Autostereoscopic Display Time-Multiplexing Sub-Frame Resolution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Autostereoscopic displays face a trade-off between resolution and stereoscopic view quality, where high resolution is compromised for 3D mode, and existing solutions complicate the imaging arrangement with mode switching.

Innovation Solution

The use of time-multiplexing sub-frames with different output information for creating stereoscopic views, combined with a switchable imaging arrangement like lenticular or barrier arrays, allows for higher resolution by sharing control lines and simplifying display wiring, enabling a higher frame rate and improved stereoscopic image synthesis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple pixel elements are used to create a three dimensional pixel for stereoscopic views, then stereoscopic image quality is improved, but resolution is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestereoscopic image qualityVSAvoidresolution
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies time-multiplexing by dividing each frame into multiple sub-frames that are displayed sequentially at different time intervals. Different sets of sub-pixels are activated in different sub-frames, allowing the display to present multiple views for stereoscopic imaging while maintaining high resolution. The periodic switching between sub-frames enables the human visual system to integrate the sequential images into a coherent 3D perception without sacrificing pixel density.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Reliability

If a large number of views per angle are provided for good 3D impression, then stereoscopic quality is improved, but resolution per view is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestereoscopic qualityVSAvoidresolution per view
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces the time dimension by displaying multiple sub-frames sequentially rather than simultaneously. This temporal dimension allows the system to provide multiple views per angle for improved stereoscopic quality while maintaining high resolution per view. By alternating activation of different sub-pixel sets across time, the display achieves both multiple views and high resolution without the traditional trade-off.

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

3Manufacturing precision

If time-multiplexing of sub-frames is used for creating stereoscopic views, then resolution per view is improved, but frame rate may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresolution per viewVSAvoidframe rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent maintains continuous useful action by ensuring that while different sub-pixel sets are activated in different sub-frames, the overall display continues to present complete stereoscopic information at a rate that maintains perceived frame rate. The sequential activation of sub-pixels combined with the persistence of vision creates the illusion of continuous high-resolution stereoscopic display, effectively mitigating the frame rate reduction that would otherwise result from time-multiplexing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

4Adaptability or versatility

If switchable lenticular array is used for mode switching between 2D and 3D, then versatility is improved, but device complexity is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode switching capabilityVSAvoidimaging arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent achieves mode switching between 2D and 3D by utilizing the existing lenticular array structure to serve multiple functions. The same lenticular elements that provide stereoscopic separation in 3D mode can function as a simple transparent overlay in 2D mode. By controlling which sub-pixels are activated in different sub-frames, the system can switch between modes without requiring additional switching mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.

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

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

This approach enhances resolution per view and increases the number of views while maintaining high frame rates, reducing image artifacts and complexity in display electronics, thus providing a more effective autostereoscopic display experience.

Implementation Method 1

an array of elongate lenticular elements extending parallel to one another and overlying the display pixel array

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentEP2497274B1Autostereoscopic display device
Publication Date: 2019.10.23 KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV
  • EP2497274B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2497274B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2497274B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An autostereoscopic display device has the display output provided over at least two sub-frames, with different pixel elements operated in the different sub- frames.In this way, a higher resolution or increased number of views is built up in a time-sequential manner.