Anti-peeping Module with Brewster Angle Light Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing anti-peeping solutions, such as privacy films, only provide effective protection in a horizontal direction and fail to offer comprehensive 360-degree privacy due to their reliance on geometric optics and blinding methods.

Innovation Solution

An anti-peeping module comprising light transmitting films with alternating sub-films of different refractive indexes and optical path modulating layers with zigzag structures, which utilize the Brewster angle to selectively transmit p-polarized light while reflecting s-polarized light, allowing for 360-degree anti-peeping by adjusting light exit angles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If an anti-peeping film using geometric optics and blinding method is used, then anti-peeping in horizontal direction can be achieved, but anti-peeping in vertical direction cannot be achieved simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from 2D planar light shielding to 3D volumetric light control by stacking multiple light transmitting films with different refractive indexes. This dimensional transformation enables light to be modulated in three-dimensional space, achieving 360-degree anti-peeping coverage by controlling light propagation from all directions, not just horizontal planes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite light transmitting films composed of multiple sub-films with different refractive indexes (n1, n2, n3, etc.). This composite structure creates multiple internal interfaces that work together to modulate light paths from different directions, combining the effects of each layer to achieve omnidirectional anti-peeping functionality that single-material films cannot provide.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple light transmitting films with different refractive indexes are stacked, then 360-degree anti-peeping can be achieved, but device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the light transmitting film into multiple segmented sub-films with different refractive indexes stacked in sequence. Each sub-film segment handles specific light paths from particular directions, and their combined effect achieves 360-degree coverage. This segmentation allows complex optical functionality to be built from simpler individual layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The stacked film structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: each interface between sub-films with different refractive indexes acts as an optical path modulating element, and the entire assembly provides both anti-peeping functionality and maintains display transparency. The zigzag structures further provide dual functionality of light deflection and structural integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If zigzag structures are added to modulate optical path, then light exit angle can be controlled, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent controls light exit angles by changing the geometric parameters of the zigzag structures, specifically the inclination angles of the zigzag surfaces. By adjusting these angular parameters during design, the light exit direction can be precisely controlled without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances on the absolute dimensions, as angular parameters are more robust to manufacturing variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution enables 360-degree anti-peeping by ensuring only p-polarized light is transmitted at specific angles, effectively protecting privacy in all directions while maintaining display functionality, thus enhancing user convenience and privacy protection.

Implementation Method 1

light entering into the plurality of light transmitting films at a Brewster incident angle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBrewster angle: Brewster's Angle

Implementation Method 2

selectively transmit p-polarized light while reflecting s-polarized light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPolarization: Polarisation

Implementation Method 3

each of the plurality of light transmitting films includes at least two light transmitting sub-films having different refractive indexes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 4

the first optical path modulating layer includes a plurality of zigzag structures

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11409152B2Anti-peeping module and display device
Publication Date: 2022.08.09
  • US11409152B2 patent drawing
  • US11409152B2 patent drawing
  • US11409152B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An anti-peeping module provided by an embodiment of the application includes a plurality of light transmitting films, each including at least two light transmitting sub-films having different refractive indexes which are disposed in a laminated manner, and a first optical path modulating layer on one side of the plurality of light transmitting films, the first optical path modulating layer comprising a plurality of zigzag structures, the and being configured to allow light entering into the plurality of light transmitting films at a Brewster incident angle to exit from the anti-peeping module in a travelling direction perpendicular to a plane where the anti-peeping module is located.