2D 3D Display Backlight with Relief-Structured Beam Splitter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display systems struggle to seamlessly switch between two-dimensional and three-dimensional viewing modes while maintaining image resolution and multi-color capability, often requiring complex and expensive mechanical solutions.
Innovation Solution
A display device comprising a backlight arrangement with an optically clear lightguide and relief-structured polarization-selective beam-splitting interface, along with control circuitry, allows for switching between 2D and 3D modes by using two opposing light sources that emit light in different directions, creating separate beams for each polarization, which are then redirected to provide a 3D perception without resolution loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanically complex arrangements with moving parts are used to switch between 2D and 3D modes, then switching capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical moving parts with an electrically controllable liquid crystal layer that can change its optical properties between transparent and opaque states through electrical signals, eliminating the need for mechanical movement while achieving mode switching capability
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid crystal layer changes its optical transmission parameter in response to electrical signals, transitioning from transparent state (allowing light passage for 3D mode) to opaque state (blocking light for 2D mode), enabling mode switching through parameter change rather than mechanical movement
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple display devices are exchanged to switch between 2D and 3D modes, then viewing mode switching is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (2D display, 3D display, and mode switching) into a single integrated display device by adding a liquid crystal layer and control circuitry to the existing display structure, eliminating the need for separate display devices for different viewing modes
Solution Approach 2:
The display device achieves multi-functionality by incorporating a controllable liquid crystal layer that enables the same display to operate in both 2D and 3D modes, making the device universal for different viewing requirements without requiring device exchange
3Manufacturing precision
If image resolution is maintained during mode switching, then image quality is preserved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light path into distinct regions using a beam splitter, directing different light beams to different areas of the display panel, allowing each region to maintain full resolution while supporting both 2D and 3D viewing modes simultaneously
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
Enables simple and cost-effective switching between 2D and 3D modes without mechanical complexity, maintaining full 2D resolution and providing a lifelike 3D image impression by synchronizing light emission to the viewer's eyes, suitable for portable devices and various applications.
Implementation Method 1
relief-structured polarization-selective beam-splitting interface for splitting-off from the light traveling in the first direction, a first beam of first polarization and redirecting said first beam to have said first beam exit the exit surface at a first angle and for splitting-off from the light traveling in the second direction, a second beam of light of first polarization and redirecting said second beam to have said second beam exit the exit surface at a second angle different from the first angle
Implementation Method 2
The light emitted from each one of the first and second light sources (or single light source of which light is directed to first and second side face) are subject to internal reflections and, when reflected into the second layer via the relief structure, separates into two beams of light having different directions of polarization
Implementation Method 3
an optically clear lightguide having a first side face for coupling into the lightguide light traveling in a first direction within the lightguide, a second side face, opposite the first the side face, for coupling into the lightguide light traveling in a second, opposite the first direction within the lightguide; an exit surface via which light coupled into the lightguide is coupled out the lightguide
Data Source
AI summary
A display device (200) configured to provide two-dimensional and three dimensional perception. The device comprises a display panel (230), a backlight arrangement (201) and control circuitry (232). The backlight arrangement comprises a first layer (210) in the form of an optically clear lightguide, a birefringent second layer (202) and a third layer (204). At least one interfacing surface between any two of the layers comprises a microstructure (206) in the form of a plurality of essentially parallel structures extending in a direction of extension (x) of the structures. The device further comprises first (218) and second (219) light sources that are configured to emit light into the lightguide in a first (z) and a second direction (-z), respectively. The first and second directions are essentially opposing directions and the first and second directions are essentially perpendicular to the direction of extension of the microstructure.