Switchable Lens Device for 2D and 3D Image Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional non-glasses type stereoscopic image displays can only show 3D images and fail to display 2D images, limiting their functionality.
Innovation Solution
A display device incorporating a switchable lens device with a first lens layer having different refractive indices in different directions and a second lens layer, which, combined with a polarization control unit, can refract light to separate images for 3D viewing or transmit light without refraction for 2D viewing, allowing for both 2D and 3D image display without the need for glasses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional non-glasses type stereoscopic image display device uses a fixed optical element (parallax barrier or lenticular lens) to separate optical axes, then 3D image display is achieved, but the device cannot display 2D images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the lens device switchable between different operational states. The liquid crystal lens changes its refractive index based on applied voltage, allowing it to switch between a lens state (for 3D display with light refraction) and a non-lens state (for 2D display with light transmission). This dynamic property enables a single device to perform multiple functions without requiring separate fixed optical elements for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by controlling the refractive index of the liquid crystal lens through voltage application. When voltage is applied, the refractive index changes, causing the lens to refract light for 3D image separation. When voltage is not applied, the refractive index returns to its original state, allowing light to transmit without refraction for 2D display. This parameter control mechanism enables versatile image display modes while maintaining a relatively simple device structure.
2Ease of operation
If glasses are used to separate left and right images, then 3D image display is achieved, but viewer convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a display device that can perform both 2D and 3D image display functions using a single non-glasses type optical system. The switchable lens device serves multiple purposes: it can separate optical axes for 3D display without requiring glasses, and it can transmit light without refraction for 2D display. This multi-functionality enhances both viewer convenience and display versatility simultaneously.
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 display of both 2D and 3D images in a non-glasses format by selectively refracting light based on polarization direction, enhancing user convenience and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens layer and a second lens layer, the first lens layer having a first refractive index in a first direction and a second refractive index lower than the first refractive index in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction
Implementation Method 2
a polarization control unit that selectively switches light of the first direction to light linearly polarized in a second direction substantially orthogonal to the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a display device that may include a display panel; and a switchable lens device on the display panel, wherein the switchable lens device comprises, a first substrate, a first lens layer having a first refractive index in a first direction and a second refractive index lower than the first refractive index in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction, and having a plurality of convex surfaces, and a second lens layer between the first substrate and the first lens layer, the second lens layer having substantially the same refractive index as the first refractive index.