three-dimensional display unit SSD is configured to be flexible. The three-dimensional display unit SSD includes a polymer layer FCL and a light absorption pattern PTR buried below the polymer layer FCL. The light absorption pattern PTR is provided in each of the cell regions CEL.

[0036] Each of the light absorption pattern PTR and the polymer layer FCL is made of a flexible material so that its shape can be deformed. For example, the elastic modulus of each of the light absorption pattern PTR and the polymer layer FCL is from 0.1 MPa to 2,000 MPa.

[0037] The three-dimensional display unit SSD according to this embodiment is manufactured by the manufacturing process of the three-dimensional surface display device described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. The polymer layer FCL in the cell region CEL has a curvature due to the thermal stress applied during the manufacturing process. The light absorption pattern PTR is substantially the same as that described above with reference to FIG. 1.

[0038] The light source unit LSP includes a substrate SUB and a plurality of optical elements OPC two-dimensionally arranged on the substrate SUB. The optical elements OPC are respectively provided within the cell region CEL. Each optical element OPC overlaps perpendicularly with a light absorption pattern PTR disposed thereon. The optical element OPC is configured to irradiate light onto the light absorption pattern PTR disposed thereon. The optical elements OPC are controlled independently of each other.

[0039] As an example of the present invention, each of the optical elements OPC includes a light-emitting diode (LED), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), or a laser diode. However, the optical element OPC of the present invention is not limited to the above examples, and can be used as a light source without limitation as long as it can irradiate visible light or infrared rays onto the light absorption pattern PTR.

[0040] The light absorption pattern PTR generates thermal energy when irradiated with light from the optical element OPC. When the thermal energy is transmitted to the polymer layer FCL and the polymer layer FCL is softened, the light absorption pattern PTR has mechanical properties that change together with the polymer layer FCL.

[0041] According to an example of the present invention, each cell region CEL of the three-dimensional display unit SSD further includes a sensor unit. The sensor unit is configured to recognize a user's touch applied to the cell region CEL.

[0042] According to an example of the present invention, the cell region CEL of the three-dimensional display unit SSD has a curved surface shape. Specifically, by utilizing the thermal history characteristics of the polymer layer FCL, the three-dimensional display unit SSD has shape memory characteristics. The three-dimensional display unit SSD of the present invention is implemented with a film having a three-dimensional shape without an external force such as pneumatic pressure or hydraulic pressure.

[0043] The cell region CEL of the three-dimensional display unit SSD of the present invention has a three-dimensional shape passively at normal temperature and in commerce. The cell region CEL has shape memory characteristics due to thermal history. The three-dimensional shape is not particularly limited, but according to an example of the present invention, the three-dimensional shape means a curved surface shape.

[0044] As another embodiment of the present invention, an optical absorption layer is provided instead of the optical absorption pattern PTR. The optical absorption layer contains substantially the same substance as the optical absorption pattern PTR and performs the same function. The optical absorption layer is a single unpatterned layer. The thermal conductivity of the optical absorption layer is relatively small. For example, the thermal conductivity of the optical absorption layer is smaller than that of the polymer layer FCL. Thereby, the optical absorption layer includes a plurality of regions that do not thermally affect each other. The plurality of regions are substantially thermally insulated from each other. The plurality of regions overlap with the plurality of cell regions CEL respectively.

[0045] Each of the plurality of regions has a three-dimensional shape. By the operation of the three-dimensional surface display device described later, the plurality of regions are controlled independently of each other. The forms (for example, curvatures) of the plurality of regions change so as to be different from each other.

[0046] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are cross-sectional views for explaining the operation of the three-dimensional surface display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 8A, first light L1 is emitted from the optical elements OPC in the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3, and the first light L1 is incident on the optical absorption patterns PTR in the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 respectively.

[0048] The optical absorption pattern PTR emits thermal energy in response to the incident first light L1. The thermal energy emitted from the optical absorption pattern PTR raises the temperature of the polymer layer FCL in the cell region CEL. The temperature in the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 rises to the first temperature T1 by the thermal energy emitted from the optical absorption pattern PTR. As an example, the first temperature T1 is the same as or higher than the temperature during the curing of the preliminary polymer layer PFCL described above with reference to FIG. 3.

[0049] When the temperatures of the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 reach the first temperature T1, the forms of the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 change. The curvature of the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 decreases. As an example, in one embodiment, the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 become flat.

[0050] Next, when the light element OPC is turned off and the temperatures of the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 are decreased, the curvature of the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 increases again. The three-dimensional surface display device is restored to the form as shown in FIG. 7 again.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 8B, only the light element OPC in the second cell region CEL2 is selectively turned on, and the first light L1 is selectively incident only on the light absorption pattern PTR in the second cell region CEL2. Thereby, only the second cell region CEL2 is selectively heated to the first temperature T1.

[0052] When the temperature of the second cell region CEL reaches the first temperature T1, only the form of the second cell region CEL2 changes selectively. The curvature of the second cell region CEL2 decreases. As an example, in one embodiment, the second cell region CEL2 becomes flat. On the other hand, the forms of the first and third regions CEL1 and CEL3 are maintained without change.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 8C, the light element OPC in the second cell region CEL2 emits the first light L1, and the light element OPC in the third cell region CEL3 emits the second light L2. The intensity of the second light L2 is smaller than the intensity of the first light L1. The second cell region CEL2 is heated to the first temperature T1, and the third cell region CEL3 is heated to the second temperature T2. The second temperature T2 is smaller than the first temperature T1.

[0054] When the temperature of the second cell region CEL2 reaches the first temperature T1 and the temperature of the third cell region CEL3 reaches the second temperature T2, the forms of the second cell region CEL2 and the third cell region CEL3 change respectively. However, the change rates of the curvature of the second cell region CEL2 and the change rate of the curvature of the third cell region CEL3 can be different from each other. The change rate of the curvature of the second cell region CEL2 is greater than the change rate of the curvature of the third cell region CEL3.

[0055] As an example, the second cell region CEL2 becomes flat. The curvature of the third cell region CEL3 decreases, but still has a curved surface shape. The curvature of the third cell region CEL3 becomes smaller than the curvature of the first cell region CEL1.

[0056] The operation of the three-dimensional surface display device according to the present invention can embody various changes in the surface form by controlling the optical elements OPC differently for each cell region CEL. For example, the optical element OPC of the first cell region CEL1 is turned off, the optical element OPC of the second cell region CEL2 is applied with a strong light intensity, and the optical element OPC of the third cell region CEL3 is applied with a weak light intensity, so that the three-dimensional surface display device operates so that different shapes are embodied for each cell region CEL as shown in FIG. 8C.

[0057] According to another embodiment of the present invention, it further includes a polarizing filter disposed on the optical element OPC. The polarizing filter changes the irradiation form of the first light L1 emitted from the optical element OPC. For example, when the first light L1 is incident on the light absorption pattern PTR, it may have various shapes such as not only a circle but also a polygon (for example, a quadrilateral) shown in FIG. 6. Thereby, the form of the shape change of the cell region CEL can be changed in various ways.

[0058] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a three-dimensional surface display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the line A-A' in FIG. 6. In this embodiment, the description of the technical features overlapping with those described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 is omitted, and the differences will be described in detail.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 9, the three-dimensional display unit SSD further includes a shape deformation layer SDP provided on the polymer layer FCL. The shape deformation layer SDP is made of a flexible material such that its shape can be deformed. For example, the elastic modulus of the shape deformation layer SDP is from 0.1 MPa to 2,000 MPa.

[0060] The mechanical properties (e.g., Young's modulus or elastic modulus) of the shape deformation layer SDP change with temperature. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the shape deformation layer SDP changes reversibly. The form of the shape deformation layer SDP is restored reversibly.

[0061] The shape deformation layer SDP includes at least one selected from the group consisting of poly(tert-butyl acrylate) (PTBA), poly(tert-butyl acrylate)-g-poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PTBA-g-PDMS), tert-butyl acrylate copolymer, and stearyl acrylate polymer. As an example, the shape deformation layer SDP includes a shape memory polymer. By further including the shape deformation layer SDP, the three-dimensional display unit SSD according to this embodiment can further improve the shape memory characteristics.

[0062] FIGS. 10A to 10C are cross-sectional views for explaining the operation of the three-dimensional surface display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 10A, the first light L1 is emitted from the light elements OPC in the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, CEL3, and the first light L1 is incident on the light absorption patterns PTR in the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, CEL3, respectively.

[0064] The light absorption pattern PTR emits thermal energy in response to the incident first light L1. The thermal energy emitted from the light absorption pattern PTR raises the temperature of the cell region CEL. The temperatures in the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 rise to the first temperature T1 due to the thermal energy emitted from the light absorption pattern PTR.

[0065] As an example of the present invention, the first temperature T1 is greater than the softening temperature Ts of the shape deformation layer SDP. The first temperature T1 is greater than the temperature Th (i.e., the temperature at which thermal stress is applied) during the curing of the prepolymer layer PFCL in FIG. 3 (T1>Ts>Th).

[0066] When the temperatures of the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 reach the first temperature T1, the shape deformation layer SDP is softened. At the same time, due to the thermal history of the polymer layer FCL, the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 become flat.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 10B, the outputs of the optical elements OPC in the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 decrease. Each of the optical elements OPC emits a second light L2. The intensity of the second light L2 is smaller than the intensity of the first light L1.

[0068] Due to the second light L2, the temperatures in the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 decrease to the second temperature T2. As an example, the second temperature T2 is smaller than the above-described softening temperature Ts. The second temperature T2 is greater than the above-described thermal stress temperature Th (Ts>T2>Th).

[0069] When the temperatures of the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 reach the second temperature T2, the rigidity of the shape deformation layer SDP increases and recovers to its original rigidity. That is, the shape deformation layer SDP has high rigidity in a flat form.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 10C, the optical elements OPC in the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 are turned off to reduce the temperatures of the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3. The temperatures of the first to third cell regions CEL1, CEL2, and CEL3 reach room temperature. On the other hand, since the shape deformation layer SDP maintains a high rigidity in a flat form, the three-dimensional display unit SSD remains in a flat form as it is.

[0071] FIGS. 11A to 11C are cross-sectional views for explaining the operation of the three-dimensional surface display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 11A, only the optical element OPC in the second cell region CEL2 is selectively turned on, and the first light L1 is selectively incident only on the light absorption pattern PTR in the second cell region CEL2. Thereby, only the second cell region CEL2 is selectively heated to the first temperature T1. The first temperature satisfies the following relationship: T1>Ts>Th.

[0073] When the temperature of the second cell region CEL reaches the first temperature T1, only the form of the second cell region CEL2 changes selectively. The curvature of the second cell region CEL2 decreases. As an example, the second cell region CEL2 becomes flat. On the other hand, the forms of the first and third regions CEL1 and CEL3 are maintained without change.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 11B, the output of the optical element OPC in the second cell region CEL2 decreases. The optical element OPC emits the second light L2. The intensity of the second light L2 is smaller than the intensity of the first light L1. The temperature of the second cell region CEL2 decreases to the second temperature T2 by the second light L2. As an example, the second temperature T2 satisfies the following relationship: Ts>T2>Th.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 11C, the optical element OPC in the second cell region CEL2 is turned off to reduce the temperature of the second cell region CEL2. The temperature of the second cell region CEL2 reaches room temperature. On the other hand, the shape deformation layer SDP is maintained only in a flat form in the second cell region CEL2 as it is.

[0076] FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B are cross-sectional views for explaining the operation of a stereoscopic surface display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 12A, the stereoscopic display unit SSD further includes a heat dissipation layer HSP on the shape deformation layer SDP. The heat dissipation layer HSP includes a conductive polymer in which a phase change ionic gel or a solid electrolyte is formed. According to this embodiment, the thermal stress temperature Th of the polymer layer FCL is formed to be greater than the softening temperature Ts of the shape deformation layer SDP (Th>Ts).

[0078] The light element OPC in the second cell region CEL2 emits the first light L1, and the light element OPC in the third cell region CEL3 emits the second light L2. The intensity of the second light L2 is smaller than the intensity of the first light L1.

[0079] The temperature of the second cell region CEL2 increases to the first temperature T1 by the first light L1. The temperature of the third cell region CEL3 increases to the second temperature T2 by the second light L2. The second temperature T2 is smaller than the first temperature T1. The first temperature T1 satisfies the following relationship: T1>Th>Ts. The second temperature T2 satisfies the following relationship: Th>T2>Ts.

[0080] When the temperature of the second cell region CEL2 reaches the first temperature T1, the second cell region CEL2 becomes flat. When the temperature of the third cell region CEL3 reaches the second temperature T2, the curvature of the third cell region CEL3 decreases. The curvature of the third cell region CEL3 decreases, but still has a curved surface shape.

[0081] According to this embodiment, the curvature of the cell region CEL can be variously adjusted by adjusting the heating temperature of the cell region CEL. Also, it can be controlled to have different shapes (i.e., curvatures) for each cell region CEL.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 12B, the optical elements OPC in the second and third cell regions CEL2 and CEL3 are turned off to reduce the temperatures of the second and third cell regions CEL2 and CEL3. On the other hand, the shape of the three-dimensional display unit SSD is maintained in the same form as in FIG. 12A. The heat dissipation layer HSP according to the present embodiment is configured such that the temperature of the cell region CEL becomes lower than Ts within a short time after the optical element OPC is turned off. This helps to maintain the shape of the three-dimensional display unit SSD as it is.

[0083] FIG. 13 is a perspective view for explaining a braille display according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 13, the braille display includes the three-dimensional surface display device according to the present invention described above. By deforming the form of the three-dimensional display unit SSD in which the cell region has a curved surface shape, a reconfigurable braille display can be implemented.

[0084] Currently, the braille books that visually impaired people use to obtain information are large in volume, heavy, and limited in information capacity. Recently, tablet-shaped braille displays using actuators such as voice coils, motors, or magnets have been developed, but in the case of tablets, they are inconvenient to use during external activities and there is a risk of safety problems.

[0085] In contrast, the three-dimensional surface display device according to the present invention includes a plurality of protruding cells formed on the surface of a polymer film. Since the protruding cells have the property of memorizing their shapes at the molding temperature, they can be changed to a planar shape by irradiating light independently to each cell. As an example, as shown in FIG. 13, by irradiating light with the optical element OPC only to a specific region, a large-area braille cell structure can be implemented. The form of the cell is reversibly recoverable. The three-dimensional surface display device according to the present invention does not require a driving unit that occupies a large amount of power and a large space, and thus is thin, light, and easy to carry.

[0086] FIG. 14 is a perspective view for explaining a tangible display according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 14, the tangible display includes the three-dimensional surface display device according to the present invention described above.

[0087] The three-dimensional surface display device according to the present invention can adjust the change rate of curvature for each cell region to be different from each other by adjusting the output of the optical element OPC. Thereby, it can be adjusted so that each cell region of the three-dimensional display unit SSD has different heights and shapes from each other. That is, the present invention can implement a tangible display that represents the three-dimensional shape of an object.

[0088] The tangible display can provide the user with three-dimensional sensory information of digital content information, so that the user can experience relics at home without visiting the actual location, or experience the shape and texture of animals and plants. That is, the tangible display can provide high-dimensional information of an object.

[0089] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the attached drawings so far, those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains should be able to understand that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without changing its technical idea and essential features. Therefore, it should be understood that the above-described embodiments are exemplary in all respects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A light source unit including a plurality of light elements, A three-dimensional display unit above the light source unit, A three-dimensional surface display device including: The three-dimensional display unit includes: A polymer layer, A light absorption layer embedded in the polymer layer, And includes, The three-dimensional display unit includes a plurality of cell regions arranged two-dimensionally, The light absorption layer is disposed within the plurality of cell regions, The plurality of light elements are vertically superimposed on the plurality of cell regions respectively, Each of the plurality of cell regions has a three-dimensional shape, A three-dimensional surface display device.

2. The light absorption layer is configured to emit thermal energy in response to light emitted from a light element below it, The three-dimensional surface display device according to Claim 1.

3. Each of the plurality of cell regions is configured such that its curvature changes due to the thermal energy, The three-dimensional surface display device according to Claim 2.

4. The three-dimensional display unit further includes a shape deformation layer above the polymer layer, The shape deformation layer includes a shape memory polymer, The three-dimensional surface display device according to Claim 1.

5. The three-dimensional display unit further includes a heat dissipation layer above the shape deformation layer, The three-dimensional surface display device according to Claim 4.

6. Each of the plurality of cell regions has a shape memory characteristic due to a thermal history, The three-dimensional surface display device according to Claim 1.

7. The light elements are configured to be controlled independently of each other, The three-dimensional surface display device according to Claim 1.

8. The light absorption layer includes a plurality of light absorption patterns respectively disposed within the plurality of cell regions, Each of the plurality of cell regions has a curved surface shape at normal temperature and normal pressure, The three-dimensional surface display device according to Claim 1.

9. Forming a light source unit including a plurality of light elements and a three-dimensional display unit above the light source unit, Forming the light source unit includes forming a substrate and an optical element on the substrate, Forming the three-dimensional display unit includes: Forming a light absorption layer on a carrier substrate, Forming a preliminary polymer layer covering the light absorption layer on the carrier substrate, Curing the preliminary polymer layer to form a polymer layer, Peeling the carrier substrate from the light absorption layer and the polymer layer, And includes, In the formation of the three-dimensional display unit, the light absorption layer is embedded in the polymer layer, Hardening the preliminary polymer layer includes irradiating the preliminary polymer layer with first light, During the hardening process, the light absorption layer heats a region of the preliminary polymer layer to apply thermal stress, The region is hardened to have a three-dimensional shape by the thermal stress, Method for manufacturing a three-dimensional surface display device.

10. Hardening the preliminary polymer layer further includes irradiating the light absorption layer with second light, The first light is UV light, The second light is visible light or near-infrared light, Method for manufacturing the three-dimensional surface display device according to claim 9.

11. The region of the polymer layer has shape memory characteristics due to a thermal history, Method for manufacturing the three-dimensional surface display device according to claim 9.

12. In an operating method of a three-dimensional surface display device including a three-dimensional display unit having a curved first cell region and a light source unit, The three-dimensional display unit, A polymer layer, A light absorption layer embedded in the polymer layer, Including, The light absorption layer includes a first light absorption pattern disposed within the first cell region, The light source unit includes a first light element disposed under the first cell region, The operating method, Irradiating the first light absorption pattern with first light from the first light element, the step of the first light absorption pattern generating thermal energy upon receiving the first light, Heating the first cell region to a first temperature using the thermal energy, Reducing the curvature of the first cell region by the first temperature, Including, an operating method of a three-dimensional surface display device.

13. The three-dimensional display unit further has a curved second cell region, The light absorption layer further includes a second light absorption pattern disposed within the second cell region, The light source unit further includes a second light element disposed under the second cell region, The operating method, Irradiating the second light absorption pattern with second light from the second light element, the step of the second light absorption pattern generating thermal energy upon receiving the second light, Heating the second cell region to a second temperature using the thermal energy, Reducing the curvature of the second cell region by the second temperature, Further including, The intensity of the second light is less than the intensity of the first light, The second temperature is lower than the first temperature, The rate of change of the curvature of the second cell region is smaller than the rate of change of the curvature of the first cell region, The method of operating a three-dimensional surface display device according to claim 12.

14. The three-dimensional display unit further has a curved second cell region, The light absorption layer further includes a second light absorption pattern disposed within the second cell region, The light source unit further includes a second light element disposed under the second cell region, The operating method further includes a step of turning off the second light element while the first light element is on (On), The form of the second cell region is maintained as it is while the form of the first cell region changes, The method of operating a three-dimensional surface display device according to claim 12.

15. The three-dimensional display unit further includes a shape deformation layer on the polymer layer, The first temperature is higher than the softening temperature of the shape deformation layer, The operating method further includes a step of turning off the first light element to return the first cell region to room temperature, The first cell region maintains the deformed curvature even at room temperature, The method of operating a three-dimensional surface display device according to claim 12.

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