Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080267572 | DUAL FILM LIGHT GUIDE FOR ILLUMINATING DISPLAYS - A front light guide panel including a plurality of embedded surface features is provided. The front light panel is configured to deliver uniform illumination from an artificial light source disposed at one side of the font light panel to an array of display elements located behind the front light guide while allowing for the option of illumination from ambient lighting transmitted through the light guide panel. The surface embedded surface relief features create air pockets within the light guide panel. Light incident on the side surface of the light guide propagates though the light guide until it strikes an air/light material guide interface at one on the air pockets. The light is then turned by total internal reflection through a large angle such that it exits an output face disposed in front of the array of display elements. | 10-30-2008 |
20090092803 | SELF-ASSEMBLY TECHNIQUE APPLICABLE TO LARGE AREAS AND NANOFABRICATION - The present invention provides articles and methods for affecting the self-assembly of materials. In some cases, the invention provides an approach for facilitating the self-assembly of various materials, including polymeric materials (e.g., block polymers), nanoparticles, other materials capable of self-assembly, and the like, over relatively large surface areas. Some embodiments of the invention provide articles (e.g., substrates) which, when contacted with a material capable of self-assembly, may produce greater control of self-assembly through the bulk of the material. | 04-09-2009 |
20090101623 | ETCHING PROCESSES USED IN MEMS PRODUCTION - The efficiency of an etching process may be increased in various ways, and the cost of an etching process may be decreased. Unused etchant may be isolated and recirculated during the etching process. Etching byproducts may be collected and removed from the etching system during the etching process. Components of the etchant may be isolated and used to general additional etchant. Either or both of the etchant or the layers being etched may also be optimized for a particular etching process. | 04-23-2009 |
20090126792 | THIN FILM SOLAR CONCENTRATOR/COLLECTOR - In various embodiments described herein, a device comprising a light guiding layer optically coupled to a photocell is described. A plurality of surface features are formed on one the surface of the light guiding layer. The surface features can comprise facets that are angled with respect to each other. Light incident on the surface of the light guide is redirected by the surface features and guided through the light guide by multiple total internal reflections. The guided light is directed towards a photocell. | 05-21-2009 |
20090147332 | DECOUPLED HOLOGRAPHIC FILM AND DIFFUSER - In various embodiments described herein, a display device includes a front illumination device that comprises a light guide disposed forward of an array of display elements, such as an array of interferometric modulators, to distribute light across the array of display elements. The light guide may include a turning film to deliver uniform illumination from a light source to the array of display elements. For many portable display applications, the light guide comprises the substrate used in fabricating the display elements. The display device may include additional films as well. The light guide, for example, may include a diffuser and/or an optical isolation layer to further enhance the optical characteristics of the display. | 06-11-2009 |
20090147535 | LIGHT ILLUMINATION OF DISPLAYS WITH FRONT LIGHT GUIDE AND COUPLING ELEMENTS - In various embodiments described herein, a display device includes a front illumination apparatus that comprises a first light guide disposed forward of an array of display elements, such as an array of interferometric modulators, to distribute light across the array of display elements. The light guide panel is edge illuminated by a light source positioned behind the array display elements. The light from such a light source is coupled to a second light guide disposed behind the array of display elements and positioned laterally with respect to the light source. The light in the second light guide is coupled into the first light guide using a small optical coupling element such as a turning mirror. In some embodiments the second light guide may comprise the backplate of the display device. | 06-11-2009 |
20090190373 | ILLUMINATION DEVICE WITH BUILT-IN LIGHT COUPLER - The invention comprises devices and methods for coupling a light source to a display illumination device. In one embodiment, an illumination device includes a light guide comprising a front surface, a back surface, a light coupling section configured to receive optical energy from a light source in to the light guide through said front surface or said back surface at an angle about normal to the optical energy receiving surface, and further configured to direct light through said light guide, and a light turning section configured to redirect out of the light guide at least a portion of the light received from said light coupling section, said redirected light at an angle about normal to the optical energy receiving surface. | 07-30-2009 |
20090199893 | THIN FILM HOLOGRAPHIC SOLAR CONCENTRATOR/COLLECTOR - In various embodiments described herein, a device comprising a light collector optically coupled to a photocell is described. The device further comprises a light turning film or layer comprising volume or surface diffractive features or holograms. Light incident on the light collector is turned by volume or surface diffractive features or holograms that are reflective or transmissive and guided through the light collector by multiple total internal reflections. The guided light is directed towards a photocell. In various embodiments, the light collector is thin (e.g., less than 1 millimeter) and comprises, for example, a thin film. The light collector may be formed of a flexible material. | 08-13-2009 |
20090199900 | THIN FILM HOLOGRAPHIC SOLAR CONCENTRATOR/COLLECTOR - In various embodiments described herein, a device comprising one or more light guides that is optically coupled to one or more photocells is described. The device further comprises one or more light turning films or layers comprising volume or surface diffractive features or holograms. Light incident on the light guides is turned by volume or surface diffractive features or holograms that are reflective or transmissive and guided through the light guides by multiple total internal reflections. The guided light is directed towards the photocells. In certain embodiments, solar energy is also used to power or heat a thermal generator to heat water or produce electricity from steam. Various embodiments may comprise an air gap or an optical isolation layer disposed between the multiple light guides. | 08-13-2009 |
20090201301 | INTEGRATED FRONT LIGHT SOLUTION - An integrated illumination apparatus includes a light injection portion having a first end for receiving light from a light source. The light injection portion includes material that supports propagation of said light along the length of the light injection portion. Turning microstructure is disposed on a first side of the light injection. The turning microstructure is configured to turn at least a substantial portion of light incident on the first side and to direct the portion of the light out a second opposite side of the light injection portion. A slit is disposed along the length of the light injection portion. The slit forms an optical interface on the second opposite side of the light injection portion that provides total internal reflection for light propagating along the length of the light injection portion to be guided therein. The optical interface further transmits light turned by said turning microstructure. A light distribution portion is disposed with respect to the slit to receive the light turned by said turning microstructure and transmitted out of the second side of the light injection portion and through said slit. At least one bridge is disposed between light injection portion and the light distribution portion. The bridge mechanically connects the light injection portion to the light distribution portion. | 08-13-2009 |
20090201565 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ENHANCING BRIGHTNESS OF DISPLAYS USING ANGLE CONVERSION LAYERS - Various embodiments of the present invention relate to enhancing the brightness of displays that employ illumination systems. In some embodiments, the illumination systems include light guides, diffractive microstructure, and light-turning features. The diffractive microstructure may be configured to receive ambient light at a first angle and produce diffracted light at a second angle greater than the first angle and greater than the critical angle for of light guide. The light is thereby guided within the light guide. The light-turning features may be configured to turn the light guided within the light guide out of a light guide and onto, for example, a spatial light modulator at near normal incidence. | 08-13-2009 |
20090201571 | INTEGRATED FRONT LIGHT DIFFUSER FOR REFLECTIVE DISPLAYS - A reflective electronic display includes a front light assembly with a diffuser for enlarging the viewing cone of the display. The front light may include a substrate, a plurality of optical turning features, and a diffuser formed therebetween. The haze of the diffuser may be spatially non-uniform and switchable between two or more levels. | 08-13-2009 |
20090207473 | DEVICE HAVING POWER GENERATING BLACK MASK AND METHOD OF FABRICATING THE SAME - A power generating black mask comprising an anti-reflection layer deposited over a substrate, a first electrode layer deposited over the anti-reflection layer, a semi-conductor layer deposited over the first electrode layer and a second electrode layer deposited over the semi-conductor layer. | 08-20-2009 |
20090231877 | THIN LIGHT BAR AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING - Various embodiments disclosed herein comprise a display device comprising a plurality of spatial light modulators and an illumination apparatus. The illumination apparatus comprising a light bar that guides light along a length thereof and turning microstructure disposed on top or bottom of the light bar. The turning microstructure directs the light out a side of the light bar. The illumination apparatus further comprises a light guide panel disposed with respect to the side of the light bar such that the light from the light bar is coupled to the light guide panel. The light guide panel is configured to direct the light coupled therein out of the light guide panel. The plurality of light modulators disposed with respect to the light guide panel to receive the light directed out of the light guide panel. | 09-17-2009 |
20090251752 | DISPLAY DEVICE WITH DIFFRACTIVE OPTICS - Light modulator displays may be illuminated using a light guide comprising diffractive optics that directs light onto the light modulators. The light guide may comprise, for example, a holographic light turning element that turns light propagating within the light guide onto the array of light modulators. In some embodiments, the holographic element has multiple holographic functions. For example, the holographic element may additionally collimate ambient light or diffuse light reflected form the light modulators. | 10-08-2009 |
20090251761 | MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS DISPLAY ELEMENT WITH PHOTOVOLTAIC STRUCTURE - A microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) display element may include a photovoltaic structure configured to generate electric energy from incident light. In one embodiment, the display element includes a first layer that is at least partially transmissive of light, a second layer that is at least partially reflective of light, and a photovoltaic element that is formed on the first layer or the second layer or formed between the first layer and the second layer. The second layer is spaced from the first layer and is selectably movable between a first position in which the display element has a first reflectivity and a second position in which the display element has a second reflectivity. The first reflectivity is greater than the second reflectivity. The photovoltaic element is at least partially absorptive of light and is configured to convert a portion of the absorbed light into electric energy, at least when the second layer is in the second position. | 10-08-2009 |
20090279174 | PRINTABLE STATIC INTERFEROMETRIC IMAGES - Methods of fabricating a static interferometric image device and static interferometric image device formed by the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes providing a substrate. A plurality of liquid layers are formed over the substrate by an inkjet process such that the layers are lateral to one another. The liquid layers contain a solidifiable material or particles. Then, the plurality of liquid layers are solidified to form a plurality of solid layers. In some embodiments, the substrate includes pre-defined cavities, and the liquid layers are formed in the cavities. In other embodiments, the substrate includes a substantially planar, stepped, or continuously transitioning surface, and the liquid layers are formed on the surface. The inkjet process provides optical fillers or spacers for defining interferometric gaps between absorbers and reflectors in the display device, based at least partially on an image that the display device is designed to display. | 11-12-2009 |
20090284985 | ILLUMINATION APPARATUS AND METHODS - Disclosed are apparatus and methods for illuminating a display. In certain embodiments, the illumination apparatus includes a light guide that receives light from a light generator along an edge of the light guide and directs the received light via light extractor features (e.g., grooves) towards a display. The light guide includes at least two sets of light extractor features that are rotated with respect to each other so as to reduce a shadowing effect on the display when the display is viewed from within a specific range of viewing angles. In further embodiments, the spacing or orientation of each or one of the extractor feature sets may also be adjusted so that other visual artifacts, such as a Moiré effect, are reduced. | 11-19-2009 |
20090296193 | Front Light Devices and Methods of Fabrication Thereof - A illumination device comprises a light guide having a first end for receiving light and configured to support propagation of light along the length of the light guide. A turning microstructure is disposed on a first side of the light guide configured to turn light incident on the first side and to direct the light out a second opposite side of the light guide, wherein the turning microstructure comprises a plurality of indentations. A cover is physically coupled to the light guide and disposed over the turning microstructure. An interlayer is between the cover and the light guide, wherein the interlayer physically couples the cover to the light guide. A plurality of open regions is between the interlayer and the plurality of indentations. Various embodiments include methods of coupling the cover to the light guide while preserving open regions between the cover and plurality of indentations. | 12-03-2009 |
20090303746 | EDGE SHADOW REDUCING METHODS FOR PRISMATIC FRONT LIGHT - Embodiments herein relate to light systems designed to reduce Moiré interference while simultaneously reducing dark regions due to the edge shadow effect. For example, configurations of light sources, light guides and turning features may direct light across a display while reducing Moiré interference. | 12-10-2009 |
20090323144 | ILLUMINATION DEVICE WITH HOLOGRAPHIC LIGHT GUIDE - An illumination device includes a holographic film and a light source, such as a point light source. The point light source is positioned at an edge of the holographic film and has a light emitting face that faces the edge of the holographic film. The holographic film includes a hologram formed of diffractive refractive index structures. The density of the diffractive refractive index structures increases with increasing distance from the light source. Light is propagated from the light source through the holographic film, such as by total internal reflection. The diffractive refractive index structures turn the light, thereby causing the light to propagate out of the holographic film in a desired direction. In some embodiments, the light propagating out of the holographic film has a high uniformity across the surface of the holographic film. | 12-31-2009 |
20100026727 | OPTICAL LOSS STRUCTURE INTEGRATED IN AN ILLUMINATION APPARATUS - Various embodiments of a display device described herein include an optical propagation region, at least one optical loss structure, an optical isolation layer, and a plurality of display elements. The propagation region includes a light guide in which light is guided via total internal reflection and turning features configured to redirect the light out of the propagation region. The loss structure would disrupt the total internal reflection of at least some of the light guided within the propagation region if disposed directly adjacent thereto. The optical isolation layer includes a non-gaseous material between the propagation region and the loss structure, and is configured to increase an amount of light that is totally internal reflected in the propagation region. The plurality of display elements are positioned to receive the light redirected out of the propagation region. The loss structure is positioned between the plurality of display elements and the propagation region. | 02-04-2010 |
20100051089 | LIGHT COLLECTION DEVICE WITH PRISMATIC LIGHT TURNING FEATURES - A light collection device includes a light guide body and a plurality of spaced-apart slits. The slits are formed by undercuts in the light guide body. Sides of the slits form facets that redirect light impinging on the facets. In some embodiments, the light collection body is attached to a photovoltaic cell. Light impinging on the light collection body is redirected towards the photovoltaic cell by the slits. The photovoltaic cells convert the light into electrical energy. | 03-04-2010 |
20100053148 | LIGHT TURNING DEVICE WITH PRISMATIC LIGHT TURNING FEATURES - A light guide device includes a light guide body and two or more pluralities of spaced-apart slits. The slits are formed by undercuts in the light guide body. Sidewalls of the slits form facets that redirect light impinging on the facets. In some embodiments, the light guide body is attached to a light source. The light source emits light that is injected into the light guide body and the slits redirect the light out of the light guide body and towards a desired target. In some embodiments, the target is a display and a first plurality of slits directs light from the light source across the light guide body and over the face of the display. A second plurality of slits then directs light out of the light guide body and towards the display. | 03-04-2010 |
20100103488 | DISPLAY DEVICE WITH DIFFRACTIVE OPTICS - Light modulator displays may be illuminated using a light guide comprising diffractive optics that directs light onto an array of light modulators. A holographic light turning element may be included with the light guide to turn light propagating within the light guide onto the light modulators. In some embodiments, the holographic element is configured to distribute a substantially uniform amount of light across the array of modulators. The holographic element may, for example, have a turning efficiency that changes along the length of the holographic element. A holographic element can also be used to function as a light bar. Such a holographic element may receive light from a light source such as a light emitting diode and distribute the light along a light guide disposed in front of an array of light modulators. | 04-29-2010 |
20100141557 | LIGHT GUIDE - In various embodiments described herein, a display device includes a front illumination device that comprises a light guide disposed forward of an array of display elements, such as an array of interferometric modulators, to distribute light across the array of display elements. The light guide panel may include a turning layer to deliver uniform illumination from a light source to the array of display elements. For many portable display applications, the light guide panel comprises the substrate used in fabricating the display elements. The light guide panel may include additional films as well. The light guide panel, for example, may include a diffuser and/or an optical isolation layer to further enhance the optical imaging characteristics of the display. | 06-10-2010 |
20100157406 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MATCHING LIGHT SOURCE EMISSION TO DISPLAY ELEMENT REFLECTIVITY - Systems and methods for illuminating interferometric modulator reflective displays are disclosed. One embodiment includes a display including a plurality of interferometric modulators configured to reflect a spectrum of radiation having a reflectance response peak at one or more wavelengths. A plurality of quantum dots are configured to emit radiation having a peak wavelength substantially at said one or more wavelengths, and the display is configured such that light emitted from the quantum dots irradiates the plurality of interferometric modulators. | 06-24-2010 |
20100182308 | LIGHT BAR INCLUDING TURNING MICROSTRUCTURES AND CONTOURED BACK REFLECTOR - An illumination apparatus includes a light bar, a plurality of indentations in the light bar on a first side of the light bar, and a contoured reflective surface including a plurality of protruding surface portions, such that the surface portions reflect light transmitted through sloping sidewalls of the indentations. The light bar has a first end for receiving light from a light source. The light bar includes material that supports propagation of the light along the length of the light bar. The turning microstructure is configured to turn at least a substantial portion of the light incident on the first side and to direct the portion of light out the second opposite side of the light bar. The protrusions on the contoured reflective surface and the indentations on the light bar can have complimentary shapes and/or aligned in certain embodiments. | 07-22-2010 |
20100231510 | DUAL FILM LIGHT GUIDE FOR ILLUMINATING DISPLAYS - A front light guide panel including a plurality of embedded surface features is provided. The front light panel is configured to deliver uniform illumination from an artificial light source disposed at one side of the font light panel to an array of display elements located behind the front light guide while allowing for the option of illumination from ambient lighting transmitted through the light guide panel. The surface embedded surface relief features create air pockets within the light guide panel. Light incident on the side surface of the light guide propagates though the light guide until it strikes an air/light material guide interface at one on the air pockets. The light is then turned by total internal reflection through a large angle such that it exits an output face disposed in front of the array of display elements. | 09-16-2010 |
20100245370 | EM SHIELDING FOR DISPLAY DEVICES - A shielding material that can be arranged with respect to display elements to reduce potential damage or degraded performance caused by incident EM, such as UV and/or IR. The shielding material can be configured to be substantially transparent in visible light wavelengths. The shielding material can include inorganic materials, such as oxides including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Display elements can include a shielding material and an outer coating to reduce undesirable optical characteristics of an air/shielding material interface. The shielding material can be electrically conductive and function as a conductive layer in a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device. In some embodiments, the shielding material can be disposed forward (closer to the viewer) of the electrodes of the display elements to prevent the high energy UV light from building up electrical charge in the electrodes. In some embodiments, the shielding material can also block certain wavelengths of light in the visible spectrum to darken the dark state of the display elements to improve the contrast ratio of the display. | 09-30-2010 |
20100245977 | POST-RELEASE ADJUSTMENT OF INTERFEROMETRIC MODULATOR REFLECTIVITY - In various embodiments, devices, methods, and systems for adjusting the reflectivity spectrum of a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device are described herein. The method comprises depositing a reflectivity modifying layer with the optical cavity of an interferometric modulator, where the reflectivity modifying layer shifts or trims the shape of the interferometric modulator's wavelength reflectivity spectrum relative to the absence of the reflectivity modifying layer. | 09-30-2010 |
20100302218 | ILLUMINATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF FABRICATION THEREOF - Illumination devices and methods of making same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a display device includes a light modulating array and a light guide configured to receive light into at least one edge of the light guide. The display device can also include a light turning layer disposed such that the light guide is at least partially between the turning layer and the array. The turning layer can comprise at least one light turning feature having at least one curved turning surface. | 12-02-2010 |
20100302616 | ILLUMINATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF FABRICATION THEREOF - Illumination devices and methods of making same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a display device includes a light modulating array and a light guide configured to receive light into at least one edge of the light guide. The light guide can be characterized by a first refractive index. The display device can also include a light turning layer disposed such that the light guide is at least partially between the turning layer and the array. The turning layer can comprise an inorganic material characterized by a second refractive index that is substantially the same as the first refractive index. | 12-02-2010 |
20100302802 | ILLUMINATION DEVICES - Illumination device and methods of making the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, an illumination device includes a light source, a light guide having a first planar surface, a first end and a second end, and a length therebetween, the light guide positioned to receive light from the light source into the light guide first end, and the light guide configured such that light from the light source provided into the first end of the light guide propagates towards the second end, a plurality of light turning features that are configured to reflect light propagating towards the second end of the light guide out of the planar first surface, and one or more light redirection features configured to redirect light within the light guide at more useful angles. | 12-02-2010 |
20100302803 | ILLUMINATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF FABRICATION THEREOF - Illumination devices and methods of making same are disclosed. In one embodiment, an illumination apparatus includes a light source, a light guide having a planar first surface, a first end and a second end, and a length therebetween, the light guide positioned to receive light from the light source into the light guide first end, and the light guide configured such that light from the light source provided into the first end of the light guide propagates towards the second end, and a plurality of light turning features that are configured to reflect light propagating towards the second end of the light guide out of the planar first surface of the light guide, each light turning feature having a turning surface and an interferometric stack formed on the turning surface. | 12-02-2010 |
20100309687 | DUAL FILM LIGHT GUIDE FOR ILLUMINATING DISPLAYS - A front light guide panel including a plurality of embedded surface features is provided. The front light panel is configured to deliver uniform illumination from an artificial light source disposed at one side of the font light panel to an array of display elements located behind the front light guide while allowing for the option of illumination from ambient lighting transmitted through the light guide panel. The surface embedded surface relief features create air pockets within the light guide panel. Light incident on the side surface of the light guide propagates though the light guide until it strikes an air/light material guide interface at one on the air pockets. The light is then turned by total internal reflection through a large angle such that it exits an output face disposed in front of the array of display elements. | 12-09-2010 |
20110025727 | MICROSTRUCTURES FOR LIGHT GUIDE ILLUMINATION - Various embodiments disclose an illumination apparatus. The apparatus may comprise a light guide supporting propagation of light and having at least a portion of one of its edges comprising an array of microstructures. These microstructures may be incorporated in the input window of the light guide to control the light intensity distributed within the light guide. In certain embodiments, the directional intensity of the light entering the light guide may be modified to achieve a desired distribution across the light guide. | 02-03-2011 |
20110096508 | LIGHT-BASED SEALING AND DEVICE PACKAGING - Systems and methods for manufacturing and packaging electronic devices with light absorptive thin film stacks are provided. In one embodiment, a light is applied to a light absorptive thin film stack disposed between a substrate and a backplate to seal the substrate to the backplate. In another embodiment, the light absorptive thin film stack includes a plurality of thin film layers. In yet another embodiment, the light absorptive thin film stack includes a spacer layer over a reflective layer and an absorber layer over the spacer layer. In still another embodiment, the light absorptive thin film stack is less than 200 nanometers thick. In yet a further embodiment, a light absorptive thin film stack is used to seal a substrate having glass, plastic, metal, or silicon to a backplate having glass, plastic, metal, or silicon. Thus, the light absorptive thin film stack is used to seal similar or dissimilar materials through a bonding process. | 04-28-2011 |
20110102800 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DETECTING AND MEASURING ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS IN HIGH PERFORMANCE DEVICE PACKAGES - An environmental condition sensing device includes an interferometric modulator with optical properties, which change in response to being exposed to a predetermined environmental threshold or condition. The device includes an environmental reactive layer, which alters composition, in an optically-detectable manner, in response to being exposed to a predetermined environmental threshold or condition. | 05-05-2011 |
20110157058 | COATED LIGHT-TURNING FEATURE WITH AUXILIARY STRUCTURE - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for a front illumination device with metalized light-turning features. In one aspect, an illumination device includes a light guide having light-turning features that include recesses formed on the light guide and that extend down into the light guide. The recesses may be coated with a material where the material also forms an auxiliary structure outside of the recesses on the light guide. The auxiliary structure may be conductive and may form, for example, an electrode. | 06-30-2011 |
20110157093 | ILLUMINATION DEVICE WITH METALIZED LIGHT-TURNING FEATURES - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for a front illumination device with metalized light-turning features. In one aspect, an illumination device with integrated touch sensor capability includes a light guide having a metalized light-turning feature and an electrode system for sensing changes to the capacitance between electrodes in the electrode system induced by the proximity of an electrically conductive body, such as a human finger. The metalized light-turning features may be electrically connected to and/or part of the electrode system. | 06-30-2011 |
20110169428 | EDGE BAR DESIGNS TO MITIGATE EDGE SHADOW ARTIFACT - An edge bar having features that discriminate between light propagating in one direction versus the opposite direction may be configured so as to couple light into a light guide while significantly mitigating against edge shadow artifact. | 07-14-2011 |
20110182086 | LIGHT ILLUMINATION OF DISPLAYS WITH FRONT LIGHT GUIDE AND COUPLING ELEMENTS - In various embodiments described herein, a display device includes a front illumination apparatus that comprises a first light guide disposed forward of an array of display elements, such as an array of interferometric modulators, to distribute light across the array of display elements. The light guide panel is edge illuminated by a light source positioned behind the array display elements. The light from such a light source is coupled to a second light guide disposed behind the array of display elements and positioned laterally with respect to the light source. The light in the second light guide is coupled into the first light guide using a small optical coupling element such as a turning mirror. In some embodiments the second light guide may comprise the backplate of the display device. | 07-28-2011 |
20110222140 | DEVICE HAVING POWER GENERATING BLACK MASK AND METHOD OF FABRICATING THE SAME - A power generating black mask comprising an anti-reflection layer deposited over a substrate, a first electrode layer deposited over the anti-reflection layer, a semi-conductor layer deposited over the first electrode layer and a second electrode layer deposited over the semi-conductor layer. | 09-15-2011 |
20110248958 | HOLOGRAPHIC BASED OPTICAL TOUCHSCREEN - Disclosed are various embodiments of a holographic based optical touchscreen and methods of configuring such devices. In certain embodiments, a touchscreen assembly can include a holographic layer configured to receive incident light and turn it into a selected direction to be transmitted through a light guide. The holographic layer can be configured to accept incident light within an acceptance range and so that the selected direction is within some range of directions so as to allow determination of incidence location based on detection of the turned light. A light source can be provided so that light from the source scatters from an object such as a fingertip near the holographic layer and becomes the incident light. Thus the determined incidence location can represent presence of the fingertip at or near the incidence location, thereby providing touchscreen functionality. Non-limiting examples of design considerations and variations are disclosed. | 10-13-2011 |
20110292512 | PRINTABLE STATIC INTERFEROMETRIC IMAGES - Methods of fabricating a static interferometric image device and static interferometric image device formed by the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes providing a substrate. A plurality of liquid layers are formed over the substrate by an inkjet process such that the layers are lateral to one another. The liquid layers contain a solidifiable material or particles. Then, the plurality of liquid layers are solidified to form a plurality of solid layers. In some embodiments, the substrate includes pre-defined cavities, and the liquid layers are formed in the cavities. In other embodiments, the substrate includes a substantially planar, stepped, or continuously transitioning surface, and the liquid layers are formed on the surface. The inkjet process provides optical fillers or spacers for defining interferometric gaps between absorbers and reflectors in the display device, based at least partially on an image that the display device is designed to display. | 12-01-2011 |
20120026576 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ENHANCING BRIGHTNESS OF DISPLAYS USING ANGLE CONVERSION LAYERS - Various embodiments of the present invention relate to enhancing the brightness of displays that employ illumination systems. In some embodiments, the illumination systems include light guides, diffractive microstructure, and light-turning features. The diffractive microstructure may be configured to receive ambient light at a first angle and produce diffracted light at a second angle greater than the first angle and greater than the critical angle for of light guide. The light is thereby guided within the light guide. The light-turning features may be configured to turn the light guided within the light guide out of a light guide and onto, for example, a spatial light modulator at near normal incidence. | 02-02-2012 |
20120069031 | DECOUPLED HOLOGRAPHIC FILM AND DIFFUSER - In various embodiments described herein, a display device includes a front illumination device that comprises a light guide disposed forward of an array of display elements, such as an array of interferometric modulators, to distribute light across the array of display elements. The light guide may include a turning film to deliver uniform illumination from a light source to the array of display elements. For many portable display applications, the light guide comprises the substrate used in fabricating the display elements. The display device may include additional films as well. The light guide, for example, may include a diffuser and/or an optical isolation layer to further enhance the optical characteristics of the display. | 03-22-2012 |
20120120080 | LIGHT GUIDE WITH DIFFUSIVE LIGHT INPUT INTERFACE - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for providing illumination by using a light guide to distribute light. In one aspect, the light guide has a surface, such as an edge, into which light is injected. The surface is treated to create a diffusive interface with a light source. For example, the surface may be subjected to abrasion to form a frosted surface that acts as the diffusive interface, or a diffusive structure may be attached to the edge, with the attached diffusive structure functioning as the diffusive interface. The diffusive interface diffuses light entering into the light guide, and can thereby increase the uniformity of light propagating within the light guide. The light guide may be provided with light turning features that redirect light out of the light guide. In some implementations, the redirected light may be applied to illuminate a display. | 05-17-2012 |
20120120081 | ILLUMINATION DEVICE WITH PASSIVATION LAYER - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for providing illumination by using a light guide to distribute light. In one aspect, a passivation layer is attached to the light guide of an illumination device. The passivation layer may be an optically transparent moisture barrier and may have a thickness and refractive index which allows it to function as an anti-reflective coating. The passivation layer may protect moisture-sensitive underlying features, such as metallized light turning features that may be present in the light guide. The light turning features may be configured to redirect light out of the light guide. In some implementations, the redirected light may be applied to illuminate a display. | 05-17-2012 |
20120120682 | ILLUMINATION DEVICE WITH LIGHT GUIDE COATING - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for providing illumination by using a light guide to distribute light. In one aspect, the light guide includes a light turning film over an optically transmissive supporting layer. The light turning film may be formed of a material deposited in the liquid state. The light turning film may be formed of a photodefinable material, which may be glass, such a spin-on glass, or may be a polymer. In some other implementations, the glass is not photodefinable. The light turning film may have indentations that define light turning features and a protective layer may be formed over those indentations. The protective layer may also be formed of a glass material, such as spin-on glass. The light turning features in the light guide film may be configured to redirect light out of the light guide, for example, to illuminate a display. | 05-17-2012 |
20120134008 | ELECTROMECHANICAL INTERFEROMETRIC MODULATOR DEVICE - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for an electromechanical system. In one aspect, an electromechanical interferometric modulator system includes a substrate and a plurality of interferometric modulators (IMODs). At least two different IMOD types correspond to different reflected colors. Each IMOD has an optical stack, an absorber layer, a movable reflective layer, where the movable reflective layer has at least open and collapsed states, and an air gap defined between the movable reflective layer and the optical stack in the open state. The optical stacks define different optical path lengths for each of the different IMOD types by way of different transparent layer thickness and/or material, while the air gap has the same size when in the open state. The IMODs reflect different colors in the closed state and a common appearance in the open state. Use of two absorbers aids in defining the common appearance in the open state and can also improve color saturation. | 05-31-2012 |
20120162732 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR A HOLOGRAPHIC DISPLAY WITH ELECTROMECHANICAL ACTUATED MIRROR DISPLAY - The present disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for producing holographic displays using an electromechanical systems device. In one aspect, the method can be implemented to allow for simultaneous modulation of phase and amplitude of light in a display device composed of a plurality of pixels. A light source can provide sufficiently coherent light to a light guide, which can direct the light to a plurality of reflective members. The reflective members can reflect the light to a pinhole-lenslet array. The combination of the pinhole-lenslet array and the reflective members can act as a spatial light modulator, modulating the phase and amplitude of the light reflected by the reflective members. The lenslet can focus the light to a plane at the opening of the pinhole, wherein the light can exit the pinhole to be viewed in combination with light from additional pixels, and can be viewed as a holographic image. | 06-28-2012 |
20120170310 | LIGHT GUIDE WITH UNIFORM LIGHT DISTRIBUTION - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for providing illumination by using a light guide to distribute light. In one aspect, the light guide has a light input edge into which light is injected and transverse edges transverse to the light input edge. The transverse edges are smooth and act as specular reflectors. The light input edge is rough and provides a diffusive interface. The light emitters are adjacent and centered along the light input edge, with the pitch of the light emitters being about ΔL, where ΔL is the distance between the transverse edges divided by the number of light emitters. The light guide can be provided with light turning features that redirect light out of the light guide. In some implementations, the redirected light can be applied to illuminate a display. | 07-05-2012 |
20120236390 | LIGHT TURNING FEATURE PATTERNS FOR LIGHTGUIDES - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for providing illumination by using a light guide to distribute light and for determining spacing between light turning features in the light guide. In one aspect, a light intensity profile along a first axis is determined and the pitch of light turning features along that first axis is varied based upon this profile, while the pitch along a second crossing axis (for example, an orthogonal axis) and the sizes of the light turning features remain unchanged. In some implementations, an apparatus includes a light guide having an array of light turning features configured to turn light from at least one light emitter. The light turning features can be non-uniformly spaced apart along a first axis such that pitches vary non-monotonically and, along a second axis that crosses the first axis, the light turning features are spaced apart with substantially the same progression. | 09-20-2012 |
20120274602 | WIRING AND PERIPHERY FOR INTEGRATED CAPACITIVE TOUCH DEVICES - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for a projected capacitive touch (PCT) sensor that may include thin sensor electrodes coated with additional layers to form an optical cavity that reinforces a wavelength range or color of incident light. The sensor electrodes and a cover glass border and/or decorations may be fabricated simultaneously. In some implementations, the thickness of the optical cavity will be selected such that the “color” of reflected light is black. The sensor electrodes may not be noticeable to a human observer. However, in some other implementations, the thickness of the optical cavity may be selected such that the sensor electrodes and/or the decorative portions will have another color. Routing wires of the touch sensor may be shielded by a grounded conductive layer in the border. | 11-01-2012 |
20130049844 | CAPACITIVE TOUCH SENSOR HAVING LIGHT SHIELDING STRUCTURES - This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus related to a capacitive touch sensor with light shielding structures. In one aspect, a device includes an array formed by a plurality of row electrodes and a plurality of non-transparent column electrodes, wherein at least a first portion of the row electrodes is non-transparent and coplanar with the column electrodes and at least a second portion of the row electrodes is non-coplanar with the column electrodes. The device further includes light shielding structures that are non-transparent and coplanar with the column electrodes, wherein the light shielding structures substantially overlap the second portion. | 02-28-2013 |
20130106918 | MULTILAYER LIGHT GUIDE ASSEMBLY | 05-02-2013 |
20130114294 | FRONT LIGHT DEVICES AND METHODS OF FABRICATION THEREOF - A illumination device comprises a light guide having a first end for receiving light and configured to support propagation of light along the length of the light guide. A turning microstructure is disposed on a first side of the light guide configured to turn light incident on the first side and to direct the light out a second opposite side of the light guide, wherein the turning microstructure comprises a plurality of indentations. A cover is physically coupled to the light guide and disposed over the turning microstructure. An interlayer is between the cover and the light guide, wherein the interlayer physically couples the cover to the light guide. A plurality of open regions is between the interlayer and the plurality of indentations. Various embodiments include methods of coupling the cover to the light guide while preserving open regions between the cover and plurality of indentations. | 05-09-2013 |
20130127922 | STRUCTURES FOR DIRECTING INCIDENT LIGHT ONTO THE ACTIVE AREAS OF DISPLAY ELEMENTS - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for improving brightness, contrast, and viewable angle of a reflective display. In one aspect, a display includes a structure having a steering layer including steering features. The steering features are configured to direct light away from inactive regions of a display and towards active regions of the display. The structure may also include a diffuser for scattering light incident on the display and reflected by the display. | 05-23-2013 |
20130135318 | DISPLAY ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS OF FABRICATION THEREOF - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for display assemblies. In one aspect, a display assembly may include a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel. The second panel may be spaced apart from the first panel, and the third panel may be spaced apart from the second panel. A first perimeter frame may join the first panel and the second panel, with the first perimeter frame defining a first cavity in between the first panel and the second panel. The first cavity may be substantially filled with a first liquid. A second perimeter frame may join the second panel and the third panel, with the second perimeter frame defining a second cavity in between the second panel and the third panel. The second cavity may be substantially filled with a second liquid. | 05-30-2013 |
20130141938 | LIGHT TURNING DEVICE WITH PRISMATIC LIGHT TURNING FEATURES - A light guide device includes a light guide body and two or more pluralities of spaced-apart slits. The slits are formed by undercuts in the light guide body. Sidewalls of the slits form facets that redirect light impinging on the facets. In some embodiments, the light guide body is attached to a light source. The light source emits light that is injected into the light guide body and the slits redirect the light out of the light guide body and towards a desired target. In some embodiments, the target is a display and a first plurality of slits directs light from the light source across the light guide body and over the face of the display. A second plurality of slits then directs light out of the light guide body and towards the display. | 06-06-2013 |
20130176317 | LIGHT GUIDE WITH AT LEAST PARTIALLY NON-TRANSMISSIVE COATING ON LEDGE REGION - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus related to an illumination system for a display device. In one aspect, the illumination system includes a light guide having a view region, which directly overlies display elements of a display, and a ledge region between the view region and a light source that injects light into the light guide. The ledge region is coated with an at least partially non-transmissive layer. The layer can be at least partially absorptive and/or at least partially reflective. In some implementations, the layer can include microstructures configured to turn steep-angle light such that it is redirected across the light guide at a shallower angle. In some implementations, the boundary between the ledge region and the view region of the light guide can have a nonlinear shape. | 07-11-2013 |
20130194653 | ANALOG IMOD HAVING A COLOR NOTCH FILTER - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus related to an electromechanical display device. In one aspect, an analog interferometric modulator (AIMOD) includes a reflective display pixel having a movable reflective layer and a stationary absorber layer, the reflective layer and absorber layer defining a cavity therebetween. A color notch filter may be employed to produce an improved white state. In some implementations, the color notch filter is positioned on a side of the substrate opposite the absorber layer. In some other implementations, the color notch filter is positioned between the substrate and the movable reflective layer. | 08-01-2013 |
20130321433 | FRONTLIGHT DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED ELECTRICAL WIRING - This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus related to a the design of arrays of electrodes in a device which includes a light-guiding layer in optical contact with the electrodes. In one aspect, a device includes an array of electrodes, the electrodes include at least one edge having a non-linear shape. Specific design constraints may be placed on the shape of the non-linear edge of the electrodes. | 12-05-2013 |
20130328838 | DIFFUSERS FOR DIFFERENT COLOR DISPLAY ELEMENTS - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for improving brightness, contrast, and viewable angle of a reflective display. In one aspect, a display includes a diffuser including a topographical pattern that is different in different areas of the display and a planarization layer over the diffuser. The diffuser is configured to scatter incident light to a different range of angles for different areas of the display. | 12-12-2013 |
20130328943 | DIFFUSER INCLUDING PARTICLES AND BINDER - Systems, methods, and apparatuses for improving brightness, contrast, and/or viewable angle of a reflective display. A display includes a diffuser including particles and a binder over a substrate. At least some of the particles protrude from a planar or substantially planar upper surface of the binder, which provides a topographical pattern for the diffuser. The display includes a planarization layer on the diffuser. The planarization layer provides a planar or substantially planar surface for the formation of display elements over the planarization layer. | 12-12-2013 |
20140002345 | ILLUMINATION SYSTEMS INCORPORATING A LIGHT GUIDE AND A REFLECTIVE STRUCTURE AND RELATED METHODS | 01-02-2014 |
20140218284 | INTEGRATED FRONT LIGHT SOLUTION - An integrated illumination apparatus includes a light injection portion having a first end for receiving light. The light injection portion supports propagation of light along the length of the light injection portion. Turning microstructure disposed on a first side of the light injection portion is configured to turn light incident on the first side and to direct light out a second opposite side of the light injection portion. A slit disposed along the length of the light injection portion forms an optical interface on the second opposite side of the light injection portion. The optical interface further transmits light turned by the turning microstructure. A light distribution portion is disposed with respect to the slit to receive the light transmitted through the slit. At least one bridge mechanically connects the light injection portion to the light distribution portion. | 08-07-2014 |
20140234179 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DETECTING AND MEASURING ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS IN HIGH PERFORMANCE DEVICE PACKAGES - An environmental condition sensing device includes an interferometric modulator with optical properties, which change in response to being exposed to a predetermined environmental threshold or condition. The device includes an environmental reactive layer, which alters composition, in an optically-detectable manner, in response to being exposed to a predetermined environmental threshold or condition. | 08-21-2014 |
20140267132 | Comprehensive Framework for Adaptive Touch-Signal De-Noising/Filtering to Optimize Touch Performance - A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided. The apparatus estimates an amount of future noise that can affect the touch screen. The apparatus alters a sensitivity of the touch screen based on the estimated amount of the future noise. | 09-18-2014 |
20140300946 | ANALOG IMOD HAVING A COLOR NOTCH FILTER - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus related to an electromechanical display device. In one aspect, an analog interferometric modulator (AIMOD) includes a reflective display pixel having a movable reflective layer and a stationary absorber layer, the reflective layer and absorber layer defining a cavity therebetween. A color notch filter may be employed to produce an improved white state. In some implementations, the color notch filter is positioned on a side of the substrate opposite the absorber layer. In some other implementations, the color notch filter is positioned between the substrate and the movable reflective layer. | 10-09-2014 |
20140354601 | ILLUMINATION DEVICE WITH METALIZED LIGHT-TURNING FEATURES - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for a front illumination device with metalized light-turning features. In one aspect, an illumination device with integrated touch sensor capability includes a light guide having a metalized light-turning feature and an electrode system for sensing changes to the capacitance between electrodes in the electrode system induced by the proximity of an electrically conductive body, such as a human finger. The metalized light-turning features may be electrically connected to and/or part of the electrode system. | 12-04-2014 |