Optical Molecular Switch Molecule for Volumetric Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current volumetric displays are complex, costly, and fail to represent occlusion and opacity, with 3D-scene distortion when viewed from non-predicted locations, limiting their wide commercial implementation.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional optical switch display system using optical molecular switch molecules that transition from a non-fluorescent to a fluorescent state with specific light wavelengths, allowing for the generation of true volumetric images using low-power lasers and organic molecules like spirolactam rhodamine, enabling voxel creation and manipulation for full 3D image formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional volumetric display systems are used, then three-dimensional images can be generated, but the systems become complex and costly with bulky hardware requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates bulky hardware components by using a simplified configuration with only two light sources and a photodetector array, removing the need for complex mechanical scanners, mirrors, and other traditional volumetric display components while maintaining image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex hardware with inexpensive light sources (LEDs or lasers) and simple photodetector arrays, making the system cost-effective and suitable for widespread commercial implementation
2Reliability
If traditional volumetric displays are used, then 3D images can be formed, but occlusion and opacity cannot be accurately represented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using multiple photodetectors positioned at different locations to detect light from specific regions of the sample, enabling accurate representation of local optical properties such as occlusion and opacity at each spatial position
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a spectral dimension by using light sources of different wavelengths and detecting their differential absorption, allowing the system to capture both spatial and optical property information simultaneously, thereby accurately representing occlusion and opacity
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional volumetric displays are used, then images can be displayed, but 3D-scene distortion occurs when viewed from non-predicted locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal display system that provides accurate 3D visualization from multiple viewing angles by using a photodetector array that captures light information from all directions, making the system adaptable to various viewing positions without distortion
4Reliability
If complex volumetric display systems are used, then three-dimensional images can be generated, but the hardware becomes bulky and impractical for wide commercial implementation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical scanning systems with a static photodetector array and uses optical field principles to achieve volumetric imaging, eliminating moving parts and mechanical complexity while maintaining image generation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters by using low-power light sources and detecting optical field distributions at multiple positions, enabling practical commercial implementation with simplified hardware while maintaining reliable 3D image generation
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 system provides low-cost, high-resolution, and practical volumetric displays that can be viewed without glasses, offering 360-degree viewing and accurate 3D representation without the need for bulky hardware or advanced materials, suitable for various applications including biomedical imaging and entertainment.
Implementation Method 1
the optical molecular switch molecule has a non-fluorescent state and a fluorescent state, wherein at one wavelength of optical excitation, the molecule has a first state and at a second state the optical molecular switch molecule fluoresces at a second wavelength of excitation
Implementation Method 2
the optical molecular switch molecule is converted into a fluorescent 'on state' by irradiation from the first light source
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a system, apparatus and method for generating a three-dimensional image, the system comprising: a medium comprising a optical molecular switch molecule, wherein the optical molecular switch molecule has a non-fluorescent state and a fluorescent state, wherein at one wavelength of optical excitation the molecule has a first state, and at a second state the molecule fluoresces a second wavelength of excitation; and at least a first light source and a second light source into the medium, wherein light emitted by the at least first and second light sources are directed to contact the optical molecular switch molecule, e.g., scanning, weaving, diagonally or other pattern; wherein the optical molecular switch molecule is converted into a fluorescent “on state” by irradiation from the first light source, and the second light causes the optical molecular switch to emit light.