WO2011114180A1 - An apparatus and associated methods - Google Patents

An apparatus and associated methods Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2011114180A1
WO2011114180A1 PCT/IB2010/000602 IB2010000602W WO2011114180A1 WO 2011114180 A1 WO2011114180 A1 WO 2011114180A1 IB 2010000602 W IB2010000602 W IB 2010000602W WO 2011114180 A1 WO2011114180 A1 WO 2011114180A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
display
image
viewing window
collimator
light
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2010/000602
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jens Rasmussen
Original Assignee
Nokia Corporation
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Nokia Corporation filed Critical Nokia Corporation
Priority to PCT/IB2010/000602 priority Critical patent/WO2011114180A1/en
Publication of WO2011114180A1 publication Critical patent/WO2011114180A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
    • G02B27/30—Collimators
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
    • G02B27/02—Viewing or reading apparatus
    • G02B27/022—Viewing apparatus
    • G02B27/024—Viewing apparatus comprising a light source, e.g. for viewing photographic slides, X-ray transparancies
    • G02B27/026—Viewing apparatus comprising a light source, e.g. for viewing photographic slides, X-ray transparancies and a display device, e.g. CRT, LCD, for adding markings or signs or to enhance the contrast of the viewed object
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B5/00—Optical elements other than lenses
    • G02B5/02—Diffusing elements; Afocal elements
    • G02B5/0205—Diffusing elements; Afocal elements characterised by the diffusing properties
    • G02B5/0236—Diffusing elements; Afocal elements characterised by the diffusing properties the diffusion taking place within the volume of the element
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B5/00—Optical elements other than lenses
    • G02B5/02—Diffusing elements; Afocal elements
    • G02B5/0273—Diffusing elements; Afocal elements characterized by the use
    • G02B5/0278—Diffusing elements; Afocal elements characterized by the use used in transmission
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02F—OPTICAL DEVICES OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE CONTROL OF LIGHT BY MODIFICATION OF THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF THE MEDIA OF THE ELEMENTS INVOLVED THEREIN; NON-LINEAR OPTICS; FREQUENCY-CHANGING OF LIGHT; OPTICAL LOGIC ELEMENTS; OPTICAL ANALOGUE/DIGITAL CONVERTERS
    • G02F1/00—Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics
    • G02F1/01—Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour 
    • G02F1/13—Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour  based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
    • G02F1/133—Constructional arrangements; Operation of liquid crystal cells; Circuit arrangements
    • G02F1/1333—Constructional arrangements; Manufacturing methods
    • G02F1/1335—Structural association of cells with optical devices, e.g. polarisers or reflectors
    • G02F1/1336—Illuminating devices
    • G02F1/133602—Direct backlight
    • G02F1/133606—Direct backlight including a specially adapted diffusing, scattering or light controlling members
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02F—OPTICAL DEVICES OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE CONTROL OF LIGHT BY MODIFICATION OF THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF THE MEDIA OF THE ELEMENTS INVOLVED THEREIN; NON-LINEAR OPTICS; FREQUENCY-CHANGING OF LIGHT; OPTICAL LOGIC ELEMENTS; OPTICAL ANALOGUE/DIGITAL CONVERTERS
    • G02F1/00—Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics
    • G02F1/01—Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour 
    • G02F1/13—Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour  based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
    • G02F1/133—Constructional arrangements; Operation of liquid crystal cells; Circuit arrangements
    • G02F1/1333—Constructional arrangements; Manufacturing methods
    • G02F1/1335—Structural association of cells with optical devices, e.g. polarisers or reflectors
    • G02F1/1336—Illuminating devices
    • G02F1/133602—Direct backlight
    • G02F1/133606—Direct backlight including a specially adapted diffusing, scattering or light controlling members
    • G02F1/133607—Direct backlight including a specially adapted diffusing, scattering or light controlling members the light controlling member including light directing or refracting elements, e.g. prisms or lenses

Definitions

  • PDAs Personal Digital Assistants
  • the portable electronic devices/apparatus may provide one or more audio/text/video communication functions (for example, tele-communication, video-communication, and/or text transmission (Short Message Service (SMS)/ Multimedia Message Service (MMS)/emailing) functions), interactive/non-interactive viewing functions (for example, web-browsing, navigation, TV/program viewing functions), music recording/playing functions (for example, MP3 or other format and/or (FM/AM) radio broadcast recording/playing), downloading/sending of data functions, image capture function (for example, using a (for example, in-built) digital camera), and gaming functions.
  • audio/text/video communication functions for example, tele-communication, video-communication, and/or text transmission (Short Message Service (SMS)/ Multimedia Message Service (MMS)/emailing) functions
  • interactive/non-interactive viewing functions for example, web-browsing, navigation, TV/program viewing functions
  • music recording/playing functions for example, MP3 or other format and/
  • a cover window or viewing window a protective transparent layer
  • Manufacturers and designers of electronic devices and portable electronic devices try to place the display as close to the cover window as possible to make it appear like the display is 'on' the surface of the cover/viewing window to provide a richer user experience.
  • an apparatus comprising:
  • a display configured to generate an image for viewing
  • a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough
  • an optical transposer configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • the transposer may comprise a collimator configured to be able to substantially collimate the light of the image generated by the display towards the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • the collimator may be a transparent turning film.
  • the collimator may also be any other material that allows for collimation or focusing of image light from the display towards the viewing window.
  • the collimator may be configured to be able to substantially collimate the light to a viewing angle of substantially the same or less than 15'.
  • the viewing window may be positioned to at least partially substantially overlie the display, and the transposer may be positioned between the display and the viewing window. This can allow for the transposer to direct the light from the display towards the overlying viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • the transposer may comprise a projection film configured to allow the image light from the display to be provided as a projected image on the projection film such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • the transposer may comprise a diffuser configured to be able to diffuse the image light from the display substantially at the location of the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • the projection film may be configured to be able to diffuse the light of the image generated by the display substantially at the location of the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • the projection film may be configured to also act as a diffuser.
  • the projection film and diffuser may be provided by a single layer or may be integrally formed together from two separate elements.
  • the collimator may be positioned toward the display, the diffuser may be positioned toward the viewing window, and the projection film may be positioned between the collimator and the diffuser.
  • the transposer may comprise:
  • a collimator configured to be able to substantially collimate the image light from the display towards the viewing window
  • a projection film configured to allow the image light from the display to be provided as a projected image on the projection film
  • a diffuser configured to be able diffuse the image light from the display substantially at the location of the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window
  • the collimator, projection film and diffuser are stacked respectively so as to form the transposer, the collimator being positioned toward the display, the diffuser being positioned toward the viewing window, and the projection film being positioned between the collimator and the diffuser so as to form the transposer.
  • the transposer may comprise an air gap between the collimator and the projection film.
  • the collimator of the transposer may directly abut the projection film.
  • the display may be or may comprise a twisted nematic (TN) display.
  • the display may also be any other type of display suitable to provide for generation of an image (such as a positive/negative image) via emitted light.
  • the display element itself may passively display a positive/negative image (such as a mask or light mask), and a backlight that is part of the display may provide the active light emission to provide generation of the image on the display.
  • the viewing window may be or may comprise a protective cover window.
  • transposer for an apparatus, the apparatus comprising:
  • a display configured to generate an image for viewing
  • a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough, wherein the transposer is configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • This transposer can be provided in apparatus/devices having a display and viewing window to provide for the abovementioned advantages.
  • the apparatus may comprise an anti-reflective coating/layer to absorb ambient light to improve the viewability of the image generated by the display.
  • the display may comprise a collimator configured to be able to substantially collimate the image light from the display towards the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • the collimator may be configured to counter-act diffraction of image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • the display may comprise a display stack with one or more of: a display panel, a dual brightness enhanced film, a diffuser layer, a light waveguide, prism sheet/sheets and a light source.
  • the transposer can be considered to be part of the display/display stack.
  • a portable electronic device comprising the apparatus of the first aspect, or the transposer of the aspect immediately above.
  • a display module comprising the apparatus of the first aspect, or the transposer of the aspect two above this aspect. This display module can be provided in devices to thereby allow for the abovementioned advantages in such devices.
  • a method comprising transposing an image generated by a display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be a viewing window by providing:
  • a display configured to generate an image for viewing
  • a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough
  • an optical transposer configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • a method of assembling a display, viewing window and transposer of an apparatus such that the transposer is able to transpose an image generated by the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window, wherein the apparatus comprises:
  • a display configured to generate an image for viewing
  • a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough
  • an optical transposer configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • the present disclosure includes one or more corresponding aspects, embodiments or features in isolation or in various combinations whether or not specifically stated (including claimed) in that combination or in isolation.
  • Corresponding means for performing one or more of the discussed functions are also within the present disclosure.
  • an apparatus comprising:
  • the means for transposing being for transposing the image generated by the means for generating such that the source of the image is user- perceived to be the means for viewing therethrough.
  • Figure 1a illustrates an apparatus according to a first embodiment.
  • Figure 1 b illustrates the assembly of a display unit/module as know in the prior art.
  • Figure 2a illustrates the operation of an example of the prior art.
  • Figure 2b illustrates the principle of wide angle diffraction that occurs in the prior art.
  • Figure 3 illustrates the assembly of an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 4 illustrates the operation of an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a display module and portable electronic device according to another embodiment.
  • Figure 6 illustrates a method of operation of an apparatus of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 7 illustrates a variation of the projection film.
  • Figure 8 illustrates a variation of the display stack.
  • an apparatus comprising a display, a viewing window and an optical transposer.
  • the display is configured to generate an image for viewing and the viewing window is configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed through the viewing window.
  • the optical transposer is configured to transpose the image generated by the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
  • FIG. 1a illustrates apparatus 100 which comprises a display 1 , a viewing window 2, and an optical transposer 3.
  • apparatus 100 is for a portable electronic device such as a mobile phone, although the skilled person will appreciate that this apparatus 100 may be readily applied to a variety of other electronic devices (portable as well as non-portable).
  • the display 1 is an active display that is able to generate an image for viewing by a user.
  • the display is a light emitting twisted nematic (TN) liquid crystal display (LCD).
  • TN twisted nematic
  • LCD liquid crystal display
  • TFT twisted nematic
  • EL electron nematic
  • the display is rectangular in shape and dimensioned to be suitable for use in a portable electronic device (for example, approximately: 10cm in length, 5cm in width, 1cm in depth - the skilled person will appreciate that other dimensions are possible depending on the nature of the device the apparatus is to be provided in).
  • such display modules comprise a number of layers that are responsible for generating and providing an image.
  • the light waveguide together with a light source generates light which passes through respective layers above it, such as the diffuser layer and prism sheets.
  • the diffuser layer of the display stack helps to diffuse the light generated by the light waveguide within the display stack itself to ensure there is an even distribution of light within the display stack.
  • the prism sheets help to pass this light in the desired direction towards the display panel 19.
  • the display panel 19 is responsible for generating the image to be provided by the display.
  • Figure 2a illustrates standard operation of known displays when installed in a portable electronic device.
  • Such displays/display stacks are typically installed with an air gap between the display and the protective window through which the display is normally viewed (as shown in Figure 2a).
  • the light exits through the top surface of the display stack into the air gap.
  • the light ray paths shown in Figures 2a & 2b illustrate the diffraction effect as the light passes through the respective layers.
  • the light is moving from an optical medium with one optical coefficient to an optical medium with a different coefficient. This therefore causes the image light to be diffracted/diffused at the surface of the display.
  • Such diffraction is governed by well established physical principles such as Snell's law.
  • This diffraction of the image light leaving the display thereby allows the generated image to be viewable through a wide angle/throughout a variety of wide viewing angles (e.g. even at extreme obtuse/oblique angles). This is how a typical display on devices such as mobile phones can be viewed from different angles.
  • Diffraction/diffusion may be considered to mean the following: the effect that is observed when a light/sound wave travels through a medium (or group of media) with a varying refractive/acoustic index. Diffraction and diffusion can occur with all waves, including sound waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves such as visible light, x-rays and radio waves.
  • the display 1 may not comprise the prism sheets P (such as BEF layers - Brightness Enhancement/Enhancing Film) of the display module stack- up/stack of Figure 1b. Instead, in such embodiments the display 1 may be considered to be only a display element for generating an image (in other embodiments the display 1 may be the same as the stacked module of Figure 1b).
  • the diffuser layer 12 is still included with/within the display 1 so as to ensure even dispersal of light from the light waveguide (within the display stack 1) through the entire display stack 1. This can help ensure that the display produces a clear image.
  • a further diffuser may be provided as part of the transposer 3 (discussed below) to provide for diffusion of image light once it has left the display 1.
  • the viewing window 2 is a transparent protective cover window. This window allows for protection of the display 1 whilst simultaneously allowing viewing of an image generated on the display through the viewing window itself.
  • the viewing window 2 is formed from polycarbonate (so as to be able to protect the display from any impacts) and is also made to be transparent.
  • the viewing window 2 may be formed from a soft material (such as a 'liquid screen' so as to provide for an enhanced perception of interaction between a user and the display (for example, in a touchscreen embodiment).
  • a soft material such as a 'liquid screen' so as to provide for an enhanced perception of interaction between a user and the display (for example, in a touchscreen embodiment).
  • a capacitive touch interface may be provided as the viewing window to provide touch functionality with the apparatus 100 or for the electronic device that is to be provided with the apparatus 100.
  • the viewing window 2 is dimensioned to have substantially the same length and width as the display 1. This is so that, once assembled, the viewing window 2 can exactly overlap/overlie the entire display 1.
  • the viewing window 2 is approximately 1-2mm in depth, but it may be thicker or thinner than this depending on the thickness desired by the manufacturer or intended purpose of the apparatus 100.
  • the optical transposer 3 is able to direct light from the display 1 towards the viewing window.
  • the optical transposer 3 is, as per the viewing window 2, dimensioned to have the same length and width as the display 1 so that it can exactly overlie/overlap the display 1 when the apparatus 100 is assembled.
  • the optical transposer 3 is a series of layers that collectively allow image light from the display 1 to be directed towards the viewing window 2 such that the source of the image appears to be the viewing window 2 (in other words, the source is user-perceived to be the viewing window 2).
  • the transposer 3 is shown to comprise a collimator 4, a projection film 5, and a diffuser 6 that are respectively stacked on top of one another.
  • Each of the layers is the same length and width as one another so as to form the respective layers of the transposer 3.
  • the collimator 4 is a layer that is able to collimate/focus light towards the viewing window 2. Collimation may be considered to mean the following: make parallel, adjust into line, adjust line of sight.
  • a collimator is understood to be (for example) a device in optical instruments for adjusting a line of sight or producing parallel rays.
  • the collimator 4 is formed from a turning film (turning films are well known in the art and will not be discussed further).
  • the transposer 3 Upon assembly, the transposer 3 is to be positioned so as to cause the collimator 4 to be optically coupled with the top surface of the display 1. This means that the image light produced by the display 1 passes from the display 1 to the collimator 4 and is not diffused/diffracted (or at least to the same extent as would be the case when the image light passes directly from the display into the air gap between the display and the viewing window as per the prior art).
  • the collimator 4 is configured to counter-act the diffraction/wide angle diffraction that would otherwise occur in the image light from the display 1.
  • the collimator 4 is to be positioned be closest to the display 1 and overlie/overlap the display 1.
  • the collimator 4 is able to receive the image light from the display 1 and is collimate/focus the received image light towards the viewing window 2, and thereby reduce the angle of diffraction of the image light leaving the display.
  • This collimation of image light results in a narrow/narrower viewing angle or field (for example, in this embodiment, less than 15').
  • This result of light passing through the collimator 4 is illustrated in Figure 4. As image light exits the display it is directly optically coupled through to the collimator 4 of the transposer 3.
  • the projection film 5 is a film that is able to receive image light from the collimator 4.
  • the film 5 is to be positioned (together with the diffuser) closest to the viewing window 2, although (generally speaking) the projection film 5 is to be positioned between the collimator 4 and the diffuser 6.
  • the diffuser 6 is positioned to be closest to the viewing window 2.
  • the diffuser 6 is able to diffuse the light received by and projected onto the projection film 5 such that the image becomes viewable through even extreme oblique/obtuse angles. This allows the diffuser 6 to act in substantially the same way as the prism sheets of a standard complete display (see Figure 1 b).
  • the diffuser 6 may also be provided with an anti-reflective coating (not shown) that is able to absorb ambient light. This can help to improve viewability of an image provided by apparatus 100.
  • another anti-reflective layer may be provided with the diffuser 6 (or, more generally, the transposer 3) to enable this function.
  • each of these layers performs a specific task.
  • the function of two or more of these layers may be provided by one layer.
  • the projection film 5 may act as both the projection film for receiving the collimated image light and also to act as the diffuser for diffusing the received image light.
  • the respective components are stacked on top of one another (as shown in Figure 3) and fixed relative to one another to provide the apparatus 100 (as shown in Figure 1a).
  • the transposer 3 is positioned on top of the display 1 so as to exactly overlie and overlap the display.
  • the collimator 4 of the transposer is positioned to be the layer of the transposer 3 closest to the display 1 so as to be optically coupled with the display 1 to counter-act diffraction/diffusion of the image light from the display (or, in some embodiments, to even prevent diffraction/diffusion of the image light).
  • the collimator 4 allows, by virtue of its physical properties, for collimation of the image light. In this embodiment, the collimator 4 is actually in contact with the display 1 so as to be optically coupled with the display.
  • the collimator 4 is not in direct contact with the display 1 but positioned some distance away whilst still being able to counter-act wide angle diffraction of image light from the display 1.
  • Such positioning can be calculated using known physical laws such as Snell's law and the like, and would be appreciated by the skilled person based on the optical result that is desired (for example, wider/narrower viewing angle, increased/decreased level of collimation, etc).
  • an air gap left between the collimator 4 and the projection film 5 (which is the next layer). This can be considered to act as a buffer layer between the viewing window 2 and the display 1 to help prevent the viewing window 2 contacting and damaging the display 1 if the viewing window 2 is impacted or flexes due to impact.
  • the collimating effect of the collimator 4 helps to counteract any diffraction that would normally occur due to a refractive index change as light crosses from a medium with one refractive index to another medium with a different refractive index.
  • the projection film 5 is positioned to abut the diffuser 6.
  • the top surface of the transposer 3 (which is diffuser layer 6) is positioned to abut the viewing window 2.
  • This display module 200 can be installed in the same manner as normal display modules for electronic devices.
  • the above apparatus 100 is formed through lamination of the respective layers/components to provide a complete apparatus and/or display module. Such lamination methods are well known in the art and will not be discussed in detail. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the collimator 4 is assembled on top of the display 1 stack. However, in other embodiments, the collimator layer can be provided within the display stack during assembly of the display stack.
  • FIG 8 illustrates an alternative display stack that provides for this arrangement.
  • the display stack 301 comprises (from bottom-up) a light waveguide 315 and light source 316, a diffuser layer 312 (optionally with prism sheets), a collimator 314, dual brightness enhanced film layer 31 1 , and a display panel 310.
  • the collimator 314 is actually assembled within the display stack 301 (in other words, the collimator 314 is part of the display stack 301 ).
  • the collimator 314 collimates the light within the display, and therefore helps to counter-act wide angle diffraction prior to the image light leaving the display. This achieves a similar result as the apparatus 100 where the collimator 4 is positioned external to the display stack, except in this embodiment the collimator 314 performs its function before the light leaves the display stack 301.
  • the apparatus has a collimator within the display stack (as per display stack 301 with collimator 314) and also an additional collimator layer external to the display stack (as per the apparatus 100 with collimator 4). This can provide for further enhanced collimation of the light and counteracting of wide angle diffraction.
  • collimator 314 or other collimator layers
  • one of the functions of the collimator 314 is to focus/collimate the light from the display through to the projection film and/or diffuser (of the apparatus) for viewing and to counter-act wide angle diffraction of the image light from the display.
  • the collimator layer for example, collimator 4/314
  • collimator 4/314 can be provided and/or positioned in a variety of different ways to achieve this (for example, multiple collimator layers may be provided).
  • the display 1 generates an image for viewing by a user.
  • the image light is collimated to a narrow viewing angle by the collimator 4 of the transposer 3.
  • This focuses/collimates the light towards the projection film 5, diffuser 6 and viewing window 2.
  • the light ray lines shown in Figure 4 illustrate this collimation/focusing.
  • the projection film layer 5 is the layer that first receives the collimated light. This means that the image generated by the display is projected onto the projection film 5.
  • the diffuser 6 causes the image light projected on the projection film 5 to be diffused/diffracted (in other words, scattered) in a manner that allows for a wide viewing angle of the image. This thereby allows the user to view the generated image as projected on the film 5.
  • the display 1 acts as a light emitting element to provide an image and corresponding image light.
  • the transposer (along with the collimator) counter-acts diffraction/diffusion of the image light from the display and allows for the image light to be directed towards the projection film 5 and diffuser 6.
  • the projection film 5 and diffuser 6 then enable diffraction/diffusion for viewing to happen substantially at the location of the viewing window, i.e. at a location separate from the display 1 itself, this location being closer to the viewing window 2.
  • the projection film 5 and diffuser 6 are distinct layers but in another embodiment the projection film 5 is actually configured to be able to receive light as a projection film and to also diffuse that received light as a diffuser layer.
  • Figure 7 illustrates an example of such an embodiment.
  • the projection film 5 is adhered to the underside of the viewing window 2.
  • the projection film 5 is formed from a matrix M of glass beads B.
  • the glass beads B are, in this example, approximately 2-3pm in diameter (in other embodiments the glass bead diameter may range from 1-70pm), and serve as lenses to diffuse the light from the collimator (not shown here). The smaller the diameter of the beads, the finer the granularity/resolution of the diffused image.
  • the top side of the matrix M is formed to be adjacent to a protective transparent layer L that serves to further diffract the light already diffused by the glass bead matrix M. In some embodiments this protective layer L is the viewing window as per apparatus 100.
  • the gaps between the beads B are filled with an antireflective material/coating C that serves to absorb ambient light. This helps to prevent glare from ambient light sources, and allows for improved viewing of the diffused/diffracted image light.
  • the projection film will receive image light from the collimator 4. The film 5 will then cause diffraction of the image light (or diffusion of the image light) such that it looks like the display 1 has actually been placed in the viewing window, and not under the viewing window 2 as is presently done in the prior art.
  • the above apparatus 100 may be provided in the form of a display module for installation into a portable electronic device, or as a portable electronic device itself (as illustrated in the embodiment of Figure 5).
  • the transposer 3 may be provided in a portable electronic device or display module to confer the abovedescribed advantages on existing display modules or known display technologies.
  • One or more of these embodiments can provide for distinct advantages for the user. For example, by causing the image to appear like it is being generated by the viewing window 2, the display can appear more accessible and vibrant to a user than recessed displays. The user experience can be considered to be enhanced/richer through such arrangements as this can effectively allow a user to perceive an image as "coming out” or "jumping out” of the apparatus/display module/device.
  • the display 1 can be made to look like it is part of the viewing window 3. In embodiments where touchscreen technology is utilised, this can cause the user to perceive/think that they are touching the display itself and thereby improve the perceived interactivity of the device.
  • turning film (which may form the collimator 4) is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and incorporate in such devices.
  • turning film can collimate/direct light to a greater degree than prism sheets as included in display stacks/stack-ups.
  • Prism sheets normally included with a typical prior art display stack are necessary to ensure correct operation of the display stack.
  • these prism sheets may be replaced by one or more turning film layers to counter-act the diffraction of the image light from the display and to also thereby collimate light to the required level towards the viewing window (in at least some embodiments). These layers can be considered to form a collimator component.
  • one or more of these embodiments may therefore be cheaper/more inexpensive to produce than some current displays/display modules (e.g. by replacing the prism sheets with less expensive turning film).
  • the method comprises:
  • one or more layers responsible for diffusing the light from the display stack are positioned outside the display stack irrespective of whether the display/display stack 1 comprises a diffuser layer (such as diffuser layer 12, 312) i.e. all embodiments comprise at least a layer responsible for diffusing the light outside the display/display stack 1.
  • at least one collimator layer is provided within the display/display stack 1 (see collimator 314 as shown in Figure 8) irrespective of whether there is a collimator layer provided outside of the display stack (as per collimator layer 4 shown in apparatus 100) i.e. a collimator layer is provided but it does not need to be outside the display/display stack 1. Therefore, there are some embodiments in which the optical transposer can be considered to be part of the display/display stack 1.
  • prism sheets are included in the display, and in other embodiments prism sheets are replaced by the collimator.
  • prism sheets are included in the display, and in other embodiments prism sheets are replaced by the collimator.
  • the display stack still includes the prism sheets so that the display can operate correctly (i.e. correctly generate an image for viewing);
  • the collimator may actually replace one or more of the prism sheets, or the collimator may be provided in addition to the included prism sheets of known displays. This is because the prism sheets will not impair the function of the collimator when included in the display.
  • any mentioned apparatus/device and/or other features of particular mentioned apparatus/device may be provided by apparatus arranged such that they become configured to carry out the desired operations only when enabled, for example, switched on, or the like.
  • any mentioned apparatus/elements may have other functions in addition to the mentioned functions, and that these functions may be performed by the same apparatus/elements.
  • the applicant hereby discloses in isolation each individual feature described herein and any combination of two or more such features, to the extent that such features or combinations are capable of being carried out based on the present specification as a whole, in the light of the common general knowledge of a person skilled in the art, irrespective of whether such features or combinations of features solve any problems disclosed herein, and without limitation to the scope of the claims.
  • the applicant indicates that the disclosed aspects/embodiments may consist of any such individual feature or combination of features.

Abstract

In one or more embodiments described herein, there is provided an apparatus. The apparatus comprises a display, a viewing window and an optical transposer. The display is configured to generate an image for viewing and the viewing window is configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed through the viewing window. The optical transposer is configured to transpose the image generated by the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.

Description

An apparatus and associated methods Technical Field The present disclosure relates to the field of displays and associated apparatus, methods, and the like. Certain disclosed aspects/embodiments relate to portable electronic devices, in particular, so-called hand-portable electronic devices which may be hand-held in use (although they may be placed in a cradle in use). Such hand-portable electronic devices include so-called Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). These may utilise various different types of display (for example, colour, black and white, TFT, EL, and the like).
The portable electronic devices/apparatus according to one or more disclosed aspects/embodiments may provide one or more audio/text/video communication functions (for example, tele-communication, video-communication, and/or text transmission (Short Message Service (SMS)/ Multimedia Message Service (MMS)/emailing) functions), interactive/non-interactive viewing functions (for example, web-browsing, navigation, TV/program viewing functions), music recording/playing functions (for example, MP3 or other format and/or (FM/AM) radio broadcast recording/playing), downloading/sending of data functions, image capture function (for example, using a (for example, in-built) digital camera), and gaming functions.
Background Electronic devices and portable electronic devices that have a display often have a protective transparent layer (referred to as a cover window or viewing window) positioned between the user and the display itself. Manufacturers and designers of electronic devices and portable electronic devices try to place the display as close to the cover window as possible to make it appear like the display is 'on' the surface of the cover/viewing window to provide a richer user experience.
However, decreasing the distance between the display and cover/viewing window can present issues. For example, the closer to the window the display is positioned, the higher the risk of the window touching or impacting the display which can damage the display (such as cracking, splitting, electrical damage, etc). Some manufacturers instead laminate the protective window together with the display. This is quite an expensive process and therefore not wanted in the design and manufacture of low cost portable electronic devices.
The listing or discussion of a prior-published document or any background in this specification should not necessarily be taken as an acknowledgement that the document or background is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge. One or more aspects/embodiments of the present disclosure may or may not address one or more of the background issues.
Summary
In a first aspect, there is provided an apparatus comprising:
a display configured to generate an image for viewing;
a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough; and
an optical transposer configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
This can allow the images generated by the display to be viewed by the user as if they were being produced by the viewing window itself. This allows the display to be positioned away from the viewing window so as to minimise the chance of unwanted contact between the window and the display, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the display.
The transposer may comprise a collimator configured to be able to substantially collimate the light of the image generated by the display towards the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window. The collimator may be a transparent turning film. The collimator may also be any other material that allows for collimation or focusing of image light from the display towards the viewing window.
The collimator may be configured to be able to substantially collimate the light to a viewing angle of substantially the same or less than 15'. The viewing window may be positioned to at least partially substantially overlie the display, and the transposer may be positioned between the display and the viewing window. This can allow for the transposer to direct the light from the display towards the overlying viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
The transposer may comprise a projection film configured to allow the image light from the display to be provided as a projected image on the projection film such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
The transposer may comprise a diffuser configured to be able to diffuse the image light from the display substantially at the location of the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window. The projection film may be configured to be able to diffuse the light of the image generated by the display substantially at the location of the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window. The projection film may be configured to also act as a diffuser. The projection film and diffuser may be provided by a single layer or may be integrally formed together from two separate elements. The collimator may be positioned toward the display, the diffuser may be positioned toward the viewing window, and the projection film may be positioned between the collimator and the diffuser.
The transposer may comprise:
a collimator configured to be able to substantially collimate the image light from the display towards the viewing window;
a projection film configured to allow the image light from the display to be provided as a projected image on the projection film; and
a diffuser configured to be able diffuse the image light from the display substantially at the location of the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window, wherein the collimator, projection film and diffuser are stacked respectively so as to form the transposer, the collimator being positioned toward the display, the diffuser being positioned toward the viewing window, and the projection film being positioned between the collimator and the diffuser so as to form the transposer. The transposer may comprise an air gap between the collimator and the projection film. The collimator of the transposer may directly abut the projection film. The display may be or may comprise a twisted nematic (TN) display. The display may also be any other type of display suitable to provide for generation of an image (such as a positive/negative image) via emitted light. For example, the display element itself may passively display a positive/negative image (such as a mask or light mask), and a backlight that is part of the display may provide the active light emission to provide generation of the image on the display.
The viewing window may be or may comprise a protective cover window.
In another aspect, there is provided a transposer for an apparatus, the apparatus comprising:
a display configured to generate an image for viewing;
a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough, wherein the transposer is configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
This transposer can be provided in apparatus/devices having a display and viewing window to provide for the abovementioned advantages. The apparatus may comprise an anti-reflective coating/layer to absorb ambient light to improve the viewability of the image generated by the display.
The display may comprise a collimator configured to be able to substantially collimate the image light from the display towards the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
The collimator may be configured to counter-act diffraction of image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window. The display may comprise a display stack with one or more of: a display panel, a dual brightness enhanced film, a diffuser layer, a light waveguide, prism sheet/sheets and a light source.
Accordingly, in some embodiments the transposer can be considered to be part of the display/display stack.
In another aspect, there is provided a portable electronic device comprising the apparatus of the first aspect, or the transposer of the aspect immediately above. In another aspect, there is provided a display module comprising the apparatus of the first aspect, or the transposer of the aspect two above this aspect. This display module can be provided in devices to thereby allow for the abovementioned advantages in such devices. In another aspect, there is provided a method, the method comprising transposing an image generated by a display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be a viewing window by providing:
a display configured to generate an image for viewing;
a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough; and
an optical transposer configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
In another aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a display, viewing window and transposer of an apparatus such that the transposer is able to transpose an image generated by the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window, wherein the apparatus comprises:
a display configured to generate an image for viewing;
a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough; and
an optical transposer configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
The present disclosure includes one or more corresponding aspects, embodiments or features in isolation or in various combinations whether or not specifically stated (including claimed) in that combination or in isolation. Corresponding means for performing one or more of the discussed functions are also within the present disclosure.
For example, there is provided an apparatus comprising:
means for generating an image for viewing,
means for viewing therethrough an image generated by the means for generating; and
means for transposing, the means for transposing being for transposing the image generated by the means for generating such that the source of the image is user- perceived to be the means for viewing therethrough.
The above summary is intended to be merely exemplary and non-limiting.
Brief Description of the Figures
A description is now given, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:-
Figure 1a illustrates an apparatus according to a first embodiment.
Figure 1 b illustrates the assembly of a display unit/module as know in the prior art.
Figure 2a illustrates the operation of an example of the prior art.
Figure 2b illustrates the principle of wide angle diffraction that occurs in the prior art.
Figure 3 illustrates the assembly of an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 4 illustrates the operation of an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 5 illustrates a display module and portable electronic device according to another embodiment.
Figure 6 illustrates a method of operation of an apparatus of the present disclosure. Figure 7 illustrates a variation of the projection film.
Figure 8 illustrates a variation of the display stack.
Description of Example Aspects/Embodiments
In one or more embodiments described herein, there is provided an apparatus. The apparatus comprises a display, a viewing window and an optical transposer. The display is configured to generate an image for viewing and the viewing window is configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed through the viewing window. The optical transposer is configured to transpose the image generated by the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window. By providing this optical transposer with the viewing window and the display, it is possible for the image (for example, positive/negative) generated by the display to be produced such that it appears to a user that the image is being generated by the viewing window. In other words, this can create the illusion that the viewing window is actually the display, and that the display is on the very top surface of the apparatus. This can achieve an improvement over the prior art as the display appears to be On' the surface of the apparatus at the viewing window, whilst the display itself need not be positioned close to the viewing window as in the prior art. This helps to reduce the likelihood of the viewing window contacting and damaging the display. We will now describe a first embodiment of the invention with reference to Figure 1 a.
Figure 1a illustrates apparatus 100 which comprises a display 1 , a viewing window 2, and an optical transposer 3. In this embodiment, apparatus 100 is for a portable electronic device such as a mobile phone, although the skilled person will appreciate that this apparatus 100 may be readily applied to a variety of other electronic devices (portable as well as non-portable).
In this embodiment, the display 1 is an active display that is able to generate an image for viewing by a user. In this instance, the display is a light emitting twisted nematic (TN) liquid crystal display (LCD). The skilled person will appreciate that other types of display are within the scope of this invention, such as TFT, EL, or the like. The display is rectangular in shape and dimensioned to be suitable for use in a portable electronic device (for example, approximately: 10cm in length, 5cm in width, 1cm in depth - the skilled person will appreciate that other dimensions are possible depending on the nature of the device the apparatus is to be provided in).
In normal display units/modules (that would be provided in a portable electronic device such as a mobile telephone or the like) there are multiple layers that are stacked so as to collectively form the complete display itself. An example of how such a display module is stacked up/constructed to form a display 'stack' or 'stack-up' is shown in Figure 1 b. The assembly/construction of such complete display module 'stack-ups/stacks' is well known and will not be discussed in detail.
As is shown in Figure 1b, such display modules comprise a number of layers that are responsible for generating and providing an image. The light waveguide together with a light source generates light which passes through respective layers above it, such as the diffuser layer and prism sheets. The diffuser layer of the display stack helps to diffuse the light generated by the light waveguide within the display stack itself to ensure there is an even distribution of light within the display stack. The prism sheets help to pass this light in the desired direction towards the display panel 19. The display panel 19 is responsible for generating the image to be provided by the display.
Figure 2a illustrates standard operation of known displays when installed in a portable electronic device. Such displays/display stacks are typically installed with an air gap between the display and the protective window through which the display is normally viewed (as shown in Figure 2a). As can be seen from Figure 2a and accompanying Figure 2b, the light exits through the top surface of the display stack into the air gap. The light ray paths shown in Figures 2a & 2b illustrate the diffraction effect as the light passes through the respective layers. The light is moving from an optical medium with one optical coefficient to an optical medium with a different coefficient. This therefore causes the image light to be diffracted/diffused at the surface of the display. Such diffraction is governed by well established physical principles such as Snell's law. This diffraction of the image light leaving the display thereby allows the generated image to be viewable through a wide angle/throughout a variety of wide viewing angles (e.g. even at extreme obtuse/oblique angles). This is how a typical display on devices such as mobile phones can be viewed from different angles.
Diffraction/diffusion may be considered to mean the following: the effect that is observed when a light/sound wave travels through a medium (or group of media) with a varying refractive/acoustic index. Diffraction and diffusion can occur with all waves, including sound waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves such as visible light, x-rays and radio waves.
In another embodiment, the display 1 may not comprise the prism sheets P (such as BEF layers - Brightness Enhancement/Enhancing Film) of the display module stack- up/stack of Figure 1b. Instead, in such embodiments the display 1 may be considered to be only a display element for generating an image (in other embodiments the display 1 may be the same as the stacked module of Figure 1b). The diffuser layer 12 is still included with/within the display 1 so as to ensure even dispersal of light from the light waveguide (within the display stack 1) through the entire display stack 1. This can help ensure that the display produces a clear image. A further diffuser may be provided as part of the transposer 3 (discussed below) to provide for diffusion of image light once it has left the display 1. So that images may be provided on the display 1 , the display 1 is able to be electrically connected to a processor (not shown) or other electrical/electronic system of an electronic device to cause the display 1 to generate and display an image. Such arrangements are well known in the art and will not be discussed further. The viewing window 2 is a transparent protective cover window. This window allows for protection of the display 1 whilst simultaneously allowing viewing of an image generated on the display through the viewing window itself. In this embodiment the viewing window 2 is formed from polycarbonate (so as to be able to protect the display from any impacts) and is also made to be transparent. In other embodiments, the viewing window 2 may be formed from a soft material (such as a 'liquid screen' so as to provide for an enhanced perception of interaction between a user and the display (for example, in a touchscreen embodiment). The skilled person will appreciate that other materials may be suitable for forming the viewing window. For example, a capacitive touch interface may be provided as the viewing window to provide touch functionality with the apparatus 100 or for the electronic device that is to be provided with the apparatus 100.
The viewing window 2 is dimensioned to have substantially the same length and width as the display 1. This is so that, once assembled, the viewing window 2 can exactly overlap/overlie the entire display 1. The viewing window 2 is approximately 1-2mm in depth, but it may be thicker or thinner than this depending on the thickness desired by the manufacturer or intended purpose of the apparatus 100.
The optical transposer 3 is able to direct light from the display 1 towards the viewing window. The optical transposer 3 is, as per the viewing window 2, dimensioned to have the same length and width as the display 1 so that it can exactly overlie/overlap the display 1 when the apparatus 100 is assembled. In this embodiment, the optical transposer 3 is a series of layers that collectively allow image light from the display 1 to be directed towards the viewing window 2 such that the source of the image appears to be the viewing window 2 (in other words, the source is user-perceived to be the viewing window 2).
In this embodiment, the transposer 3 is shown to comprise a collimator 4, a projection film 5, and a diffuser 6 that are respectively stacked on top of one another. Each of the layers is the same length and width as one another so as to form the respective layers of the transposer 3.
In this embodiment, the collimator 4 is a layer that is able to collimate/focus light towards the viewing window 2. Collimation may be considered to mean the following: make parallel, adjust into line, adjust line of sight. A collimator is understood to be (for example) a device in optical instruments for adjusting a line of sight or producing parallel rays.
In this embodiment, the collimator 4 is formed from a turning film (turning films are well known in the art and will not be discussed further). Upon assembly, the transposer 3 is to be positioned so as to cause the collimator 4 to be optically coupled with the top surface of the display 1. This means that the image light produced by the display 1 passes from the display 1 to the collimator 4 and is not diffused/diffracted (or at least to the same extent as would be the case when the image light passes directly from the display into the air gap between the display and the viewing window as per the prior art). In essence, the collimator 4 is configured to counter-act the diffraction/wide angle diffraction that would otherwise occur in the image light from the display 1.
As discussed, the collimator 4 is to be positioned be closest to the display 1 and overlie/overlap the display 1. As a result, the collimator 4 is able to receive the image light from the display 1 and is collimate/focus the received image light towards the viewing window 2, and thereby reduce the angle of diffraction of the image light leaving the display. This collimation of image light results in a narrow/narrower viewing angle or field (for example, in this embodiment, less than 15'). This result of light passing through the collimator 4 is illustrated in Figure 4. As image light exits the display it is directly optically coupled through to the collimator 4 of the transposer 3. As the image light passes through the collimator 4, the light rays are effectively focused/directed to have a narrow viewing angle (for example, such that they are parallel to one another). This narrower viewing angle allows for direct transmission of image light from the display 1 to the viewing window 3 via the transposer 3, (specifically via the collimator 4). This happens instead of diffusion/diffraction of image light in the plane of the display as would be the case in the prior art discussed above. In this embodiment the projection film 5 is a film that is able to receive image light from the collimator 4. The film 5 is to be positioned (together with the diffuser) closest to the viewing window 2, although (generally speaking) the projection film 5 is to be positioned between the collimator 4 and the diffuser 6. This means that the image light directed by the collimator 4 towards the viewing window can be received by the projection film 5. This can then, in other words, act as a projector screen 5 for the collimated image light. The image can therefore be considered to be "projected" onto the projection film 5 via the collimator 4.
The diffuser 6 is positioned to be closest to the viewing window 2. The diffuser 6 is able to diffuse the light received by and projected onto the projection film 5 such that the image becomes viewable through even extreme oblique/obtuse angles. This allows the diffuser 6 to act in substantially the same way as the prism sheets of a standard complete display (see Figure 1 b). In other embodiments, the diffuser 6 may also be provided with an anti-reflective coating (not shown) that is able to absorb ambient light. This can help to improve viewability of an image provided by apparatus 100. Alternatively, another anti-reflective layer may be provided with the diffuser 6 (or, more generally, the transposer 3) to enable this function.
As has been discussed above, each of these layers performs a specific task. However, in other embodiments, the function of two or more of these layers may be provided by one layer. For example, in one embodiment, the projection film 5 may act as both the projection film for receiving the collimated image light and also to act as the diffuser for diffusing the received image light. We will now describe the assembly of this apparatus 100 with reference to Figure 3. In this embodiment, the respective components are stacked on top of one another (as shown in Figure 3) and fixed relative to one another to provide the apparatus 100 (as shown in Figure 1a).
At the bottom of the stack is the display 1. The transposer 3 is positioned on top of the display 1 so as to exactly overlie and overlap the display. The collimator 4 of the transposer is positioned to be the layer of the transposer 3 closest to the display 1 so as to be optically coupled with the display 1 to counter-act diffraction/diffusion of the image light from the display (or, in some embodiments, to even prevent diffraction/diffusion of the image light). The collimator 4 allows, by virtue of its physical properties, for collimation of the image light. In this embodiment, the collimator 4 is actually in contact with the display 1 so as to be optically coupled with the display. In other embodiments the collimator 4 is not in direct contact with the display 1 but positioned some distance away whilst still being able to counter-act wide angle diffraction of image light from the display 1. Such positioning can be calculated using known physical laws such as Snell's law and the like, and would be appreciated by the skilled person based on the optical result that is desired (for example, wider/narrower viewing angle, increased/decreased level of collimation, etc).
There is an air gap left between the collimator 4 and the projection film 5 (which is the next layer). This can be considered to act as a buffer layer between the viewing window 2 and the display 1 to help prevent the viewing window 2 contacting and damaging the display 1 if the viewing window 2 is impacted or flexes due to impact. The collimating effect of the collimator 4 helps to counteract any diffraction that would normally occur due to a refractive index change as light crosses from a medium with one refractive index to another medium with a different refractive index. In other embodiments, there may be no air gap between the collimator and the projection film, (for example, the collimator may directly abut the projection film, or the like).
The projection film 5 is positioned to abut the diffuser 6. The top surface of the transposer 3 (which is diffuser layer 6) is positioned to abut the viewing window 2.
These layers are assembled together to provide the apparatus 100. This can also be considered to be a display module that can be installed into portable electronic devices that utilise a display. This can be seen in Figure 5, which shows an embodiment where the apparatus is a display module 200 that has been installed in the housing of a portable electronic device 207. This display module 200 can be installed in the same manner as normal display modules for electronic devices.
In some embodiments, the above apparatus 100 is formed through lamination of the respective layers/components to provide a complete apparatus and/or display module. Such lamination methods are well known in the art and will not be discussed in detail. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the collimator 4 is assembled on top of the display 1 stack. However, in other embodiments, the collimator layer can be provided within the display stack during assembly of the display stack.
Figure 8 illustrates an alternative display stack that provides for this arrangement. This is similar to the display stack illustrated in Figure 1 b. In this variation, the display stack 301 comprises (from bottom-up) a light waveguide 315 and light source 316, a diffuser layer 312 (optionally with prism sheets), a collimator 314, dual brightness enhanced film layer 31 1 , and a display panel 310. In this variation, the collimator 314 is actually assembled within the display stack 301 (in other words, the collimator 314 is part of the display stack 301 ). The collimator 314 collimates the light within the display, and therefore helps to counter-act wide angle diffraction prior to the image light leaving the display. This achieves a similar result as the apparatus 100 where the collimator 4 is positioned external to the display stack, except in this embodiment the collimator 314 performs its function before the light leaves the display stack 301.
There are also alternative embodiments (not shown) where the apparatus has a collimator within the display stack (as per display stack 301 with collimator 314) and also an additional collimator layer external to the display stack (as per the apparatus 100 with collimator 4). This can provide for further enhanced collimation of the light and counteracting of wide angle diffraction.
It will be appreciated by the skilled person that one of the functions of the collimator 314 (or other collimator layers) is to focus/collimate the light from the display through to the projection film and/or diffuser (of the apparatus) for viewing and to counter-act wide angle diffraction of the image light from the display. The skilled person will therefore appreciate that the collimator layer (for example, collimator 4/314) can be provided and/or positioned in a variety of different ways to achieve this (for example, multiple collimator layers may be provided).
We will now describe the operation of such an embodiment with reference to Figure 4 (where apparatus 100 has been installed in a portable electronic device). As discussed above, the display 1 generates an image for viewing by a user. The image light is collimated to a narrow viewing angle by the collimator 4 of the transposer 3. This focuses/collimates the light towards the projection film 5, diffuser 6 and viewing window 2. The light ray lines shown in Figure 4 illustrate this collimation/focusing. As a result of this focused light being collimated in the direction of the viewing window 2, the projection film layer 5 is the layer that first receives the collimated light. This means that the image generated by the display is projected onto the projection film 5.
Once this has occurred, the diffuser 6 causes the image light projected on the projection film 5 to be diffused/diffracted (in other words, scattered) in a manner that allows for a wide viewing angle of the image. This thereby allows the user to view the generated image as projected on the film 5.
In effect, the display 1 acts as a light emitting element to provide an image and corresponding image light. Rather than the image light being diffused/diffracted in the plane of the display, the transposer (along with the collimator) counter-acts diffraction/diffusion of the image light from the display and allows for the image light to be directed towards the projection film 5 and diffuser 6. The projection film 5 and diffuser 6 then enable diffraction/diffusion for viewing to happen substantially at the location of the viewing window, i.e. at a location separate from the display 1 itself, this location being closer to the viewing window 2. This introduces a protective distance between the viewing window 2 and the display, whilst also allowing the image to be produced such that it appears to be generated by the viewing window 2. In this embodiment, the projection film 5 and diffuser 6 are distinct layers but in another embodiment the projection film 5 is actually configured to be able to receive light as a projection film and to also diffuse that received light as a diffuser layer. Figure 7 illustrates an example of such an embodiment.
In the embodiment of Figure 7, the projection film 5 is adhered to the underside of the viewing window 2. The projection film 5 is formed from a matrix M of glass beads B. The glass beads B are, in this example, approximately 2-3pm in diameter (in other embodiments the glass bead diameter may range from 1-70pm), and serve as lenses to diffuse the light from the collimator (not shown here). The smaller the diameter of the beads, the finer the granularity/resolution of the diffused image. The top side of the matrix M is formed to be adjacent to a protective transparent layer L that serves to further diffract the light already diffused by the glass bead matrix M. In some embodiments this protective layer L is the viewing window as per apparatus 100. The gaps between the beads B are filled with an antireflective material/coating C that serves to absorb ambient light. This helps to prevent glare from ambient light sources, and allows for improved viewing of the diffused/diffracted image light. The projection film will receive image light from the collimator 4. The film 5 will then cause diffraction of the image light (or diffusion of the image light) such that it looks like the display 1 has actually been placed in the viewing window, and not under the viewing window 2 as is presently done in the prior art.
Through such arrangements, it is possible to give the user the impression that a display 1 has been provided in the viewing window, and that the display 1 is not recessed within a particular portable electronic device/apparatus underneath a viewing window 2.
It will be appreciated by the skilled person that there are many variations that are within the scope of this invention. For example, one or more of the above embodiments may be combined with touchscreen technology to allow for a touchscreen interface with a portable electronic device provided with such a display module/apparatus.
The above apparatus 100 may be provided in the form of a display module for installation into a portable electronic device, or as a portable electronic device itself (as illustrated in the embodiment of Figure 5). Alternatively, the transposer 3 may be provided in a portable electronic device or display module to confer the abovedescribed advantages on existing display modules or known display technologies. One or more of these embodiments can provide for distinct advantages for the user. For example, by causing the image to appear like it is being generated by the viewing window 2, the display can appear more accessible and vibrant to a user than recessed displays. The user experience can be considered to be enhanced/richer through such arrangements as this can effectively allow a user to perceive an image as "coming out" or "jumping out" of the apparatus/display module/device.
In essence, by using the display 1 to illuminate a projection film 5 on the back side of a viewing window 3 (via a collimator 4) the display 1 can be made to look like it is part of the viewing window 3. In embodiments where touchscreen technology is utilised, this can cause the user to perceive/think that they are touching the display itself and thereby improve the perceived interactivity of the device.
Also, for example, turning film (which may form the collimator 4) is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and incorporate in such devices. For example, turning film can collimate/direct light to a greater degree than prism sheets as included in display stacks/stack-ups. Prism sheets normally included with a typical prior art display stack are necessary to ensure correct operation of the display stack. In one or more embodiments, these prism sheets may be replaced by one or more turning film layers to counter-act the diffraction of the image light from the display and to also thereby collimate light to the required level towards the viewing window (in at least some embodiments). These layers can be considered to form a collimator component. By using such turning film, one or more of these embodiments may therefore be cheaper/more inexpensive to produce than some current displays/display modules (e.g. by replacing the prism sheets with less expensive turning film).
We will now describe a method of operation of the apparatus described above (apparatus 100) with reference to Figure 6. The method comprises:
401 - transposing an image generated by the display of the apparatus such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window by use of a transposes The method of operation has been discussed in detail above and will not be discussed further.
In the disclosed embodiments, one or more layers responsible for diffusing the light from the display stack (for example, diffuser layer 6 and/or projection film 5) are positioned outside the display stack irrespective of whether the display/display stack 1 comprises a diffuser layer (such as diffuser layer 12, 312) i.e. all embodiments comprise at least a layer responsible for diffusing the light outside the display/display stack 1. Furthermore, in the disclosed embodiments, at least one collimator layer is provided within the display/display stack 1 (see collimator 314 as shown in Figure 8) irrespective of whether there is a collimator layer provided outside of the display stack (as per collimator layer 4 shown in apparatus 100) i.e. a collimator layer is provided but it does not need to be outside the display/display stack 1. Therefore, there are some embodiments in which the optical transposer can be considered to be part of the display/display stack 1.
In some of the embodiments, prism sheets are included in the display, and in other embodiments prism sheets are replaced by the collimator. For example:
(1 ) In embodiments where the collimator is provided external to the display, the display stack still includes the prism sheets so that the display can operate correctly (i.e. correctly generate an image for viewing); and
(2) In embodiments where the collimator is provided within/internal to the display, the collimator may actually replace one or more of the prism sheets, or the collimator may be provided in addition to the included prism sheets of known displays. This is because the prism sheets will not impair the function of the collimator when included in the display.
It will be appreciated to the skilled reader that any mentioned apparatus/device and/or other features of particular mentioned apparatus/device may be provided by apparatus arranged such that they become configured to carry out the desired operations only when enabled, for example, switched on, or the like.
It will be appreciated that the any mentioned apparatus/elements may have other functions in addition to the mentioned functions, and that these functions may be performed by the same apparatus/elements. The applicant hereby discloses in isolation each individual feature described herein and any combination of two or more such features, to the extent that such features or combinations are capable of being carried out based on the present specification as a whole, in the light of the common general knowledge of a person skilled in the art, irrespective of whether such features or combinations of features solve any problems disclosed herein, and without limitation to the scope of the claims. The applicant indicates that the disclosed aspects/embodiments may consist of any such individual feature or combination of features. In view of the foregoing description it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that various modifications may be made within the scope of the disclosure.
While there have been shown and described and pointed out fundamental novel features of the invention as applied to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood that various omissions and substitutions and changes in the form and details of the devices and methods described may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, it is expressly intended that all combinations of those elements and/or method steps which perform substantially the same function in substantially the same way to achieve the same results are within the scope of the invention. Moreover, it should be recognized that structures and/or elements and/or method steps shown and/or described in connection with any disclosed form or embodiment of the invention may be incorporated in any other disclosed or described or suggested form or embodiment as a general matter of design choice. Furthermore, in the claims means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Thus although a nail and a screw may not be structural equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface to secure wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail and a screw may be equivalent structures.

Claims

Claims
1. An apparatus comprising:
a display configured to generate an image for viewing;
a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough; and
an optical transposer configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the transposer comprises a collimator configured to be able to substantially collimate the image light from the display towards the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the collimator is configured to be able to substantially collimate the image light to a viewing angle of substantially the same or less than 15'.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the viewing window is positioned to at least partially substantially overlie the display, and wherein the transposer is positioned between the display and the viewing window.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the transposer comprises a projection film configured to allow the image light from the display to be provided as a projected image on the projection film such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the transposer comprises a diffuser configured to be able diffuse the image light from the display substantially at the location of the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
7. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the transposer comprises:
a collimator configured to be able to substantially collimate the image light from the display towards the viewing window; a projection film configured to allow the image light from the display to be provided as a projected image on the projection film; and
a diffuser configured to be able diffuse the image light from the display substantially at the location of the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window, wherein the collimator, projection film and diffuser are stacked respectively so as to form the transposes the collimator being positioned toward the display, the diffuser being positioned toward the viewing window, and the projection film being positioned between the collimator and the diffuser so as to form the transposes
8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the display is/comprises a TN display.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the viewing window is/comprises a protective cover window.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the apparatus comprises an anti-reflective coating/layer to absorb ambient light to improve the viewability of the image generated by the display.
11. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the collimator is configured to counter-act diffraction of image light from the display such that the source of the image is user- perceived to be the viewing window.
12. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the display comprises a collimator configured to be able to substantially collimate the image light from the display towards the viewing window such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
13. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the display comprises a display stack with one or more of:
a display panel, a dual brightness enhanced film, a diffuser layer, prism sheet/sheets, a light waveguide, and a light source.
14. A transposer for an apparatus, the apparatus comprising:
a display configured to generate an image for viewing; a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough, wherein the transposer is configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
15. A portable electronic device comprising the apparatus of Claim 1 , or the transposer of Claim 14.
16. A display module comprising the apparatus of Claim 1 , or the transposer of Claim 14.
17. A method, the method comprising transposing an image generated by a display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be a viewing window by providing: a display configured to generate an image for viewing;
a viewing window configured to allow an image generated by the display to be viewed therethrough; and
an optical transposer configured to transpose the image light from the display such that the source of the image is user-perceived to be the viewing window.
PCT/IB2010/000602 2010-03-19 2010-03-19 An apparatus and associated methods WO2011114180A1 (en)

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