Flexible Liquid Crystal Micro-Lens Arrays for Curved Integral Imaging 2D/3D Convertible Display

Glasses-free three-dimensional (3D) displays are being regarded as the key to the future of display that will redefine the display industry. Inspired by the curved screen, liquid crystal micro-lens arrays (LC MLAs) on flexible PET substrate with a radius of curvature of 5 cm was achieved. For demonstration, an integral imaging-based 2D/3D convertible display system is proposed by using the flexible LC MLAs (FLC MLAs) to switch its operation mode between 2D and 3D modes. When the FLC MLAs with an applied voltage are in the system, the prototype renders a matched 3D image and works in 3D mode. When the FLC MLAs do not have an applied voltage, the FLC MLAs are equivalent to glass, and the display system works in 2D mode. In addition, we also demonstrated that the FLC MLAs have a wider viewing angle than the flat integral imaging 3D display system. The depth of field ranges from 6.78 to 210.12 mm under low operating voltages of 3.4 to 3.1 Vrms, respectively. With its low voltage, thin structure, and adjustable focal length form factors, the developed display system can be integrated with off-the-shelf purchased flat panels, making it a promising option for portable electronics.