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Passive high efficiency variable reflectivity image display device

  • US 5,959,777 A
  • Filed: 06/10/1997
  • Issued: 09/28/1999
  • Est. Priority Date: 06/10/1997
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A multiple pixel image display device, comprising:

  • (a) each said pixel formed by at least one element having a reflective state in which light incident upon a front surface of said element undergoes total internal reflection and an absorptive state in which said total internal reflection is prevented, said total internal reflection being characterized by an evanescent wave adjacent a rearward surface of said element; and

    ,(b) switching means for controllably switching said elements between said states, said switching means further comprising a member positioned adjacent said rearward surface and deformable between a first position in which a gap remains between said member and said rearward surface and a second position in which said member is in optical contact with said rearward surface to provide a separation distance between said member and said rearward surface of substantially less than 0.5 microns and substantially more than 10-4 microns, said member not interfering with said evanescent wave in said first position, said member interfering with said evanescent wave in said second position and thereby preventing said total internal reflection, said second position not permitting substantial atomic contact between said member and said rearward surface.

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