3D Volumetric Display Scattering Volume for Multi-Perspective Viewing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional 3D displays limit multiple users to the same perspective and often require glasses, while volumetric displays are complex and costly, necessitating a solution for creating affordable and user-friendly 3D volumetric displays that allow multiple perspectives and real 3D space occupation.

Innovation Solution

A 3D volumetric display system comprising a light source and a scattering volume, where the light source generates light based on 3D image data and projects it into the scattering volume, using anamorphic lenses and scattering elements to create a three-dimensional image viewable by multiple users simultaneously, with optional onboard computer assistance for image processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional 3D displays are used, then 3D image display is achieved, but multiple users are forced to view from the same perspective and glasses are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple user perspectivesVSAvoidglasses requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from conventional 2D/3D displays to a volumetric display that occupies real 3D space. By arranging scattering elements (such as microlenses or reflective particles) in a three-dimensional configuration within a scattering volume, the system creates light fields that can be viewed from multiple angles simultaneously, enabling multiple users to see different perspectives without wearing glasses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If volumetric displays are used, then multiple perspectives and real 3D space occupation are achieved, but complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple viewing anglesVSAvoiddisplay system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a single display device that performs multiple functions: it generates 3D image data, projects light through a scattering volume containing three-dimensional arrays of scattering elements, and enables multiple users to view from different angles simultaneously. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate systems for each viewing perspective, thereby reducing overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses a light source that projects 3D image data through a scattering volume, creating multiple light paths that correspond to different viewing angles. Instead of requiring multiple physical displays, the system creates optical copies of the 3D image data through light scattering, allowing multiple perspectives to be generated from a single source.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If volumetric displays are used, then real 3D space occupation and multiple perspectives are achieved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D space occupationVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes changes in optical parameters (light scattering angles, refraction indices) by arranging scattering elements in three-dimensional space to achieve multiple viewing perspectives. By manipulating these optical parameters through the spatial configuration of inexpensive scattering materials rather than complex mechanical structures, the system reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining volumetric display capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 multiple users to view 3D images from various angles without glasses, reducing complexity and cost by using a single display, while maintaining high resolution and depth perception through the restoration of the original image aspect ratio and efficient light scattering.

Implementation Method 1

A 3D volumetric display includes a light source and a scattering volume, where the light source generates light based on 3D image data and projects it into the scattering volume

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight scattering: Scattering

Implementation Method 2

using anamorphic lenses and scattering elements to create a three-dimensional image viewable by multiple users simultaneously, with optional onboard computer assistance for image processing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAnamorphic lens transformation: Lens

Data Source

PatentUS10110884B2Enhanced 3D volumetric display
Publication Date: 2018.10.23 LOOKING GLASS FACTORY INC
  • US10110884B2 patent drawing
  • US10110884B2 patent drawing
  • US10110884B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A three-dimensional volumetric display includes a light source that generates a two-dimensional image output and a transparent scattering volume, coupled to the light source on a first face of the scattering volume, that scatters the image output of the light source in a direction perpendicular to the light axis of the output of the light source; where the scattering volume comprises a three-dimensional array of scattering elements arranged in a plurality of scattering planes tilted relative to the first face of the scattering volume.