Image display device with optical feedback to cathode

An image display device comprising an evacuated envelope within which is disposed a plurality of cathodoluminescent cells in a matrix array, each cell including:

• a. a source of electrons comprising:
• 1. a cathode electrode having means for emitting electrons in response to impinging electromagnetic radiation;
• 2. means, including said cathode electrode, for establishing an electrical discharge, said discharge means further comprising:
• i. an anode electrode having means for producing electromagnetic radiation in response to bombardment by electrons;
• ii. an open channel between said anode electrode and said cathode electrode whereby a fraction of the electromagnetic radiation produced by said anode electrode is clear to feed back to and impinge upon said cathode electrode;
• and
• iii. means for sustaining a flow of electrons from said cathode electrode to said anode electrode;
• b. electron beam formation means;
• c. means for modulating a flow of electrons from said electron beam formation means;
• d. means for accelerating the modulated flow of electrons;
• e. a cathodoluminescent screen excitable by the accelerated and modulated flow of electrons, said screen being separated from said anode electrode;
• and
• f. additional means for storing a portion of the energy of said electrical discharge and then spontaneously emitting said stored energy to establish a subsequent electrical discharge.