Electrochromic Light Modulation Device for Fine Pixel Pitch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spatial light modulators (SLMs), particularly phase type SLMs, are limited by their pixel pitch size, restricting their diffraction efficiency and viewing angle.
Innovation Solution
A light modulation device incorporating an electrochromic device with a solid-state structure, including first and second electrodes, electrochromic layers, and an electrolyte layer, sealed with a protective cover and inert gas, allowing for finer pixel pitches and improved viewing angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If phase type SLM with larger pixel pitch is used, then manufacturing is easier and device structure is simpler, but viewing angle becomes narrower and diffraction efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional liquid crystal phase modulation to electrochromic amplitude modulation, representing a dimensional change in the modulation mechanism. This allows achieving fine pixel pitch (1.5μm) that was not realizable with traditional phase type SLMs, thereby expanding viewing angle while maintaining manufacturability through the electrochromic effect in solid-state devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If phase type SLM with finer pixel pitch is realized, then viewing angle widens, but manufacturing precision requirements increase and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical alignment requirements of liquid crystal phase modulation with electrochromic amplitude modulation. The electrochromic device uses electrochemical reactions to change optical properties, eliminating the need for precise mechanical alignment and reducing manufacturing precision requirements while achieving 1.5μm pixel pitch
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameter from phase modulation to amplitude modulation via electrochromic effect. This parameter change enables fine pixel pitch realization without the manufacturing precision constraints of phase type SLMs, as the electrochromic layers can be deposited using standard thin-film techniques
3Adaptability or versatility
If solid state electrochromic device is used, then fine pixel pitch is achieved and viewing angle is widened, but device structure becomes more complex with multiple layers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional layers (first electrochromic layer, second electrochromic layer, electrolyte layer, hydrogen absorption film) into an integrated electrochromic device structure. This consolidation achieves fine pixel pitch and wide viewing angle while managing complexity through unified device architecture rather than separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structure with multiple electrochromic layers and functional films deposited in sequence. The composite structure of WO3-based electrochromic materials, electrolyte layers, and hydrogen absorption films enables the desired optical performance and fine pixel pitch while the layered composite approach systematically manages device complexity
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 device achieves a wider viewing angle and finer pixel pitches, surpassing the limitations of traditional phase type light modulators by enabling smaller pixel pitches and enhanced optical characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
the light modulating unit may include an electrochromic device
Implementation Method 2
a hydrogen absorption film between the electrolyte layer and at least one of the first and second electrochromic layers
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a light modulating device including a light modulating unit provided on a substrate, a driving unit electrically connected to the light modulating unit and configured to drive the light modulating unit, and a cover disposed on the light modulating unit and configured to seal the light modulating unit, wherein the light modulating unit comprises an electrochromic device.