Apple’s multilayer 3D patent published

While it seems that in the past, Apple has not really displayed any indication that they might be making the move to 3D displays, following in the footsteps of other devices such as the HTC EVO 3D and the LG Optimus 3D, it appears that a recent patent filing revealed that Apple’s designs for a multilayer display will be able to display 3D images without the need for special glasses.

Given that the patent was filed about a year ago, its recent publication could be an indication that perhaps Apple is starting to see the potential use of 3D, given the vast improvements of the technology.

Instead of taking the typical 3D route which requires either special glasses, or 3D displays that do not require glasses that relies on viewing the display at the proper angle, Apple has taken the more literal route with a physical 3D effect. This involves the use of multilayer displays, three to be exact, with transparent OLED displays in the front and middle, with an LCD display at the back. The distance between the panels are said to determine the intensity of the 3D effect.

“In one embodiment, the transparent portions of the front panel may allow a viewer to see images displayed on the middle and rear panels, while the transparent portions of the middle panel may allow a viewer to see images displayed on the rear panel. In another embodiment, light emitted from overlapping pixels of the front and middle panels may be combined to produce a light having an increased illumination when compared to the light emitted by either one of the two panels individually. In a further embodiment, light emitted from overlapping pixels may be combined to result in different tints or shades of emitted colored light. The same effects can be achieved with respect to the front and/or middle panels and the rear panel.”

It does sound like a pretty straightforward design, and who knows, perhaps we might be seeing 3D capable iPad 4’s and iPhone 6’s in the future, or even 3D Apple Cinema Displays.

Tyler Lee
Categories: Apple
Tags: 3d display, Patent