Micro Optical Switch Array for 2D-3D Mode Display

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 3D image display devices lack the ability to seamlessly switch between 2D and 3D modes without the use of special glasses, and existing technologies struggle to efficiently control light direction for binocular parallax-based 3D image display.

Innovation Solution

A backlight unit incorporating a micro optical switch array with electrostatically operated micro optical switches, which can adjust the output direction of light by applying voltage to control the alignment of electrode layers, allowing for independent light control at each cell of the display panel to switch between 2D and 3D modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a micro optical switch array is added to enable 2D-3D mode switching, then the adaptability and functionality are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improve2D-3D mode switching capabilityVSAvoidbacklight unit structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The backlight unit is divided into multiple cells, with each cell containing a micro optical switch that can independently control light direction. This segmentation allows the system to achieve 2D-3D mode switching by controlling individual switches, adding functionality while keeping each control unit simple and manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The micro optical switch array serves multiple functions: it controls light direction for both 2D and 3D modes, enables binocular parallax effect, and maintains compatibility with existing display panels. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making a single added component serve several purposes simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If electrostatic attraction is used to move the second electrode layer, then the operation voltage is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperation voltageVSAvoidelectrode layer alignment

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical actuation systems with an electrostatic field-based system. Instead of using motors or mechanical linkages to move the second electrode layer, electrostatic attraction is used to achieve precise positioning. This substitution reduces operational energy requirements while the fixed structural design minimizes manufacturing precision challenges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes the physical parameters of the electrostatic system, including electrode spacing, area, and voltage characteristics, to achieve the desired balance between low operating voltage and acceptable manufacturing tolerances. By carefully selecting these parameters, the system achieves efficient operation without excessive precision requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the second electrode layer covers the first holes when voltage is applied, then the light blocking capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelight blocking capabilityVSAvoidelectrode layer structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using a traditional shutter or filter to block light, the patent inverts the approach by using movable electrode layers that can cover or uncover holes. When voltage is applied, the second electrode layer moves to cover the first holes, blocking light. This inverted mechanism achieves reliable light control while maintaining a relatively simple structure based on basic electrostatic actuation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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 efficient switching between 2D and 3D modes by selectively directing light to each eye, enhancing user convenience and compatibility with existing display panels, while maintaining high contrast ratios and low operation voltage.

Implementation Method 1

The second electrode layer may be configured to move to the first electrode layer, and cover the first holes, in response to a voltage being applied between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer to generate electrostatic attraction between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic attraction: Electrostatics

Data Source

PatentUS9880343B2Backlight unit using micro optical switch and 3D image display device

Publication Date: 2018.01.30 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A backlight unit using a micro optical switch and a three-dimensional (3D) image display device are provided. The backlight unit includes a light source configured to irradiate light, a light guide plate configured to guide the irradiated light, an optical switch array including micro optical switches disposed above the light guide plate for each of cells of the backlight unit, and a lens array disposed above and corresponding to the optical switch array. Each of the micro optical switches includes a substrate, a first electrode layer disposed on the substrate and including first holes, and a second electrode layer spaced apart from the first electrode layer and including second holes not facing the first holes.