Switchable Parallax Optics for Top-Emitting Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current top-emitting electroluminescent displays, such as OLED and QLED, face limitations in achieving multiple viewing modes, including dual view and public modes, due to the positioning of optical components which restrict their ability to switch between directional and non-directional viewing modes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A switchable optical assembly is integrated on the viewing side of the top-emitting electroluminescent display, comprising a non-switchable parallax layer combined with a switchable scattering device or a switchable parallax layer, allowing the display to reconfigure between non-directional and directional viewing modes by adjusting the distance between the electroluminescent layer and the optical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a non-switchable parallax barrier is positioned close to the electroluminescent layer (within 0.1 μm to 10 μm), then narrow viewing mode is achieved, but the display cannot switch to wide angle public mode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by introducing a switchable scattering layer that can dynamically change its light scattering properties. When the scattering layer is in the scattered state, it enables wide-angle public viewing mode; when in the collimated state, it enables narrow viewing angle modes (single view or dual view). This dynamic switching capability allows the display to adapt between different viewing modes without physical reconfiguration, resolving the contradiction between achieving narrow viewing mode and maintaining multi-mode versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a switchable scattering diffuser layer is added to enable mode switching, then multi-mode operation is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the scattering function and the mode-switching function into a single integrated optical assembly. The switchable scattering layer is positioned in direct contact with or close to the parallax barrier, combining multiple optical functions (scattering, parallax effect, and mode switching) into one compact structure. This integration reduces the number of separate components and simplifies manufacturing compared to using entirely separate switchable parallax optics, thereby achieving multi-mode operation while controlling manufacturing complexity.
3Measurement precision
If the distance between electroluminescent layer and parallax optic is reduced, then narrow viewing mode performance improves, but wide view mode brightness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a scattering layer as an intermediary element between the electroluminescent layer and the parallax barrier. This scattering layer acts as a mediator that can control light distribution: in wide view mode, it scatters light to increase brightness and viewing angle; in narrow viewing mode, it works in conjunction with the parallax barrier to maintain precise angular control. The scattering layer thus mediates between the conflicting requirements of brightness and angular precision, allowing the system to optimize performance in each mode without compromising the other.
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 configuration enhances the display's performance by enabling seamless switching between wide view and narrow view modes, improving brightness and resolution in wide view mode while maintaining precise angular control in narrow view modes, thereby overcoming the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
The switchable optical assembly includes one of a switchable parallax layer that includes an electro optic material, or a non-switchable parallax layer in combination with a switchable scattering device that includes the electro-optic material
Implementation Method 2
a switchable scattering diffuser layer... a switchable scattering device that includes the electro-optic material and is disposed on the viewing side of the non-switchable parallax layer
Data Source
AI summary
A multimode display device is configured for enhanced performance of a non-directional (public) viewing mode and one or more directional (narrow) viewing modes. The display device includes a switchable optical assembly disposed on a viewing side of a top emitting electroluminescent display. The switchable optical assembly includes one of a switchable parallax layer that includes an electro optic material, or a non-switchable parallax layer in combination with a switchable scattering device that includes the electro-optic material and is disposed on the viewing side of the non-switchable parallax layer. The switchable optical assembly is switched so as to re-configure the display device between the non-directional and directional viewing modes.