Floating Image Display With Asymmetrical Mirrors for Wider Viewing Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display devices for floating images suffer from narrow viewing angles and large size due to the use of symmetrical parabolic optical surfaces, leading to potential image distortion and magnification differences.
Innovation Solution
A display device utilizing freeform optical mirrors with asymmetrical curved surfaces to reflect and merge multiple images, allowing for improved viewing angles and reduced size, with the ability to adjust image size and type based on external devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If symmetrical parabolic optical surfaces are used, then the floating image can be displayed, but the viewing angle becomes narrow and the device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by replacing the traditional symmetrical parabolic optical surfaces with asymmetrical optical surfaces. This allows the optical system to achieve a wider viewing angle while reducing the overall device volume, as the asymmetrical design optimizes light reflection paths more efficiently for multi-viewpoint display
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-parabolic-surface design to a multi-surface asymmetrical optical configuration. By adding dimensional complexity to the optical surface geometry, the system achieves improved viewing angles and reduced volume through optimized three-dimensional light path management
2Adaptability or versatility
If the size of the concave mirror increases, then the floating image can be displayed, but image distortion and magnification differences increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical system into multiple asymmetrical optical surfaces instead of using a single large concave mirror. This segmentation allows each surface to be optimized for specific reflection angles, reducing image distortion and magnification differences while maintaining the floating image display capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by designing each optical surface with specific asymmetrical characteristics tailored to its position and function in the optical path. This allows different regions of the optical system to have optimized properties for their specific roles, improving overall image quality while reducing the need for large mirror sizes
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 provides a three-dimensional floating image with optimized size and viewing angle, reducing the device's overall size while maintaining image quality and versatility for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical mirror disposed on a first side in the case, a second optical mirror disposed on a second side of the case and located under the first optical mirror... The images output to the plurality of surfaces can be reflected by the first optical mirror and the second optical mirror and merged with each other
Data Source
AI summary
A display device can include a case having an opening; a first optical mirror disposed on a first side within the case; a second optical mirror disposed on a second side within the case and located under the first optical mirror; and an image display unit disposed on a third side within the case and having a plurality of surfaces for outputting images. Also, the first optical mirror and the second optical mirror are configured to reflect the images output by the plurality of the surfaces of the image display unit and merge the images together to display a combined image at a space located between the opening and a viewer. Also, a second distance between the second optical mirror and the image display unit is proportional to a first distance between the first optical mirror and the second optical mirror for displaying the combined image at a predetermined height.