3D Display Optical Layer Ray Divergence

The optical layer is divided into multiple optical elements (such as multiple lenses or reflective surfaces) arranged in a specific pattern. Each optical element handles a portion of the light rays, and their combined effect achieves the desired ray divergence and concentration on the viewing zone. This segmentation allows for better control over ray directions while managing the overall complexity through modular design.

The patent optimizes specific parameters of the optical layer including the pitch between adjacent optical elements, the curvature of lenses, the positioning of reflective surfaces, and the gap between the display panel and optical layer. By carefully adjusting these parameters, the system achieves optimal ray divergence and concentration without requiring excessive complexity in the optical structure.

The optical layer uses a specific pitch between optical elements that may be slightly larger or smaller than the minimum required for optimal performance. This partial or excessive action approach allows for easier manufacturing while still achieving adequate viewing zone coverage. The design accepts near-optimal performance in exchange for reduced manufacturing precision requirements.

The patent provides guidelines for determining the pitch between optical elements based on factors such as the number of viewpoints, pixel pitch, optimum viewing distance, and gap between display panel and optical layer. By adjusting these parameters within certain ranges, the system achieves viewing zone coverage without demanding extremely tight manufacturing tolerances.

Each optical element in the layer is designed to serve multiple functions by representing multiple viewpoints simultaneously. The optical element (such as a lens or reflective surface) is positioned and shaped to redirect light rays corresponding to different viewpoints to appropriate locations on the viewing zone. This multi-functionality enhances the 3D effect without requiring separate optical elements for each viewpoint.

The patent maps multiple viewpoints onto a two-dimensional optical layer structure by utilizing spatial arrangement and optical transformations. Instead of requiring separate optical paths for each viewpoint, the system uses the dimensional space of the optical layer to encode multiple viewing directions, achieving viewpoint multiplication through spatial encoding rather than temporal or path separation.