Display Device Dual-Mode Switching via Refractive Index Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing display devices face challenges in meeting consumer expectations for quality and functionality, particularly in switching between display and projection modes efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A display device comprising a light emitting module, a modulating module with a modulating material layer, and a control circuit that switches between display and projection modes by adjusting the distance between the light emitting module and lenses, or by adjusting the refractive index of the modulating material layer, allowing for different light transmission directions in each mode.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a display device is designed to support both display mode and projection mode, then the versatility and functionality are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual-mode functionalityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The display device is designed with a universal optical engine that can operate in both display mode and projection mode by adjusting the light transmission path. The same light emitting module and modulating module serve dual purposes, with the ability to redirect light differently for projection or transmit directly for display, eliminating the need for separate projection and display systems

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

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates dynamic control mechanisms including a control circuit that can switch between modes by adjusting the position of the light emitting module relative to the modulating module, or by changing the refractive index of the modulating material layer through voltage control, enabling flexible adaptation between display and projection functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the light transmission path is adjusted to switch between display and projection modes, then the adaptability is improved, but the control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode switching capabilityVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control circuit switches between display and projection modes by changing physical parameters: either adjusting the distance between the light emitting module and modulating module, or changing the refractive index of the modulating material layer through voltage application. These parameter changes enable mode switching without complex mechanical reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical switching mechanisms with electrical control methods. Instead of physically reconfiguring optical paths with moving mirrors or lenses, the system uses voltage-controlled refractive index changes in the modulating material layer to redirect light paths, simplifying the control mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 seamless switching between display and projection modes, enhancing image quality and versatility by adjusting light transmission paths, and improving image visibility from various angles in display mode and projecting images in projection mode.

Implementation Method 1

adjusting the refractive index of the modulating material layer, allowing for different light transmission directions in each mode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS11076136B2Display device and method for controlling display device
Publication Date: 2021.07.27 INNOLUX CORP
  • US11076136B2 patent drawing
  • US11076136B2 patent drawing
  • US11076136B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A display device and a method for controlling the display device are provided herein. The display device has a light emitting module, a modulating module, and a control circuit. The light emitting module has a plurality of light emitting units. The modulating module is disposed on the light emitting module and has a modulating material layer. The control circuit is electrically connected to the modulating module and configured to switch the display device between a display mode and a projection mode.