2D/3D Switchable Backlight Unit with Trapezoidal Refraction Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D image display technologies require special eyeglasses, which are inconvenient for users, and there is a need for a 2D/3D switchable backlight unit that can seamlessly transition between 2D and 3D modes without additional apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A 2D/3D switchable backlight unit utilizing a light source unit, a light guide plate with total internal reflection, and trapezoidal refraction patterns to achieve efficient light distribution for both 2D and 3D modes, using a single backlight unit structure without additional components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If special eyeglasses are used for 3D image display, then 3D viewing capability is achieved, but user convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the 3D viewing capability from the eyeglasses and integrates it into the display device itself through a backlight unit with light guide plates and refraction patterns. This eliminates the need for separate eyeglasses while maintaining 3D functionality, directly resolving the contradiction between achieving 3D capability and user convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The backlight unit is designed to provide both 2D and 3D viewing modes through a single integrated structure. By incorporating switchable light guide plates and refraction patterns, the system achieves multi-functionality, allowing users to view images in either 2D or 3D without requiring different devices or accessories.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a 2D/3D switchable backlight unit is implemented, then compatibility between 2D and 3D modes is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the 2D and 3D light guide plates into a single integrated backlight unit structure. The light guide plates are positioned adjacently and share common components such as the light source unit and housing, reducing overall complexity while maintaining the ability to switch between 2D and 3D modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The backlight unit incorporates a switching mechanism that dynamically changes the optical path between 2D and 3D modes. By using movable or reconfigurable light guide plates with refraction patterns, the system achieves mode switching without requiring completely separate static structures for each mode.
3Use of energy by moving object
If total internal reflection is used for light distribution, then light efficiency is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies refraction patterns only in specific localized areas of the light guide plates where needed for 3D image formation, rather than throughout the entire structure. This localized application maintains high light efficiency through total internal reflection while reducing the overall manufacturing precision requirements to only critical regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The light guide plates use total internal reflection for the essential 3D optical paths while employing simpler light distribution methods in other areas. This partial application of high-precision total internal reflection achieves sufficient light efficiency without requiring extreme precision across the entire backlight unit.
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 efficient light radiation and improved brightness in 3D mode while allowing for seamless switching between 2D and 3D images, enhancing user convenience and eliminating the need for extra apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
a light guide plate within which light from the light source unit is totally internally reflected
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of refraction patterns each having a trapezoidal form
Data Source
AI summary
A two-dimensional (2D)/three-dimensional (3D) switchable backlight unit and an image display apparatus using the 2D/3D switchable backlight unit are provided. The 2D/3D switchable backlight unit includes: a light source unit; a first light guide plate, within which light from the light source unit is totally internally reflected; and a plurality of refraction patterns, each having a trapezoidal form. The light source unit may include a first light source and a second light source.