U.S. patent application number 10/628541 was filed with the patent office on 2004-02-05 for color 3d image display.
Invention is credited to Yoshino, Emily, Yoshino, Kazutora.
Application Number | 20040021802 10/628541 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 21995393 |
Filed Date | 2004-02-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040021802 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yoshino, Kazutora ; et
al. |
February 5, 2004 |
Color 3D image display
Abstract
Color 3D image display devices that show realistic 3D images
using the virtual light points fields. Color-intensity and
directions of the virtual light points fields are controlled by
various methods such as selection of directions of properly
color-intensified light rays. For such methods, micro-pinholes,
liquid crystal pinholes, varifocal micro-lens arrays and varifocal
index-gradient lens, etc. are used together with high-resolution
and high-speed 2 dimensional pattern-generating displays. By adding
linear (reciprocating) and/or rotational motion to such 3D display
makes higher resolution and view angles wider.
Inventors: |
Yoshino, Kazutora; (Eden
Prairie, MN) ; Yoshino, Emily; (Eden Prairie,
MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KAZUTORA YOSHINO
7227 Divinity Lane
Eden Prairie
MN
55346
US
|
Family ID: |
21995393 |
Appl. No.: |
10/628541 |
Filed: |
July 28, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10628541 |
Jul 28, 2003 |
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10055072 |
Jan 23, 2002 |
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6646072 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
349/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C08F 4/642 20130101;
C08F 4/025 20130101; C08F 110/02 20130101; C08F 110/02 20130101;
C08F 110/02 20130101; C08F 4/642 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
349/1 |
International
Class: |
G02F 001/13 |
Claims
I claim:
1 The device that displays color 3 dimensional image(s) in the
space in real time using light virtual fields creating device
means.
2 The device of claim [1] wherein said light virtual fields
creating device means is composed of (1) Light rays directing
device means (2) Light rays selecting device means (3) Optionally,
Light source means (4) Optionally, mask means (5) Optionally,
optical instruments means
3 The device of claim [2] wherein said light rays directing device
means is composed of pinhole arrays, micro-lens arrays,
micro-mirror arrays, liquid crystal pinhole arrays, varifocal
pinhole lens, varifocal micro-lens array, varifocal liquid crystal
lens, varifocal liquid crystal micro-lens, varifocal vertical
liquid crystal lens, varifocal holizontalc liquid crystal lens,
varifocal liquid crystal fresnel lens, micro-reflector, varifocal
micro-piezoelectric reflector, varifocal piezoelectric micro-lens,
adaptive optical lens, adaptive optical micro-lens
4 The device of claim [2] wherein said light rays selecting device
means is composed of liquid crystal display, liquid crystal panels,
liquid crystal panel with polarizing plate, micro-liquid crystal
arrays, organic electro-luminescent display, inorganic
electro-luminescent display, plasma display, laser arrays, diode
laser arrays, electrodes, clear electro-conductive sheet
5 The device of claim [2] wherein said light source means is
composed of light source, uniform light source, non-uniform light
source diode light emitting plate, arc lamp, halogen light,
electron beam emitter, light bulb
6 The device of claim [2] wherein said mask means is composed of
masks, hole masks, liquid crystal masks
7 The device of claim [2] wherein said optical instruments means is
composed of lens, micro-lens, index-gradient lens, pinhole lens,
varifocal lens, liquid crystal varifocal lens, varifocal
index-gradient lens, varifocal liquid crystal varifocal lens,
prisms, mirrors, curved mirrors, half-mirrors, color filters,
polarizing plate
8 The device of claim [1] wherein said light virtual fields
creating device means is composed of (1) Three dimensional image
display units with flat or curved surface means (2) Optionally,
motion generating device means
9 The device of claim [8] wherein said Three dimensional image
display units with flat or curved surface means is composed of (1)
pinhole arrays, micro-lens arrays, micro-mirror arrays, liquid
crystal pinhole arrays, varifocal micro-lens array (2) liquid
crystal display, liquid crystal panels, liquid crystal panel with
polarizing plate, micro-liquid crystal arrays, organic
electro-luminescent display, inorganic electro-luminascient
display, plasma display, laser arrays, diode laser arrays (3)
Optionally, Light source means (4) Optionally, mask means (5)
Optionally, optical instruments means
10 The device of claim [8] wherein said motion generating means is
composed of the group consisting of linear stage, rotational stage,
motors, linear motors, gears, bearing, magnetic oscillator,
electromagnetic motion generator, ultrasound motor
11 The device that changes the focal length of lens using varifocal
lens means
12 The device of claim [11] wherein said varifocal lens means is
composed of varifocal index-gradient lens means comprising layers
of materials that changes index of refractions such as varifocal
liquid crystal index-gradient lens comprising layers of liquid
crystals that changes index of refractions by voltages driven by
drivers
13 The device of claim [11] wherein said varifocal lens means is
composed of varifocal index-gradient lens means comprising
varifocal acousto-optic index-gradient lens comprising layers of
optic-optic materials crystals that changes direction of lights
14 The device of claim [11] wherein said varifocal lens means is
composed of varifocal pinhole lens comprising liquid crystal
pinhole or liquid crystal pinhole arrays whose diameters change by
the pattern created by liquid crystal panels with polarizing
plate
15 The device of claim [11] wherein said varifocal lens means is
composed of varifocal micro-lens arrays comprising electro-optic
material micro-lenses such as liquid crystal micro-lens array
16 The device of claim [11] wherein said varifocal lens means is
composed of varifocal motion micro-lens arrays comprising
micro-lenses and the motion generating device such as motors,
magnetic motion generator, reciprocating motion generator,
ultrasound motion generator
17 The device that has micro-arrays of light emitter means
18 The device of claim [17] wherein said micro-arrays of light
emitter means is composed of (1) micro-lasers, micro diode lasers,
photo-luminescent chemical components (2) base means comprising
silicon, glass, plastic (3) drivers
19 The device of claim [17] wherein said micro-arrays of light
emitter means is composed of ferroelectric liquid crystal on
uniform photo-luminescent chemical material
20 The device of claim [17] wherein said micro-arrays of light
emitter means is composed of ferroelectric liquid crystal on
uniform photo-luminescent chemical material with micro-lens arrays,
nematic liquid crystal arrays on uniform photo-luminescent chemical
material with micro-lens arrays,
Description
FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH
[0001] Not Applicable
SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM
[0002] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0003] 1. BACKGROUND--FIELD OF INVENTION
[0004] This invention relates to the image display devices such as
3DTV, hologram, stereo display device, volumetric display device
that are used for displaying the 3 dimensional object or
images.
[0005] 2. BACKGROUND--DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART
[0006] In the conventional way, it was difficult to display the 3
dimensional object or images in real time (run time) by viewed by
the multiple users without special glasses in the space only by
light. So devices such as TV are showing the converted 2
dimensional images from the 3 dimensional objects.
[0007] There are some 3 dimensional displays available.
[0008] The virtual headsets are showing the two different images to
each eye of users by screens to create the 3 dimensional images.
The shutter glasses can also show 3D images having fast changing
alternating left and right images. But many people feel
uncomfortable wearing such devices and some gets cyber sick
easily.
[0009] The holograms are showing 3 dimensional images, but these
images are difficult to be changed in real time (run time).
[0010] The conventional method to project the 2 dimensional image
to rotating plate, spiral screen, reciprocating screen to create 3
dimensional image shows only the surface shape of images and they
don't show realistic 3 dimensional image. (Actuality, Felix, Act
Research) The conventional method to project the 2 dimensional
images to plurality of semitransparent plates to create 3
dimensional images are very expensive because multiple DMD, GLV
costs a lot. U.S. Pat. No. 5,394,202 (Deering, 1995) and U.S. Pat.
No. 5,907,312, (Sato, et al., 1999) release some of these
methods.
[0011] In Japanese Patent No. 288957 or H01-193836 (Felix Gashia,
et al, 1989) shows the way to make 3 dimensional image by project
the 2 dimensional image to rotating plate. This put red, blue,
green laser beam together to light fiber, and run the light to make
the 2 dimensional image on the angled and rotated plate so that it
would show the 3 dimensional image as a result. But, this one is
rotating fast enough to be able to hurt users. And therefore, it is
not suitable for user to touch the 3 dimensional image created by
this device. Also, this by itself is almost impossible to show the
image in the space only by light.
[0012] In U.S. Pat. No. 3,647,284 (Virgil B Ethlgs, et al., 1972)
show the method of showing 3 dimensional image made by the light
that was originally scattered by an object. This device put two
dish means facing each other. The top dish means has ring shape,
that is it has a hole in the middle, and 3 dimensional image shows
up over this hole when user put the object at the bottom of the
bottom dish means. Each of dishes has reflecting material inside to
reflect lights. But this device by itself would be unsuitable to
show the real time (run time) 3 dimensional image because it is
composed of two dishes.
[0013] SHARP, INC. and 3DT, INC. has developed the 2-eye method 3
dimensional displays for a flat panel. Users can see from one angle
and cannot locate themselves anywhere to look at the 3D image.
[0014] SANYO, INC. has developed the 3 dimensional displays using
pinholes. But in their method, it is not easy to make flat panel
because it need extra-bright light source behind. Also, it is
difficult to apply current technology to manufactures. It tends to
be expensive. Also, the data conversion from 3D object to 2D liquid
crystal takes too long time to be for run time application. And
their resolution is low.
Objects and Advantages
[0015] This invention has advantages relative to prior art in
[0016] 1. This device of invention can display true realistic 3D
image as if it is there.
[0017] 2. Multi users can view the 3D images
[0018] 3. It could show both 2D and 3D images.
[0019] 4. It can be manufactured easily using current 2D display
technology
[0020] 5. The conversion time is small.
SUMMARY
[0021] The device of invention can display 3 dimensional images by
generating the virtual light distribution. Suppose incoming light
is projected to a point of surface of object. If the normal vector
on the point of the surface is having the angle of theta to the
incoming light vector, the maximum reflection occurs to the angle
of theta from the normal vector in symmetry. The diffusion occurs
depend of the surface of material. It usually has Gauss
distribution (approximately with the color-intensity of Amax*(Cos
alpha){circumflex over ( )}2 where Amax is the color-intensity of
the theta reflection) (FIG. 1-2-1). By having the superposition of
incoming and reflecting light vectors to each point on surfaces,
the surfaces of 3D object create vector field of lights. Now, if we
can create the vector field of lights, especially for the
reflecting lights, one can perceive it as if there is the 3D object
(FIG. 1-2-2). Also, it can even created the surface behind another
object (FIG. 1-2-3). There are many ways to make this kind of
vector distribution of lights. One of simplest ways is to make the
panel, hemisphere, sphere, or curved surface panels from which the
directed light is projected (FIG. 1-2-4 to FIG. 1-2-10). This can
be done in various ways as well.
[0022] There are many ways to direct lights. The pinholes are put
in front of 2-D images to create virtual light point (FIG. 2-1-1,
FIG. 2-1-2). This can be moved linearly and/or rotationally to be
located to proper location of 3D image surface. Also,
selected/displayed light rays are coming out of pinhole lenses,
micro-lenses to make virtual light points (FIG. 2-4-3, FIG. 2-4-2).
Focus of these rays becomes the virtual light points. And by
distributing these virtual light points, 3D images can be
generated. One is to make all direction light sources and select
the necessary lights using masks in controllable (or run-time)
pattern (FIG. 2-5-1). Or also, having micro-mirrors that can be
controlled in proper angles to reflect incoming light, it can
generate the vector field of light (FIG. 2-6-1). Also, the directed
light by reflection with motion of reflector can create such vector
field as well (FIG. 2-7-1). Also, the mechanical motion can be
added to 3D image display in order to increase the resolution, etc.
(FIG. 2-8-1, FIG. 2-9-1).
[0023] To make all direction light sources and select the necessary
lights using masks in controllable (or run-time) pattern (FIG.
2-5-1), one can select special pinhole lens 2-dimensional arrays
and high-resolution 2-dimensional image display (FIG. 3-1-1). By
having the pinholes on the top of the 2-dimensional image display,
it would reduce the cost of products, and thereby it has advantage
as invention. Example mapping is that given a virtual point P(Xp,
Yp, Zp), the points Qij(Xq,Yq) on 2-dimensional display are
described in
Xq=(1+(k/Zp))*(i)-(k/Zp)*(Xp)
Yq=(1+(k/Zp))*(j)-(k/Zp)*(Yp)
[0024] Where k is the distance between the pinholes and 2-D
display. The intension of each point on display varies depending of
the angles of vector field at virtual point P. By superposing the
vector fields on each point of 3D image surface, it generates the
virtual 3 dimensional images. It can change the 2D image in proper
timing to create living (animating) 3D images (FIG. 3-1-2).
[0025] The pinhole and 2D image display can be flipped if 2D
display is like liquid crystal (FIG. 3-2-1, FIG. 3-2-2).
[0026] One may like to have more resolution than the fixed pinhole
arrays. One method is to create the timely created pinhole lens
arrays using fast response 2-dimensional pattern generator (FIG.
3-3-1 to 3-4-2). Liquid crystal such as nematic or ferroelectric
liquid crystal can be used for the 2D pattern generator. Liquid
crystals on glass plate may be achieved to make these patterns. One
layer can be used to make pinholes that change the locations in
fast time for the purpose of the higher resolution. Optionally,
mask layer that also change the pattern in fast time can be
inserted (to make 1 to 1 correspond). In this case the 2-D display
needs to be fast response as well. (Nematic/Ferroelectric/Etc.)
Liquid crystal displays, Plasma display, (Organic/Inorganic)
Electro-luminescent display (O.E.L.), CRT, micro-laser arrays etc.
can be used for the 2-D displays. 3D displays can be moved linearly
and/or rotationally to increase the resolution, reality, etc. (FIG.
3-5-1 to FIG. 3-5-5).
[0027] Micro-lens arrays and 2D display can be combined to generate
3 dimensional images (FIG. 4-1-1 to FIG. 4-1-4). Selected light
patterns get into micro-lens arrays to be directed to proper
direction. The field of light source could be parallel field,
conservative field, and non-conservative field It can be projected
from diode panel light source, arc lamp, laser, etc. By having fast
oscillation of the depth of 2-D images can create 3-D images.
[0028] One way is that the varifocal micro-lens array can be used
with 2 dimensional displays. Varifocal micro-lens arrays such as
electro-optic micro-lens arrays is put together to liquid crystal
such as ferro-electric liquid crystals to give the fast various
height of 2 dimensional images to produce 3 dimensional images
(FIG. 4-2-1, FIG. 4-2-2).
[0029] Also, the micro-array lens can be moved linearly and/or
rotationally to increase the resolution, reality, etc. (FIG. 4-2-4,
FIG. 4-2-5)
[0030] Micro-lens arrays with fast response varifocal lens can be
put together for creating the depth of 2D images therefore 3D
images as whole (FIG. 4-3-1 to 4-3-3). The trick is how to make
such fast response and accurate varifocal lens.
[0031] By creating different index of refraction using layer
materials such as liquid crystals that can be controlled
electrically, it can generated controlled index-gradient lens that
can vary the focal length depending on the index of refraction
(FIG. 4-4-1)
[0032] This can be used directly (FIG. 4-4-2) or with multi-layers
of liquid crystals as screens to get the projected images of 2-D
display (FIG. 4-3-3).
[0033] Also, micro-lens arrays, index-gradient lens and 2-D display
can be put together to select and direct the light vector field
(FIG. 5-1-1 to FIG. 5-1-3).
[0034] Also, micro-lens arrays and 2-D display with proper optics
can be put together to select and direct the light vector field
(FIG. 5-1-4).
[0035] The detailed light-path of each unit are shown in FIG. 5-2-1
to FIG. 5-2-5.
[0036] Varifocal electro-optic micro-lens arrays can be made with
the shapes of micro-lens with electro-optic materials such as
liquid crystals with polarizing plate.
[0037] Varifocal pinhole lens can be made of liquid crystals that
can have various pinhole-diameter to change the focus length of
pinhole lens together with polarizing plate. Varifocal
index-gradient lens can be made layers of liquid crystals with
different index of refraction that can be controlled by the
electrical field together with polarizing plate.
DRAWINGS
Drawing Figures
[0038] FIG. 1-1-1 through FIG. 1-1-9 shows the example diagrams of
3D display from side view. FIG. 1-2-1 through FIG. 2-4-2 shows the
example diagrams of concept how to make 3D images.
[0039] FIG. 2-5-1 through FIG. 2-9-1 shows the example diagrams of
general pictures of 3D image displays.
[0040] FIG. 3-1-1 through FIG. 3-4-2 shows the example diagrams of
devices with pinhole lens arrays with high-resolution 2D display
style 3D image display
[0041] FIG. 3-5-1 through FIG. 3-5-5 shows the example diagrams of
devices with pinhole lens arrays with high-resolution &
high-speed 2D display style 3D image display with different shapes
and/or with motion.
[0042] FIG. 4-1-1 through FIG. 4-1-4 shows the example diagrams of
devices with micro-lens arrays and high-resolution 2D display.
[0043] FIG. 4-2-1 through FIG. 4-2-1 shows the example diagrams of
devices with varifocal microlens arrays with high-speed 2D
display.
[0044] FIG. 4-2-3 through FIG. 4-2-5 shows the example diagrams of
devices with micro-lens arrays with high-speed &
high-resolution 2D display with motion.
[0045] FIG. 4-3-1 through FIG. 4-3-2 shows the example diagrams of
devices with micro-lens arrays with varifocal lens means with
high-speed 2D display.
[0046] FIG. 4-3-3 shows the example diagrams of devices with
varifocal lens (like electro-optic index-gradient varifocal lens,
liquid crystal varifocal lens, etc.) with high-speed 2D
display.
[0047] FIG. 4-4-1 through FIG. 4-4-2 shows the example detailed
diagrams of devices with micro-lens arrays with varifocal lens
means with high-speed 2D display.
[0048] FIG. 4-4-3 shows the example diagrams of devices with
micro-lens arrays with varifocal lens means with multi-layer liquid
crystals with high-speed 2D display.
[0049] FIG. 5-1-1 through FIG. 5-1-3 shows the example diagrams of
devices with micro-lens arrays with index-gradient lens with
high-resolution 2D display.
[0050] FIG. 5-1-4 shows the example diagrams of devices with
micro-lens arrays with high-resolution 2D display.
[0051] FIG. 5-2-1 through FIG. 5-2-5 shows the example detailed
diagrams of elementary unit of 3D displays.
REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGS
[0052] (1) Virtual lights field
[0053] such as 3 dimensional light vector field, parallel beam
field, conservative light vector field, non-conservative light
vector field, distributed virtual light points, virtual light
point(s), scanned virtual light field(s)
[0054] (10) varifocal lens means
[0055] such as varifocal lens, electro-optic micro-lens arrays,
varifocal pinhole lens, varifocal index-gradient lens, varifocal
liquid crystal lens, piezoelectric lens, acousto-optic micro-lens
arrays
[0056] (20) 2 dimensional image display means such as liquid
crystal display, ferroelectric liquid crystal, nematic liquid
crystal, liquid crystal panel with polarizing plates, micro-liquid
crystals arrays, micro-liquid crystals arrays with polarizing
plates, ferroelectric micro-liquid crystals arrays with polarizing
plates, plasma display, organic electro-luminescent display, laser
arrays, micro-laser arrays, diode laser arrays, nano-2D pattern
generator (light diffraction generator), CRT
[0057] (30) light source means
[0058] such as light source, uniform diode light emitter, arc lamp
with optics, light fibers with light source, lasers, lasers with
optics, parallel beam generator, light conservative vector field
generator, light source with polarizing plate(s), polarized light
source.
[0059] (40) micro-lens arrays means
[0060] such as pinhole lens arrays, micro-pinhole lens arrays,
micro-lens arrays, index-gradient lens arrays, liquid crystal
pinhole lens arrays, electro-optic micro-lens arrays,
nematic/ferreoelectric liquid crystals arrays, liquid crystal panel
with polarizing plate, 2 dimensional image pattern maker,
(varifocal micro-lens arrays)
[0061] (50) screen means
[0062] such as fast phase-changeable panel, liquid crystal panels,
liquid crystal panels with polarizing plates, ferroelectric liquid
crystal panels, ferroelectric liquid crystal panels with polarizing
plates, micro-lens arrays, pinhole lens arrays, moving screen,
moving micro-lens arrays, moving pinhole lens arrays
[0063] (70) micro-lens means
[0064] such as pinhole lens, pinhole lens arrays, micro-lens,
micro-lens arrays, liquid crystal pinhole lens (arrays),
electro-optic micro-lens (arrays), liquid crystal,
nematic/ferreoelectric liquid crystals, liquid crystal panel with
polarizing plate, 2 dimensional image pattern maker, varifocal
micro-lens (arrays), index-gradient lens (arrays)
[0065] (80) mask means
[0066] such as mask(s), 2 dimensional image pattern maker, liquid
crystal, nematic/ferreoelectric liquid crystals, liquid crystals
with polarizing plate
[0067] (90) optical component means
[0068] such as lens, varifocal lens, plate, mirror, optical
instruments
[0069] (100) high speed 2 dimensional image projector
[0070] (110) electrode means
[0071] (120) index of refraction modifier means
[0072] such as liquid crystal (panel), glass
[0073] (150) special lens means
[0074] such as index-gradient lens, parallel beam generator
[0075] (170) elementary display unit means
[0076] such as the elementary units of display
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Description--FIG. 1-1-1 Preferred Embodiment
[0077] A preferred embodiment of intelligent system and the 3
dimensional Image Display inventions is illustrated in FIG.
1-1-1.
[0078] FIG. 1-1-1 shows the example diagrams of 3D display from
side view. This can be made of fast response liquid crystal panels
with polarizing plate (20) and light source (30). The first
ferroelectric liquid crystal creates the patterns of pinholes
arrays. The second liquid crystal creates the patterns with which
2D image would be converted to 3D image. By having different
locations of pinholes in fast response shifting, it produces the
high resolution of 3 dimensional images. The mask means can be
inserted between those two panels.
Description--The Rest Alternative Embodiment
[0079] FIG. 1-1-2 shows the example diagrams of 3D display from
side view. By having varifocal micro-lens arrays to 2D display such
as liquid crystal panel with polarizing plate (20) and light source
(3), it creates the 3D image.
[0080] FIG. 1-1-3 shows the example diagrams of 3D display from
side view. By having varifocal micro-lens arrays to 2D display such
as organic electro-luminescent luminescent display, plasma display,
CRT, etc. to create 3D image.
[0081] FIG. 1-1-4 shows the example diagrams of 3D display from
side view. The nano-2D pattern generator (light diffraction
generator) (20) makes incoming lights (30) diffract to the
directions to generate the desired light fields. The nano-2D
generator can be made of nano-liquid crystals arrays. This can be
color if light source changes the RGB color rapidly and controlled
patterns on the diffracting plate are changed correspondingly. The
eyes mix up them as true color.
[0082] FIG. 1-1-5 shows the example diagrams of 3D display from
side view. The light from light source (30) enters to varifocal
lens (10) and enters the micro-lens arrays (70). By changing the
focus of varifocal lens rapidly, the multiplication of 2D image
occurs and therefore creates 3D image.
[0083] FIG. 1-1-6 shows the example diagrams of 3D display from
side view. The polarized light (30) comes into the 2D pattern
generator such as liquid crystal panel (20) attached to varifocal
(electro-optic) micro-lens arrays (10). The 2D patterns would be
lifted up to different heights rapidly to generate 3D images.
[0084] FIG. 1-1-7 shows the example diagrams of 3D display from
side view. The 2D image light (20) comes into varifocal lens such
as liquid crystal index-gradient lens (10) and micro-lens arrays.
The varifocal lens changes rapidly to lift 2D image different
heights rapidly to generate 3D images. Varifocal liquid crystal
index-gradient lens can be made of liquid crystal that can create
different index of refraction based on the controlled electrical
field (voltage).
[0085] FIG. 1-1-8 shows the example diagrams of 3D display from
side view. 2D image are projected from 2D display (20). Image
focusing device such as varifocal lens or parallel beam generator
(10/150) makes the 2D image on focus on different height of liquid
crystal screen (50). The liquid crystal can be coated with
anti-reflection and can be ferroelectric or nematic. By switching
the liquid crystal screen rapidly, it generates 3D images. The
virtual resolution with frictional color-intensity on pixels can be
used as well.
[0086] FIG. 1-1-9 shows the example diagrams of 3D display from
side view. The light from uniform light source (30) is converted to
parallel uniform light beam with indexgradient lens (150). The
high-resolution patterns on 2D display (20) would be directed
properly by micro-lens arrays (70) to make light vector fields and
therefore to generated 3D images.
[0087] FIG. 1-2-1 shows the example diagrams of incoming light and
reflected & scattered outgoing lights and its distribution with
angles from 3D object surface.
[0088] FIG. 1-2-2 shows the example diagrams of virtual light
point. The desired patterns of light vector fields to emulate the
light reflection on 3D object.
[0089] FIG. 1-2-3 shows the example diagrams of multi-objects can
put together. When only location of virtual light point is
controlled, 3D images are see-through. By controlling the location
and direction of virtual light points (field), it can have multiple
objects behind each other to create realistic 3D image. Viewers
don't see the surface of plate behind the sphere as realistic world
is though when the viewing angle of viewers changes, the surface
start showing up because it is creating virtually the real light
fields created by real objects.
[0090] FIG. 1-2-4 shows the example diagrams of shapes of 3D
display with hemisphere to create the virtual light fields.
[0091] FIGS. 1-2-5, 1-2-6, 1-2-7 shows the example diagrams of the
spherical 3D display that can show 3D image inside and outside of
display. User has full view angels of 3D images.
[0092] FIGS. 1-2-8, 1-2-9 shows the example diagrams of shapes of
3D display with curved surface panel to create the virtual light
fields. These can be chosen based on the needs of users if they
like 3D images to be inside or outside.
[0093] FIG. 1-2-10 shows the example diagrams of shapes of 3D
display with flat surface plane to create the virtual light
fields.
[0094] FIG. 2-1-1 shows the example diagrams of pinhole/micro-lens
(70) with 2D image (80) behind to create the color-intensity and
direction of virtual light. Most likely these are moved to create
3D images.
[0095] FIG. 2-1-2 shows the example diagrams of way how the
direction is changed from FIG. 2-1-1.
[0096] FIG. 2-2-1 shows the example diagrams of multiple pinholes
with 2D image behind to create 3D virtual light point.
[0097] FIG. 2-2-2 shows the example diagrams of multiple
micro-lenses with 2D image behind to create 3D virtual light
point.
[0098] FIGS. 2-3-1, 2-3-2, 2-4-1, 2-4-2 shows the example diagrams
of micro-lens/pinhole arrays with 2 D image behind to create 3D
images.
[0099] FIG. 2-5-1 shows the example diagrams of way how the pinhole
arrays, liquid crystal panel (with polarizing plate) and light
source can be put together.
[0100] FIG. 2-6-1 shows the example diagrams of micro-mirror
device. Each unit changes the angle in x-y direction to produce the
vector fields from incoming light source and therefore 3D
images.
[0101] FIG. 2-7-1 shows the example diagrams of way how to make 3D
image using motion of reflector in linear and/or (full/partial)
rotational movement. Input light can have 2D images already so that
when it is reflected to proper angles, it generates 3D vector light
fields and images.
[0102] FIG. 2-8-1 shows the example diagrams of rotational pinholes
and liquid crystal outside to have higher resolution 3D image with
360 degrees of view angles.
[0103] FIG. 2-9-1 shows the example diagrams of way to shake the 3D
display panel in x-y plane to have higher 3D image resolution. The
2D patterns changes rapidly according to 3D images.
[0104] FIG. 3-1-1 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
Pinholes (70) and masks are on the top of 2D display (20). Pixels
from 2D display (20) go through the corresponding pinholes (70) and
are focused to virtual point(s). Position and color-intensity of
each pixel on 2D display is properly controlled to produce the
virtual light point(s) that has proper angle and color-intensity
distribution.
[0105] FIG. 3-1-2 shows the example diagrams of 3D display with
multiple virtual light points to produce the surface of 3D
images.
[0106] FIG. 3-2-1, 3-2-2 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
Pinholes (70) and masks are behind the 2D display panel (20).
[0107] FIG. 3-3-1 shows the example diagrams of 3D display. Liquid
crystal panel creates pinholes (70) and is on the top of 2D display
(20). The positions of pinholes and patterns on 2D display change
rapidly to have higher resolution 3D image.
[0108] FIG. 3-3-2 shows the example diagrams of 3D display. First
liquid crystal panel creates pinholes (70). Second liquid crystal
panel creates masks (80). Third liquid crystal panel makes the
patterns (80). Light is projected from the behind (30). The
polarizing plate is properly inserted. The positions of pinholes,
masks and patterns on 2D display change rapidly to have higher
resolution 3D image. This has advantage in having 1 to 1 correspond
relationship. In other words, viewers don't see the extra dots when
view angle is widened.
[0109] FIG. 3-4-1 shows the alternative example diagrams of 3D
display. Liquid crystal panel creates pinholes (70) and is behind
2D display (20). The positions of pinholes and patterns on 2D
display change rapidly to have higher resolution 3D image.
[0110] FIG. 3-4-2 shows the alternative example diagrams of 3D
display. First liquid crystal panel creates patterns (20). Second
liquid crystal panel creates masks (80). Third liquid crystal panel
creates pinholes (70). Light is projected from the behind (30). The
polarizing plate is properly inserted. The positions of pinholes,
masks and patterns on 2D display change rapidly to have higher
resolution 3D image. This has advantage in having 1 to 1 correspond
relationship. In other words, viewers don't see the extra dots when
view angle is widened.
[0111] FIGS. 3-5-1 through 3-5-4 shows the example diagrams of 3D
display. By rotating and/or reciprocating the 3D display panel
rapidly with proper calculation, viewer would have wider view
angles of 3D images.
[0112] FIG. 3-5-1 shows the example diagrams of 3D display. It is
surrounded by 3D display-panels. This can be moved as well.
[0113] FIGS. 4-1-1, 4-1-2 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
Parallel light beams are generated by light source (30). Proper
locations of pixels are open on 2D display such as liquid crystal
panel (20) and lights go through those open positions and directed
properly when they go through the micro-lens arrays (70) to create
light vector field and 3D images.
[0114] FIG. 4-1-3 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
Parallel beam is generated by optical instrument such as lens or
light fiber.
[0115] FIG. 4-1-4 shows the example diagrams of 3D display. The
light source can be uniform field.
[0116] FIG. 4-2-1 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
Index-of-refraction-changing-materials is used to make varifocal
lens. Varifocal lens (10) such as electro-optic micro-lens shape is
put on liquid crystal (20). 2D image is projected to air, and by
changing the heights of the projected 2D images created by 2D
liquid crystal display and varifocal lens, it generated 3D images.
Varifocal lens and liquid crystal can be separated properly.
[0117] FIG. 4-2-2 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
Micro-array lens can be moved rapidly to adjust the height of 2D
images created by 2D display (20) to produce 3D images.
[0118] FIGS. 4-2-3, 4-3-1 and 4-3-2 shows the example diagrams of
3D display. Varifocal micro-lens arrays (10) are put over 2D
display (20). It lifts 2D images in the air. By changing the focal
length by varifocal lens, it can create 3D images.
[0119] FIGS. 4-2-4, 4-2-5 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
2D light patterns are projected to reciprocating micro-lens arrays/
pinhole lens arrays to produce the floating 3D images. High-speed
2D image projector and optional varifocal lens can be used.
[0120] FIG. 4-3-3 shows the example diagrams of 3D display. By
having varifocal liquid crystal lens, varifocal index-gradient lens
or varifocal liquid crystal lens, it creates 3D images.
[0121] FIGS. 4-4-1, 4-4-2 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
By having micro-lens arrays and varifocal liquid crystal lens,
varifocal index-gradient lens or varifocal liquid crystal lens, it
creates 3D images. Index-gradient lens is the lens that has
gradient (small) changes in index of refraction according to the
depth in the lens so that incoming light changes the directions
according to the distribution of index of refraction in the lens.
Varifocal index-gradient lens are layers of materials (like liquid
crystals) whose index of refraction can be controlled. For example,
by putting together liquid crystals that changes the index of
refraction by voltage, it becomes a varifocal (focus changeable)
index-gradient lens. The liquid crystals can have different index
of refraction from the beginning having a same or different voltage
to each layer. It also can be the same index of refraction liquid
crystal material by having different voltage to each.
[0122] FIG. 4-4-3 shows the example diagrams of 3D display. By
adding the liquid crystal screens to FIG. 4-4-2, the 2D image shows
up clearly. By switching the liquid crystal fast, it produces the
3D images.
[0123] FIGS. 5-1-1, 5-1-2 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
Micro-lens arrays (70), index-gradient lens (150) and liquid
crystal panel (20) and (with polarizing plate) light source (30)
are put together. Emitted light from light source is modified to be
parallel or uniform through index-gradient lens. By selecting the
light rays by having patterns in 2D display such as liquid crystal
panel and by directing those selected rays, it creates the light
vector fields and 3D images.
[0124] FIG. 5-1-3 shows the alternative example diagrams of 3D
display of FIG. 5-1-1, 5-1-2.
[0125] FIG. 5-1-4 shows the example diagrams of 3D display.
Micro-lens arrays (70) and liquid crystal panel (20) and (with
polarizing plate) light source (30) are put together. By
calculating and selecting the light rays by having patterns in 2D
display such as liquid crystal panel and by directing those
selected rays, it creates the light vector fields and 3D
images.
[0126] FIGS. 5-2-1, 5-2-4 shows the example diagrams of elementary
unit of 3D display. Micro-lens arrays (70), high-resolution 2D
display (20), index-gradient lens (150) and light source (30) are
shown together with the paths of light rays.
[0127] FIG. 5-2-2 shows the example diagrams of elementary unit of
3D display. Micro-lens arrays (70), high-resolution 2D display (20)
such as light emitting arrays such as diode laser arrays and
organic electro-luminescent display, plasma display, liquid crystal
display, CRT. The purpose is to create outgoing parallel beams.
[0128] FIG. 5-2-3 shows the example diagrams of elementary unit of
3D display. Pinhole (70), mask (80) and 2D display (20) is
shown.
[0129] FIG. 5-2-3 shows the example diagrams of elementary unit of
3D display. Pinhole (70), mask (80) and 2D display (20) is
shown.
[0130] FIG. 5-2-3 shows the example diagrams of elementary units of
3D display and how the light rays intersect.
* * * * *