Abstract: We propose a numerical model based on Kerr effect for simulating the electro-optics of polymer-stabilized blue phase liquid crystal displays (BP-LCDs). Parameters affecting the electro-optics of BP-LCDs in in-plane-switching (IPS) structures, such as wavelength, temperature, electrode dimension, and cell gap are investigated. In addition, viewing angle and color shift of IPS BP-LCDs are studied.

Abstract: A light-emitting contact lens and a method and system for tracking a user's eye position using the light-emitting contact lens are disclosed. The eye position tracking can be used, for example, to allow the user to interact with a display device such that the position of the user's eye determines the image generated by the display device. Thus, as the user's eye moves, the image on the display device will be altered to represent the new position (e.g., viewing angle) of the user with regard to the display device.

Abstract: We have demonstrated for the first time that condensed gel particle suspensions in amorphous-like states display structural color with low angle dependence. This finding is in contrast to the common understanding that a periodic dielectric structure is fundamental to photonic band gap (PBG) production, and it validates the theory that a “tight bonding model” that is applicable to semiconductor systems can also be applied to photonic systems. More practically, this structural colored suspension represents a promising new material for the manufacture of reflective full-color displays with a wide viewing angle and nonfading color materials. This liquid system shows promise as a display material because electronic equipment used for display systems can easily be filled with the liquid in the same way that liquid crystals are currently used.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and systems for displaying images, and for implementing volumetric user interfaces. One exemplary embodiment provides a system comprising: a light source; an image producing unit, which produces an image upon interaction with light approaching the image producing unit from the light source; an eyepiece; and a mirror, directing light from the image to a surface of the eyepiece, wherein the surface has a shape of a solid of revolution formed by revolving a planar curve at least 180° around an axis of revolution. Another exemplary embodiment provides a method for implementing a floating-in-the-air user interface, including displaying a first image in a display space of a first floating-in-the-air display, inserting a real object into the display space of the first floating-in-the-air display, locating a location of the real object within the display space of the first floating-in-the-air display, locating the real object in the display space, and providing the location as input to the floating-in-the-air user interface.

Abstract: An ever-growing number of real-world computer vision applications require classification, segmentation, retrieval, or realistic rendering of genuine materials. However, the appearance of real materials dramatically changes with illumination and viewing variations. Thus, the only reliable representation of material visual properties requires capturing of its reflectance in as wide range of light and camera position combinations as possible. This is a principle of the recent most advanced texture representation, the bidirectional texture function (BTF). Multispectral BTF is a seven-dimensional function that depends on view and illumination directions as well as on planar texture coordinates. BTF is typically obtained by measurement of thousands of images covering many combinations of illumination and viewing angles. However, the large size of such measurements has prohibited their practical exploitation in any sensible application until recently. During the last few years, the first BTF measurement, compression, modeling, and rendering methods have emerged. In this paper, we categorize, critically survey, and psychophysically compare such approaches, which were published in this newly arising and important computer vision and graphics area.

Abstract: This invention relates to an image processing method for improving the quality of an image to be displayed on a display device and to a liquid-crystal display device using the same, and aims at providing an image processing method for providing wide viewing angle and excellent tonal-intensity viewing angle characteristic and a liquid-crystal display device using the same. Combined together are a higher-luminance pixel to be driven higher in luminance than the luminance data of an image to be displayed and a lower-luminance pixel to be driven lower in luminance than the luminance data, to determine a luminance on the higher-luminance pixel and luminance on the lower-luminance pixel as well as an area ratio of the higher-luminance and lower-luminance pixels in a manner obtaining a luminance nearly equal to a desired luminance based on the luminance data.

Abstract: We present algorithms for plane-based calibration of general radially distorted cameras. By this, we understand cameras that have a distortion center and an optical axis such that the projection rays of pixels lying on a circle centered on the distortion center form a right viewing cone centered on the optical axis. The camera is said to have a single viewpoint (SVP) if all such viewing cones have the same apex (the optical center); otherwise, we speak of NSVP cases. This model encompasses the classical radial distortion model, fisheyes, and most central or noncentral catadioptric cameras. Calibration consists in the estimation of the distortion center, the opening angles of all viewing cones, and their optical centers. We present two approaches of computing a full calibration from dense correspondences of a single or multiple planes with known Euclidean structure. The first one is based on a geometric constraint linking viewing cones and their intersections with the calibration plane (conic sections). The second approach is a homography-based method. Experiments using simulated and a broad variety of real cameras show great stability. Furthermore, we provide a comparison with Hartley-Kang's algorithm, which, however, cannot handle such a broad variety of camera configurations, showing similar performance.

Abstract: Collimated supersonic flows in laboratory experiments behave in a similar manner to astrophysical jets provided that radiation, viscosity, and thermal conductivity are unimportant in the laboratory jets, and that the experimental and astrophysical jets share similar dimensionless parameters such as the Mach number and the ratio of the density between the jet and the ambient medium. Laboratory jets can be studied for a variety of initial conditions, arbitrary viewing angles, and different times, attributes especially helpful for interpreting astronomical images where the viewing angle and initial conditions are fixed and the time domain is limited. Experiments are also a powerful way to test numerical fluid codes in a parameter range where the codes must perform well. In this paper we combine images from a series of laboratory experiments of deflected supersonic jets with numerical simulations and new spectral observations of an astrophysical example, the young stellar jet HH 110. The experiments provide key insights into how deflected jets evolve in 3-D, particularly within working surfaces where multiple subsonic shells and filaments form, and along the interface where shocked jet material penetrates into and destroys the obstacle along its path. The experiments also underscore the importance of the viewing angle in determining what an observer will see. The simulations match the experiments so well that we can use the simulated velocity maps to compare the dynamics in the experiment with those implied by the astronomical spectra. The experiments support a model where the observed shock structures in HH 110 form as a result of a pulsed driving source rather than from weak shocks that may arise in the supersonic shear layer between the Mach disk and bow shock of the jet's working surface.

Abstract: The invention is a vision and image capture system for mobile platforms. The system comprises: an imaging sensor that comprises at least one imaging sub-sensor which is integrated in the outside walls of the platform; at least one display screen on which is displayed the images captured by the imaging sub-sensor; and a processing unit comprising hardware and software components for processing the gathered images, displaying them on the screen and optionally allowing other applications. The system of the invention is characterized in that the at least one imaging sub-sensor is mounted approximately at the height of the eyes of the operator of the system and at a predefined angle respective to the mobile platform matching the preferred viewing angle of the operator from his seat within the platform. This location and orientation of the imaging sub-sensor allows a life like simulation and presentation of the images on the screen to the operator as if he were looking at the scene through a transparent window in the side of the mobile platform.

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a liquid crystal display method for ensuring satisfactory visibility regardless of a viewing angle when a screen is observed through a polarizing plate such as a sunglass. SOLUTION: In a liquid crystal display device having at least a backlight light source, a liquid crystal cell and a polarizing plate disposed on a viewer side of the liquid crystal cell, a white light emitting diode is used as the backlight light source and a polymer film having 3,000 to 30,000 nm retardation disposed on the viewer side of the polarizing plate so that the absorption axis of the polarizing plate and the slow axis of the polymer film form substantially 45 degrees. COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Abstract: We propose a multi-viewer tracking integral imaging system for viewing angle and viewing zone improvement. In the tracking integral imaging system, the pickup angles in each elemental lens in the lens array are decided by the positions of viewers, which means the elemental image can be made for each viewer to provide wider viewing angle and larger viewing zone. Our tracking integral imaging system is implemented with an infrared camera and infrared light emitting diodes which can track the viewers’ exact positions robustly. For multiple viewers to watch integrated three-dimensional images in the tracking integral imaging system, it is needed to formulate the relationship between the multiple viewers’ positions and the elemental images. We analyzed the relationship and the conditions for the multiple viewers, and verified them by the implementation of two-viewer tracking integral imaging system.

Abstract: A solar panel window for mounting to a building. The window has an interior pane and an exterior pane adjacent to each other. The exterior pane has a first ridged surface and the interior pane has a second ridged surface, which is complementary to the first ridged surface. The exterior and interior panes are secured together with their ridged surfaces facing each other. A plurality of photovoltaic solar cells are mounted on the first ridged surface of the exterior pane. The solar panel window allows light impinging thereon through a pre-determined viewing angle to be transmitted inside the building. Light impinging on the window outside the pre-determined viewing angled is directed to the plurality of solar cells.

Abstract: Collimated supersonic flows in laboratory experiments behave in a similar manner to astrophysical jets provided that radiation, viscosity, and thermal conductivity are unimportant in the laboratory jets and that the experimental and astrophysical jets share similar dimensionless parameters such as the Mach number and the ratio of the density between the jet and the ambient medium. When these conditions apply, laboratory jets provide a means to study their astrophysical counterparts for a variety of initial conditions, arbitrary viewing angles, and different times, attributes especially helpful for interpreting astronomical images where the viewing angle and initial conditions are fixed and the time domain is limited. Experiments are also a powerful way to test numerical fluid codes in a parameter range in which the codes must perform well. In this paper, we combine images from a series of laboratory experiments of deflected supersonic jets with numerical simulations and new spectral observations of an astrophysical example, the young stellar jet HH 110. The experiments provide key insights into how deflected jets evolve in three dimensions, particularly within working surfaces where multiple subsonic shells and filaments form, and along the interface where shocked jet material penetrates into and destroys the obstacle along its path. The experiments also underscore the importance of the viewing angle in determining what an observer will see. The simulations match the experiments so well that we can use the simulated velocity maps to compare the dynamics in the experiment with those implied by the astronomical spectra. The experiments support a model where the observed shock structures in HH 110 form as a result of a pulsed driving source rather than from weak shocks that may arise in the supersonic shear layer between the Mach disk and bow shock of the jet's working surface.

Abstract: A viewing angle enhanced integral imaging display using two elemental image masks is proposed. In our new method, rays emitted from the elemental images are directed by two masks into corresponding lenses. Due to the elemental image guiding of the masks, the number of elemental images for each integrated image point is increased, enhancing the viewing angle. The experimental result shows that the proposed method exhibits two times larger viewing angle than the conventional method with the same lens array.

Abstract: Although a naked-eye 3D display is more convenient to watch for a viewer, so far and in the near future the image quality of a stereo display watched with special glasses is still much better than the former. e.g. the viewing angle, the crosstalk, the resolution, etc. While focusing on the glasses-type stereo display, the image performance of a time multiplexed shutter-glasses-type 3D display should be better than that of a spatial multiplexed polarization-encoded 3D display. Shutter-glasses-type 3D display was implemented many years ago by CRT. However, due to the generation supersedure the CRT was replaced by LCD, the shutter-glasses solution couldn't work for several years as a result of the long response time of LCD. Thanks to the development of over-drive technology, the response time of LCD is getting faster, and a 100-120Hz panel refresh rate is possible. Therefore, 3D game fans have a very good opportunity to watch full resolution, large viewing angle and low crosstalk stereo LCDs again. In this paper, a 120Hz LCD and an LED dynamic backlight to overcome the hold-type characteristic of an LCD are used to implement a time-multiplexed 3D display. A synchronization circuit is developed to connect the time scheme of the vertical sync. signal from the display card, the scanning backlight and the shutter glasses. The crosstalk under different scanning conditions is measured.

Abstract: Auto-stereoscopic 3D displays offer presently the most attractive solution for entertainment and media consumption. Despite many studies devoted to this type of technology, efficient characterization methods are still missing. We present here an innovative optical method based on high angular resolution viewing angle measurements with Fourier optics instrument. This type of instrument allows measuring the full viewing angle aperture of the display very rapidly and accurately. The system used in the study presents a very high angular resolution below 0.04 degree which is mandatory for this type of characterization. We can predict from the luminance or color viewing angle measurements of the different views of the 3D display what will be seen by an observer at any position in front of the display. Quality criteria are derived both for 3D and standard properties at any observer position and Qualified Stereo Viewing Space (QSVS) is determined. The use of viewing angle measurements at different locations on the display surface during the observer computation gives more realistic estimation of QSVS and ensures its validity for the entire display surface. Optimum viewing position, viewing freedom, color shifts and standard parameters are also quantified. Simulation of the moire issues can be made leading to a better understanding of their origin.

Abstract: We have newly developed a 5-primary-color 60-inch FHD LCD with pixels composed of R1CGR2BY six sub pixels. The prototype is designed to reproduce all of real surface colors. We have also improved its viewing angle performances by applying a multi-primary color matching technology.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for reducing colour shift in relation to viewing angle in an LCD. The method includes receiving a plurality of pixel data constituting an image, each pixel data including a plurality of sub-pixel colour components having respective data values; for each of the pixel data, comparing the sub-pixel colour component data values included therein; and based on the comparison, modifying the sub-pixel colour component data values included in the pixel data with respect to two or more of the plurality of sub-pixel colour components to reduce colour shift when displayed on the LCD.

Abstract: A compact, portable, temporary mount for portable devices capable of mounting such a device to any smooth, flat surface is described. The apparatus is compact, lightweight, and can be deployed and removed quickly and easily for user convenience. Certain embodiments of the present invention also provide means for multi-directional adjustment for obtaining optimal desired viewing angle for the portable device and can universally adapt to a wide variety of devices and device cases. Furthermore, multiple methods of attaching the present invention to a device or device case are described.

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a head-mounted display for easily watching a surrounding 360-degree panoramic image with a wide viewing angle. SOLUTION: An annular display part 54 which is installed in the whole periphery of the head of a viewer 60 and which displays the 360-degree panoramic image; a gyro sensor which detects a rotation angle of the head of the viewer 60; and a rotary drive means (motor) 52 which rotates the annular display part 54 in the direction negating the rotation angle of the head detected by the gyro sensor are included. COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Abstract: — An ultra-definition (UD or 3840 × 2160) resolution 82-in. product with 120-Hz high-frame-rate driving has been developed for LCD-TV applications. The resolution increase from full HD to UD greatly reduces the available charging time. This problem has been overcome by employing a half-gate two-data-line design (hG-2D) for Super PVA pixels. Additionally, cost-effective single-bank driving has been achieved by adopting a vertical-quarter-partitioned (VQP) driving scheme. A viewing angle of 180°, contrast ratio of 2200:1, and brightness of 550 nits have been achieved while maintaining all of the other advantages of the Super-PVA structure.

Abstract: — Despite a steep increase in commercial devices comprising paper-like displays, a much desired feature is still missing: bright full-color electronic paper. A new reflective-display technology has been developed to solve this issue. For the first time, the principles behind this in-plane electrophoretic technology will be presented, which enables the realization of full-color reflective displays with a higher brightness than presently available e-paper technologies, without compromising paper-like properties such as viewing angle and ultra-low power consumption. An additional major advantage (e.g., for future low-cost manufacturing) is that, besides direct-drive and active-matrix configurations, a passive-matrix option with analog gray levels has been successfully developed.

Abstract: — A novel front-light system that uses an organic light-emitting-diode (OLED) light source patterned with a fine pitch has been developed. The front-light system has the following characteristics: (1) excellent uniformity within the light-emitting area; (2) emittance that is consistent at all viewing angles; (3) no light leakage at any viewing angle from the side of the observer. This system can be adopted for reflective LCDs, electrophoretic displays (EPDs), microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), and other applications.

Abstract: This paper presents a novel method in near-field beam shaping based on the precise optical modeling of a gallium nitride light-emitting diode (GaN LED). A Monte Carlo ray tracing simulation has been utilized to calculate the spatial photon distribution near the LED’s top. By analyzing the ray data in near-field, the miniaturized lens profile is created and machined with aspherical surfaces and total internal reflection (TIR) Fresnel facets. The prototype lens reduce the viewing angle of the LED from 150° to 17.5° at full width half maximum (FWHM) while increasing the peak luminous intensity 10 times. The array of proposed lens with CSP LEDs exhibits feasibility of ultra thin uniform illumination in near-field.

Abstract: An optical sheet includes a base film in which light is incident from a lower side, a plurality of prism patterns and a diffusion member. The prism patterns are protruded to be spaced apart from each other on the base film to enhance the front luminance of light incident from the lower side of the base film. The diffusion member is disposed between prism patterns to have a diffusion surface in parallel with the base film. The diffusion member includes a plurality of diffusion dots capable of enhancing the luminance uniformity of light incident from the lower side of the base film. Thus, front luminance and luminance uniformity may be enhanced due to a juxtaposition of the prism patterns and the diffusion portion, and the viewing angle of the LCD device may be enhanced.

Abstract: PURPOSE: A 3D image display device capable of a wide viewing angle and a display unit location adjusting method in the 3D image display device are provided to apply an eyepiece module with a simple structure, thereby making the device light and small. CONSTITUTION: A 3D image display device includes the first and second display units(130a,130b), a photographing unit(140), a pupil location measuring unit(150), and a display unit location adjusting unit(160). The photographing unit photographs an area of a user face. The pupil location measuring unit obtains location information by detecting a pupil from an image photographed by the photographing unit. The pupil location measuring unit compares location information of an obtained pupil with previous pupil location information. If the location is changed, the location change value is transmitted to the display unit location adjusting unit.

Abstract: We have numerically and experimentally investigated an optical device based on a guest–host (GH) liquid crystal (LC) for a viewing angle switching (VAS) application. This device should work as an additional panel, mounted on a major panel of conventional liquid crystal display, to implement the VAS operation. Our proposed method employs the composite effect of the GH-LC mixture, which is identified as the combination of the guest-induced absorption effect and the host-induced birefringence effect. The benefit of this composite effect is that the viewing angle can be controlled by not only the transmittance-reduction mechanism but also the contrast-ratio-reduction mechanism. The performance of this VAS panel is first predicted by the analytical calculations, and then confirmed by the experimental results.