Autostereoscopic 2D/3D switching display using electric-field-driven LC lens (ELC Lens)

We propose a new 2D/3D switching method using the lens effect solely caused by LC director distribution under controlled non-uniform electric field distribution. By optimizing electrodes structure and applying this lens cell to LCD of 17.1 inches size in diagonal, we successfully verified the lens on/off effect of LC lens and the switching between an auto-stereoscopic 9-view 3D mode and a clear 2D mode. Comparing with previously reported structures of other switching lens, our proposed structure is the most competitive in respect of structure simplicity and process compatibility. © 2008 SID