Light Modulating Element with Retroreflective Layer for Display Appearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display devices have internal structures that are visually recognizable when an aerial image is not displayed, which affects their appearance and desirability.
Innovation Solution
A display device configuration that includes a light modulating element with two transmittance states, a display unit, and a retroreflective element, where the light modulating element switches between a first transmittance state for display periods and a second transmittance state for non-display periods, using a controller to manage the states and a retardation film to control light polarization, thereby hiding internal structures when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the light modulating element is kept transparent to allow viewing of internal structures, then the appearance is compromised, but if it is made opaque to hide internal structures, then power consumption increases and normally-black mode cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The light modulating element dynamically switches between transparent and untransparent states based on display requirements. During display periods, it transitions to a transparent state allowing light transmission and normally-black mode operation. During non-display periods, it transitions to an untransparent state to hide internal structures. This dynamic state change resolves the contradiction by making the appearance property adaptive rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the transmittance parameter of the light modulating element between two distinct states: a first transmittance state (transparent) during display periods and a second transmittance state (untransparent) during non-display periods. This parameter switching allows the system to optimize both appearance and power consumption at different times, resolving the contradiction between these two opposing requirements.
2Shape
If the light modulating element maintains a untransparent state to hide internal structures, then appearance is improved, but additional voltage is required which increases power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The light modulating element operates in periodic cycles, alternating between transparent and untransparent states. The untransparent state is activated only during non-display periods when appearance matters, while the transparent state is used during display periods when functionality matters. This periodic switching eliminates the need for continuous voltage application, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining improved appearance during relevant time windows.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the light modulating element is always transparent, then power consumption is reduced, but internal structures become visible affecting appearance
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than maintaining a static transparent state, the light modulating element dynamically adjusts its transmittance property based on operational context. During non-display periods, it automatically transitions to an untransparent state to conceal internal structures, while during display periods it returns to transparent state. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to achieve low power consumption without permanently sacrificing appearance quality.
4Use of energy by moving object
If a light modulating element with dual transmittance states is implemented, then appearance and power consumption are optimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light modulating element serves multiple functions: it acts as a display component during transparent states and as an appearance-masking component during untransparent states. By making this single component multi-functional, the invention avoids the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity while achieving the dual benefits of optimized appearance and power consumption.
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 allows for a neat and simple appearance by ensuring the internal structures are not visible during non-display periods, reducing power consumption, and enabling a normally-black mode without requiring additional voltage for the untransparent state.
Implementation Method 1
a light modulating element which transmits or reflects incident light; the light modulating element comprising a first mode of transmitting light incident from the outer surface at a first transmittance, and a second mode of transmitting the light incident from the outer surface at a second transmittance lower than the first transmittance
Implementation Method 2
a retroreflective element which retroreflects the display light reflected from the light modulating element
Implementation Method 3
using a controller to manage the states and a retardation film to control light polarization
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a display device comprises a light modulating element which transmits or reflects incident light, a display unit which emits display light toward the light modulating element, and a retroreflective element which retroreflects the display light reflected from the light modulating element, the light modulating element including an inner surface on a side opposed to the display unit and the retroreflective element, and an outer surface on a side opposite to the inner surface, the light modulating element includes a first mode of transmitting light incident from the outer surface at a first transmittance, and a second mode of transmitting the light incident from the outer surface at a second transmittance lower than the first transmittance.