Laser-Induced Light Redirecting Features in Substrates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional display devices lack the ability to efficiently direct electromagnetic radiation in predetermined directions, limiting their aesthetic and practical applications, such as in transparent substrates where visibility and information display are desired.
Innovation Solution
A display device with a substrate incorporating radiation-directing features, formed by focusing a beam of radiation inside the substrate to create features that redirect electromagnetic radiation primarily towards a viewing surface, allowing for controlled light direction and image display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional display devices use transparent substrates, then visibility through the substrate is maintained, but the ability to direct electromagnetic radiation in predetermined directions is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate is segmented by incorporating discrete radiation-directing features (such as microlenses, prisms, or reflective particles) distributed within the transparent material. Each feature acts as an independent element that redirects radiation along its own predetermined path, allowing the overall substrate to maintain transparency while providing directional control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the substrate are given different optical properties through the strategic placement of radiation-directing features. Specific areas contain features configured to direct radiation in particular directions, while other areas remain transparent without such features, creating local variations in radiation guidance while maintaining overall substrate transparency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If radiation-directing features are incorporated into the substrate, then electromagnetic radiation can be directed in predetermined directions, but the substrate structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation-directing features are merged directly into the substrate material itself, eliminating the need for separate optical components or additional layers. The features are embedded within the substrate matrix, combining the substrate's transparency function with the radiation-directing function into a single integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate itself serves dual functions: maintaining structural integrity and transparency while simultaneously housing the radiation-directing features. The substrate material and the embedded features work together as a unified system, with the substrate providing the medium through which radiation travels and the features providing the directional guidance without requiring external control mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If a beam of radiation is focused inside the substrate to form radiation directing features, then precise directional control is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical process of forming radiation-directing features is replaced by using focused radiation (such as laser beams) to create the features directly within the substrate. This non-contact, energy-based approach allows for precise positioning and formation of features without mechanical tooling, molds, or physical contact that would complicate the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing process utilizes changes in radiation parameters (intensity, focus, wavelength, pulse duration) to control the formation and properties of the radiation-directing features. By adjusting these parameters, precise features can be created at specific locations within the substrate without changing the fundamental manufacturing approach or requiring complex equipment.
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 solution enables the display device to direct electromagnetic radiation anisotropically, making images visible on illuminated surfaces while maintaining transparency, enhancing visibility and functionality in various applications, including signage and architectural transparencies.
Implementation Method 1
The feature is configured to direct electromagnetic radiation primarily in a predetermined direction
Implementation Method 2
The feature is configured to direct at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation in the substrate primarily toward the viewing surface
Implementation Method 3
focusing a beam of radiation inside a substrate to form a radiation directing feature
Implementation Method 4
focusing a beam of radiation inside a substrate
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a display panel 10 having a substrate 12 with one or more surfaces and one or more features 30 within the substrate 12. When one or more surfaces of the substrate 12 are illuminated, the features 30 redirect the illumination to form an image.