WO2009064467A1

WO2009064467A1 - Display

Info

Publication number: WO2009064467A1
Application number: PCT/US2008/012791
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher S. Tharpe
Original assignee: Tharpe Christopher S
Priority date: 2007-11-15
Filing date: 2008-11-14
Publication date: 2009-05-22

Abstract

A display configured to show video, alphanumeric, or graphical images, comprises an illumination source (30) that generates light, a display panel (34) that is transparent or substantially transparent to light from the illumination source, and a device comprising a mirror (36, 38, 42, 50, 116) that reflects light from the source through an edge surface (41) of the display panel onto varying locations on the display surface (39) of the display panel. The display panel may further comprise grooves (51, 53), cavities (56), coatings, or light pipes (54) which interact with the light from the source.

Description

Patent Application of Christopher S. Tharpe

For

TITLE: DISPLAY BACKGROUND

Current display technologies include cathode ray tubes, liquid crystal displays (LCD), plasma screens, rear projection televisions, movie projectors, light emitting diodes (LEDs), and organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). Cathode ray tubes, liquid crystal displays, and plasma displays consume relatively high amounts of electrical power. Cathode ray tubes, rear projection televisions, and movie projectors require more space than the flat-panel technologies (such as LCD and plasma screens). LED displays, while relatively energy efficient, typically have lower resolution than the other display types. OLED displays are energy efficient and have high resolutions, but are relatively expensive. SUMMARY hi accordance with one embodiment, the display comprises an illumination source that generates light, a display panel comprising a material that is transparent or substantially transparent to the light from the illumination source. The display panel has a display surface and an edge surface at a perimeter of the display surface and transverse to the display surface. The display also has a device comprising a mirror that reflects the light from the illumination source, wherein one of the illumination source and the mirror is movable, and that by moving, directs light from the illumination source into the edge surface, through the display panel, onto varying locations on the display surface. hi another embodiment, the intensity of the light from the source is varied as it is directed onto varying locations on the display surface, forming an image on the display surface.

In another embodiment the display panel comprises light pipes. hi another embodiment, the display panel comprises elements that interact with light from the illumination source by diffracting, refracting, diffusing, dispersing or reflecting the light. In one embodiment these elements comprise cavities. In another embodiment these elements comprise grooves in the surface of the display panel, hi another embodiment the elements comprise a coating that diffuses the light from the source. NOTES:

With the exception of Figs. 14A and 14B, refraction of the illumination beam moving into the display panel is not shown in the following figures for sake of simplicity. Drawings are not to scale.

DRAWINGS— Figures

Fig IA shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the display having two micro- electromechanical systems mirror arrays on the same side of the display panel. (Non-deployed mirrors in arrays not shown for simplicity.)

Fig IB shows a modification of Fig IA: different mirrors in the micro-electromechanical systems mirror arrays are deflected, and the mirror in array 38 is deflected at a different angle in order to illuminate a different point on the display panel.

Fig 2A shows a broken side view of an embodiment of the display having two micro- electromechanical systems mirror arrays on the same side of the display panel.

Fig 2B shows a modification of Fig 2A: the mirror in array 38 is deflected at a different angle in order to illuminate a different point on the display panel.

Fig 2C shows an embodiment of the display having a curvature on the edge where the illumination beam enters the display panel in order to prevent refraction of the illumination beam.

Fig 2D shows an embodiment of the display having the secondary mirror array angled so that the top portion of the display panel will be illuminated by the illumination beam without any mirrors in the array being deflected.

Fig 3A shows a broken perspective view of a micro-electromechanical system mirror array with all mirrors in a non-deflected state.

Fig 3B shows a broken perspective view of a micro-electromechanical system mirror array with one mirror in a deflected state.

Fig 4 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the display having micro- electromechanical systems mirror arrays on opposite sides of the display panel.

Fig 5 shows a side view of an embodiment of the display having micro-electromechanical systems mirror arrays on opposite sides of the display panel. Fig 6 (PRIOR ART) shows a bi-axial micro-electromechanical system mirror, in accordance with prior art.

Fig 7 shows a view of an embodiment of the display having a single bi-axial micro- electromechanical mirror instead of an array of mirrors.

Fig 8 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the display using rotating horizontal and vertical mirrors.

Fig 9A shows a top view of an embodiment of the display using rotating horizontal and vertical mirrors. (Display panel omitted for clarity.)

Fig 9B shows a front view of an embodiment of the display using rotating horizontal and vertical mirrors.

Fig 10 shows a top view of an alternate embodiment of the display shown in Fig 9 A. This alternative uses a static mirror array instead of a parabolic mirror. (Display panel omitted for clarity.)

Fig 11 shows a detail view of an embodiment of the display panel surface having square cut grooves

Fig 12 shows a detail view of an embodiment of the display panel surface having grooves cut which vary with respect to the incident angle of the illumination beam.

Fig 13A shows a detail perspective view of an embodiment of the display screen surface having hexagonal light pipes.

Fig 13B shows a detail perspective view of a display screen surface having rectangular light pipes.

Fig 14A shows a side view of an individual light pipe, having one end angled to better accept the illumination beam.

Fig 14B shows a side view of an individual light pipe, having prismatic structure on one end to better accept the illumination beam.

Fig. 15 shows a perspective view of an embodiment wherein a rotor is used to re-direct the illumination beam.

Fig 16A shows a broken perspective detail view of an embodiment of a display panel having cavities Fig 16B shows a broken detail side view of an embodiment of the display panel having cavities

Fig 17 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the display having a plurality of display panels having cavities. (Non-illuminated cavities not shown.)

Fig 18 shows an embodiment of the display panel using internal reflection to direct the illumination beam

Fig 19 shows the size of a pixel on the surface of the display panel when illuminated by a beam more nearly perpendicular to the plane of the display panel surface.

Fig 20 shows the size of a pixel on the surface of the display panel when illuminated by a beam more nearly parallel to the plane of the display panel surface.

Fig 21 shows a pixel being formed from sub-pixels and another pixel being formed without sub-pixels.

Fig 22 shows how the cross-sectional size of an illumination beam would be varied so that pixels formed at different locations on the display panel would have the same size.

Fig 23 shows a perspective cutaway view of an embodiment of the display having a flexible display panel that may be rolled up into a housing for ease of storage or transportation.

Fig 24 shows a sectional view taken from Fig 23.

Fig 25 A shows a view of an embodiment of the display having a flexible screen in the closed position.

Fig 25B shows a view of an embodiment of the display having a flexible screen in the open position.

Fig 26 shows a display panel with a secondary illumination point due to internal reflection.

Fig 27A shows an embodiment of the display panel with an angled side used to prevent internal reflection.

Fig 27B shows an embodiment of the display panel where the entry angle of the illumination beam is configured so that any internal reflection of the illumination beam would pass out through the top of the display.

Fig 27C shows a modification of the embodiment of the display panel from Fig 27B: the top of the display panel is angled so that the angle between the illumination beam and the surface of the display panel on which the illumination point is projected may be larger, and the internally reflected illumination beam will still pass out through the top of the display panel.

Fig 28A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the display that uses two parabolic mirrors to control the direction of the illumination beam and a sensor beam.

Fig 28B shows a top view of an embodiment of the display that uses two parabolic mirrors to control the direction of the illumination beam and a sensor beam.

Fig 28C shows a front view of an embodiment of the display that uses two parabolic mirrors to control the direction of the illumination beam and a sensor beam.

Fig 29A shows a cutaway side view of an embodiment of the display panel that uses opaque, or substantially opaque, internal louvers to prevent internal reflection.

Fig 29B shows a cutaway side view of an embodiment of the display panel that uses louvers having an index of refraction lower than that of the display panel.

Fig 30 shows a system overview of an embodiment where the processor directly controls the illumination beam directing system.

Fig 31 shows a system overview of an embodiment that uses a sensor system to monitor the illumination beam directing system.

NOTE: The terms "horizontal," "vertical," "row," and "column" are used for clarity to refer to elements that are perpendicular to each other. They do not necessarily correspond to directions based on the physical horizon. The terms "top" and "bottom" are also used for clarity to refer to edges of the display that are opposite to each other, they do not necessarily correspond to directions based on the physical horizon.

NOTE: The axis of rotation of movable mirrors in the following embodiments is to be set so that the illumination beam will be reflected in the desired direction.

NOTE: The "plane" of the display panel as used in the description refers to a plane that is parallel to the surface of the display panel 34 on which the illumination points 40 lie. The

"display surface" or "surface" of the display panel, unless otherwise noted, refers to the surface of the display panel 34 on which the illumination points 40 lie. SECTION IA - DETAILED DESCRIPTION— FIGS. IA, IB, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, AND 3B

One embodiment of the display is used to show video images. Another embodiment is used to display alphanumeric messages. Another embodiment displays time-varying graphical or alphanumeric images. An embodiment of the display is shown in Figures IA, IB, 2A, and 2B. This embodiment has an illumination source 30 that generates a beam or beams of light. In one embodiment, the illumination source 30 is a laser that generates a particular wavelength of light. Other embodiments include an illumination source 30 that would generate wavelengths of light corresponding to the colors red, green, or blue; or a wavelength of light in the ultraviolet or infrared range of the spectrum; or other wavelengths or a combinations of wavelengths. hi another embodiment, the illumination source 30 comprises a collimated light source, hi another embodiment, the illumination source 30 comprises a light emitting diode. In another embodiment, the illumination source 30 comprises a mercury vapor arc lamp. Other embodiments use light sources commonly available in the state of the art.

The output from the illumination source 30 is the illumination beam 32. This embodiment also has a display panel 34 that is composed of material that is transparent, or substantially transparent, to the wavelength or wavelengths of light generated by the illumination source 30. Examples of material that could be used for the display panel 34 include glass, acrylic plastic, and polycarbonate plastic. A transparent, or substantially transparent, fluid, gas, or even a vacuum contained in a in a volume could also be used for the display panel 34. The display panel 34 is shown (Fig IA) as a rectangular solid having one dimension notably smaller than the other two, but other configurations are possible. The surface of the display panel where the illumination point 40 is shown is the display surface 39 (Fig. 2A). The surface at the perimeter of the display surface 39 running transverse to the display surface 39 through which the illumination beam 32 enters the display panel is an edge surface 41 (Fig. 2A). The display panel 34 would be of a size suitable for human viewing, or any other size.

An initial micro-electromechanical system mirror array 36 reflects the output from the illumination source 30 toward the secondary micro-electromechanical mirror array 38. Each of the micro-electromechanical system mirror arrays 36, 38 has a plurality of small mirrors 37. Each mirror 37 of the each array can deflect individually. When deflected (Fig 3B), a mirror in array 36, 38 reflects the illumination beam 32. When not deflected (Fig 3A), a mirror in array 36, 38 allows the illumination beam 32 to pass without interference. The number of mirrors on the micro-electromechanical mirror array 36 would correspond to the number of rows or columns or pixels to be shown on the display panel 34. The arrays 36, 38 reflect the illumination beam through the edge surface 41 to a plurality of illumination points (pixels) 40.

In another embodiment, the edge of the display panel 34 where the illumination beam enters the display panel is curved or angled so that the illumination beam 32 is nearly normal to the edge of the display panel at the point of entry (Fig. 2C). This prevents refraction of the illumination beam 32 as it enters the display panel 34 and reduces the amount of the illumination beam 32 that might be reflected from the edge of the display panel 34 before entering the display panel 34.

In another embodiment, the mirror array 38 is angled so that an illumination beam incident on mirror array 38 would be reflected to illuminate the top portion of the display panel without requiring any deflection of the mirrors 37 in mirror array 38. This alteration would reduce the total range of deflection required of the mirrors 37 in the array 38, and would also decrease the energy requirements for operating the embodiment. SECTION IB - OPERATION — FIGS. IA, IB, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, AND 3B

This embodiment generally operates by shining illumination beam 32 from illumination source 30 into the initial micro-electromechanical mirror array 36. A first mirror 37 in array 36 deflects (moves) into the path of the illumination beam 32, reflecting the illumination beam 32 onto a corresponding mirror 37 in the secondary micro-electromechanical mirror array 38. The corresponding mirror in array 38 rotates from an initial angle through a final angle, causing the illumination beam 32 to shine through the edge surface 41 (Fig. 2A) of display panel 34 and illuminate a series of illumination points (pixels) 40 on the display surface 39. The deflected mirrors 37 in arrays 36 and 38 then return to their initial non-deflected states. Then, a second mirror 37 in array 36 deflects, and the above process repeats until all mirrors 37 in both arrays 36 and 38 have been deflected. This method of operation allows a single illumination source 32 to illuminate the entire display surface 39 of the display panel 34.

The illumination beam 32 is switched on and off as it sweeps the display surface. (If beam 32 remained on continuously, all or substantially all, of the display surface would be illuminated.) In another embodiment, the illumination beam 32 is varied in intensity as it sweeps the display surface. This will cause some pixels 40 to be illuminated and some to remain dark. This will allow an image to be formed on the display surface. In one embodiment, a combination of red, green, and blue illumination beams is used and, varying the intensity of each color allowing a full color image to be formed on the display surface. Repeatedly illuminating the display surface in this fashion many times per second allows an observer to perceive a moving image, through persistence of vision. The number of times the image is illuminated per second will be referred to as the frame rate and will typically have units of frames per second. Typical frame rates for existing display technologies range between twenty- four and thirty frames per second, but faster or slower frame rates may be used. Faster frame rates would create a more smoothly varying image, and slower frame rates would be used if required due to components of the embodiment being unable to function at the higher rates.

The individual mirrors 37 in the mirror arrays 36, 38 are shown as deflecting within a limited range, however, continuously rotating mirrors could also be used.

In another embodiment, the mirror array 38 is angled so that an illumination beam incident on mirror array 38 would be reflected to illuminate the top portion of the display panel without requiring any deflection of the mirrors 37 in mirror array 38 (Fig. 2D). This alteration would reduce the total range of deflection required of the mirrors 37 in the array 38, and would also decrease the energy requirements for operating the embodiment. SECTION 2A - DESCRIPTION —FIGS.4 AND 5

The components of the embodiments described in Section 2 are the same as those described in Section 1. The Section 2 embodiment is different from the Section 1 embodiments because the secondary micro-electromechanical mirror array 38 is on the opposite side of the display panel 34 from the initial micro-electromechanical mirror array 36. Also, the initial array 36 is positioned so that it can direct the illumination beam 32 from one edge of the display panel 34 to the opposite edge, where the secondary array 38 is located. This arrangement allows the Section 2 embodiment to be thinner than the Section 1 embodiment. Note, however, that the Section 1 embodiment would be of lesser height than the Section 2 embodiment. SECTION 2B - OPERATION — FIGS. 4 AND 5

Operation of this embodiment differs from the Section 1 embodiments in that the illumination beam 32 is directed by the initial array 36 through the display panel 34 before encountering the secondary array 38. The remainder of the operation is essentially the same as that of the Section 1 embodiments. SECTION 3A - DESCRIPTION — FIGS. 6 AND 7

Another embodiment uses a single bi-axial micro-electromechanical system mirror 42 instead of the initial and secondary arrays 36, 38 of mirrors. The remainder of this embodiment is essentially the same as the previously described embodiments. SECTION 3B- OPERATION— FIGS. 6 AND 7

As the name implies, the bi-axial mirror 42 is capable of rotation about two axes. This property allows a single mirror to deflect the illumination beam 32 to illuminate the entire display surface. This embodiment uses bi-axial mirror 42 to illuminate the display surface instead of arrays 36 and 38. The remainder of the operation of this embodiment is essentially the same as that of the Section 1 embodiments. SECTION 4A - DESCRIPTION— FIGS. 8, 9A, 9B, AND 10

This embodiment has a rotating vertical mirror 44 that is turned by vertical motor 46. This embodiment also has a parabolic mirror 48, a horizontal rotating mirror 50, and a horizontal motor 52 that turns mirror 50. The vertical mirror 44 is positioned at the focal point of parabolic mirror 48. The above-mentioned components 44, 46, 48, 50 and 52 replace the initial and secondary mirror arrays 36, 38 from the Section 1 embodiments. The remainder of this embodiment is essentially the same as the Section 1 embodiments.

Rotating mirrors 44 and 50 are shown with a hexagonal cross-section, but other embodiments use mirrors with other cross-sections, including a simple planar mirror.

An alternate configuration of this embodiment uses a static mirror array 49 that replaces the parabolic mirror 48 (Fig. 10). SECTION 4B - OPERATION— FIGS. 8, 9 A, 9B, AND 10

This embodiment functions by shining illumination beam 32 from illumination source 30 onto vertical rotating mirror 44. Vertical motor 46 turns vertical mirror 44, causing illumination beam 32 to shine onto varying positions of parabolic mirror 48. The parabolic mirror 48 redirects illumination beam 32 so that the resulting direction of beam 32 is normal to the rotational axis of horizontal rotating mirror 50. Horizontal motor 52 turns horizontal mirror 50. This causes illumination beam 32 to illuminate a range on display panel 34 from the edge nearest mirror 50 to the edge farthest from mirror 50. The turning of mirrors 46 and 50 in this fashion allows the entirety of the display surface of display panel 34 to be illuminated. The remainder of the operation for this embodiment is essentially the same as the embodiments described in Section 1.

Another embodiment uses a mirror array 49 (Fig. 10) instead of parabolic mirror 48. Mirror array 49 serves the same purpose as parabolic mirror 48, by re-directing the illumination beam 32 so that it is perpendicular to the axis of horizontal rotating mirror 50. The remainder of the operation of this configuration is the same.

The parabolic mirror 48 has an advantage over mirror array 49. Using parabolic mirror 48 allows the position of the reflected illumination beam 32 to vary continuously across the surface of horizontal mirror 50. This allows the illumination beam 32 to illuminate a full range of continuous positions on display panel 34. The static mirror array 49 would only reflect illumination beam 32 at discrete locations, limiting the portions of display 34 that could be illuminated. SECTION 5A - DESCRIPTION - COATINGS

The embodiments described in Section 5 are an additional feature that may be used with any other embodiment. These embodiments add a coating that can be applied to the surface of display panel 34. In one embodiment, the coating is translucent and diffuses light from the illumination point 40. Exemplary translucent coatings include: translucent vinyl available from 3M at 1-94 and McKnight Road, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55144, USA; and acrylic spray ink available from Spraylat International, 1 Bardley Road, Earlstrees hid. Estate, Corby, Northants NN 17 4AR, England. In another embodiment, illumination beam 32 contains infrared or ultraviolet light, and an embodiment of the coating includes a material that will fluoresce, through up -conversion or down-conversion, when it is struck by infrared or ultraviolet light. Exemplary coatings include: Clear Black Light Paints available from Risk Reactor, having offices at 2154 Newland Street, Huntington Beach, California, USA (which would fluoresce when exposed to ultraviolet light); and IR up-conversion phosphors available from LDP LLC, 220 Broad Street, Carlstadt, NJ 07072 USA.

Another embodiment of a coating includes a material that would be transparent, or substantially transparent, to visible light but opaque, or substantially opaque, to infrared or ultraviolet light. Exemplary coatings include: Clear UV Protection Film, available from PURLFROST Ltd, PO BOX 53306, London, UK NWlO 5ZS (which blocks 99.5% of ultraviolet light); HM TC88/Clear ultraviolet blocking glass, available from Alpen Energy Group, LLC, 5400 Spine Road, Boulder, Colorado 80301, USA (which blocks 99.5% of ultraviolet light); and TECHSPEC Heat Absorbing Glass, available from Edmund Optics, 101 East Gloucester Pike, Barrington, New Jersey 08007, USA (which blocks infrared light). These coatings would prevent an observer from being exposed to infrared or ultraviolet light coming from the illumination source 32.

If internal reflection within the display panel 34 is to be limited in a particular embodiment, the coating can be a material that has an index of refraction that is greater than the index of refraction of the display panel 34 material.

If internal reflection within the display panel 34 is to be enhanced in a particular embodiment, the coating can be a material that has an index of refraction that is less than the index of refraction of the display panel 34 material.

Different combinations of coating materials can be used within the same embodiment. Multiple coatings may be used in conjunction with each other.

The coating could be applied to any surface of the display panel 34 to achieve the desired results. SECTION 5B - OPERATION-COATINGS

Operation of the embodiments described in Section 5A would be the same as that of other embodiments listed, except that a coating would be added to the surface of the display panel 34. The coating would alter the perceived properties of the illumination point (pixel) 40 depending on the type of coating and the type of illumination beam 32 used. hi one embodiment, the coating that is applied to the surface of display panel 34 includes a translucent coating configured to diffuse the visible light from the pixel 40.

When the illumination beam 32 comprises ultraviolet or infrared light, or a combination thereof, the beams themselves would not be visible to humans. One embodiment of the coating that is applied to the surface of the display panel 34 is configured to convert the non-visible infrared or ultraviolet illumination beam 32 into light visible to humans. Exemplary coatings that are configured for performing this transformation include: Clear Black Light Paints available from Risk Reactor, having offices at 2154 Newland Street, Huntington Beach, California, USA (which would fluoresce when exposed to ultraviolet light); and IR up-conversion phosphors available from LDP LLC, 220 Broad Street, Carlstadt, NJ 07072 USA. When the ultraviolet and/or infrared light strikes the coating, visible pixels 40 are generated. This configuration could be made so that the display panel 34 and its coating would be transparent, or substantially transparent, to visible light. When no pixels 40 were illuminated, an observer could look through display panel 34 and perceive the surrounding environment. Illuminating various pixels 40 would then allow an observer to perceive those pixels and the surrounding environment at the same time.

In another embodiment, illumination beam 32 comprises ultraviolet and/or infrared light and multiple coatings are applied to the display panel 34. Each coating fluoresces at a different wavelength when struck by illumination beam 32. This allows a multicolor display to be created. Exemplary coatings include Clear Black Light Paints available from Risk Reactor, having offices at 2154 Newland Street, Huntington Beach, California, USA (which would fluoresce when exposed to ultraviolet light); and IR up-conversion phosphors available from LDP LLC, 220 Broad Street, Carlstadt, NJ 07072 USA. hi another embodiment, illumination beam 32 comprises ultraviolet and/or infrared light, and an outer coating is applied to display panel 34 that would be opaque, or substantially opaque, to the illumination beam, but transparent, or substantially transparent, to visible light. Exemplary coatings include: Clear UV Protection Film, available from PURLFROST Ltd, PO BOX 53306, London, UK NWlO 5ZS (which blocks 99.5% of ultraviolet light); HM TC88/Clear ultraviolet blocking glass, available from Alpen Energy Group, LLC, 5400 Spine Road, Boulder, Colorado 80301, USA (which blocks 99.5% of ultraviolet light); and TECHSPEC Heat Absorbing Glass, available from Edmund Optics, 101 East Gloucester Pike, Barrington, New Jersey 08007, USA (which blocks infrared light). These coatings would prevent an observer from being exposed to infrared or ultraviolet light coming from the illumination source 32.

In one embodiment, a coating having an index of refraction greater than the index of refraction of the material used for the display panel 34 would reduce internal reflection.

In another embodiment, a coating having an index of refraction less than the index of refraction of the material used for the display panel 34 would increase internal reflection. SECTION 6A - DESCRIPTION— FIGS. 11 AND 12

This embodiment is an additional feature that may be used with other embodiments. This embodiment adds grooves 51, 53 to the surface of display panel 34. In one embodiment, the grooves 51, 53 are on the same surface of the display panel 34 as the illumination points 40. In another embodiment, the grooves 51, 53 are on the opposite surface of the display panel 34 from the illumination points 40. Grooves 51, 53 could also be on the edges of the display panel 34. Other embodiments use grooves having cross-sectional shapes other than those shown in the figures. The grooves may be etched or cut into the surface. SECTION 6B - OPERATION— FIGS. 11 AND 12

Operation of the embodiment described in Section 6A would be the same as that of other embodiments listed, except that grooves 51, 53 would be added to the surface of the display panel 34.

In one embodiment, grooves 51, as shown in Fig. 11, would be on the same surface of display panel 34 as pixels 40. These grooves 51 would diffuse light from the illumination beam 32, making the pixels 40 more visible to observers.

In another embodiment, grooves having a triangular cross-section 53 (Fig. 12), with their angles varying depending on the incident angle of the illumination beam 32 would be on the same surface of display panel 34 as pixels 40. These grooves 53 would, in effect, serve as small prisms, and would direct the illumination beam 32 outward from the surface of the display panel 34 so as to be more detectable by an observer. An illumination beam 32 directed outward in this manner would not be internally reflected, and therefore would not cause ghost images. (See Section 14A for discussion of ghost images.)

In another embodiment, grooves would be on the surface of the display panel 34 opposite the pixels 40. These grooves would reduce or eliminate internal reflection in embodiments where that was desirable. The grooves could also be used to enhance internal reflection, and control the direction of that internal reflection, if desirable.

Elimination of internal reflection would be desirable in embodiments that did not rely on internal reflection to position the illumination beam 32 (see Sections 1 and 2, for example). Internal reflection would be eliminated by directing the illumination beam completely out of the display panel 34, as described above. The grooves that eliminated internal reflection could be on the same surface as the pixels 40, or on the opposite surface as pixels 40.

Enhancing internal reflection would be desirable in embodiments that used internal reflection to direct the illumination beam 32 (see Section 10, for example). The grooves would enhance and control the direction of internal reflection by altering the angle of incidence between the illumination beam 32 and the surface of the display panel 34. The angle of incidence between the illumination beam 32 and the surface of a grooved display panel 34 would be different than the angle of incidence between the illumination beam 32 and the surface of a smooth display panel 34. Configuring the grooves so that the angle of incidence would result in the desired angle of reflection could therefore control the direction of an internally reflected illumination beam 32.

In one embodiment, grooves that enhance internal reflection are on one section of display panel 34 and are used in conjunction with grooves that reduce or eliminate internal reflection on another section of display panel 34. SECTION 7 A - DESCRIPTION— FIGS. 13A, 13B, 14A, AND 14B

This embodiment comprises an additional feature that may be used with any other embodiment. This embodiment changes the structure of display panel 34 so that it comprises light pipes 54. In one embodiment, the light pipes are freestanding. In another embodiment, the light pipes are embedded in a transparent or substantially transparent material. The light pipes alter the direction of incident light by means of internal reflection. In one embodiment, the light pipes have a reflective material on their interior surface. In another embodiment, the light pipes are transparent, or substantially transparent, hollow light guides. In another embodiment, the light pipes are fiber optic cable. In another embodiment, the light pipes are transparent, or substantially transparent, solid light guides. In one embodiment, the light pipes have cladding on their exterior surface.

In one embodiment, the light pipes 54 have a hexagonal cross-section (Fig. 13A). In another embodiment, the light pipes 54 have a rectangular cross-section (Fig. 13 B). Other embodiments can use light pipes with other cross-sectional shapes. The cross-sectional area of the light pipes would be equal to or less than the pixel size of the display.

In one embodiment, the light pipes 54 have a their incident side cut so as to be more receptive to the illumination beam 32 (Fig. 14A). This generally involves angling the cut of so that the illumination beam 32 is more nearly normal to the incident surface of the light pipe, thereby reducing or eliminating refraction of the illumination beam 32 and allowing most or all of the illumination beam 32 to enter the light pipe.

In another embodiment, the light pipes 54 have a prism attached to one end in order to be more receptive to the illumination beam 32 (Fig. 14B). In another embodiment, the light pipes 54 would also have lens attached to one end in order to be more receptive to the illumination beam 32. SECTION 7B - OPERATION— FIGS. 13A, 13B, 14A, AND 14B

Operation of the embodiments described in Section 7A would be similar to other embodiments; with the exception that the display screen 34 would comprise light pipes 54. The light pipes would redirect the incident illumination beam 32 so that its output would be in a direction more easily perceived by observers. SECTION 8A - DESCRIPTION— FIGS. 16A AND 16B

This embodiment alters the display panel 34. The display panel 34 in this embodiment contains cavities 56. In one embodiment, the cavities 56 contain no additional material other than that found in the surrounding environment (air or a vacuum, for example). In another embodiment, the cavities 56 contain a material different from the rest of the display panel 34. In another embodiment, the cavities 56 contain a material that fluoresces, through up-conversion or down-conversion, when struck by the illumination beam 32. In one embodiment, the illumination beam 32 is comprised of ultraviolet and/or infrared light. Exemplary fluorescing materials include: Clear Black Light Paints available from Risk Reactor, having offices at 2154 Newland Street, Huntington Beach, California, USA (which would fluoresce when exposed to ultraviolet light); and IR up-conversion phosphors available from LDP LLC, 220 Broad Street, Carlstadt, NJ 07072 USA. The material in the cavities 56 is transparent, or substantially transparent, to visible light. The cavities 56 are shown as cylinders (Figs. 16A, 16B), but other embodiments would use cavities 56 shaped like spheres, cones, parabolas, rectangular solids, or other shapes. hi one embodiment, the display panel 34, other than the cavities 56, is composed of a material that is transparent, or substantially transparent, to both visible light, and the light of the illumination beam 32. Acrylic plastic is an example of one such material that can be substantially transparent to both visible and ultraviolet light. Infrared grade fiised quartz glass, available from Heraeus Quartz America, 100 Heraeus Boulevard, Buford, Georgia 30518, USA, is an example of a material that is transparent to both visible and infrared light. hi one embodiment, a coating 58 covers the surface of the display panel 34. Other embodiments do not have an external coating. In one embodiment, the coating 58 is opaque, or substantially opaque, to the illumination beam 32, but transparent, or substantially transparent, to visible light. Exemplary coatings include: Clear UV Protection Film, available from PURLFROST Ltd, PO BOX 53306, London, UK NWlO 5ZS (which blocks 99.5% of ultraviolet light); HM TC88/Clear ultraviolet blocking glass, available from Alpen Energy Group, LLC, 5400 Spine Road, Boulder, Colorado 80301, USA (which blocks 99.5% of ultraviolet light); and TECHSPEC Heat Absorbing Glass, available from Edmund Optics, 101 East Gloucester Pike, Barrington, New Jersey 08007, USA (which blocks infrared light).

The remainder of this embodiment would be essentially the same as the embodiments described in Sections 1, 2, and 3. SECTION 8B - OPERATION— FIGS. 16A AND 16B

Operation of the embodiments described in Section 8A is as follows: Illumination source 30 emits an illumination beam 32. In one embodiment, the illumination beam 32 is composed of ultraviolet or infrared light. The illumination beam 32 is reflected, by mirror arrays 36, 38; or by rotating mirrors 46, 50, or other means; to each cavity 56 in sequence. When struck by illumination beam 32, the entire volume of the cavity 56 fluoresces, through up-conversion or down-conversion. This would create a visible luminous volume within the display panel 34. In one embodiment, cavities 56 that fluoresce in different colors would be used to create a full-color display. The illumination beam 32 would be switched off and on as it scanned through the series of voxels. This would allow an image to be created composed of the illuminated cavities 56. Repeatedly illuminating the display in this fashion twenty- four to thirty times per second would allow an observer to perceive a moving image, through persistence of vision. Other frame rates are also possible. Faster frame rates would create a more smoothly varying image, and slower frame rates would used, for example, if required due to components of the embodiment being unable to function at the higher rates.

Coating 58 is transparent, or substantially transparent, to visible light; but opaque, or substantially opaque, to the infrared or ultraviolet light of the illumination beam 32. This allows an observer to view the visible fluorescing light from the cavities 56, but shields the observer from the ultraviolet or infrared light of the illumination beam 32. It would also prevent the voxels 56 from being activated by light sources external to the embodiment.

The portion of the display panel 34 other than the cavities 56 is transparent, or substantially transparent, to visible light and the infrared or ultraviolet light of the illumination beam 32. This would allow the illumination beam 32 to pass freely to each cavity 56, and would allow an observer to view the visible fluorescing light from the voxels.

Details of the operation that have not been mentioned would be essentially the same as that of the embodiments mentioned in Sections 1, 2, and 3.

In another embodiment, wherein the cavities 56 do not contain fluorescent material, the operation is essentially the same as that of embodiments mentioned in Sections 1, 2, and 3; and each cavity 56 acts to disperse the illumination beam 32, causing the cavities to be more visible to an observer when illuminated. SECTION 9 A - DESCRIPTION— FIG. 17

This embodiment has a plurality of the display panels described in Section 8. In one embodiment, each of the display panels 34 is illuminated by its own illumination source 30. In another embodiment, all of the panels are illuminated by a single illumination source 30, which is reflected to each panel by a mirror array (36, 38) or a rotating mirror. In another embodiment, a plurality of display panels 34 without cavities and coated with a fluorescent material as described in the Section 5 is used to achieve substantially the same effect.

The number of display panels 34 used would vary depending on the desired size of the display.

This embodiment allows a three-dimensional moving or static volumetric image to be perceived by an observer. SECTION 9B - OPERATION —FIG. 17

Operation of the embodiment described in Section 9A is essentially the same as that of the embodiments described in Section 8. However, the "frame" rate would need to be twenty- four to thirty volumes per second. Meaning that all of the cavities 56 contained in the entire volume would have to be illuminated twenty- four to thirty times per second. Faster or slower volumetric frame rates are also possible. Faster frame rates would create a more smoothly varying image, and slower frame rates would used, for example, if required due to components of the embodiment being unable to function at the higher rates.

This embodiment would allow an observer to perceive a three-dimensional volumetric moving image. The observer would be able to view the image from any side of the embodiment, except the side blocked by mirror arrays 38. SECTION 10A- DESCRIPTION— FIG. 18

The physical components of this embodiment would be the same as in other embodiments, with the exception that the secondary mirror array 38 or the horizontal rotating mirror 50 would be configured to direct the illumination beam 32 toward the side of the display panel 34 opposite that of the illumination point 40. This would allow the illumination beam 32 to reach the illumination point through internal reflection. SECTION 10B- OPERATION— FIG. 18

Operation of the embodiment described in Section 1OA would be essentially the same as other embodiments, except that the illumination beam 32 could be directed to the illumination point 40 by way of internal reflection (Fig. 18).

In one embodiment, a combination of direct illumination, as shown in other embodiments (e.g. Figs. 1, 4, 7, and 8), and illumination through internal reflection (Fig. 18) is used. Note that internal reflection would typically not be desirable from the illumination point 40 on the surface of the display panel 34. Internal reflection could be reduced or eliminated by using coatings, grooves, light pipes, or other modifications of the display panel 34; as mentioned in Sections 5, 6, 7, 14, and 16. BACKGROUND FOR SECTIONS 11 and 12— FIGS. 19 AND 20

The size of illumination point 40 will vary depending on the angle of incidence of the illumination beam 32. The size of an illumination point 62 formed by an illumination beam 32 more nearly perpendicular to the surface of the display panel 34 (Fig. 19) will be smaller than the size of an illumination point 64 formed by an illumination beam 32 more nearly parallel to the display panel 34 surface (Fig. 20).

This effect can be reduced or eliminated by use of prismatic grooves (Section 6) or light pipes (Section 7). The light pipes or grooves alter the direction of the illumination beam so that it is nearly normal to the surface of the display panel 34, therefore there would be no significant difference in the size of pixels 40 at different locations on the display panel 34. Other methods of dealing with pixel size difference are described in the Sections 11 and 12 SECTION HA- DESCRIPTION— FIGS. 19, 20, AND 21

The unique features of this embodiment can be used with any other embodiment. This embodiment would be similar to other embodiments, except that the cross-sectional size of the illumination beam 32 is small enough so that the largest illumination point 64 is the desired pixel size. Selecting an illumination source 30 that produces the desired beam size, mechanically limiting the beam size, or optically reducing the beam size could accomplish this. In one embodiment, mechanically limiting the beam size would be accomplished by partially blocking the path of the illumination beam 32 with an opaque, or substantially opaque, object. In another embodiment, optically limiting the beam size would be accomplished with a beam expander used in reverse. SECTION HB- OPERATION— FIGS. 19, 20, AND 21

Operation of the embodiment described in Section 1 IA would be similar to other embodiments, except that pixels 66 illuminated by an illumination beam 32 that was more nearly perpendicular to the plane of the display panel 34 would be created with a series of sub-pixels (Fig. 21). A pixel 64 created by an illumination beam 32 that was more nearly parallel to the plane of the display panel 34 would not be created by a series of sub-pixels. Intermediate pixels would be created with varying numbers of sub-pixels.

The size of the illumination beam 32 itself would not vary during operation of this embodiment. Note, however, that the power output of the beam 32 would have to be lower when forming pixels 66 than when forming pixels 64. Different intensities of the pixels would be perceived if this was not done, because pixels 66 are formed by a number of sub-pixels created by a beam 32 that is more directly striking the display panel 34 surface. SECTION 12 A - DESCRIPTION — FIGS. 19, 20, AND 22

The unique features of this embodiment may be used with any other embodiment. This embodiment is similar to other embodiments, except that the cross-sectional size of the illumination beam 32 is dynamically changed as it sweeps the surface of display panel 34. The cross-sectional size of the beam 32 is larger when more nearly perpendicular to the surface of display panel 34, and smaller when more nearly parallel to the surface of display panel 34. Variation of the beam size could be achieved through mechanical or optical means.

In one embodiment, mechanical variation of the beam 32 size is done by simply blocking the beam 32 with an opaque object. The position of the blocking object is varied as the beam sweeps the surface of the display panel 34, so that more or less of the beam is blocked. hi another embodiment, optical variation of the beam 32 size is done by a variable beam expander, used in reverse. The beam expander varies the size of the beam 32 as it sweeps the surface of display panel 34. SECTION 12B- OPERATION— FIGS. 19, 20, AND 22

Operation of the embodiments described in Section 12A is similar to other embodiments, except that the cross-sectional size of the illumination beam 32 is varied so that the illumination point 40 remains the same size at all locations on the display panel 34. An illumination beam 32 having a larger cross-section is used when the beam is more nearly perpendicular to the plane of the display panel 34. An illumination beam 32 having a smaller cross-section is used when the beam is more nearly parallel to the plane of the display panel 34. The cross-sectional size of the illumination beam 32 is varied between these two extremes, so that all pixels 40 formed on the display panel 34 have the same size. Note that the power output from illumination source 30 also has to be varied with the beam size, so that the intensity of different illumination points 40 are the same, as well as then- size. SECTION 13A - DESCRIPTION-FIGS. 23, 24, 25 A, AND 25B

The unique features of this embodiment may be used with any other embodiment. This embodiment has a display panel 34 that is flexible, so as to allow it to be folded or rolled-up. Exemplary materials that could be used for the flexible display panel 34 include clear, flexible polyurethane; and clear, flexible polyvinyl chloride. The display panel 34 is folded or rolled-up for ease of transportation or storage. The display panel 34 is extended for operation and held in place by a frame or other support structure.

Figures 23 thru 25B show a hand-held version of this embodiment. This embodiment is sized so that it fits easily into a pocket when in closed position (Fig. 25 A). When opened (Fig. 25B), the display panel 34 expands to a size that can be easily viewed. This embodiment has a housing 76 that contains the rolled-up display panel 34. The display panel 34 is supported by a frame 72 made from a scissor linkage (also called "lazy tongs"). The frame 72 locks in place when the display panel 34 is completely unrolled and unlocks to allow the display to be rolled up again. An accordion-style cover 74 shields a user's hands from the frame 72. Housing 78 contains the illumination source 30 and any system required to direct the illumination beam 32 (see Sections 1, 3 and 4, for example). Frame 72, cover 74, and display panel 34 are attached to both housing 76 and housing 78.

Though a hand-held version of the embodiment is shown in the figures, larger or smaller embodiments can also be constructed. Other configurations having different types of housings, supporting frames, covers, and locations of the rolled-up display panel can also be constructed. SECTION 13B- OPERATION— FIGS.23, 24, 25A, AND 25B

Operation of this embodiment is essentially the same as other embodiments; with the exception that display panel 34 is flexible. Flexibility of the display panel 34 allows the embodiment to be closed so that it takes up less space than an embodiment having a rigid display panel 34.

This embodiment can be stored or transported in its closed position (Fig. 25A), but is opened for use (Fig. 25B). The scissor linkage 72 is unlocked, and the two housing units 76,78 are pulled away from each other. The scissor linkage 72 extends. The accordion-like cover 74 expands with the scissor linkage 72 and protects a user's hands from the linkage 72. The scissor linkage 72 locks into place in an open position, stretching the display panel 34 taught and keeping the housing units 76, 78 a fixed distance from each other. The embodiment can then be used to view images on the display panel 34.

Housing 78 contains the illumination source 30 and any system required to direct its output. The components in housing 78 function as in other embodiments (see Sections 1, 3, and 4, for example).

When the user is finished viewing images, the scissor linkage 72 is unlocked, and the embodiment is returned to its closed position (Fig. 25A). SECTION 14A— DESCRIPTION— FIGS. 26, 27A, 27B, AND 27C

Unless steps are taken to prevent it, internal reflection will lead to secondary illumination points 80 (Fig. 26). These points would usually be undesirable and would lead to ghost images on display panel 34. Internal reflection can be reduced or eliminated by using coatings (see Section 5), grooves on the surface of the display panel (see Section 6), or by using light pipes as the display panel (see Section 7).

In one embodiment, internal reflection is reduced or eliminated by angling the side of display panel 34 that is opposite the illumination point 40 (Fig. 27). Angling the display panel 34 in this fashion alters the angle of incidence of illumination beam 32 so that it is less than the critical angle, causing all or part of the illumination beam 32 to be transmitted out of display panel 34, instead of being reflected back into panel 34. This feature may be used in combination with other embodiments. In another embodiment, internal reflection is reduced or eliminated by roughing the surface of the display panel 34 opposite the illumination point 40.

Pn another embodiment, the angle of incidence between the illumination beam 32 and the surface of the display panel 34 is configured so that any internally reflected portion of the illumination beam 32 passes out through the top of the display panel 34 (Fig. 27B). This alteration does not prevent internal reflection, but it does prevent the formation of ghost images, because no internally reflected portion of illumination beam 32 will strike the display panel 34 surface. In another embodiment, the top portion of the display panel 34 is angled, so that the angle formed between the illumination beam 32 and the surface of display panel 34 can be larger than shown in Fig. 27B, but the illumination beam 32 will still pass outward through the angled top of display panel 34 (Fig. 27C). Allowing a larger angle to be used has an advantage over the smaller angle shown in Fig. 27B, because less precise control of the direction of the illumination beam 32 would be required. SECTION 14B- OPERATION — FIGS. 26, 27A, 27B, AND 27C

Operation of the embodiments described in Section 14A would be substantially the same as other embodiments. SECTION 15A- DESCRIPTION— FIGS. 28A, 28B, and 28C

This embodiment has an illumination beam source 30 that produces illumination beam 32. It also has a sensor beam source 82 that produces sensor beam 84. This embodiment has a horizontal motor 52 that turns a horizontal mirror 96 and a vertical motor 46 that turns a vertical mirror 94. Further elements of this embodiment are a mirror assembly 86, parabolic mirror 48, static mirrors 90 and 92, and illumination points 40 projected onto display panel 34. Rotating horizontal mirror 96 is located at the focal point of vertical parabolic mirror 88. Rotating vertical mirror 94 is located at the focal point of parabolic mirror 48. SECTION 15B- OPERATION— FIGS. 28A, 28B, and 28C

Illumination source 30 produces illumination beam 32 and sensor beam source 82 produces sensor beam 84. Sensor beam 84 is on continuously; illumination beam 32 is switched off and on depending on which illumination points 40 are to be visible. Mirror 96 is turned by horizontal motor 52. Mirror 96 is located at the focal point of vertical parabolic mirror 88.

As mirror 96 rotates, it reflects illumination beam 32 and sensor beam 84 onto different locations of parabolic mirror 88. This creates a series of beams at different heights at different times. The resulting series of beams will be parallel to each other. (That is, a beam reflected from one location of parabolic mirror 88 at one time would be parallel to a beam reflected from another location of parabolic mirror 88 at another time.) The sensor beam 84 then encounters mirror assembly 86. Mirror assembly 86 redirects beam 84 so that it is still parallel to illumination beam 32, but directly below beam 32 instead of beside it. Both beams 32 and 84 then encounter vertical rotating mirror 94. Mirror 94 is turned by vertical motor 46. Mirror 94 is located at the focal point of parabolic mirror 48.

As mirror 94 rotates, it reflects illumination beam 32 and sensor beam 84 onto different locations of parabolic mirror 48. This creates a series of beams at different horizontal locations at different times. The resulting series of beams are parallel to each other. Illumination beam 32 is reflected by mirror 90 upward into display panel 34. Sensor beam 84 is reflected by mirror 92 away from display panel 34.

The combination of above events causes the path of illumination beam 32 to sweep across the entire display surface of display panel 34. Sensor beam 84 is reflected away from display panel 34 by mirror 92 onto points that are analogous to the position of illumination beam 32. Sensor beam 84 can then be detected by optical sensors, such as photodiodes (NOT SHOWN). The optical sensors will therefore detect, indirectly, the location of illumination beam 32. The output of the optical sensors can be fed into a processor (NOT SHOWN). The processor will switch illumination beam 32 off and on, based on the optical sensor data, depending on which illumination points 40 are to be shown. This will allow different and time varying images to be projected onto display panel 34.

In another embodiment, the location of illumination beam 32 is detected by using position sensors on horizontal motor 52 and vertical motor 46. The position sensors detect the angular location of the motors, and therefore the locations of mirrors 96 and 94. The mirror positions are then fed to the processor, which controls the activation of illumination beam 32.

This embodiment varies the location of the illumination beam 32 on the surface of display panel 34 continuously, rather than discretely. This means that the number of pixels 40 displayed on the panel 34 would depend only on the cross-sectional area of the illumination beam 32 and the switching speed of the processor and illumination source 30. This would lead to a very high-resolution display that could be refreshed very rapidly. SECTION 16A - DESCRIPTION— FIGS. 29A AND 29B

Another means of dealing with internal reflection (see Section 14) is to use a series of louvers 98 inside the display panel 34. In one embodiment, the louvers 98 are opaque, or substantially opaque, to the illumination beam 32 (Fig. 29A). In another embodiment, the louvers 98 are transparent, or substantially transparent, to the illumination beam 32 (Fig. 29B). In one embodiment, louvers that are transparent, or substantially transparent, to the illumination beam 32 are used, and the index of refraction for the louvers 96 is lower than that of the material used for the rest of display panel 34. This allows the direction of illumination beam 32 to be changed by internal reflection from the louvers 98. SECTION 16B - OPERATION —FIGS. 29A AND 29B

Operation of the embodiments described in Section 16A would be substantially similar to that of other embodiments, with the following exceptions:

In one embodiment, louvers 98 that are opaque, or substantially opaque, to the illumination beam 32 are used. The louvers 98 block the illumination beam 32 after the beam is internally reflected from the surface of the display panel 34 (Fig. 29A). This prevents additional reflection and therefore prevents ghost images (see Section 14 and Fig. 26 for ghost image description).

In another embodiment, the louvers 98 are transparent, or substantially transparent, to the illumination beam 32, and have a lower index of refraction than the material used for the remainder of the display panel 34. The illumination beam 32 is then reflected by the louvers out through the surface of display panel 34 at an angle normal, or nearly normal, to the surface of the display panel (Fig. 29B), by internal reflection off of the louvers 98. An illumination beam 32 striking the surface of the display panel at a nearly normal angle would not be reflected back into the display panel 34. Ghost images would therefore be prevented. SECTION 17A- DESCRIPTION - FIG. 15

One embodiment, shown in Fig. 15, comprises an illumination source 30, an illumination beam 32, a display panel 34, a sensor beam source 82, a sensor beam 84, and a rotor 116. The rotor 116 comprises an axle 118, rotor arms 120, and an elongated rotor arm 122. The rotor arms 120 have angled and mirrored ends. The elongated rotor arm 122 is attached to axle 118. The rotor arms 120 are attached to the axle in a spiral configuration. SECTION 17B - OPERATION - FIG. 15

Operation of the embodiment shown in Fig. 15 is as follows: Rotor 116 rotates. As the rotor 116 rotates, the elongated rotor arm 122 interrupts the sensor beam 84 coming from sensor source 82 at certain points in the rotation. A sensor (NOT SHOWN) detects the interruption of sensor beam 84, and the sensor output goes into a processor (NOT SHOWN). The sensor thereby informs the processor of the location of the rotor when it passes the interruption points. The processor determines the time between the interruptions and calculates the rotation speed of the rotor 116 based on that timing. The processor then calculates the position of the rotor 116 based on when the interruptions occur and the rotation speed. hi one embodiment, the processor switches the illumination source 30, and the illumination beam 32, off and on when the rotor 116 is at particular points in its rotation. In another embodiment, the processor controls the illumination source 30 so that the intensity of illumination beam 32 is varied between a maximum and minimum value at specific points in the rotation of rotor 116.

Rotor arms 120 have angled and mirrored ends. As the rotor 116 rotates, the illumination beam 32 illuminates the mirrored ends of different rotor arms 120, in sequence. The rotor 116 is positioned so that the illumination beam 32 is reflected from the mirrored, angled ends of the rotor arms 120 onto a surface of the display panel 34. This causes columns/rows on the surface of the display panel 34 to be scanned by the illumination beam 32. This scanning, in combination with the variation of intensity of illumination beam 32, causes an image to be formed on display panel 34 which may be perceived through persistence of vision. In other embodiments, commercially available rotational encoders are used instead of the elongated rotor arm 122 and sensor beam 84. SYSTEM OVERVIEW - FIGS. 30 AND 31

In one embodiment, shown in Fig. 30, input signal 114 enters processor 100. The input signal 114 carries information about which pixels on display panel 34 are to be illuminated, and at what intensity the pixels are to be illuminated. Examples of typical sources of the input signal 114 include information from Digital Versatile Disks, satellite television signals, computer network connections, etc. The processor 100 reads the input signal 114, and determines how each pixel should be illuminated. The illumination source 30 produces an illumination beam 32. The illumination beam directing system 102 alters the direction of illumination beam so that its path points at different pixels on display panel 34.

The processor 100 sends a control signal 106 to the illumination source 30, and a control signal 104 to the illumination beam directing system 102. The control signal 104 tells the illumination beam directing system 102 to point at the location of a particular pixel on the display panel 34. The control signal 106 to the illumination source 30 turns causes the illumination source 30 to vary the intensity of the illumination beam 32. The pixels pointed to by directing system 102, and the state (full-on, off, or some intermediate value) of the illumination source 30, are altered in this way by the processor 100 in response to the input signal 114, so that display panel 34 is scanned, and an image is created on display panel 34.

In another embodiment, shown in Fig. 31, the illumination beam directing system 102 is not directly controlled by processor 100. The directing system 102 independently points at each pixel location on the display panel 34. A sensor system 110 receives a signal 108 from the directing system 102, interprets it, and sends a further signal 112 to the processor 100. The signal 112 informs the processor of the state of the directing system 102; that is, which pixel on display panel 34 is currently being pointed to by the directing system 102. The processor 100 sends a signal to illumination source 30, causing the intensity of the illumination beam 32 to be varied, based on how the particular pixel pointed to by directing system 102 should be illuminated, depending on the information taken from input signal 114. A complete image is formed on display panel 34 in this fashion.

In another embodiment, there is no input signal 114. The processor is pre-programmed with the information about the image to be created.

The image formed by the display may be static or time-varying. The display may form a two-dimensional image or a three-dimensional volumetric image. CRITICAL ANGLE and "RAW CRITICAL ANGLE"

The critical angle for a material is measured from a normal to the plane on the interior surface of the material. If a material with a higher index of refraction is in contact with a material having a lower index of refraction, total internal reflection will occur within the material having the higher index of refraction if light is incident on its interior surface at an angle greater than the critical angle. This will be referred to as the "actual critical angle." For purposes of this document, the "raw critical angle" of a modified material is defined as the actual critical angle of that material when no modifications have been made to that material.

For example, if grooves or cavities are cut into the surface of a display panel composed of a particular material, the actual critical angle would be measured from the angle incidence of light with a groove or cavity, but the raw critical angle is measured from a plane parallel to the display surface of the display panel, as if the surface was smooth and had no grooves or cavities. The actual critical angle of a display panel composed of a particular material would vary if a coating having a different index of refraction from that material were applied to the surface of the material; however, the raw critical angle for the display panel remains unchanged. For a display panel composed of light pipes, the raw critical angle would be the actual critical angle of a display panel composed of a solid volume of the transparent or translucent material contained in the light pipes. COMBINATIONS, PERMUTATIONS, AND VARIATION OF EMBODIMENTS

It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangements of components set forth in the descriptions above or illustrated in the drawings. Numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Materials other than the exemplary materials may be used.

Combinations, permutations and modification of elements and embodiments other than those specifically shown are possible. For example, the angled grooves shown in Fig. 12 can used to direct illumination beam 32 onto a separate display panel 34; the rotating mirror 50 shown in Fig. 8 can be used instead of the micro-electromechanical systems mirror array 38 in Fig. IA. Display panel 34 is typically shown as having a rectangular shape, but other shapes may be used; multiple illumination sources 30 can be used within a single embodiment; etc. ADVANTAGES

These embodiments would likely consume less energy for a given display brightness than many currently available display technologies. These embodiments would also likely be capable of faster frame rates, higher resolutions, and higher contrast ratios than many current display technologies.

Claims

CLAIMS: I claim:

1. A display comprising: an illumination source (30) that generates light, a display panel (34) comprising a material that is transparent or substantially transparent to the light from the illumination source having a display surface (39) and an edge surface (41) at a perimeter of the display surface and transverse to the display surface; and a device comprising a mirror (36, 38, 42, 50, 116) that reflects the light from the illumination source, wherein one of the illumination source and the mirror is movable, and that by moving, directs light from the illumination source into the edge surface, through the display panel, onto varying locations on the display surface.

2. The display of claim 1, wherein the angle of incidence of light from the illumination source

(30) onto the display surface is greater that the raw critical angle of the display panel (34), where the raw critical angle is measured from a normal to a plane parallel to the display surface (39) on the interior of the display panel.

3. The display of claim 1, wherein the illumination source (30) comprises a collimated light source.

4. The display of claim 1, wherein one of the illumination source (30) and the mirror is movable and travels repeatedly through a range of motion thereby reflecting the light from the illumination source so that the same locations on the display surface (39) are sequentially scanned by the light from the illumination source.

5. The display of claim 1 , wherein the intensity of the light from the illumination source (30) is varied as it is reflected onto varying locations on the display surface (39) of the display panel (34).

6. The display of claim 1 , wherein the light from the illumination source (30) reaches the varying locations on the display surface (39) directly, without first having been internally reflected within the display panel (34).

7. The display of claim 1 , wherein the device comprising a mirror comprises first and second micro-electromechanical systems mirror arrays (36, 38), each comprising a single row of movable mirrors (37), the first micro-electromechanical systems mirror array (36) positioned so that its mirrors can reflect the light from the illumination source (30) onto corresponding mirrors in the second micro-electromechanical systems mirror array (38), the second micro- electromechanical systems mirror array (38) positioned so that its mirrors can direct the reflected light through an edge surface (41) of the display panel (34) onto the display surface (39).

8. The display of claim 1 , wherein the device comprising a mirror comprises a movable bi-axial micro-electromechanical systems mirror (42) located at an edge surface (41) of the display panel (34).

9. The display of claim 1 , wherein the device comprising a mirror comprises a rotor (116); and the rotor further comprises a plurality of rotor arms (120) with each rotor arm having an angled and mirrored edge.

10. The display of claim 1, wherein the display panel (34) comprises a plurality of light pipes (54).

11. The display of claim 1, wherein the display panel (34) further comprises elements that diffuse, disperse, refract, or reflect the light from the illumination source (30).

12. The display of claim 11, wherein the elements that diffuse, disperse, refract, or reflect the light from the illumination source (30) comprise grooves (51, 53) on a surface of the display panel (34).

13. The display of claim 11, wherein the elements that diffuse, disperse, refract, or reflect the light from the illumination source (30) comprise cavities (56) within the display panel (34).

14. The display of claim 13, wherein the cavities (56) contain a material that fluoresces when illuminated by light from the illumination source (30).

15. The display of claim 1, wherein the display panel (34) further comprises a coating (58) on its surface.

16. The display of claim 15, wherein the coating diffuses the light from the illumination source (30).

17. The display of claim 15, wherein the coating fluoresces when illuminated by the light from the illumination source (30).

18. A display comprising: an illumination source (30) that generates light, a display panel (34) comprising light pipes (54); and a device comprising a mirror (36, 38, 42, 50, 116) that reflects light from the illumination source, wherein one of the illumination source and the mirror is movable, and that by moving, directs light from the illumination source through varying light pipes.

19. A method of displaying information comprising: providing a display panel (34) comprising a material that is transparent or substantially transparent to the light from the illumination source having a display surface (39) and an edge surface (41) at a perimeter of the display surface and transverse to the display surface; and providing an illumination source (30) that generates light; and selectively directing the light from the illumination source into the edge surface, through the display panel, onto varying locations on the display surface.

20. The method of claim 19, former comprising varying the intensity of the light from the illumination source (30) as it is directed onto the display surface (39).