Liquid crystal composition, switchable display, and operation method
By using a liquid crystal composition with different refractive indices in the power-off and power-on states in the display, the viewing discomfort caused by the lens structure in 2D mode is solved, and fast switching and efficient display between 2D and 3D modes are achieved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- LEIA INC
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-16
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-30
AI Technical Summary
Existing displays cause viewing discomfort for users in 2D mode due to the visible lens structure, making it difficult to achieve excellent 2D and 3D display effects simultaneously.
The liquid crystal composition has a first refractive index range of 1.50+/-0.15 in the power-off state and a second refractive index range of 1.60+/-0.15 in the power-on state. By matching with the lens layer, it can achieve rapid switching between 2D and 3D modes and avoid the influence of the lens structure on 2D display.
It enables quick switching between 2D and multi-view (3D) modes, displays excellent 2D and multi-view (3D) performance, avoids the influence of lens structure in 2D mode, and maintains high-resolution 2D display performance.
Smart Images

Figure CN2025128137_30042026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Liquid crystal composition, switchable display and operating method
[0001] Cross-reference to related applications
[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411492244.6, filed on October 24, 2024, entitled "Liquid Crystal Composition, Switchable Display, and Method of Operation". The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0003] This invention relates to the field of optical display technology, and in particular to a liquid crystal composition, a 2D / multi-view switchable display, and a method for operating the 2D / multi-view switchable display. Background Technology
[0004] Electronic displays are virtually ubiquitous media used to transmit information to users of various devices and products. Displays are known to use lens devices as imaging devices; for example, a lens can direct two-dimensional image blocks from associated display pixels to the user's left and right eyes respectively, allowing the user to view a single stereoscopic image. To enable a display to display both two-dimensional (2D) image content (2D display mode) and three-dimensional (3D) image content (3D display mode), electrically switchable lens arrays can be used. For displaying both 2D and 3D image content, the electrically switchable lens array is formed of an electro-optical material (e.g., liquid crystal) that can switch between different refractive indices.
[0005] However, in current displays, there may be visible lens structures when displaying 2D content, which can cause discomfort for users viewing in 2D mode. Summary of the Invention
[0006] The present invention was made in view of the above problems. The present invention provides a liquid crystal composition for a two-dimensional (2D) / multi-view switchable display, the liquid crystal composition comprising: having a first refractive index in a power-off state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50 + / - 0.15; and having a second refractive index in a power-on state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60 + / - 0.15.
[0007] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition includes: one or more compounds for providing a first refractive index range in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; one or more compounds for providing electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition; and / or one or more compounds for adjusting the performance of the liquid crystal composition within an applied temperature range.
[0008] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition includes:
[0009] Compounds with a weight percentage of 40-50:
[0010] Wherein, R1 is one of CH2=CH-, CH3-CH2=CH-, and C2H5-CH2=CH-, and R2 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, and C4H9-; and
[0011] Compounds with a weight percentage of 10-20:
[0012] Among them, R3 is or And R4 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, or C4H9-.
[0013] In some embodiments, the compound is 40-50% by weight. The compound is used to provide a first refractive index range in the power-off state and a second refractive index range in the power-on state of the liquid crystal composition; the compound is in the weight percentage range of 10-20. Used to provide electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition.
[0014] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition comprises 40-50% by weight of (trans, trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane and 10-20% by weight of 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexane.
[0015] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition further comprises at least one of the following: 5-15% by weight of [trans(trans)]-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexane]-4-yl)benzene, 5-15% by weight of (trans,trans)-4-(1E)-1-propenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane, 5-15% by weight of 4”-ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl, 5-15% by weight of 4-propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl, and 5-15% by weight of 4-ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl.
[0016] The present invention provides a liquid crystal display device comprising the liquid crystal composition as described in any of the preceding claims.
[0017] This invention provides a two-dimensional (2D) / multi-view switchable display, comprising: a display panel configured to provide pixels for a composite image, the composite image including multi-view image content and 2D image content; a lens device including a lens layer and a liquid crystal layer, the liquid crystal layer being filled with a liquid crystal composition, wherein the liquid crystal composition has a first refractive index in a power-off state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50 + / - 0.15; and the liquid crystal composition has a second refractive index in a power-on state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60 + / - 0.15.
[0018] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition includes: one or more compounds for providing a first refractive index range in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; one or more compounds for providing electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition; and / or one or more compounds for adjusting the performance of the liquid crystal composition within an applied temperature range.
[0019] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition comprises: a compound in a weight percentage of 40-50:
[0020] Wherein, R1 is one of CH2=CH-, CH3-CH2=CH-, and C2H5-CH2=CH-, and R2 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, and C4H9-; and
[0021] Compounds with a weight percentage of 10-20:
[0022] Among them, R3 is or And R4 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, or C4H9-.
[0023] In some embodiments, the compound is 40-50% by weight. The compound is used to provide a first refractive index range in the power-off state and a second refractive index range in the power-on state of the liquid crystal composition; the compound is in the weight percentage range of 10-20. Used to provide electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition.
[0024] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition comprises 40-50% by weight of (trans, trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane and 10-20% by weight of 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexane.
[0025] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition further comprises at least one of the following: 5-15% by weight of [trans(trans)]-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexane]-4-yl)benzene, 5-15% by weight of (trans,trans)-4-(1E)-1-propenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane, 5-15% by weight of 4”-ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl, 5-15% by weight of 4-propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl, and 5-15% by weight of 4-ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl.
[0026] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal layer is configured to: adjust the liquid crystal composition to match the first refractive index when the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel; and adjust the liquid crystal composition to match the second refractive index when the multi-view image content is displayed on the display panel.
[0027] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal layer is configured such that: when the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the second refractive index; and when the multi-view image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the first refractive index.
[0028] In some embodiments, the lens layer includes a lens array consisting of fixed lenses.
[0029] In some embodiments, the lens layer in the lens device is located between the display panel and the liquid crystal layer in the lens device.
[0030] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal layer in the lens device is located between the display panel and the lens layer in the lens device.
[0031] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal layer includes electrodes, the electrodes including an upper electrode and a lower electrode, the upper electrode and the lower electrode being configured to apply a voltage or deliver a current to the liquid crystal layer.
[0032] In some embodiments, the 2D / multi-view switchable display includes a switching controller configured to control the power-on and power-off states of the liquid crystal layer.
[0033] This invention provides a method for operating a two-dimensional (2D) / multi-view switchable display, comprising: a display panel configured to provide pixels for a composite image, the composite image including multi-view image content and two-dimensional (2D) image content; a lens device including a lens layer and a liquid crystal layer, the liquid crystal layer being filled with a liquid crystal composition, wherein the liquid crystal composition has a first refractive index in a power-off state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50 + / - 0.15; and the liquid crystal composition has a second refractive index in a power-on state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60 + / - 0.15, wherein the method comprises: adjusting the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition to match the first refractive index when the display panel displays the 2D image content; and adjusting the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition to match the second refractive index when the display panel displays the multi-view image content; or adjusting the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition to match the second refractive index when the display panel displays the 2D image content; and adjusting the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition to match the first refractive index when the display panel displays the multi-view image content.
[0034] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition includes: one or more compounds for providing a first refractive index range in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; one or more compounds for providing electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition; and / or one or more compounds for adjusting the performance of the liquid crystal composition within an applied temperature range.
[0035] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition comprises: a compound in a weight percentage of 40-50:
[0036] Wherein, R1 is one of CH2=CH-, CH3-CH2=CH-, and C2H5-CH2=CH-, and R2 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, and C4H9-; and
[0037] Compounds with a weight percentage of 10-20:
[0038] Among them, R3 is or And R4 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, or C4H9-.
[0039] In some embodiments, the compound is 40-50% by weight. The compound is used to provide a first refractive index range in the power-off state and a second refractive index range in the power-on state of the liquid crystal composition; the compound is in the weight percentage range of 10-20. Used to provide electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition.
[0040] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition comprises 40-50% by weight of (trans, trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane and 10-20% by weight of 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexane.
[0041] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition further comprises at least one of the following: 5-15% by weight of [trans(trans)]-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexane]-4-yl)benzene, 5-15% by weight of (trans,trans)-4-(1E)-1-propenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane, 5-15% by weight of 4”-ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl, 5-15% by weight of 4-propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl, and 5-15% by weight of 4-ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl.
[0042] In some embodiments, the lens layer includes a lens array consisting of fixed lenses.
[0043] In some embodiments, the lens layer in the lens device is located between the display panel and the liquid crystal layer in the lens device.
[0044] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal layer in the lens device is located between the display panel and the lens layer in the lens device.
[0045] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal layer includes electrodes, the electrodes including an upper electrode and a lower electrode; the method further includes applying a voltage or delivering a current to the liquid crystal layer through the upper electrode and the lower electrode.
[0046] In some embodiments, the 2D / multi-view switchable display includes a switching controller; the method further includes controlling the power-on and power-off states of the liquid crystal layer through the switching controller.
[0047] The liquid crystal composition, 2D / multi-view switchable display, and method of operating the 2D / multi-view switchable display provided by the present invention can achieve excellent 2D and multi-view (3D) performance when switching between 2D and multi-view (3D) displays, and can quickly switch between 2D and multi-view (3D) modes and achieve excellent 2D display performance. Attached Figure Description
[0048] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a 2D / multi-view switchable display according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0049] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of another 2D / multi-view switchable display according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0050] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a 2D / multi-view switchable display in a power-off state according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0051] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a 2D / multi-view switchable display in a powered-on state according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0052] Figure 5 shows a flowchart of a method for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0053] Figure 6 shows a flowchart of a method for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation
[0054] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While some embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be noted that the invention can be implemented in various other forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein.
[0055] Conversely, these embodiments are provided to provide a more thorough and complete understanding of the invention. It should be noted that the accompanying drawings and embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the invention.
[0056] It should be noted that the term "comprising" and its variations as used herein are open-ended, meaning "including but not limited to". The term "based on" means "at least partially based on". The term "one embodiment" means "at least one embodiment"; the term "another embodiment" means "at least one additional embodiment"; the term "some embodiments" means "at least some embodiments". Definitions of other terms will be given in the following description.
[0057] It should also be noted that the concepts of "first" and "second" mentioned in this invention are only used to distinguish different devices, modules or units, and are not used to limit the order of functions performed by these devices, modules or units or their interdependencies.
[0058] The examples and embodiments described herein provide liquid crystal compositions, 2D / multi-view switchable displays, and methods for operating 2D / multi-view switchable displays for displaying two-dimensional (2D), multi-view, or three-dimensional (3D) images, as well as 2D / multi-view hybrid images with mixed content. Specifically, liquid crystal compositions as described in the embodiments of the invention can be employed, and 2D / multi-view switchable displays having liquid crystal compositions and methods of operation thereof can be utilized to provide images having a combination of 2D-only content, multi-view-only content, or 2D / multi-view hybrid content by turning individual lens elements on and off. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, the 2D / multi-view hybrid mode may include one or both of partitioned hybridization and temporal hybridization to provide 2D / 3D hybrid images.
[0059] According to various embodiments, the multi-view mode of a 2D / multi-view switchable display can provide so-called "glasses-free" or autostereoscopic images, while the 2D mode can facilitate the presentation of 2D information or content at a relatively higher original resolution than that available in the multi-view mode, especially in cases where 2D information or content does not include or benefits from a third dimension. Thus, a composite image provided by time-division multiplexing and / or region multiplexing of 2D and multi-view modes can simultaneously provide high-resolution 2D and slightly lower-resolution multi-view or 3D content in the same image or on the same display. Uses of the 2D / multi-view switchable display employing this liquid crystal composition described herein include, but are not limited to, mobile phones (e.g., smartphones), watches, tablet computers, mobile computers (e.g., laptop computers), personal computers and computer monitors, automotive display consoles, camera displays, and various other mobile and substantially non-mobile display applications and devices.
[0060] In this invention, a "two-dimensional (2D) display" or an equivalent multi-mode display's 2D mode is defined as a display or mode configured to provide substantially the same image view regardless of the viewing direction (i.e., within a predetermined viewing angle or range of the 2D display or 2D mode). Conventional liquid crystal displays (LCDs) found in many smartphones and computer monitors are examples of 2D displays. In contrast, herein, a "multi-view display" or an equivalent multi-mode display's multi-view mode is defined as a display mode of an electronic display, display system, or multi-mode display configured to provide different views of a multi-view image from different viewing angles. Specifically, the different views can represent different perspective views of a scene or object in the multi-view image. In some cases, a multi-view display or multi-view mode may also be referred to as a three-dimensional (3D) display or 3D mode, for example, providing the perception of viewing a three-dimensional image when two different views of a multi-view image are viewed simultaneously.
[0061] In this document, the term "multi-view," as used in the terms "multi-view image," "multi-view display," and "multi-view mode," is defined as representing multiple views from different perspectives or multiple views including angular parallax between views. Furthermore, by definition herein, the term "multi-view" explicitly includes two or more different views (i.e., at least three views, and typically more than three views). Therefore, "multi-view display" and "multi-view mode," as used herein, are explicitly distinguished from stereoscopic displays or stereoscopic modes that include only two different views to represent a scene or image. However, it should be noted that while multi-view images and multi-view displays may include more than two views, by definition herein, a multi-view image can be viewed as a pair of stereoscopic images (e.g., on a multi-view display) by selecting only two views from the multi-view image at a time (e.g., one view per eye).
[0062] In this document, "light source" is defined as a light source (e.g., an optical emitter configured to generate and emit light). For example, a light source may include an optical emitter such as a light-emitting diode (LED) that emits light when activated or turned on. Specifically, a light source as used herein can be substantially any light source or substantially includes any optical emitter, including but not limited to one or more of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), lasers, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), polymer light-emitting diodes, plasma-based optical emitters, fluorescent lamps, incandescent lamps, and virtually any other light source. The light generated by a light source may have a color (i.e., may include light of a specific wavelength) or may be a range of wavelengths (e.g., white light). In some embodiments, a light source may include multiple optical emitters. For example, a light source may include a collection or group of optical emitters, wherein at least one light emitter generates light having a color or wavelength different from the light generated by at least one other optical emitter in that collection or group. For example, different colors may include primary colors (e.g., red, green, blue).
[0063] In this paper, a "multi-view image" is defined as a collection of multiple images (i.e., more than three images), where each image represents a different view corresponding to a different viewing direction. Therefore, a multi-view image is a collection of images (e.g., two-dimensional images) that, when displayed on a multi-view display or during the multi-view mode of a multi-modal display, can, for example, facilitate the perception of depth, thus appearing to the viewer as a 3D scene. A multi-view image that provides pairs of views representing different but relevant viewpoints consistent with the 3D scene viewed by the viewer is defined as a 3D image.
[0064] Embodiments consistent with the principles described herein can be implemented using a variety of devices and circuits, firmware, software (such as program modules or instruction sets), and combinations of two or more of the foregoing. These devices and circuits include, but are not limited to, one or more of integrated circuits (ICs), very large-scale integrated circuits (VLSI), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), graphics processing units (GPUs), etc. For example, embodiments or elements thereof can be implemented as circuit elements within ASIC or VLSI circuits. Implementations employing ASIC or VLSI circuits are examples of hardware-based circuit implementations.
[0065] In another example, the embodiment can be implemented as software using a computer programming language (e.g., C / C++) in an operating environment or a software-based modeling environment (e.g., MathWorks, Nattic, Massachusetts). The software-based modeling environment is executed within a computer (e.g., stored in memory and executed by a general-purpose computer's processor or graphics processor). Note that one or more computer programs or software may constitute a computer program mechanism, and programming languages may be compiled or interpreted, for example, configurable or customizable (which are used interchangeably in this discussion), to be executed by a computer's processor or graphics processor.
[0066] In yet another example, blocks, modules, or elements of the apparatus, devices, or systems described herein (e.g., image processors, cameras, etc.) may be implemented using actual or physical circuitry (e.g., as ICs or ASICs), while other blocks, modules, or elements may be implemented using software or firmware. Specifically, as defined herein, some embodiments may be implemented using substantially hardware-based circuitry or devices (e.g., ICs, VLSIs, ASICs, FPGAs, DSPs, firmware, etc.), while other embodiments may be implemented as software or firmware using a computer processor or graphics processor to execute software, or as a combination of software or firmware and hardware-based circuitry.
[0067] Furthermore, as used herein, the article “a(a)” is intended to have its common meaning in the field of patent technology, namely, “one or more.” For example, “lens” refers to one or more lenses, and therefore, “the lens” in this document means “the one lens or the plurality of lenses.” Additionally, any references to “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “above,” “below,” “front,” “rear,” “first,” “second,” “left,” or “right” herein are not intended to be limiting. In this document, the term “about” when applied to a value generally refers to within the tolerance range of the equipment used to produce that value, or may refer to ±10%, ±5%, or ±1%, unless expressly stated otherwise. Furthermore, the term “substantially” as used herein means a quantity ranging from about 51% to about 100%. Moreover, the examples in this document are intended to be illustrative only and are presented for discussion purposes rather than in a limiting manner.
[0068] In current displays, lens devices can be used as imaging devices. For example, a lens can guide two-dimensional image blocks from associated display pixels to the user's left and right eyes respectively, allowing the user to view a single stereoscopic image. To enable a display to display both two-dimensional (2D) image content (2D display mode) and three-dimensional (3D) image content (3D display mode), an electrically switchable lens array can be used. For displaying both 2D and 3D image content, the electrically switchable lens array is formed of an electro-optical material (e.g., liquid crystal) that can switch between different refractive indices. However, in current displays, the visible lens structure may exist when displaying 2D content, which can cause discomfort for the user when viewing in 2D mode.
[0069] To address the above problems, the present invention provides a liquid crystal composition that can be used in a two-dimensional (2D) / multi-view switchable display. The liquid crystal composition includes: a first refractive index in a power-off state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50 + / - 0.15; and a second refractive index in a power-on state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60 + / - 0.15.
[0070] According to embodiments of the present invention, the liquid crystal composition having different refractive indices in the power-on and power-off states can be used as a liquid crystal layer in a lens device in a 2D / multi-view switchable display, and can be matched with the lens layer in the lens device to achieve corresponding display effects. In one example, in the 2D mode of the 2D / multi-view switchable display, the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal composition in the power-off state can be matched with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer, achieving Ne-Ng = + / -0.05. In this case, in the 2D mode, the lens device will not affect the 2D performance or will only slightly affect it, while still displaying very good multi-view (3D) display performance. Furthermore, in the multi-view mode of the 2D / multi-view switchable display, the second refractive index No of the liquid crystal composition in the power-on state can be matched with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer, achieving No-Ng in the range of + / -0.1 to 0.25, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content. Furthermore, in another example, in the 2D mode of a 2D / multi-view switchable display, the second refractive index No of the liquid crystal composition in the powered-on state can be matched with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer, achieving No-Ng = + / -0.05. In this case, in the 2D mode, the lens device will not affect the 2D performance or will only slightly affect it, while still displaying very good multi-view (3D) display performance. Additionally, in the multi-view mode of the 2D / multi-view switchable display, the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal composition in the powered-off state can be matched with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer, achieving Ne-Ng within the range of + / -0.1 to 0.25, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content. In this embodiment of the invention, the lens layer in the lens device achieves a lens structure by filling with lens adhesive. The refractive index Ng of the lens layer can vary within, for example, 1.50 + / -0.15 or 1.60 + / -0.15, and can be adapted to the liquid crystal composition according to the different power-on / off states described above.
[0071] Based on this, the liquid crystal composition described above in the embodiments of the present invention can be matched with the lens layer in the lens device to achieve excellent 2D and multi-view (3D) display performance, and can quickly switch between 2D and multi-view (3D) modes (the response time from 2D to multi-view (3D) can be achieved within 10ms, and the response time from multi-view (3D) to 2D can be achieved within 2s). There are only very slight stripes (such as moiré stripes) in both 2D and multi-view (3D) display modes, avoiding the lens structure visible in 2D mode, and hardly affecting the 2D display performance.
[0072] In one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal composition may include: one or more compounds for providing a first refractive index range in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; one or more compounds for providing electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition; and / or one or more compounds for adjusting the performance of the liquid crystal composition within an applied temperature range. When using the liquid crystal composition, its optical index typically changes with ambient temperature. By optimizing the structure of each component of the liquid crystal composition, the temperature dependence of its optical anisotropy can be optimized, resulting in better performance within a defined temperature range. In this case, the liquid crystal display, its liquid crystal composition, and all other critical components require careful adjustment and optimization to achieve good display performance.
[0073] To achieve the liquid crystal composition having different refractive indices under energized and de-energized states, optionally, in some embodiments of the invention, the liquid crystal composition may include:
[0074] Compounds with a weight percentage of 40-50:
[0075] Wherein, R1 is one of CH2=CH-, CH3-CH2=CH-, and C2H5-CH2=CH-, and R2 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, and C4H9-; and
[0076] Compounds with a weight percentage of 10-20:
[0077] Among them, R3 is or And R4 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, or C4H9-.
[0078] By providing the above-mentioned components, a liquid crystal composition can be formed by reacting a compound with a weight percentage of 40-50%. The liquid crystal composition is provided with a first refractive index range in the power-off state and a second refractive index range in the power-on state to achieve good optical refractive index anisotropy, and with a compound of 10-20% by weight. Achieve good electrical anisotropy.
[0079] Optionally, in some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition may include: (trans,trans)-4-ethenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexyl in a weight percentage of 40-50, and 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexyl in a weight percentage of 10-20. (trans,trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexyl (40-50% by weight) can provide the liquid crystal composition with a first refractive index range in the de-energized state and a second refractive index range in the energized state, while 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexyl (10-20% by weight) can provide the electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition.
[0080] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal composition further comprises at least one of the following: 5-15% by weight of [trans-1-Methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexyl]-4-yl]benzene, and 5-15% by weight of (trans-4-(1E)-1-propenyl-4'- propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexyl ((trans,trans)-4-(1E)-1-Propenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexyl), 4"-ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (5-15% by weight), 4"-ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (5-15% by weight). ',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl, and 4-ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl in weight percentages of 5-15%. A fraction of 5-15% [trans(trans)-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexyl]-4-yl]benzene helps to adjust the temperature range applied to the liquid crystal composition, for example, a temperature range from -20 degrees to 70 degrees, or a temperature range from -30 degrees to 80 degrees, can be applied to the liquid crystal composition.Alternatively, 4"-Ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (5-15% by weight) and 4"-Propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (5-15% by weight) may also be used. The presence of 4-ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (in weight percentages of 5-15) and 4"-Ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl also contributes to achieving good electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition, while also improving the high-temperature performance of the liquid crystal composition to obtain a higher clearing point.
[0081] The above descriptions of the specific components and weight percentages of the liquid crystal composition are merely examples. The liquid crystal composition may consist only of the above-mentioned components, such that the sum of the weight percentages of each component is 100. Furthermore, the liquid crystal composition may also include other components beyond these. In this embodiment of the invention, any liquid crystal composition capable of achieving a first refractive index in the power-off state and a second refractive index in the power-on state can be used, without limitation. In the liquid crystal composition composed of the above components, the first refractive index may be present in the power-off state, with a range of 1.50 + / - 0.15, optionally, the range of the first refractive index may be 1.489 + / - 0.1; and the second refractive index may be present in the power-on state, with a range of 1.60 + / - 0.15, optionally, the range of the second refractive index may be 1.605 + / - 0.01.
[0082] The liquid crystal composition provided according to embodiments of the present invention can achieve excellent 2D and multi-view (3D) performance when switching between 2D and multi-view (3D) displays, and can quickly switch between 2D and multi-view (3D) modes and achieve excellent 2D display performance.
[0083] According to embodiments of the present invention, a liquid crystal display device is also provided, comprising the liquid crystal composition described above. This liquid crystal display device can be used for 2D and multi-view (3D) switching displays.
[0084] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a 2D / multi-view switchable display is also provided. FIG1 shows a schematic structural diagram of a 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG1, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 may include: a display panel 110 configured to provide pixels for a composite image, the composite image including multi-view (3D) image content and two-dimensional (2D) image content; a lens device 120, the lens device 120 including a lens layer 121 and a liquid crystal layer 122, the liquid crystal layer 122 being filled with a liquid crystal composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid crystal composition has a first refractive index in a power-off state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50+ / -0.15; and the liquid crystal composition has a second refractive index in a power-on state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60+ / -0.15. Optionally, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 in FIG1 may further include a lower glass substrate 131 below the lens device 120 and an upper glass substrate 132 above the lens device 120.
[0085] In an embodiment of the invention, the display panel 110 may optionally include a backlight configured to generate light and a light valve array (not shown) of pixels configured to modulate the light emitted by the backlight to provide an image (e.g., to synthesize an image). In other embodiments, other suitable configurations may also be used for the display panel 110, such as a direct illumination display, including but not limited to an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.
[0086] In embodiments employing backlighting, the backlight may be configured to emit light (such as white light) over a range of propagation angles. In some embodiments, the propagation angle range may include a continuous range of propagation angles extending across an angular viewing range spanning the display panel 110. According to various embodiments, the backlight may include a light source capable of producing white light or having a specified spectral profile, such as one or more light-emitting diodes. In some embodiments, the backlight may include a light guide configured to propagate light away from the light source. The light guide may direct light out of the light guide at a specified surface area of its emitting surface.
[0087] In one embodiment of the invention, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 may further include a light valve array. The light valve array is configured to modulate light from a backlight to provide an image. In various embodiments, the light valve array may include, but is not limited to, liquid crystal light valves, electrophoretic light valves, electrowetting-based light valves, or other suitable mechanisms for modulating light. In some embodiments, the light valve array may include independently controllable light valves disposed on a substrate.
[0088] According to various embodiments, display panel 110 can be configured to provide pixels of a composite image. In various embodiments, the composite image can include both multi-view image content and two-dimensional (2D) image content. Combining multi-view image content and 2D image content onto the same display panel 110 can allow the 2D image content to be rendered at a higher resolution than the multi-view image content. For example, in an embodiment of display panel 110 that produces four views of multi-view image content, the resolution of the multi-view image content may be four times smaller than the resolution of the 2D image content. As a particular example, the composite image can include an image of a person and captions including text, so that the viewer can observe various different views of the person as the viewer moves within the field of view of display panel 110. In this example, the 2D image content can include captions with text that can remain unchanged as the viewer moves within the field of view of display panel 110 (e.g., having only a single view). In the example presented above, display panel 110 can render captions with a higher resolution than the image of the person, which can improve the readability of the caption text.
[0089] The embodiment shown in FIG1 may include a lens device 120, which may include a lens layer 121 and a liquid crystal layer 122, the liquid crystal layer 122 being filled with a liquid crystal composition according to any of the preceding claims. The lens layer 121 may include a plurality of fixed lenses as lens elements, which may form a lens array. The lens array may include a one-dimensional (1D) array of cylindrical lenses arranged parallel to each other. The cylindrical lenses may extend in a vertical direction (such as along the X direction in FIG1) and may direct light into multiple views of a multi-view image. The individual views may be horizontally adjacent to each other (such as having adjacent positions along the Y direction in FIG1). In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be semi-cylindrical lenses. In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be convex cylindrical lenses, concave cylindrical lenses, or lenses of any other suitable shape.
[0090] In other embodiments, the lens array may comprise a two-dimensional array of lenses. In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be rotationally symmetric lenses, such as lenses symmetric about the longitudinal axis of the lens. In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be rotationally asymmetric lenses, such as anamorphic lenses. The anamorphic lens may have a first focal length along a first direction (such as along the X direction in FIG1) and a second focal length along a second direction (such as along the Y direction in FIG1), the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction. In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be spherical lens elements or aspherical lens elements.
[0091] In an embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 may be filled with a liquid crystal composition according to any of the foregoing contents, the liquid crystal composition having a first refractive index in the power-off state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50+ / -0.15; and the liquid crystal composition having a second refractive index in the power-on state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60+ / -0.15.
[0092] In one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal composition may include: one or more compounds for providing a first refractive index range in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; one or more compounds for providing electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition; and / or one or more compounds for adjusting the performance of the liquid crystal composition within an applied temperature range. When using the liquid crystal composition, its optical index typically changes with ambient temperature. By optimizing the structure of each component of the liquid crystal composition, the temperature dependence of its optical anisotropy can be optimized, resulting in better performance within a defined temperature range. In this case, the liquid crystal display, its liquid crystal composition, and all other critical components require careful adjustment and optimization to achieve good display performance.
[0093] In a liquid crystal composition comprising one or more of the following components: 40-50% by weight of (trans,trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexyl, and 10-20% by weight of 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexyl. l); or further comprising a liquid crystal composition consisting of one or more of the following: 5-15% by weight of [trans(trans)-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexyl]-4-yl]benzene, and 5-15% by weight of (trans,trans)-4-(1E)-1-propenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexyl ((trans,trans)-4-(1E)-1-Propenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexyl) 4"-Ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (5-15% by weight), and 4"-Propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (5-15% by weight). The 4-ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (5-15%) has a first refractive index in the de-energized state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50 + / - 0.15, optionally in the range of 1.489 + / - 0.1; and in the energized state, it has a second refractive index in the range of 1.60 + / - 0.15, optionally in the range of 1.605 + / - 0.01.
[0094] (trans,trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexyl (40-50% by weight) can provide the liquid crystal composition with a first refractive index range in the de-energized state and a second refractive index range in the energized state, while 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexyl (10-20% by weight) can provide the electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition.
[0095] Furthermore, 5-15% by weight of [trans-1-Methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexyl]-4-yl]benzene helps to adjust the temperature range applied to the liquid crystal composition, for example, a temperature range from -20°C to 70°C, or a temperature range from -30°C to 80°C, can be applied to the liquid crystal composition. Additionally, optionally, 5-15% by weight of 4"-Ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (4"-Ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1") The presence of 4-propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (by weight 5-15%), 4-propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (by weight 5-15%), and 4-ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (by weight 5-15%) also contributes to achieving good electrical anisotropy in the liquid crystal composition. Furthermore, it improves the high-temperature performance of the liquid crystal composition to achieve a higher clearing point.
[0096] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the liquid crystal composition having different refractive indices in the powered-on and powered-off states can serve as the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 of a 2D / multi-view switchable display, and match with the lens layer 121 in the lens device 120 to achieve corresponding display effects. In one example, in the 2D mode of the 2D / multi-view switchable display, the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal composition in the powered-off state can match the refractive index Ng of the lens layer 121, achieving Ne-Ng = + / -0.05. In this case, in the 2D mode, the lens device 120 will not have or only slightly affect the 2D performance, while still displaying very good multi-view (3D) display performance. Furthermore, in the multi-view mode of the 2D / multi-view switchable display, the second refractive index No of the liquid crystal composition in the powered-on state can achieve No-Ng in the range of + / -0.1 to 0.25, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content. Furthermore, in another example, in the 2D mode of a 2D / multi-view switchable display, the second refractive index No of the liquid crystal composition in the powered-on state can be matched with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer, achieving No-Ng = + / -0.05. In this case, in the 2D mode, the lens device will not affect the 2D performance or will only slightly affect it, while still displaying very good multi-view (3D) display performance. Additionally, in the multi-view mode of the 2D / multi-view switchable display, the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal composition in the powered-off state can be matched with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer, achieving Ne-Ng within the range of + / -0.1 to 0.25, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content. In this embodiment of the invention, the lens layer in the lens device achieves a lens structure by filling with lens adhesive. The refractive index Ng of the lens layer can vary within, for example, 1.50 + / -0.15 or 1.60 + / -0.15, and can be adapted to the liquid crystal composition according to the different power-on / off states described above.
[0097] According to the embodiment shown in FIG1, the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 may be located between the display panel 110 and the lens layer 121 in the lens device 120. Furthermore, FIG2 shows a schematic structural diagram of another 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the example shown in FIG2, the lens layer 121 in the lens device 120 may be located between the display panel 110 and the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120, and the remaining structure and function are similar to the example shown in FIG1.
[0098] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 may include electrodes, including an upper electrode and a lower electrode, which are configured to apply voltage or deliver current to the liquid crystal layer 122. In some embodiments, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 further includes a switching controller. The switching controller may be configured to control the energized and de-energized states of the liquid crystal layer 122. For example, the switching controller may provide at least one of voltage or current to the liquid crystal layer 122 to control the liquid crystal composition filled in the liquid crystal layer 122 to switch between a first refractive index range of 1.50 + / - 0.15 in the de-energized state and a second refractive index range of 1.60 + / - 0.15 in the energized state. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the lower glass substrate 131 of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 may be energized to provide voltage or current, while the upper glass substrate 132 may be grounded to serve as the upper and lower electrodes of the liquid crystal layer 122, respectively.
[0099] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal layer can be configured such that: when the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the first refractive index; and when the multi-view image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the second refractive index.
[0100] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal layer can be configured such that: when the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the second refractive index; and when the multi-view image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the first refractive index.
[0101] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 in a power-off state according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 3, the switching controller of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 controls the liquid crystal layer 122 to be in a power-off state, which has a first refractive index range of 1.50 + / - 0.15. At this time, no voltage / current is applied to the liquid crystal layer 122. In one example, the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal layer 122 in the power-off state can be matched with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer 121, achieving Ne - Ng = + / - 0.05, the lens layer 121 does not produce refraction, and the liquid crystal layer 122 and the lens layer 121 are homogeneously distributed. In this example, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 can be in 2D display mode. In another example, the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal layer 122 in the power-off state can be such that Ne-Ng is within the range of + / -0.1 to 0.25 with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer 121, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content. Light from the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 can be refracted at the interface between the lens layer 121 and the liquid crystal layer 122. In this example, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 is in multi-view (3D) display mode. In this embodiment of the invention, the lens layer in the lens device achieves a lens structure by filling with lens adhesive. The refractive index Ng of the lens layer can vary within, for example, 1.50 + / -0.15 or 1.60 + / -0.15, and can be adapted to the liquid crystal composition according to the different power-on / off states of the liquid crystal composition.
[0102] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 in a powered-on state according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 4, the switching controller of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 controls the liquid crystal layer 122 to be in a powered-on state, which may have a second refractive index range of 1.60 + / - 0.15. At this time, a voltage / current is applied to the liquid crystal layer 122. In one example, the second refractive index No of the liquid crystal layer 122 in the powered-on state can be matched with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer 121, achieving No - Ng = + / - 0.05, the lens layer 121 does not produce refraction, and the liquid crystal layer 122 and the lens layer 121 are homogeneously distributed. In this example, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 can be in 2D display mode. In another example, the second refractive index No of the liquid crystal layer 122 in the energized state can be such that No-Ng is within the range of + / -0.1 to 0.25, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content, wherein light from the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 can be refracted at the interface between the lens layer 121 and the liquid crystal layer 122. In this example, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 is in multi-view (3D) display mode. In this embodiment of the invention, the lens layer in the lens device achieves a lens structure by filling with lens adhesive, and the refractive index Ng of the lens layer can vary within, for example, 1.50 + / -0.15 or 1.60 + / -0.15, and can be adapted to the liquid crystal composition according to the different power-on / off modes of the liquid crystal composition.
[0103] The power-off and power-on states and corresponding image display modes of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 shown in Figures 3 and 4 above are based on the structural embodiment of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 shown in Figure 1. Furthermore, the power-off and power-on states of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 can be similarly implemented for the structure of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 shown in Figure 2, and different display modes for 2D and multi-view (3D) can be implemented accordingly.
[0104] In some embodiments, the 2D / multi-view switchable lens display 100 may further include a controller. In various embodiments, the controller may be configured to provide video image signals or still image signals to a light valve array. The video image signals or still image signals may include data corresponding to a video image or still image that may be displayed on the 2D / multi-view switchable lens display 100. The controller may be connected wirelessly or via a wired connection to receive video image signals or still image signals from a server or network. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to provide a separate video image signal or a separate still image signal for each viewing direction of the 2D / multi-view switchable lens display 100. In some embodiments, the controller may also control a switching controller or a light source in the backlight.
[0105] The 2D / multi-view switchable display provided by the embodiments of the present invention can achieve excellent 2D and multi-view (3D) performance when switching between 2D and multi-view (3D) displays. It can quickly switch between 2D and multi-view (3D) modes and achieve excellent 2D display performance.
[0106] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display is also provided. FIG5 shows a flowchart of a method 500 for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method 500 for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display shown in FIG5 can be applied to a 2D / multi-view switchable display as shown in FIG1 or FIG2. Specifically, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 to which the method is applied may include: a display panel 110 configured to provide pixels for a composite image, the composite image including multi-view (3D) image content and two-dimensional (2D) image content; a lens device 120, the lens device 120 including a lens layer 121 and a liquid crystal layer 122, the liquid crystal layer 122 being filled with a liquid crystal composition according to any one of the foregoing claims, wherein the liquid crystal composition has a first refractive index in a power-off state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50 + / - 0.15; and the liquid crystal composition has a second refractive index in a power-on state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60 + / - 0.15. Optionally, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 in FIG1 may also include a lower glass substrate 131 below the lens assembly 120 and an upper glass substrate 132 above the lens assembly 120.
[0107] In an embodiment of the invention, the display panel 110 may optionally include a backlight configured to generate light and a light valve array (not shown) of pixels configured to modulate the light emitted by the backlight to provide an image (e.g., to synthesize an image). In other embodiments, other suitable configurations may also be used for the display panel 110, such as a direct illumination display, including but not limited to an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.
[0108] In one embodiment of the invention, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 may further include a light valve array. The light valve array is configured to modulate light from a backlight to provide an image. In various embodiments, the light valve array may include, but is not limited to, liquid crystal light valves, electrophoretic light valves, electrowetting-based light valves, or other suitable mechanisms for modulating light. In some embodiments, the light valve array may include independently controllable light valves disposed on a substrate.
[0109] According to various embodiments, display panel 110 can be configured to provide pixels of a composite image. In various embodiments, the composite image can include both multi-view image content and two-dimensional (2D) image content. Combining multi-view image content and 2D image content onto the same display panel 110 can allow the 2D image content to be rendered at a higher resolution than the multi-view image content. For example, in an embodiment of display panel 110 that produces four views of multi-view image content, the resolution of the multi-view image content may be four times smaller than the resolution of the 2D image content. As a particular example, the composite image can include an image of a person and captions including text, so that the viewer can observe various different views of the person as the viewer moves within the field of view of display panel 110. In this example, the 2D image content can include captions with text that can remain unchanged as the viewer moves within the field of view of display panel 110 (e.g., having only a single view). In the example presented above, display panel 110 can render captions with a higher resolution than the image of the person, which can improve the readability of the caption text.
[0110] The 2D / multi-view switchable display of this invention may include a lens assembly 120, which may include a lens layer 121 and a liquid crystal layer 122, the liquid crystal layer 122 being filled with a liquid crystal composition according to any of the preceding claims. The lens layer 121 may include a plurality of fixed lenses as lens elements, which may form a lens array. The lens array may include a one-dimensional (1D) array of cylindrical lenses arranged parallel to each other. The cylindrical lenses may extend in a vertical direction (e.g., along the X direction in FIG. 1) and may guide light into multiple views of a multi-view image. The individual views may be horizontally adjacent to each other (e.g., having adjacent positions along the Y direction in FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be semi-cylindrical lenses. In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be convex cylindrical lenses, concave cylindrical lenses, or lenses of any other suitable shape.
[0111] In other embodiments, the lens array may comprise a two-dimensional array of lenses. In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be rotationally symmetric lenses, such as lenses symmetric about the longitudinal axis of the lens. In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be rotationally asymmetric lenses, such as anamorphic lenses. The anamorphic lens may have a first focal length along a first direction (such as along the X direction in FIG1) and a second focal length along a second direction (such as along the Y direction in FIG1), the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction. In some embodiments, the lenses in the lens array may be spherical lens elements or aspherical lens elements.
[0112] In embodiments of the present invention, the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 may be filled with a liquid crystal composition according to any of the foregoing descriptions. This liquid crystal composition has a first refractive index in the power-off state, the first refractive index ranging from 1.50 + / - 0.15; and the liquid crystal composition has a second refractive index in the power-on state, the second refractive index ranging from 1.60 + / - 0.15. The liquid crystal composition with different refractive indices in the power-on and power-off states provided by the embodiments of the present invention can serve as the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 in a 2D / multi-view switchable display, and match with the lens layer 121 in the lens device 120. This is achieved such that in the 2D mode of the 2D / multi-view switchable display, the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal composition in the power-off state matches the refractive index Ng of the lens layer 121, achieving Ne - Ng = + / - 0.05. In this case, in the 2D mode, the lens device 120 will not have or only slightly affect the 2D performance, while still displaying very good multi-view (3D) display performance. Furthermore, in the multi-view mode of a 2D / multi-view switchable display, the second refractive index No of the liquid crystal composition in the energized state and the refractive index Ng of the lens layer can achieve No-Ng in the range of + / -0.1 to 0.25, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content.
[0113] In one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal composition may include: one or more compounds for providing a first refractive index range in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; one or more compounds for providing electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition; and / or one or more compounds for adjusting the performance of the liquid crystal composition within an applied temperature range. When using the liquid crystal composition, its optical index typically changes with ambient temperature. By optimizing the structure of each component of the liquid crystal composition, the temperature dependence of its optical anisotropy can be optimized, resulting in better performance within a defined temperature range. In this case, the liquid crystal display, its liquid crystal composition, and all other critical components require careful adjustment and optimization to achieve good display performance.
[0114] In one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal composition may include 40-50% by weight of (trans,trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexyl, which can provide a first refractive index range in the power-off state and a second refractive index range in the power-on state; and may further include 10-20% by weight of 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexyl, which can provide the electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition.
[0115] Furthermore, the liquid crystal composition may also include 5-15% by weight of [trans(trans)-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexyl]-4-yl]benzene, which helps to adjust the temperature range applied to the liquid crystal composition, for example, a temperature range from -20 degrees to 70 degrees, or a temperature range from -30 degrees to 80 degrees. Alternatively, the liquid crystal composition may include 5-15% by weight of [trans(trans)-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexyl]-4-yl]benzene, with a weight percentage of 5-1... 5" of 4"-ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl, with a weight percentage of 5-15" of 4"-propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl". The liquid crystal composition contains 4-ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl (in weight percentages of 5-15%), one or more of which contribute to the good electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition and improve its high-temperature performance to achieve a higher clearing point.
[0116] According to the embodiment shown in FIG1, the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 may be located between the display panel 110 and the lens layer 121 in the lens device 120. Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG2, the lens layer 121 in the lens device 120 may be located between the display panel 110 and the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120, with the remaining structure and function similar to the example shown in FIG1.
[0117] In some embodiments, the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 may include electrodes, including an upper electrode and a lower electrode, which are configured to apply voltage or deliver current to the liquid crystal layer 122. In some embodiments, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 further includes a switching controller. The switching controller may be configured to control the energized and de-energized states of the liquid crystal layer 122. For example, the switching controller may provide at least one of voltage or current to the liquid crystal layer 122 to control the liquid crystal composition filled in the liquid crystal layer 122 to switch between a first refractive index range of 1.50 + / - 0.15 in the de-energized state and a second refractive index range of 1.60 + / - 0.15 in the energized state. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the lower glass substrate 131 of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 may be energized to provide voltage or current, while the upper glass substrate 132 may be grounded to serve as the upper and lower electrodes of the liquid crystal layer 122, respectively.
[0118] In the method 500 for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display shown in Figure 5, in step S501, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition can be adjusted to match the first refractive index when the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel.
[0119] In step S502, when the display panel displays the multi-view (3D) image content, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition is adjusted to match the second refractive index.
[0120] Step S501 describes an example of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 in a power-off state. As shown in FIG3, the switching controller of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 controls the liquid crystal layer 122 to be in a power-off state, which has a first refractive index range of 1.50 + / - 0.15. At this time, no voltage / current is applied to the liquid crystal layer 122 through the upper and lower electrodes, and the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal layer 122 in the power-off state matches the refractive index Ng of the lens layer 121, achieving Ne-Ng = + / - 0.05. The lens layer 121 does not produce refraction, and the liquid crystal layer 122 and the lens layer 121 are homogeneously distributed. In step S501, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 is in 2D display mode.
[0121] Step S502 describes an example of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 in a powered-on state. As shown in FIG4, the switching controller of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 controls the liquid crystal layer 122 to be powered on, which may have a second refractive index range of 1.60 + / - 0.15. At this time, a voltage / current is applied to the liquid crystal layer 122 through the upper electrode and the lower electrode. The second refractive index No of the liquid crystal layer 122 in the powered-on state and the refractive index Ng of the lens layer achieve No-Ng in the range of + / - 0.1 to 0.25, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content. The lens layer 121 generates refraction, wherein light passing through the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 can be refracted at the interface between the lens layer 121 and the liquid crystal layer 122. In step S502, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 is in multi-view (3D) display mode.
[0122] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display is also provided. FIG6 shows a flowchart of a method 600 for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method 600 for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display shown in FIG6 is similar in principle to the method 500 shown in FIG5, and both can be applied to the 2D / multi-view switchable display shown in FIG1 or FIG2.
[0123] In embodiments of the present invention, the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 may be filled with a liquid crystal composition according to any of the foregoing descriptions. This liquid crystal composition has a first refractive index in the power-off state, the first refractive index ranging from 1.50 + / - 0.15; and the liquid crystal composition has a second refractive index in the power-on state, the second refractive index ranging from 1.60 + / - 0.15. The liquid crystal composition with different refractive indices in the power-on and power-off states provided by the embodiments of the present invention can serve as the liquid crystal layer 122 in the lens device 120 in a 2D / multi-view switchable display, and match with the lens layer 121 in the lens device 120. This is achieved such that in the 2D mode of the 2D / multi-view switchable display, the second refractive index No of the liquid crystal composition in the power-on state matches the refractive index Ng of the lens layer 121, achieving No - Ng = + / - 0.05. In this case, in the 2D mode, the lens device 120 will not have or only slightly affect the 2D performance, while still displaying very good multi-view (3D) display performance. Furthermore, in the multi-view mode of a 2D / multi-view switchable display, the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal composition in the power-off state and the refractive index Ng of the lens layer can be made to have Ne-Ng in the range of + / -0.1 to 0.25, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content.
[0124] In the method 600 for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display shown in Figure 6, in step S601, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition can be adjusted to the second refractive index match when the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel.
[0125] In step S602, when the display panel displays the multi-view (3D) image content, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition is adjusted to match the first refractive index.
[0126] Step S601 describes an example of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 in a powered-on state. As shown in FIG4, the switching controller of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 controls the liquid crystal layer 122 to apply voltage / current through the upper and lower electrodes to be in a powered-on state. Its second refractive index No is in the range of 1.60+ / -0.15, which can match the refractive index Ng of the lens layer 121, achieving No-Ng=+ / -0.05. The lens layer 121 does not produce refraction, and the liquid crystal layer 122 and the lens layer 121 are homogeneously distributed. In step S601, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 is in 2D display mode.
[0127] Step S602 describes an example of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 in a power-off state. As shown in FIG3, the switching controller of the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 controls the liquid crystal layer 122 to be in a power-off state without applying any voltage / current through the upper and lower electrodes, which may have a first refractive index range of 1.50 + / - 0.15. At this time, no voltage / current is applied to the liquid crystal layer 122, and the first refractive index Ne of the liquid crystal layer 122 can achieve Ne-Ng in the range of + / - 0.1 to 0.25 with the refractive index Ng of the lens layer 121, thereby enabling the display of multi-view (3D) content, wherein light passing through the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 can be refracted at the interface between the lens layer 121 and the liquid crystal layer 122. In step S602, the 2D / multi-view switchable display 100 is in multi-view (3D) display mode.
[0128] In this embodiment of the invention, the lens layer in the lens device achieves the lens structure by filling with lens adhesive. The refractive index Ng of the lens layer can vary in the range of, for example, 1.50+ / -0.15 or 1.60+ / -0.15, and can be adapted to the liquid crystal composition according to the different power-on and power-off methods of the liquid crystal composition.
[0129] The method for operating a 2D / multi-view switchable display provided by the embodiments of the present invention can achieve excellent 2D and multi-view (3D) performance when switching between 2D and multi-view (3D) displays. It can quickly switch between 2D and multi-view (3D) modes and achieve excellent 2D display performance.
[0130] Various examples and embodiments of the liquid crystal composition, liquid crystal display device, 2D / multi-view switchable display, and methods of operation thereof of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the examples described above are merely illustrative of some of the many specific examples and embodiments illustrating the principles described herein. Obviously, those skilled in the art can readily devise many other arrangements without departing from the scope defined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A liquid crystal composition for a two-dimensional (2D) / multi-view switchable display, said liquid crystal composition comprising: The liquid crystal composition has a first refractive index in the power-off state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50 + / - 0.15; and The liquid crystal composition has a second refractive index in the energized state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60 + / - 0.
15.
2. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 1, wherein, The liquid crystal composition includes: One or more compounds for providing the liquid crystal composition with a first refractive index range in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; One or more compounds for providing the electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition; and / or One or more compounds for adjusting the performance of the liquid crystal composition within an applied temperature range.
3. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 1, wherein, The liquid crystal composition includes: Compounds with a weight percentage of 40-50: Wherein, R1 is one of CH2=CH-, CH3-CH2=CH-, and C2H5-CH2=CH-, and R2 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, and C4H9-; and Compounds with a weight percentage of 10-20: Among them, R3 is or And R4 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, or C4H9-.
4. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 3, wherein, The compound, which is 40-50% by weight Used to provide a first refractive index range of the liquid crystal composition in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; The compound, which is 10-20% by weight Used to provide electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition.
5. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 3, wherein, The liquid crystal composition includes: (trans, trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane, in a weight percentage of 40-50, and 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexane in a weight percentage of 10-20.
6. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 3, wherein, The liquid crystal composition further includes at least one of the following: [trans-(trans)]-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexane]-4-yl)benzene, in a weight percentage of 5-15. (trans, trans)-4-(1E)-1-propenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane, by weight percentage 5-15 4”-ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl, with a weight percentage of 5-15. 4-propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl in a weight percentage of 5-15, and 4-Ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl in a weight percentage of 5-15%.
7. A two-dimensional (2D) / multi-view switchable display, wherein, include: The display panel is configured to provide pixels for a composite image, which includes multi-view image content and 2D image content; A lens device comprising a lens layer and a liquid crystal layer, wherein the liquid crystal layer is filled with a liquid crystal composition, wherein... The liquid crystal composition, in the power-off state, possesses a first refractive index, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50 + / - 0.15; and The liquid crystal composition has a second refractive index in the energized state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60 + / - 0.
15.
8. The display according to claim 7, wherein, The liquid crystal composition includes: One or more compounds for providing the liquid crystal composition with a first refractive index range in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; One or more compounds for providing the electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition; and / or One or more compounds for adjusting the performance of the liquid crystal composition within an applied temperature range.
9. The display according to claim 7, wherein, The liquid crystal composition includes: Compounds with a weight percentage of 40-50: Wherein, R1 is one of CH2=CH-, CH3-CH2=CH-, and C2H5-CH2=CH-, and R2 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, and C4H9-; and Compounds with a weight percentage of 10-20: Among them, R3 is or And R4 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, or C4H9-.
10. The display according to claim 9, wherein, The compound, which is 40-50% by weight Used to provide a first refractive index range of the liquid crystal composition in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; The compound, which is 10-20% by weight Used to provide electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition.
11. The display according to claim 9, wherein, The liquid crystal composition includes: (trans, trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane, in a weight percentage of 40-50, and 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexane in a weight percentage of 10-20.
12. The display according to claim 9, wherein, The liquid crystal composition further includes at least one of the following: [trans-(trans)]-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexane]-4-yl)benzene, in a weight percentage of 5-15. (trans, trans)-4-(1E)-1-propenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane, by weight percentage 5-15 4”-ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl, with a weight percentage of 5-15. 4-propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl in a weight percentage of 5-15, and 4-Ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl in a weight percentage of 5-15%.
13. The display according to claim 7, wherein, The liquid crystal layer is configured as follows: When the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the first refractive index; and When the multi-view image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the second refractive index.
14. The display according to claim 7, wherein, The liquid crystal layer is configured as follows: When the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the second refractive index; and When the multi-view image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition matches the first refractive index.
15. The display according to claim 7, wherein The lens layer includes a lens array consisting of fixed lenses.
16. The display according to claim 7, wherein The lens layer in the lens device is located between the display panel and the liquid crystal layer in the lens device.
17. The display according to claim 7, wherein The liquid crystal layer in the lens device is located between the display panel and the lens layer in the lens device.
18. The display according to claim 7, wherein, The liquid crystal layer includes electrodes, the electrodes including an upper electrode and a lower electrode, the upper electrode and the lower electrode being configured to apply a voltage or deliver a current to the liquid crystal layer.
19. The display according to claim 7, wherein, The 2D / multi-view switchable display includes a switching controller configured to control the power-on and power-off states of the liquid crystal layer.
20. A method for operating a two-dimensional (2D) / multi-view switchable display, comprising: The display panel is configured to provide pixels for a composite image, which includes multi-view image content and two-dimensional (2D) image content; A lens device includes a lens layer and a liquid crystal layer, the liquid crystal layer being filled with a liquid crystal composition, wherein the liquid crystal composition has a first refractive index in a power-off state, the first refractive index being in the range of 1.50 + / - 0.15; and the liquid crystal composition has a second refractive index in a power-on state, the second refractive index being in the range of 1.60 + / - 0.15; The method includes: When the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition is adjusted to match the first refractive index; and when the multi-view image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition is adjusted to match the second refractive index; or When the 2D image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition is adjusted to match the second refractive index; and when the multi-view image content is displayed on the display panel, the refractive index of the liquid crystal composition is adjusted to match the first refractive index.
21. The method according to claim 20, wherein, The liquid crystal composition includes: One or more compounds for providing the liquid crystal composition with a first refractive index range in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; One or more compounds for providing the electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition; and / or One or more compounds for adjusting the performance of the liquid crystal composition within an applied temperature range.
22. The method according to claim 20, wherein, The liquid crystal composition includes: Compounds with a weight percentage of 40-50: Wherein, R1 is one of CH2=CH-, CH3-CH2=CH-, and C2H5-CH2=CH-, and R2 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, and C4H9-; and Compounds with a weight percentage of 10-20: Among them, R3 is or And R4 is one of CH3-, C2H5-, C3H7-, or C4H9-.
23. The method according to claim 22, wherein, The compound, which is 40-50% by weight Used to provide a first refractive index range of the liquid crystal composition in a power-off state and a second refractive index range in a power-on state; The compound, which is 10-20% by weight Used to provide electrical anisotropy of the liquid crystal composition.
24. The method according to claim 22, wherein, The liquid crystal composition includes: (trans, trans)-4-vinyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane, in a weight percentage of 40-50, and 3,4,5-trifluoro-4'-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)-1,1'-bicyclohexane in a weight percentage of 10-20.
25. The method according to claim 22, wherein, The liquid crystal composition further includes at least one of the following: [trans-(trans)]-1-methyl-4-(4'-propyl[1,1'-bicyclohexane]-4-yl)benzene, in a weight percentage of 5-15. (trans, trans)-4-(1E)-1-propenyl-4'-propyl-1,1'-bicyclohexane, by weight percentage 5-15 4”-ethyl-2'-fluoro-4-propyl-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl, with a weight percentage of 5-15. 4-propyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl in a weight percentage of 5-15, and 4-Ethyl-2',3,4,5-tetrafluoro-1,1':4',1”-terphenyl in a weight percentage of 5-15%.
26. The method of claim 20, wherein The lens layer includes a lens array consisting of fixed lenses.
27. The method of claim 20, wherein The lens layer in the lens device is located between the display panel and the liquid crystal layer in the lens device.
28. The method of claim 20, wherein The liquid crystal layer in the lens device is located between the display panel and the lens layer in the lens device.
29. The method according to claim 20, wherein, The liquid crystal layer includes electrodes, and the electrodes include an upper electrode and a lower electrode; The method further includes applying voltage or delivering current to the liquid crystal layer through the upper electrode and the lower electrode.
30. The method of claim 20, wherein, The 2D / multi-view switchable display includes a switching controller; The method further includes controlling the power-on and power-off states of the liquid crystal layer through the switching controller.
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