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US 2006/0187528 A1Published application
Methods and apparatus for spatial light modulation
AssigneePixtronix, Inc.
InventorsNesbitt Hagood, Roger Barton
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Abstract
Improved apparatus and methods for spatial light modulation are disclosed which utilize optical cavities having both front and rear reflective surfaces. Light-transmissive regions are formed in the front reflective surface for spatially modulating light.
Claims50
A spatial light modulator comprising:
- a first reflective surface defining a plurality of light-transmissive regions,
- a second reflective surface, at least partially facing the first reflective surface, for reflecting light towards the plurality of light-transmissive regions.
A method of forming an image, comprising:
- introducing light into a reflective optical cavity including a plurality of light-transmissive regions through which light can escape the reflective optical cavity;
- forming an image by allowing the introduced light to escape the reflective optical cavity through at least one of the light-transmissive regions.
A method of forming an image, comprising:
- receiving ambient light;
- positioning a plurality of shutters on at least one substrate to selectively reflect the received ambient light to form the image.
A method of manufacturing a spatial light modulator comprising:
- forming a substantially transparent cavity having first and second opposing sides into which light can be introduced;
- coupling a first reflective surface to the first side of the transparent cavity such that the first reflective surface faces the interior of the transparent cavity;
- forming a plurality of light-transmissive regions in the first reflective surface;
- and
- coupling a second reflective surface to the second side of the transparent cavity such that the second reflective surface faces the interior transparent cavity.
2 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.