Switchable Color Converter for OLED Privacy Viewing Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current OLED display screens lack the ability to dynamically switch between wide and narrow viewing angles, posing challenges in sharing information privately or publicly, and in automotive settings where passengers and drivers need different visibility of content without distracting the driver.
Innovation Solution
A method and arrangement using a switchable color converter that absorbs or converts light wavelengths based on activation state, allowing light of one wavelength range to be visible from one direction and another range from both directions, implemented in OLED pixels or display screens to enable private and public viewing modes without significant resolution loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wide viewing angle is used for OLED display screens, then information sharing capability is improved, but data security and confidentiality are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the color converter's activation state based on detected viewing angle. When the viewing angle exceeds a threshold (indicating someone is viewing from the side), the color converter is activated to convert wavelengths and darken the display. This dynamic response allows the display to automatically adapt between wide and restricted viewing modes, resolving the contradiction between information sharing and data security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters (wavelength transmission characteristics) of the color converter based on viewing angle conditions. In the deactivated state, the color converter transmits both first and second wavelength ranges for wide viewing. In the activated state, it converts first wavelength to second wavelength and only transmits second wavelength range, creating a darkened appearance from side angles. This parameter change enables automatic adaptation between public and private viewing modes.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If add-on films based on microlouvers are used to protect visual data, then data security is improved, but light loss increases and the films cannot be dynamically switched
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a color converter as an intermediary element between the light source and the viewer. This color converter dynamically controls light transmission based on viewing angle, unlike static microlouver films. The color converter converts first wavelength light to second wavelength light and selectively transmits wavelengths, providing both security and adaptability without the permanent light loss associated with fixed microlouver structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching capability through the color converter's activatable/deactivatable nature. Unlike static add-on films that must be manually applied and removed, the color converter can be automatically activated or deactivated based on detected viewing conditions, enabling seamless transition between private and public viewing modes without manual intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two OLEDs with different emitting characteristics are arranged one above the other, then viewing angle control is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple wavelength-emitting layers into a single OLED structure with one light source. Instead of stacking two separate OLEDs, the invention uses a single OLED that emits first wavelength light, which then passes through a color converter that generates second wavelength light. This consolidation reduces structural complexity while achieving the same viewing angle control effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a color converter as an intermediary between the single OLED light source and the viewer. This color converter performs wavelength conversion to create the effect that would otherwise require multiple OLEDs with different emitting characteristics. The intermediary enables viewing angle control without the complexity of stacking multiple light-emitting devices.
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 seamless switching between private and public viewing modes on OLED displays without compromising resolution, addressing the need for adaptive visibility in various contexts, including automotive and data security applications.
Implementation Method 1
a switchable color converter which, in the deactivated state, absorbs light of shorter wavelengths and at the same time transmits light of longer wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
which, in the activated state, converts light of shorter wavelength into light of longer wavelengths and transmits light of longer wavelengths
Data Source
AI summary
A method for influencing light propagation directions of a light-emitting surface emitting light of a first wavelength range in a first direction and light of a second and wavelength range in a second direction. The wavelength ranges have a wavelength-dependent spectral radiance and differ in a peak wavelength. A switchable color converter is arranged in front of the light-emitting surface. The method includes the steps of a) deactivating the color converter for a first mode so that the second-wavelength range is transmitted and the first-wavelength range is absorbed, such that light from the light-emitting surface is only perceptible from the second direction, or b) activating the color converter for a second mode so that light of the first-wavelength range is converted into light of the second-wavelength range and light of the second-wavelength range is transmitted, such that light from the light-emitting surface is perceptible from both directions.