Minimized-Thickness Angular Scanner for 3D Displays

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lenticular 3D displays are limited by the number of views they can display due to spatial-multiplexing, which sacrifices spatial resolution, and are not suitable for mobile operation as they are typically large and power-intensive.

Innovation Solution

A compact radiation-steering device using an optical sandwich comprising a two-dimensional image source and oscillatory translatable optics, allowing for the simultaneous display of multiple viewpoints and enabling a thin, low-power, and cost-effective 3D image projection suitable for handheld devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If spatial-multiplexing is used to display multiple views in lenticular 3D displays, then the number of views increases, but the spatial resolution decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of viewsVSAvoidspatial resolution

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic beam-steering mechanism using oscillating mirrors to sequentially direct light from different pixel columns to different viewing angles. This temporal multiplexing approach allows multiple views to be displayed over time rather than simultaneously in space, thereby maintaining high spatial resolution while achieving a large number of views (up to 120 views demonstrated). The oscillating mirror dynamically switches between different angular positions to present successive views to the observer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional lenticular components are used in 3D displays, then the display can show multiple views, but the device size and power consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of viewsVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical lenticular lens arrays with a electronically-controlled beam-steering system using oscillating mirrors and pixel column control. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky lenticular components and their associated mechanical structures, resulting in a much thinner and lighter display device. The electronic control of pixel columns combined with the simple oscillating mirror mechanism significantly reduces power consumption compared to driving large-scale lenticular arrays mechanically.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional lenticular components are used in 3D displays, then the display can show multiple views, but the device becomes large and unsuitable for mobile operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of viewsVSAvoiddevice thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical lenticular lens arrays with a electronically-controlled beam-steering system using oscillating mirrors and pixel column control. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky lenticular components and their associated mechanical structures, resulting in a much thinner and lighter display device. The electronic control of pixel columns combined with the simple oscillating mirror mechanism significantly reduces power consumption compared to driving large-scale lenticular arrays mechanically.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from spatial multiplexing (using lenticular lenses to simultaneously direct multiple views in different spatial directions) to temporal multiplexing (using oscillating mirrors to sequentially present views over time). This dimensional change from space to time allows the system to achieve multiple views without requiring the thick lenticular component structure, thereby enabling thin-form-factor displays suitable for mobile devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 provides a compact, low-power, and cost-effective 3D image projection capable of displaying multiple viewpoints, suitable for mobile applications, while maintaining high image quality and resolution, overcoming the limitations of existing lenticular displays.

Implementation Method 1

A beam-steering device includes an oscillating mirror for steering a bundle of light rays from a pixel column of a display screen to different angular positions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

Lenticules may be biconvex, or made of multiple surfaces, and may alternatively be long, thin lenses having a flat surface on one side and an opposing curved surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS9958694B2Minimized-thickness angular scanner of electromagnetic radiation

Publication Date: 2018.05.01 GULA CONSULTING LLC

AI summary

A minimized-thickness angular scanner of electromagnetic radiation includes an optical sandwich having a two-dimensional (2D) image source, and a scanning assembly that includes a first optic and a second optic, wherein at least one of the first optic and the second optic are oscillatorily translating. Translation of the optics provides for generation of a three-dimensional (3D) image, while the optical sandwich design provides for compact implementation of 3D displays.