LCD Technology

With Sharp's 3D LCDs users can enjoy realistic three-dimensional images without having to wear special goggles.
And since they support switching electrically between flat display (2D) and three-dimensional display (3D) modes, they can be used in new products optimized for 3D content as well as for applications where conventional LCDs are presently used.
For example, a 3D LCD computer monitor could display word processor and spreadsheet files in the 2D mode while employing the 3D mode for computer graphics and games.
This new type of display device makes possible a range of new applications providing three-dimensional images with an enhanced level of visual ambience.

• • In the past it has been necessary to wear special goggles in order to view 3D graphics.
    The 3D LCD, however, uses a parallax barrier system implemented using a specially developed
    switching liquid crystal to deliver three-dimensional images that can be viewed without special
    goggles.

• • The ease of controlling the display makes it possible to use 3D LCDs for a wide range of
    applications.
    Its simple structure helps lower costs and provides excellent reliability.

• • The switching liquid crystal enables the parallax barrier to be controlled electrically.
    Switching between the flat (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) display modes can be accomplished
    at the touch of a button.
    This means the most appropriate display mode can be selected to match the application.

The distance between the human eyes is about 65 mm, and the images seen by the right and left eyes are always slightly different (binocular parallax).
The human brain processes the slightly different images from the two eyes to create a sense of depth.

• • The directions in which light leaves the display are controlled so that the left and right eyes see
    different images.
    This makes it possible for the image on the screen to appear in three dimensions without
    the user having to wear special goggles.
• • The basic principle of the parallax barrier system used has been understood for some time.
    It is achieved using a structure incorporating a conventional TFT-LCD and a specially developed
    "switching liquid crystal.
• • The switching liquid crystal is used to implement the parallax barrier and control the directions
    in which light leaves the display.
    This ensures that different patterns of light reach the left and right eyes of the viewer.
• • The images for both the left and right eyes are displayed together on the TFT-LCD,
    resulting in a 3D display in which the appropriate images reach each of the viewers eyes.