Diffractive projection displays

David Armitage

doi:10.1117/12.273864

8 May 1997 Diffractive projection displays

David Armitage

Proceedings Volume 3013, Projection Displays III; (1997) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.273864
Event: Electronic Imaging '97, 1997, San Jose, CA, United States

Abstract

Displays based on diffraction effects can provide very high lumen output at high contrast ratio, due to the absence of polarizers, low losses, large-area light valves, and bright light sources. The electron-beam addressed oil-film diffracting light valve employed by the Eidophor is an expensive technology. Recent developments in diffraction form liquid-crystal devices, micromechanical gratings, and elastomeric deformation, could result in a low-cost high- efficiency projector. Therefore, it is of interest to examine the performance limitations of diffractive systems in general, and in relation to other systems. The throughput efficiency of a projector is related to the light source collimation required to transmit light through the limiting apertures of the system. A diffractive device expands the optical divergence, and consequently sacrifices system optical throughput. If the source collimation is increased by the availability of short-arc lamps, or laser diodes, the diffractive throughput penalty is reduced or eliminated. The performance of micromechanical and liquid-crystal diffractive structures is analyzed using a realistic arc lamp model. Theoretical limitations on projector throughput and contrast ratio are derived for diffractive systems, and compared with polarization dependent liquid crystal systems.

Citation Download Citation

David Armitage "Diffractive projection displays", Proc. SPIE 3013, Projection Displays III, (8 May 1997); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.273864

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