OPTICAL SYSTEM FOR 3-DIMENSIONAL DISPLAY

摘要

An optical system that can add an optical depth information to a two- dimensional image (72) represented by substantially collimated light, e.g. by using a collimated light source in front of a LCD display. The optical system includes a first array of optical lenses (70) arranged at a first distance in front of the two-dimensional image (72), and a second array of optical lenses (71) arranged at a second distance in front of the two- dimensional image (72), the second distance being larger than the first distance. Optical properties, e.g. focal length, can be adjusted for the optical lenses of the first and second array of optical lenses (70, 71) in response to the optical depth information. The optical system can serve as an optical front for 3D multiview displays. Depending on embodiment, both horizontal and vertical angular resolution can be obtained, and the front end exhibits only a small brightness loss. Preferably one lens per pixel is used in case of a pixelized image. In one embodiment, a stack of several arrays of on/off switchab Ie optical lenses are arranged at different distances in front of the two-dimensional image, wherein a depth is applied by turning on one lens corresponding to the desired depth distance. In another preferred embodiment two arrays of continuously adjustable lenses are used to generate a depth by adjusting the lenses so as to provide an apparent position in between the two arrays. Preferably, a diffusor is positioned in front of the second array of lenses. Different shapes of lenses may be used such as spherical lenses, lenticular lenses, Fresnel type lenses or "horse- saddle" shaped lenses. The arrays of lenses may be implemented using GRIN lenses or fluid- focus lenses. Preferably, the lenses of each array of lenses are individually adjustable.