Variable Mirror Display Optics for External Light Glare Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable mirror-equipped display apparatuses experience glare due to external light during the image display state, which is a challenge in switchable mirror and image display configurations.
Innovation Solution
A variable mirror-equipped display apparatus incorporating a reflective polarizer, a liquid crystal lens, and a control device that switches between lens states to separate image light and external light, reducing glare by refracting external light away from the viewer's direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a variable mirror-equipped display apparatus is used to display images, then image display function is achieved, but glare due to external light occurs during image display state
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid crystal lens is electrically switchable between a first state which exhibits a lens effect and a second state which does not exhibit the lens effect. During image display state, the liquid crystal lens is switched to the first state to refract external light and reduce glare, while during mirror state it is switched to the second state to allow normal rearview reflection.
Solution Approach 2:
The refractive index of the liquid crystal lens is changed by applying voltage to switch between lens effect state and non-lens effect state. This parameter change allows the optical properties of the display apparatus to be dynamically adjusted according to the operational state, reducing glare during image display while maintaining mirror function during rearview mode.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a liquid crystal lens is added to reduce glare, then glare reduction is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid crystal lens serves multiple functions: it acts as a glare reduction element during image display state by refracting external light, and simultaneously maintains optical neutrality during mirror state. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address glare reduction without requiring separate systems for different operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid crystal lens automatically adjusts its optical properties based on electrical control signals corresponding to the operational state. When the display apparatus switches between image display and mirror states, the liquid crystal lens autonomously transitions between lens effect and non-lens effect states, eliminating the need for additional mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
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 effectively reduces glare by directing external light away from the viewer's field of view, enhancing the visibility of displayed images and maintaining a clear rearview function.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid crystal lens disposed opposite the display unit with the reflective polarizer interposed therebetween; where the liquid crystal lens is electrically switchable under the control of the control device between a first state which exhibits a lens effect and a second state which does not exhibit the lens effect
Implementation Method 2
a reflective polarizer disposed on a light emission side of the display unit
Data Source
AI summary
To reduce glare due to external light during an image display state of a variable mirror-equipped display apparatus.The variable mirror-equipped display apparatus that is electrically switchable between a mirror state and an image display state including: a display unit that emits image light; a reflective polarizer disposed on a light emission side of the display unit; a liquid crystal lens disposed opposite the display unit with the reflective polarizer interposed therebetween; and a control device that controls operation of the display unit and the liquid crystal lens; where the liquid crystal lens is electrically switchable under the control of the control device between a first state which exhibits a lens effect and a second state which does not exhibit the lens effect.