Switchable Display Device 2D-3D Window Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing switchable display devices face limitations in showing multiple windows with varying view modes, such as two-dimensional and three-dimensional modes, due to resolution loss and restricted flexibility in shaping and positioning, especially when trying to display a large round circle in two-dimensional mode while the remainder is in three-dimensional mode.

Innovation Solution

The switchable display device alternately displays two-dimensional and three-dimensional image data with a high frequency, using complementary light generating elements and optical directory means to create multiple windows with arbitrary shapes, ensuring that two-dimensional and three-dimensional images are perceived simultaneously without actual simultaneous display, allowing for clear separation and high average light output.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a switchable diffuser is used to switch between 2D and 3D modes, then the display device can switch between view modes, but the resolution is reduced and the flexibility in shaping and positioning windows is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveview mode switching capabilityVSAvoidresolution
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The display device is divided into multiple independently controllable light generating elements (sub-pixels) that can be selectively activated. Each sub-pixel can be individually addressed to create arbitrary window shapes and positions, while the optical directory means (lenticular lens) segments the light paths to direct different views to different eyes. This segmentation enables both high resolution and flexible window configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between 2D and 3D modes by controlling the timing and pattern of light generation from different sub-pixel groups. The left and right eye images are displayed alternately at high frequency, with the optical directory means dynamically directing light to create the perception of simultaneous 3D viewing. This dynamic control provides adaptability while maintaining resolution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If passive matrix addressing is used to create multiple windows with different view modes, then window creation is possible, but the number and shapes of windows are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple window capabilityVSAvoidaddressing scheme complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex passive matrix addressing schemes with a more efficient active control approach. Instead of using intricate electrical addressing patterns to define window shapes and positions, the system uses the optical directory means (lenticular lens) to physically direct light paths, while the control system simply activates or deactivates sub-pixels. This substitution simplifies the addressing complexity while enabling arbitrary window configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If 3D image data is displayed continuously, then realistic 3D perception is achieved, but light output is reduced and flicker increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D perception qualityVSAvoidlight output
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses periodic alternation between left-eye and right-eye image display at a high frequency (above the flicker fusion threshold). This periodic switching creates the perception of continuous 3D imagery while actually displaying each eye's image in alternating intervals. The optical directory means (lenticular lens) directs the periodically displayed light to the appropriate eyes, maintaining 3D perception quality while enabling higher average light output compared to continuous dual-image display.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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

This approach enables the simultaneous perception of two-dimensional and three-dimensional windows with low large area flicker and high average light output, providing flexibility in window shapes and modes without the limitations of previous technologies.

Implementation Method 1

a structure of light generating elements for generating light on basis of respective driving values

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission from light generating elements: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

optical directory means for directing the generated light in dependence of an actual view mode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight direction control: Lens

Data Source

PatentUS8531439B2Switchable display device
Publication Date: 2013.09.10 LEIA INC
  • US8531439B2 patent drawing
  • US8531439B2 patent drawing
  • US8531439B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A switchable display device (100) which is arranged to switch between a two-dimensional view mode and a three-dimensional view mode is disclosed. The switchable display device (100) comprises: a structure (104) of light generating elements (105-108) for generating light on basis of respective driving values; and optical directory means (110) for directing the generated light in dependence of an actual view mode, the actual view mode being either the two-dimensional view mode or the three-dimensional view mode. The switchable display device (100) is arranged to alternately display two-dimensional image data and three-dimensional image data, while the optical directory means (110) are switched synchronously; the 2D/3D switching is performed at a predetermined frequency, sufficiently high so that the observer can perceive a 2D window and a 3D window simultaneously.