Multiplanar liquid crystal volumetric 3D displays

Volumetric 3-D displays proposed and demonstrated in the past have been low in resolution and refresh rate, but not in cost. This paper describes the development of an electro-optic multiplanar volumetric 3-D display (without moving parts) based on unique liquid crystal (LC) switchable light diffusion panels. These LC switchable diffuser panels are produced by our proprietary holographic Light Shaping Diffuser fabrication process. Using a stack of closely spaced LC switchable diffusers, which have shown excellent switching speed, diffusion efficiency, and clarity, a multiplanar volumetric 3- D display was demonstrated, projecting full-color 2-D images from a high speed spatial light modulator.