Display Device Retroreflective Aerial Imaging Phase Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current display devices with polarizing filters and retroreflective elements face challenges in forming clear aerial images due to limitations in light polarization and phase difference modulation, leading to suboptimal imaging plane symmetry and depth perception.
Innovation Solution
A display device comprising first and second retroreflective elements, optical elements that impart phase differences, and a modulating element capable of switching between modes to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light, allowing for the formation of aerial images with distinct imaging planes, enhancing depth perception by adjusting the distance between these planes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a polarizing filter and retroreflective element are used to form aerial images, then the imaging plane symmetry is achieved, but the depth perception and clarity of aerial images are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the polarization state parameter from linear to circular by introducing a quarter-wave plate. This parameter change enables the formation of multiple aerial images at different depths while maintaining imaging plane symmetry, thereby resolving the contradiction between symmetry and depth perception.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the depth dimension to the traditional two-dimensional imaging plane by using circularly polarized light. This allows aerial images to be formed at multiple depths (different z-positions) while maintaining symmetry in the x-y plane, thus adding a new dimension to the imaging capability.
2Device complexity
If linearly polarized light is used with retroreflective elements, then the optical path is simplified, but the aerial image clarity and depth resolution deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The quarter-wave plate serves as an intermediary optical element that converts linearly polarized light to circularly polarized light. This intermediary component enables the optical system to achieve superior aerial image clarity and depth resolution without significantly complicating the overall optical path, as the conversion occurs at a single point in the optical train.
3Loss of information
If multiple aerial images are formed at different depths, then the depth perception is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multiple depth planes by changing the polarization state parameter (from linear to circular) rather than adding multiple complex optical systems. This single parameter change enables the formation of multiple aerial images at different depths while keeping the device complexity low, as the same optical elements are used for all depth planes.
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 enables the creation of aerial images with improved depth perception by modulating light polarization and phase differences, allowing for clear and symmetrical imaging planes, thereby enhancing the display device's ability to present detailed and layered images.
Implementation Method 1
first and second retroreflective elements which retroreflect incident light
Implementation Method 2
optical element which is located between the first retroreflective element and the second retroreflective element
Implementation Method 3
modulating element capable of switching between modes to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a display device includes first and second retroreflective elements which retroreflect incident light, an optical element which is located between the first retroreflective element and the second retroreflective element, and includes a first surface facing the first retroreflective element and a second surface facing the second retroreflective element and a display unit which is located on a side facing the first surface and emits display light.