A Display Based On Switchable Zero Order Diffraction Grating Light Valves

Josephine Anne Steir; Jan A. Rajchman; John Melngailis; Deborah A. Summa

doi:10.1117/12.946385

13 May 1985 A Display Based On Switchable Zero Order Diffraction Grating Light Valves

Josephine Anne Steir, Jan A. Rajchman, John Melngailis, Deborah A. Summa

Proceedings Volume 0526, Advances in Display Technology V; (1985) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.946385
Event: 1985 Los Angeles Technical Symposium, 1985, Los Angeles, United States

Abstract

A flat panel display technology has been conceived which utilizes a matrix of line addressable light valves back lighted with a partially collimated source. The basic pixel element of the display is an optical switch based on the zero order of diffraction by two aligned transmission phase gratings. The transmission of light is modulated by mechanic-ally displacing one grating with respect to the other by one-half of the grating period. The color transmitted by the light valve is controlled by the grating profile. Optical spectra of a large-scale prototype of the switchable light valve element are in good agreement with calculations according to simple diffraction theory. Technology for the construction of an optical switch of the desired size has been developed, with 85% of the area devoted to light transmission. The elements are one millimeter squares made of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), a transparent, piezoelectric plastic. Gratings of nearly square profile with 3.8 micron period are produced in 9 micron films of PVDF by embossing at 4000 bars and 70Ã‚Â°C and show the expected optical transmission spectra. Mechanical displacement is produced by applying voltage to two sets of bending arms attached to either side of the movable element. The bending arms amplify motion due to piezoelectric strain. Nickel electrodes are patterned onto the PVDF film by photolithography and liftoff. Perforations around the movable element and the bending arms are etched through the film by reactive ion etching in oxygen, using patterned aluminum as a mask. Motion exceeding 2 microns has been observed, which is sufficient to operate the light valve.

Citation Download Citation

Josephine Anne Steir, Jan A. Rajchman, John Melngailis, and Deborah A. Summa "A Display Based On Switchable Zero Order Diffraction Grating Light Valves", Proc. SPIE 0526, Advances in Display Technology V, (13 May 1985); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.946385

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