Optical Switch Molecules for Low-Cost 3D Volumetric Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current volumetric displays are complex, costly, and fail to represent occlusion and opacity effectively, with limitations in scalability and bandwidth, making them impractical for wide commercial implementation.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using optical switch molecules that transform from a non-fluorescent to a fluorescent state with specific light wavelengths, enabling the generation of true three-dimensional volumetric images using two lasers, which intersect to create voxels, allowing for low-cost and efficient three-dimensional display technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional volumetric display methods are used, then three-dimensional images can be generated, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the core function of volumetric display from complex mechanical and optical systems by using optical switch molecules that inherently provide the necessary light modulation. This removes the need for complex scanning mechanisms, high-power lasers, and advanced materials while retaining the ability to generate three-dimensional images.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs optical switch molecules that can be easily synthesized and replaced, replacing expensive and complex hardware components. These molecular switches provide a low-cost, scalable solution that eliminates the need for high-power lasers and advanced optical materials.
2Ease of operation
If traditional volumetric display methods are used, then three-dimensional images can be generated, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical switch molecules that are chemically synthesizable and inexpensive compared to traditional volumetric display components. These molecules replace costly hardware, enabling commercial implementation at scale.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental parameters of the display system by using molecular-scale optical switches instead of macroscopic optical components. This parameter change from mechanical/optical systems to chemical systems dramatically reduces manufacturing costs and complexity.
3Reliability
If traditional volumetric display methods are used, then images can be displayed, but occlusion and opacity are not effectively represented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves local control of light emission at the molecular level, where individual optical switch molecules can be activated or deactivated independently. This local quality control enables effective representation of occlusion and opacity by selectively switching molecules on or off in three-dimensional space, creating realistic depth and transparency effects without additional system complexity.
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 the creation of truly three-dimensional images without the need for high-power lasers or advanced materials, reducing costs and complexity, and allowing for wider applications in various sectors including biomedical imaging and entertainment.
Implementation Method 1
at one wavelength of optical excitation an optical molecular switch 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
a first wavelength activates the photo acid
Implementation Method 3
the second wavelength triggers polymerization of the monomers
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a system, apparatus and method for generating a three-dimensional image and/or printing a three-dimensional structures, the system comprising: a medium comprising an acid-sensitive photoinitiator, a photoacid, monomers, donors, and acceptors, wherein the acceptor has a non-fluorescent state and a fluorescent state, wherein at one wavelength of optical excitation an optical molecular switch molecule has a first state, and at a second state the optical molecular switch molecule fluoresces at 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 acid-sensitive photoinitiator, wherein a first wavelength activates the photo acid, and the second wavelength triggers polymerization of the monomers.