text:
Interferometric modulation of radiation
An Interferometric Modulator (IMod) is a microelectromechanical device for modulating light using interference. The colors of these devices may be determined in a spatial fashion, and their inherent color shift may be compensated for using several optical compensation mechanisms. Brightness, addressing, and driving of IMods may be accomplished in a variety of ways with appropriate packaging, and peripheral electronics which can be attached and/or fabricated using one of many techniques . The devices may be used in both embedded and directly perceived applications, the latter providing multiple viewing modes as well as a multitude of product concepts ranging in size from microscopic to architectural in scope.
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[0001] This is a continuation in part of U.S. patent applications Ser. Nos. 08/238,750, and 08/554,630, filed May 5, 1995, and Nov. 5, 1995, respectively, and incorporated by reference.
[0002] This invention relates to visible spectrum (which we define to include portions of the ultra-violet and infrared spectra) modulator arrays and interferometric modulation.
[0003] The first patent application cited above describes two kinds of structures whose impedance, the reciprocal of admittance, can be actively modified so that they can modulate light. One scheme is a deformable cavity whose optical properties can be altered by deformation, electrostatically or otherwise, of one or both of the cavity walls. The composition and thickness of these walls, which comprise layers of dielectric, semiconductor, or metallic films, allows for a variety of modulator designs exhibiting different optical responses to applied voltages.
[0004] The second patent application cited above describes designs which rely on an induced absorber. These designs operate in reflective mode and can be fabricated simply and on a variety of substrates.
[0005] The devices disclosed in both of these patent applications are part of a broad class of devices which we will refer to as IMods (short for "interferometric modulators"). An IMod is a microfabricated device that modulates incident light by the manipulation of admittance via the modification of its interferometric characteristics.
[0006] Any object or image supporter which uses modulated light to convey information through vision is a form of visual media. The information being conveyed lies on a continuum. At one end of the continuum, the information is codified as in text or drawings, and at the other end of the continuum, it is abstract and in the form of symbolic patterns as in art or representations of reality (a picture).
[0007] Information conveyed by visual media may encompass knowledge, stimulate thought, or inspire feelings. But regardless of its function, it has historically been portrayed in a static form. That is, the information content represented is unchanging over time. Static techniques encompass an extremely wide range, but in general include some kind of mechanism for producing variations in color and/or brightness comprising the image, and a way to physically support the mechanism. Examples of the former include dyes, inks, paints, pigments, chalk, and photographic emulsion, while examples of the latter include paper, canvas, plastic, wood, and metal.
[0008] In recent history, static display techniques are being displaced by active schemes. A prime example is the cathode ray tube (CRT), but flat panel displays (FPD) offer promise of becoming dominant because of the need to display information in ever smaller and more portable formats.
[0009] An advanced form of the FPD is the active matrix liquid crystal display (AMLCD). AMLCDs tend to be expensive and large, and are heavy users of power. They also have a limited ability to convey visual information with the range of color, brightness, and contrast that the human eye is capable of perceiving, using reflected light, which is how real objects usually present themselves to a viewer. (Few naturally occurring things emit their own light.)
[0010] Butterflies, on the other hand, achieve a broad range of color, brightness, and contrast, using incident light, processed interferometrically, before delivery to the viewer.
[0011] In general, in one aspect, the invention features a modulator of light having an interference cavity for causing interference modulation of the light, the cavity having a mirror, the mirror having a corrugated surface.
[0012] In general, in another aspect of the invention, the interference modulation of the light produces a quiescent color visible to an observer, the quiescent color being determined by the spatial configuration of the modulator.
[0013] In implementations of the invention, the interference cavity may include a mirror and a supporting structure holding the mirror, and the spatial configuration may include a configuration of the supporting structure, or patterning of the mirror. The supporting structure may be coupled to a rear surface of the mirror. The invention eliminates the need for separately defined spacers and improves the fill-factor.
[0014] In general, in another aspect of the invention, the structure for modulating light includes modulators of light each including an interference cavity for causing interference modulation of the light, each of the modulators having a viewing cone. The viewing cones of the modulators are aligned in different directions.
[0015] In implementations of the invention, the viewing cones of the different modulators may be aligned in random directions and may be narrower than the viewing cone of the overall structure. Viewing a randomly oriented array of interference modulators effectively reduces the color shift.
[0016] In general, in another aspect of the invention, the modulators may be suspended in a solid or liquid medium.
[0017] In general, in another aspect of the invention, an optical compensation mechanism is coupled to the modulators to enhance the optical performance of the structure. In implementations of the invention, the mechanism may be a combination of one or more of a holographically patterned material, a photonic crystal array, a multilayer array of dielectric mirrors, or an array of microlenses. The brightness and/or color may be controlled by error diffusion. An array of modulators may be viewed through a film of material which, because of its tailored optical properties, enhances the view from a limited range of angles, or takes incident light of random orientation and orders it. The film may also enhance the fill factor of the pixel. The film may also comprise a patterned light emitting material to provide supplemental lighting.
[0018] In general, in another aspect of the invention, an optical fiber is coupled to the interference cavity. The invention may be used in the analysis of chemical, organic, or biological components.
[0019] In general, in another aspect of the invention, there is an array of interference modulators of light, a lens system, a media transport mechanism and control electronics.
[0020] In general, in another aspect, the invention features an information projection system having an array of interference modulators of light, a lens system, mechanical scanners, and control electronics. In implementations of the invention, the control electronics may be configured to generate projected images for virtual environments; and the array may include liquid crystals or micromechanical modulators.
[0021] In general, in another aspect, the invention features an electronics product having an operational element, a housing enclosing the operational element and including a display having a surface viewed by a user, and an array of interference modulators of light on the surface.
[0022] Implementations of the invention may include one or more of the following features. The operational element may include a personal communications device, or a personal information tool, or a vehicular control panel, or an instrument control panel, or a time keeping device. The array may substantially alter the aesthetic or decorative features of the surface. The aesthetic component may respond to a state of use of the consumer product. The array may also provide information. The modulation array of the housing may comprise liquid crystals, field emission, plasma, or organic emitter based technologies and associated electronics.
[0023] In general, in another aspect, the invention features devices in which aggregate arrays of interference modulators are assembled as a display, e.g., as a sign or a billboard.
[0024] In general, in another aspect, the invention features a vehicle having a body panel, an array of interference modulators of light on a surface of the body panel, and electronic circuitry for determining the aesthetic appearance of the body panel by controlling the array of interference modulators.
[0025] In general, in another aspect, the invention features a building comprising external surface elements, an array of interference modulators of light on a surface of the body panel, and electronic circuitry for determining the aesthetic appearance of the surface elements by controlling the array of interference modulators.
[0026] In general, in another aspect, the invention features a full color active display comprising a liquid crystal medium, and interferometric elements embedded in the medium.
[0027] In general, in another aspect, the invention features a structure including a substrate, micromechanical elements formed on the substrate, and electronics connected to control the elements, the electronics being formed also on the substrate.
[0028] Individual pixels of the array may consist of arrays of subpixels, allowing brightness and color control via the activation of some fraction of these subpixels in a process known as spatial dithering. Individual pixels or subpixel arrays may be turned on for a fraction of an arbitrary time interval to control brightness in a process known as pulse width modulation (PWM). Individual pixels or subpixel arrays may be turned on for a fraction of the time required to scan the entire array to control brightness in a process known as frame width modulation (FWM). These two schemes are facilitated by the inherent hysteresis of the IMod which allows for the use of digital driver circuits. Neighboring pixels yield a brightness value which is the average of the desired value when error diffusion is used. Brightness control may be achieved via a combination of spatial dithering, PWM/FWM, or error diffusion. Color control may be achieved by tuning individual colors to a particular color, or by combining pixels of different colors and different brightness. The terms pixels and IMods are interchangeable, but in general, pixel refers to a controllable element which may consist of one or more IMods or subpixels, and which is "seen" directly or indirectly by an individual.
[0029] The arrays may fabricated on a solid substrate of some kind which may be of any material as long as it provides a surface, portions of which are optically smooth. The material may be transparent or opaque. The material may be flat or have a contoured surface, or be the surface of a three dimensional object. The arrays may be fabricated on the surface, or on the opposite or both sides if the substrate is transparent. In a further aspect the invention can be viewed in a variety of ways.
[0030] Implementations of the invention may include one or more of the following features. The array may be directly viewed in that an individual can look at the array and see the represented information from any angle. The array may be directly viewed from a fixed angle. The array may be indirectly viewed in that the information is projected on to a secondary surface, or projected through an optical system, or both.
[0031] In yet another aspect the invention can be electrically controlled and driven in several ways.
[0032] Implementations of the invention may include one or more of the following features. The array may be fabricated on a substrate and the driver and controller electronics are fabricated on a separate substrate. The two substrates may be connected electrically or optically via cables, or optically, magnetically, or via radio frequencies via a free space connection. The array may be fabricated with driver, controller, or memory electronics, or some combination thereof, mounted on the same substrate and connected via conducting lines. The array may be fabricated on a substrate along with the driver, controller or memory electronics, or some combination thereof. The substrate may include active electronics which constitute driver, controller, or memory electronics, or some combination thereof, and the array may be fabricated on the substrate. The electronics may be implemented using microelectromechanical (MEM) devices.
[0033] In an additional aspect the invention modulates light actively, using an array of modulators or sections of arrays which are addressed in several ways.
[0034] Implementations of the invention may include one or more of the following features. Individual pixels or arrays of pixels may be connected to a single driver and may be activated independently of any other pixel or pixel array in a technique known as direct addressing. Individual pixels or arrays of pixels may be addressed using a two-dimensional matrix of conductors and addressed in a sequential fashion in a technique known as matrix addressing. Some combination of matrix or direct addressing may be used.
[0035] Among the advantages of the invention are one or more of the following.
[0036] Because interference modulators are fabricated on a single substrate, instead of a sandwich as in LCDs, many more possible roles are made available. The materials used in their construction are insensitive to degradation by UV exposure, and can withstand much greater variations in temperature. Extremely saturated colors may be produced. Extremely high resolutions make possible detail imperceptible to the human eye. Either transmitted or reflected light may be used as an illumination source, the latter more accurately representing how objects and images are perceived. The ability to fabricate these devices on virtually any substrate makes possible the surface modulation of essentially any man-made or naturally occurring object. It is possible to realize images which are much closer to what exists in nature and more realistic than what is possible using current printing methods.
[0037] Interferometric modulation uses incident light to give excellent performance in terms of color saturation, dynamic range (brightness), contrast, and efficient use of incident light, performance which may approach the perceptual range of the human visual system. The fabrication technology allows interference modulators to be manufactured in a great variety of forms. This variety will enable active visual media (and superior static visual media) to become as ubiquitous as the traditional static media which surround us.
[0038] In general, the invention provides the tools for creating an array of products and environments which are as visually rich and stimulating as anything found in nature.
[0039] Other advantages and features will become apparent from the following description and from the claims.
[0040] FIGS. 1A and 1B are top and perspective views of an IMod with spatially defined color.
[0041] FIG. 2 is a side view of an IMod with spatially defined color.
[0042] FIGS. 3A and 3B are top and side views of a spatially defined mirror.
[0043] FIG. 3A shows a mirror with a 50% etch while FIG. 3B shows a mirror with a 75% etch.
[0044] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a back-supported IMod with a good fill factor.
[0045] FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are schematic views of an IMod and IMod array with a limited viewing cone.
[0046] FIG. 5A shows the behavior of light within the viewing cone while
[0047] FIG. 5B shows the behavior of light outside the cone.
[0048] FIG. 5C shows the performance of an overall array.
[0049] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E, 6F are side views of optical compensation mechanisms used for minimizing color shift and enhancing fill factor.
[0050] FIG. 6A shows a holographically patterned material,
[0051] FIG. 6B shows a photonic crystal array,
[0052] FIG. 6C shows a multilayer dielectric array,
[0053] FIG. 6D shows an array of microlenses, while
[0054] FIGS. 6E and 6F show side and top views of a supplemental lighting film.
[0055] FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic views of an array which is addressed using spatial dithering.
[0056] FIG. 7A shows a full-color pixel while
[0057] FIG. 7B shows detail of a sub-pixel.
[0058] FIG. 8 is a timing diagram for driving a binary IMod.
[0059] FIG. 9 is a diagram of the hysteresis curve for an IMod device.
[0060] FIGS. 10A and 10B are a top view of an IMod array which is connected for matrix addressing and a digital driver.
[0061] FIG. 10A shows the matrix array while
[0062] FIG. 10B shows a digital driving circuit.
[0063] FIG. 11 is a side view of an IMod array configured for direct viewing.
[0064] FIG. 12 is a side view of an IMod array configured for direct viewing through an optical system.
[0065] FIG. 13 is a diagram of an IMod array configured for indirect viewing.
[0066] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an IMod array and a separate driver/controller.
[0067] FIGS. 15 and 16 are perspective views of IMod arrays and driver/controllers on the same substrates.
[0068] FIGS. 17A and 17B are front views of a direct driven IMod subarray display.
[0069] FIG. 17A shows a seven segment display while
[0070] FIG. 17B shows detail of one of the segments.
[0071] FIGS. 18A and 18B are top views of a matrix driven subarray display.
[0072] FIG. 18A shows a matrix display while FIG. 18B shows detail of one of the elements.
[0073] FIG. 19 is a side view of an IMod based fiber optic endcap modulator.
[0074] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a linear tunable IMod array.
[0075] FIGS. 21A and 21B are a representational side view of a linear IMod array used in an imaging application and a components diagram.
[0076] FIG. 21A shows the view while
[0077] FIG. 21B shows the components diagram.
[0078] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a two-dimensional tunable IMod array.
[0079] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a two-dimensional IMod array used in an imaging application.
[0080] FIGS. 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, and 24E are views of an IMod display used in a watch application.
[0081] FIG. 24A shows a perspective view of a watch display,
[0082] FIGS. 24B, 24C, 24D, and 24E show examples of watch faces.
[0083] FIGS. 25A and 25B are views of an IMod display used in a head mounted display application.
[0084] FIG. 25A shows a head mounted display while
[0085] FIG. 25B shows detail of the image projector.
[0086] FIGS. 26A, 26B, 26C, and 26D are perspective views of an IMod display used in several portable information interface applications and a components diagram.
[0087] FIG. 26A shows a portable information tool,
[0088] FIG. 26B shows the components diagram,
[0089] FIG. 26C shows a cellular phone, while FIG. 26D shows a pager.
[0090] FIGS. 27A, 27B, 27C, 27D, 27E, 27F and 27G are views of an IMod display used in applications for information and decorative display, a remote control, and components diagrams.
[0091] FIGS. 27A,27B, and27D show several examples,
[0092] FIG. 27C shows a components diagram,
[0093] FIG. 27E shows a remote control, and
[0094] FIG. 27F shows another components diagram.
[0095] FIGS. 28A and 28B are side views of an IMod display used in an application for automotive decoration and a components diagram.
[0096] FIG. 28A shows a decorated automobile while
[0097] FIG. 28B shows the components diagram.
[0098] FIGS. 29A, 29B, and 29C are views of an IMod array used as a billboard display and a components diagram.
[0099] FIG. 29A shows a full billboard,
[0100] FIG. 29B shows a display segment,
[0101] FIG. 29C shows a segment pixel, and
[0102] FIG. 29D shows the components diagram.
[0103] FIGS. 30A and 30B are views of an IMod array used as an architectural exterior and a components diagram.
[0104] FIG. 30A shows the skyscaper, while
[0105] FIG. 30B shows the components diagram.
[0106] FIGS. 31A and 31B are drawings of a liquid crystal impregnated with an interferometric pigment.
[0107] FIG. 31A shows the liquid crystal cell in the undriven state while
[0108] FIG. 31B shows it in the driven state.
[0109] FIGS. 32A and 32B are drawings of an IMod array used in a projection display and a components diagram.
[0110] FIG. 32A shows the projection system while
[0111] FIG. 32B shows the components diagram.
[0112] FIGS. 33A and 33B are drawings of an IMod array used in an chemical detection device and a components diagram.
[0113] FIG. 33A shows the detection device while
[0114] FIG. 33B shows the components diagram.
[0115] FIGS. 34A, 34B, and 34C are front and side views of an IMod based automotive heads up display and a components diagram.
[0116] FIG. 34A shows the front view,
[0117] FIG. 34B shows the side view, and
[0118] FIG. 34C shows the components diagram.
[0119] FIGS. 35A and 35B are drawings of an IMod display used in an instrument panel and a components diagram.
[0120] FIG. 35A shows the panel while
[0121] FIG. 35B shows the components diagram.
IMod STRUCTURES
[0122] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, two IMod structures 114 and 116 each include a secondary mirror 102 with a corrugated pattern 104 etched into its upper (outer) surface 103, using any of a variety of known techniques. The corrugation does not extend through the membrane 106 on which the mirror is formed so that the inner surface 108 of the mirror remains smooth. FIG. 1B reveals the pattern of etched corrugation 104 on the secondary mirror and the smooth inner surface 112 which remains after etch. The corrugated pattern, which can be formed in a variety of geometries (e.g., rectangular, pyramidal, conical), provides structural stiffening of the mirror, making it more immune to variations in material stresses, reducing total mass, and preventing deformation when the mirror is actuated.
[0123] In general, an IMod which has either no voltage applied or some relatively steady state voltage, or bias voltage, applied is considered to be in a quiescent state and will reflect a particular color, a quiescent color. In the previously referenced patent applications, the quiescent color is determined by the thickness of the sacrificial spacer upon which the secondary mirror is fabricated.
[0124] Each IMod 114, 116 is rectangular and connected at its four corners to four posts 118 via support arms such as 120 and 122. In some cases (see discussion below), the IMod array will be operated at a stated constant bias voltage. In those cases, the secondary mirror 102 will always maintain a quiescent position which is closer to corresponding primary mirror 128 than without any bias voltage applied. The fabrication of IMods with differently sized support arms allows for the mechanical restoration force of each IMod to be determined by its geometry. Thus, with the same bias voltage applied to multiple IMods, each IMod may maintain a different biased position (distance from the primary mirror) via control of the dimensions of the support arm and its resulting spring constant. The thicker the support arm is, the greater its spring constant. Thus different colors (e.g., red, green, and blue) can be displayed by different IMods without requiring deposition of different thickness spacers. Instead, a single spacer, deposited and subsequently removed during fabrication, may be used while color is determined by modifying the support arm dimensions during the single photolithographic step used to define the arms. For example, in FIG. 2, IMods 114, 116 are both shown in quiescent states with the same bias voltage applied. However, the gap spacing 126 for IMod 114 is larger than gap spacing 128 for IMod 116 by virtue of the larger dimensions of its respective support arms.
[0125] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, in another technique for achieving spatially defined color, instead of affecting the quiescent position of the movable membrane, one or both of the mirrors (walls) comprising the IMod is patterned to determine its qualities spatially instead of by material thickness.
[0126] Thus, in FIG. 3A, mirror 300 has two layers 302 and 304. By etching layer 302 the effective index of refraction of layer 302, and thus the performance of mirror 300, may be altered by controlling the percentage of the layer which remains after the etch. For example, a material with index of 2 maintains that value if there is no etch at all. However if 75% of the material is etched away, the average index falls to 1.75. Etching enough of the material results in an index which is essentially that of air, or of the material which may fill in the etched area.
[0127] The mirror layer 308 in FIG. 3B, by contrast has an effective refractive index which is less than that of mirror layer 302. Because the overall behavior of both mirrors is determined by their materials properties, and the behavior of the IMod by the mirror properties, then the color of an IMod incorporating mirror 300 is different from an IMod comprising mirror 306 by virtue of spatially varying, e.g., etching or patterning, one or more of the layers comprising the mirrors. This, again, can be done in a single photolithographic step.
[0128] Referring to FIG. 4, in another type of IMod a back supporting mechanism is used instead of an array of posts and support arms (which consume useful surface area on the display). Here, the secondary mirror 402 is mechanically held by support arm 400 at location 406. Arm 400 contacts the substrate 403 at locations 408 where it occupies a minimal footprint, thereby maximizing the amount of area devoted to the mirrors 402, 404. This effect is enhanced by notches 408, 410 which allow mirrors 402 and 404 to conform to the support. Rear support could also be achieved in other ways, perhaps using multiple arms to maintain parallelism. The rear supports can also provide a basis for multilevel conductor lines. For example, an elevated conductor line 412 may be tied to support arm 400. This configuration minimizes the area on the substrate required for such purposes.
[0129] Reducing Color Shift and Supplying Supplemental Illumination
[0130] As shown in FIGS. 5A through 5C, to minimize color shift as the angle of incidence changes (a characteristic of interferometric structures) IMod structures 502, 506 are fabricated to have a very high aspect ratio, i.e., they are much taller than they are wide. Consequently, they only exhibit interferometric behavior within a narrow cone 501 of incidence angles. Incident light 500 which is within cone 501, as in FIG. 5A, interacts with the multiple layers (shown by striped sections in the figure) the composition and configuration of which are dictated by the the design of the IMod. In general, as indicated in the previous patent applications, these can consist of combinations of thin films of metals, metallic oxides, or other compounds. The important fact being that the geometry of the stack dictates that interference occurs only within a narrow cone of incidence angles. On the other hand, as seen in FIG. 5B, incident light 504 (outside of the cone) is relatively unaffected by the IMod because it interacts with only a very few layers. Such an IMod would appear, say blue, to a viewer who looks at it from a narrow range of angles.
[0131] As seen in FIG. 5C, if an array 507 of these structures 508 is fabricated such that they are oriented to cover many different viewing angles then the entire array can appear blue from a much larger range of angles. This random orientation may be achieved, for example, by fabrication on a randomly oriented surface or by random suspension in a liquid medium.
[0132] As seen in FIGS. 6A-6F, other techniques for minimizing color shift and for supplying supplemental illumination are possible. In these examples, a specially designed optical film is fabricated on the opposite surface of the substrate from the surface on which the IMod array resides. Such films can be designed and fabricated in a number of ways, and may be used in conjunction with each other.
[0133] In FIG. 6A, film 600 is a volume or surface relief holographic film. A volume holographic film may be produced by exposing a photosensitive polymer to the interference pattern produced by the intersection of two or more coherent light sources (i.e. lasers). Using the appropriate frequencies and beam orientations arbitrary periodic patterns of refractive indices witin the film may be produced. A surface relief holographic film may be produced by creating a metal master using any number of microfabrication techniques known by those skilled in the art. The master is subsequently used to the pattern into the film. Such films can be used to enhance the transmission and reflection of light within a definable cone of angles, thus minimizing off-axis light. The colors and brightness of a display viewed with on axis light are enhanced and color shift is diminished because brightness goes down significantly outside of the cone.
[0134] In FIG. 6B, another approach is shown as device 604 in which an array of structures 606 is fabricated on the substrate. These structures, which can be fabricated using the techniques described in the previously referenced patent applications, can be considered photonic crystals, as described in the book "Photonic Crystals", by John D. Joannopoulos, et al., and incorporated by reference. They are essentially three-dimensional interferometric arrays which demonstrate interference from all angles. This provides the ability to design waveguides which can perform a number of functions including channeling incident light of certain frequencies to the appropriately colored pixels, or by changing light of a certain incidence angle to a new incidence angle, or some combination of both.
[0135] In another example, seen in FIG. 6C, a three-layer polymeric film 610 contains suspended particles 611. The particles are actually single or multi-layer dielectric mirrors which have been fabricated in the form of microscopic plates. These plates, for example, may be fabricated by deposition of multilayer dielectric films onto a polymer sheet which, when dissolved, leaves a film which can "ground up" in a way which produces the plates. The plates are subsequently mixed into a liquid plastic precursor. By the application of electric fields during the curing process, the orientation of these plates may be fixed during manufacture. The mirrors can be designed so that they only reflect at a range of grazing angles. Consequently, light is either reflected or transmitted depending on the incidence angle with respect to the mirror. In this case, layer 612 is oriented to reflect light 609 of high incidence that enters the film 610 closer to the perpendicular. Layer 614 reflects light 613 of lower incidence into a more perpendicular path. Layer 616 modifies the even lower angle incident light 615. Because the layers minimally affect light which approaches perpendicularly, they each act as a separate "angle selective incidence filter" with the result that randomly oriented incident light couples into the substrate with a higher degree of perpendicularly. This minimizes the color shift of a display viewed through this film.
[0136] In another example, FIG. 6D, micro lenses 622 are used in an array in device 620. Each lens 622 may be used to enhance the fill factor of the display by effectively magnifying the active area of each pixel. This approach could be used by itself or in conjunction with the previous color shift compensation films.
[0137] In another example, FIG. 6E, device 624 uses supplemental lighting in the form of a frontlighting array. In this case an organic light emitting material 626, for example, Alq/diamine structures and poly(phenylene vinylene), can be deposited and patterned on the substrate. The top view, FIG. 6F, reveals a pattern 627 which corresponds with the IMod array underneath. That is, the light emitting areas 626 are designed to obscure the inactive areas between the IMods, and allow a clear aperture in the remaining regions. Light is emitted into the substrate onto the IMod and is subsequently reflected back to the viewer. Conversely, a patterned emitting film may be applied to the backplate of the display and light transmitted forward through the gaps between the sub-pixels. By patterning a mirror on the front of the display, this light can be reflected back upon the IMod array. Peripherally mounted light sources in conjunction with films relying on total internal reflection are yet another approach.
[0138] Brightness Control
[0139] Referring to FIG. 7A, a full color spatially dithered pixel 701 includes side-by-side sub-pixels 700, 702, and 704. Sub-pixel 700, for example, includes sub-arrays of IMods whose numbers differ in a binary fashion. For example, sub-array 706 is one IMod, sub-array 708 is 2 IMods, sub-array 710 is 4 IMods, while sub-array 718 is 128 IMods. Sub-array 712 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 7B. In the arrays, each IMod is the same size so that the amount of area covered by each sub-array is proportional to the total number of IMods in the array. Row electrodes 724 and column electrodes 722 are patterned to allow for the selective and independent actuation of individual sub-arrays. Consequently, the overall brightness of the pixel may be controlled by actuating combinations of the sub-arrays using a binary weighting scheme. With a total of 8 sub-arrays, each sub-pixel is capable of 256 brightness levels. A brightness value of 136 may be achieved, for example, by the actuation of sub-arrays 718 and 712. Color is obtained by combining different values of brightness of the three sub-pixels.
[0140] The apparent dynamic range of the display may also be enhanced using a process known as error diffusion. In some applications, the number of bits available for representing the full range of brightness values (dynamic range) may be limited by the capabilities of the drivers, for example. In such a situation, the dynamic range may be enhanced by causing neighboring pixels to have a brightness value, the average of which is closer to an absolute value that cannot be obtained given the set number of bits. This process is accomplished electronically within the controller logic, and can be accomplished without significantly affecting the display resolution.
[0141] Digital Driving
[0142] In a digital driving scheme, as shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 10, FIG. 8 is a timing diagram showing one set of voltages required to actuate a matrix addressed array of IMods. Column select pulses 800 and 802 are representative of what would be applied to a particular column. Further detail is revealed in pulse 800 which is shown to switch from voltage level Cbias to voltage Cselect. Row select pulses 804 and 806 are also shown, with 804 revealing that the required voltage levels are Rselect, Rbias, and Roff (O volts). When a column select pulse is present, and a row select pulse is applied, the pixel which resides at the intersection of the two is actuated as shown in the case of pixel 808 which resides on the row driven by select pulse 804, and subsequently in pixel 810, which resides on the row driven by pulse 806. When select pulse 804 is driven to the Roff level, pixel 808 is turned off. Pixel 812 illustrates the behavior of a pixel in an arbitrary state when a Roff value is placed on the row line, i.e., if it is on it turns off, or if it is off it remains off.
[0143] In FIG. 9, the voltages are shown in the context of a hysteresis curve which is typical of an IMod. As the applied voltage is increased, the membrane does not move significantly until the value rises beyond a certain point, which is known as the collapse threshold. After this point, the membrane undergoes full displacement. This state is maintained until the voltage is dropped below a point where actuation began. Several conditions must be met in order for this scheme to be successful. The combination of Csel and Rsel must be higher than the collapse threshold voltage, the combination of Cbias and Rsel must not fully actuate the membrane, the combination of Cbias and Rbias must maintain a displaced state, and the combination of Roff and Cbias must free the membrane.
[0144] FIG. 10A is representative of a typical matrix addressed array illustrating column lines 1000 and row lines 1002. FIG. 10B illustrates a typical shift register based driver circuit. The size of the display array and the number of bits in the register would determine how many of these components would be required for both rows and columns. Bits corresponding to the appropriate row and column values are shifted into the register and loaded on the outputs when they are required during the course of the scanning the display.
[0145] Viewing Modes
[0146] Referring to FIGS. 11, among the different generic ways to view an IMod display 1104 (the best one being selected based on the particular product application) are a direct viewing mode with the viewer 1100 perceiving the display without the aid of an image forming optical system. Direct viewing can occur in reflection mode, using reflected light 1102, or transmitted mode, using transmitted light 1106, or some combination of the two.
[0147] In another example, FIG. 12, direct viewing configurations may rely on intervening optics to form an image from an image source generated by IMod display 1204. Reflected light 1202 or transmitted light 1212, or a combination of the two, may be manipulated by macro lens system 1206. A more complicated or space critical application might require more elaborate optics. In such a case, a lens system might be implemented using a micro-lens array 1208 with or without the aid of redirection mirrors 1214.
[0148] In FIG. 13, indirect viewing may be achieved with respect to an image generated by display 1304 using either transmitted light 1310 or reflected light 1301 from light source 1300. Lens system 1302 is then used to form an image on viewing surface, 1306, which is where the viewer perceives the image.
[0149] Packaging and Driving Electronics
[0150] Referring to FIGS. 14 through 16, different techniques for packaging and providing driver electronics are illustrated in order of degree of integration. FIG. 14 shows a configuration requiring two separate substrates. The IMod display array resides on substrate 1400 which could be any one of a variety of materials described in the referenced patent applications. The IMod array is not shown because it is obscured by backplate 1404, which is bonded to substrate 1400 via seal 1402. Backplate 1404 can also be of a number of different materials with the primary requirement being that it be impermeable to water, and that its thermal coefficient of expansion be close to that of the substrate. Seal 1402 can be achieved in a number of ways. One approach involves the application of an epoxy but this results in the generation of gases during the curing process which may interfere with the operation of the devices. Another approach involves fusion or eutectic bonding which utilizes heat to create a chemical or diffusion bond between two materials, in this case the substrate and the backplate. This process may be enhanced by forming a bead, in the form of seal 1402, of additional materials such as silicon, aluminum, or other alloys which tend to bond well. This process may be further enhanced using a technique known as anodic bonding. This is similar to fusion bonding except that a voltage potential is applied across the backplate and substrate. This allows the bond to occur at a lower temperature. Other techniques are also possible.
[0151] The electronics 1410 comprise all of the row and column drivers, memory, and controller logic required to actuate the IMods in a controlled fashion. Exactly where each of these functions reside would depend on the application and degree of integration required for an application. Specific examples will be discussed in subsequent portions of this patent application. In FIG. 14, the drive electronics 1410 are shown mounted on substrate 1412. A connection is made between this substrate 1412 and the display substrate 1400, by ribbon cable 1408 and subsequently to the display array via conductors 1406. Many techniques exist for patterning the fine array of conductors for ribbon cable, as well as for connecting them to disparate substrates.
[0152] FIG. 15 shows a display where the electronics have been mounted on the display substrate. Display substrate 1500 serves as a support not only for the IMod array but also for the integrated circuits 1508. Conductors 1506 are patterned to create appropriate paths between the ICs and the array. ICs 1508 may be mounted on the substrate using a number of techniques including TAB mounting and chip-onglass techniques which rely on anisotropically conducting films.
[0153] FIG. 16 shows a display which includes fully integrated electronics and can be achieved in two fundamental ways.
[0154] In one case, substrate 1600 is an electronically inactive medium upon which the IMod array and electronics 1608 are fabricated separately or in a fabrication process with some overlap. Electronics may be fabricated using a number of techniques for building thin film transistors using materials such as amorphous silicon, polysilicon, or cadmium selenide. Electronics may also be fabricated using microelectromechanical (MEM) switches instead of, or in conjunction with thin film transistors. All of these materials are deposited on the surface of the substrate, and provide the electronically or electromechanically active medium for circuits. This implementation demonstrates a powerful approach to surface micromachining, which could be described as epi-fab. Essentially, in epi-fab all components of any microelectromechanical structure, both the mechanical and the electronic, are fabricated entirely on the surface of an inert substrate.
[0155] In the second case, the substrate is active silicon or gallium arsenide and the electronics are fabricated as a part of it. The IMod array is then fabricated on its surface. The electronics may also include more complex electronic circuits associated with the particular applications. Application specific circuits, e.g., microprocessors and memory for a laptop computer can be fabricated as well, further increasing the degree of integration.
[0156] FIGS. 17A and 17B show two drive/connection schemes. Direct drive is illustrated by a seven segment display 1700. A common conductor 1702 connects all of the segments 1703 in parallel. In addition, separate segment conductors 1704 go to each segment individually. As shown in FIG. 17B, in a detailed corner 1712 of one segment, an array of IMods 1708 are connected in parallel and would be connected as a group to a segment conductor 1704 and the common conductor 1702. The general microscopic nature of this type of IMod structure makes it necessary to group the IMods together to form larger elements to allow for direct viewing of the display. Application of a voltage between a selected one of the segment conductors and the common conductor actuates all of the IMods within that segment. The direct drive approach is limited by the fact that the number of conductors becomes prohibitive if the number of graphical elements gets large enough.
[0157] Referring to FIGS. 18A and 18B, an active matrix drive approach is shown. Row lines 1800 and column lines 1804 result in a two-dimensional array the intersections of which provide pixel locations such as 1802. As seen in FIG. 18B, each of the pixel locations 1802 may be filled with an array of parallel connected IMods 1803. In this scheme a common conductor 1808 may be connected to the row line, and the IMod array conductor, 1810, may be connected to the column line, though this could be reversed.
[0158] Product and Device Applications
[0159] The remaining figures illustrate product and device applications which use the fabrication, drive, and assembly techniques described thus far.
[0160] The IMod as an easily fabricated, inexpensive, and capable modulator can be placed in an exceptional number of roles which require the manipulation of light. These areas fall into at least two categories: IMods which are used to modulate or otherwise affect light for purposes which do not result in direct visually perceived information (embedded applications); and IMods which are used to convey codified, abstract or other forms of information via light to be visually perceived by an individual (perceived applications). All of these applications, both embedded and perceived, can be roughly divided according to array size and geometry, however these boundaries are for descriptive purposes only and functional overlap can exist across these categories. They do not represent an exhaustive list of possibilities.
[0161] One category of applications utilizes single or individual modulators which are generally for embedded applications. These may. be coupled to optical fibers or active electronics to provide, among other things, a mechanism for selecting specific frequencies on a wavelength division multiplexed fiber-optic communication system, as well as a low data rate passive fiber optic modulator. Single modulators may be coupled to semiconductor lasers to provide, among other things, a mechanism for selecting specific frequencies transmitted by the laser, as well as a low data rate laser modulator. Single modulators may be coupled to optical fibers, lasers, or active electronics to alter the phase of light reflected.
[0162] Linear arrays, though generally for embedded applications, also begin to have potential in perceived roles. Devices for printing imagery may utilize a linear array as the mechanism for impressing information on to reflected or transmitted light which is subsequently recorded in a light sensitive medium. Devices for scanning images may utilize a linear array to select different colors of a printed or real image for subsequent detection by a light sensitive device.
[0163] Yet another category of applications includes microscopic two-dimensional arrays of IMods which may be used to provide reconfigurable optical interconnects or switches between components. Such arrays may also be used to provide optical beam steering of incident light. Using a lens system, to be discussed later, may allow such an array to be readable.
[0164] Small arrays, on the order of 2″ square or smaller, may find a variety of uses for which this size is appropriate. Applications include direct view and projection displays. Projection displays can be used individually or in arrays to create virtual environments (VEs). A theater is an example of a single channel VE, while an omnimax theater, with many screens, represents a multi-channel virtual environment. Direct view displays can be used for alphanumeric and graphic displays for all kinds of consumer/commercial electronic products such as calculators, cellular phones, watches and sunglasses (active or static), jewelry, decorative/informative product labels or small format printing (business card logos, greeting card inserts, product labels logos, etc.); decorative clothing patches or inserts (sneakers, badges, belt buckles, etc.); decorative detailing or active/static graphic printing on products (tennis rackets, roller blades, bike helmets, etc.); and decorative detailing or active/static graphic printing on ceramic, glass, or metal items (plates, sculpture, forks and knives, etc.). Very large (billboard sized) displays may be produced by combining arrays of small arrays which are themselves directly driven. Embedded applications may include spatial light modulators for optical computing and optical storage. Modulator arrays fabricated on two dimensional light sensitive arrays, such as CCDs, may be used as frequency selective filter arrays for the selection of color separations during image acquisition.
[0165] Another size category of devices, medium arrays, may be defined by arrays of roughly 2″ to 6″ square. These include direct view displays for consumer electronic products including organizers, personal digital assistants, and other medium sized display-centric devices; control panels for electronic products, pocket TVs, clock faces (active and static); products such as credit cards, greeting cards, wine and other product labels; small product exteriors (walkmen, CD cases, other consumer electronic products, etc.); and larger active/static graphical patches or inserts (furniture, clothing, skis, etc.)
[0166] For arrays on the order of 6″ to 12″ square, large arrays, there exist other compelling applications. These include direct view displays for large format displaycentric products (TVs, electronic readers for digital books, magazines and other traditionally printed media, special function tools); signs (window signs, highway signs, public information and advertising signs, etc.); large consumer product exteriors/active surfaces and body panels (microwave oven, telephone, bicycle, etc.); and furniture exteriors and lighting fixtures, high end products. Direct view 3-D displays and adaptive optics are also possible.
[0167] Arrays approximately 12″ square or larger, and aggregate arrays (which are combinations of smaller arrays to achieve a larger one), further define a unique set of devices, and provide the potential to affect our overall environment. These include direct view displays for very large formats (billboards, public spaces, highway, industrial/military situation displays, etc.); Body panels and active exteriors for very large products (cars, motorcycles, air and water craft, sails, refrigerators); and active/static exteriors/interiors for very large objects (buildings, walls, windows).
[0168] In FIG. 19, a fiber optic detector/modulator 1901 includes a single IMod 1904. An optical fiber 1900 is bonded to substrate 1902. IMod 1904 resides on the substrate which is bonded to backplate 1910 by a seal 1908 using anodic bonding for example. The backplate also serves as a substrate for detector 1906. Electronics 1912 are mounted on substrate 1902 via chip-on-glass or some other previously described technique. Device 1901 could provide a number of functions depending on the nature of the IMod. For example, a reflective mode IMod could act as a modulator of light which is incident through the optical fiber. Using a design which switches between absorbing or reflecting, the intensity of the reflected light may be modulated. Using a transmissive IMod, the device could act as a transceiver. Switching the IMod between fully transmissive or fully reflective would also modulate the reflected light and thus perform as a data transmitter. Holding it in the fully transmissive state would allow the detector 1906 to respond to light incident through the fiber, thus acting like a receiver. Use of a tunable IMod would allow the device to act as a frequency sensitive detector, while not precluding modulation as well.
[0169] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21A, a linear array 2104 of IMods 2001, 2003, 2005 is supported on a substrate 2004. Each of the IMods includes a primary mirror 2006, a secondary mirror 2002, electrodes 2008, support arms 2000, and support plate 2010. Each IMod would be driven separately in a binary or analog fashion depending on the application. In the representative application shown in FIG. 21A, a transport mechanism 2106 moves a medium 2108 past a linear IMod array 2104 (the axis of the array is into the page). Two potential applications for such a configuration could include image acquisition or digital printing. In acquisition mode, component 2100 is a detector array which is coupled to IMod array 2104 via lens system 2102. Component 2110 acts as a light source, illuminating pre-printed images which reside on media 2108. By using the IMod as a tunable filter array, specific colors of the image on the media may be selected and detected, allowing for high resolution capture of graphical information residing on the media.
[0170] Alternatively, component 2100 could be a light source which uses lens system 2102 to couple and collimate light through IMod array 2104 onto media 2108. In this case, the media would be a photosensitive material which would undergo exposure as it passed beneath the array. This would provide a mechanism for the printing of high resolution color images. No electronic components reside on the array substrate in this example. FIG. 21B shows a components diagram illustrating one way in which this product could be implemented using off-the-shelf components. In this case, they comprise a central controller 2112, (including processor 2114, memory 2116, and low level I/O 2118), high level I/O components (user interface 2120 and logic 2122, detector array 2130), control components (light source 2132, media transport 2128 and logic 2126), display 2140 (logic 2138, drivers 2136, IMod array 2134) and power supply 2124. The central controller handles general purpose operational functions, the high level I/O components and display dictate how information gets in and out of the product, and the controller components manipulate peripheral devices.
[0171] Referring to FIG. 22, a two-dimensional IMod device 2201 is fabricated directly on a photosensitive detector array 2206 such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or other light sensitive array. Array 2206 has photosensitive areas 2202 and charge transport and IMod drive electronics 2204. Planarization layer 2208, deposited on the CCD, provides a flat surface for the fabrication of the IMod array 2200. Such a layer could be in the form of a curable polymer or spun-on oxide. Alternatively, some form of chemical mechanical polishing might be used to prepare an optically smooth surface on the integrated circuit. Device 2201 provides a fully integrated 2-D, tunable light detection system which can be used for image capture or image printing (if the detector is replaced with a light source).
[0172] FIG. 23 illustrates a digital camera 2301 based on this device. Camera body 2300 provides mechanical support and housing for lens system 2304 and electronics and IMod detector array 2302. Scene 2306 is imaged on the surface of the array using the lens system. By tuning the IMod array to the frequencies of light corresponding to red, green, and blue, a full color image may be acquired by combining successive digital exposures. Hyperspectral imagery (in other wavelength regions such as ultraviolet or infrared) may be obtained by tuning to frequencies between these points. Because of the high switching speed of the IMods, all three images may be acquired in the time it takes a conventional camera to capture one.
[0173] Referring to FIG. 24A, an application for smallsized displays is a digital watch 2400 (the back side of the watch is shown in FIG. 24A) which includes a reflective IMod display at its core. The IMod display comprises an IMod array 2402 and drive electronics, 2404. The display (see examples in FIGS. 24B-24E) could vary in complexity from separate graphic elements driven in a direct drive manner, to a dense array using active matrix addressing, or some combination. The electronics could be fabricated on glass using polysilicon or amorphous silicon transistors, or MEM switches. While the direct drive approach would still exploit the saturated appearance of the IMod, a dense array would allow for the selection of arbitrary or pre-programmed graphical patterns such as FIG. 24B. This would add an exciting new fashion component to watches not unlike the art oriented Swatch® only in electronic form. Owners could select from a series of preprogrammed displays 2408 (FIG. 24D), say by pushing the stem, or download limited edition displays digitally from their favorite artists.
[0174] Referring to FIG. 25A, a small transmissive IMod array is shown in a head mounted display 2511. Support 2508 provides a frame for mounting the display components and the viewer screen 2512. Referring also to FIG. 25B, the display includes a light source 2500, an IMod array 2502, a lens system 2504, and a reflector 2506. The display is used in indirect mode with the image formed on screens 2512 for the benefit of viewer 2510. Alternatively, the IMod array could be formed directly on the screen itself and thus be used in direct view mode. In both cases, the display could function to provide aesthetic imagery which could be seen by other individuals and provide an appealing dynamic external look.
[0175] Referring to FIGS. 26A through 26D, an IMod display 2604 is shown in a product with a very wide range of applications. In this case, the display is used in direct view mode, and could come in a variety of sizes depending on the specific product, but ranging in size from several inches across to about one foot diagonal. The primary goal is for a device that has a very small footprint and/or is portable, and the scheme is to facilitate mobility. The device 2600 could be described as a personal information tool, a portable digital assistant, a web browser, or by various other titles which are only now being coined to describe this class of products. In general its purpose would be to serve as a media interface for a variety of information gathering, processing, and dissemination functions, or as a mobile or stationary peripheral for a centralized processing station to which it is connected, perhaps via the internet or some wireless communications medium. A specialized peripheral in a home-based application might be a kitchen cooking assistant which would be portable and present easily readable recipes by virtue of the display and the fact that most of its processing is located in some other unit. Many other variations on this theme are possible. This tool comprises a display 2604 and some basic controls 2602. Internal components would include some combination of processing electronics, information storage, and communications hardware. Representative products range from personal organizers and digital books and magazines, to application specific tools (construction, medical, scientific) or tools for browsing the internet. Techniques for operating such a tool are varied and could range from voice recognition, to touch sensitive screens. However, all of the products would have the ability to digitally display graphical information using reflected (preferred) or transmitted light with highly saturated colors. Because it is digital, the complexity and cost of the driving electronics would be significantly reduced, and because it can use reflected light, the power consumption is extremely low while the performance remains high. These two characteristics make such a high performance display oriented product viable from an economic and portability perspective. FIG. 26C is an example of one kind of personal communications device, a cellular phone in this case though the pager of FIG. 26D is an example of another. Display 2608 is capable of displaying both graphical and text information. FIG. 26B shows a components diagram illustrating one way in which these products could be implemented using available off-the-shelf components. In this case, they comprise a central controller 2610 (including processor 2612, memory 2614, and low level I/O 2616), high level I/O components (user interface 2618 and logic 2620, audio I/O 2624, digital camera 2628, and wireless tranceiver 2630), display 2638 (logic 2636, drivers 2634, IMod array 2632) and power supply 2622. The central controller handles general purpose operational functions, while high level I/O components dictate how information gets in and out of the product.
[0176] Referring to FIGS. 27A through 27G, several applications are shown which emphasize the aesthetic nature of an IMod display as well as its information conveying aspect. An IMod display could be included in a portable compact disc player 2700 of the kind that serves as a commodity status device made by many manufacturers. By virtue of an IMod display, a larger fraction of the exterior of the player may be devoted to information display functions, indicating status of the device as well as tracks playing. Because it consumes such a large fraction of the exterior, it would be possible to have the display play a more significant role in the appearance of the CD player. Static as well as dynamic patterns and images could be displayed which may or may not have any connection with the status of the player. However, because of the rich saturated colors, the appearance becomes a significant and distinct selling point for the manufacturer. This concept holds true for any number of consumer electronic devices whose form and function could be enhanced by an active exterior. A microwave oven which pulsed red when the food was done, or a bread baking machine whose exterior changed colors as the baking process progressed are just two examples. FIG. 27C shows a components diagram illustrating one way the CD player could be implemented using off-the-shelf components. In general, they comprise a central controller 2706 (including processor 2707, memory 2710, and low level I/O 2712), high level I/O components (user interface 2702 and logic 2704), display 2722 (logic 2720, drivers 2718, IMod array 2716) disc player mechanism 2714, and power supply 2724. The central controller handles general purpose operational functions, high level I/O components dictate how information gets in and out of the product, and the disc play mechanism manipulates mechanical servos.
[0177] The skis of FIG. 27D and the sneaker of FIG. 27F are examples of consumer goods which could benefit purely from the aesthetic potential for an active exterior. In both cases, an IMod array has been fabricated on a substrate, for example flexible plastic, along with electronics and integrated into the product using any number of techniques currently used for incorporating or laminating composite pieces into fabric or solid composites. Power could be supplied by piezoelectric like devices which convert the mechanical power of movement (e.g., ski flexing or walking) into electricity. Remote control, FIG. 27E, could be used to effect control over the images displayed. Further control could be exhibited to reflect the mode of use of the product. In the case of the skis, the pattern might become more dynamic as the skier gained speed, or in the case of the shoes the strength of the runner's stride. These are only a few of the possibilities for the aesthetic enhancement of consumer goods by the use of a dynamic exteriors. FIG. 27G illustrates how a display could respond to the state of the consumer product. The control mechanism would consist of a sensor 2730, which could detect vibration (in a shoe or ski) or temperature (in a turkey), program logic 2732, which would interpret the sensor output and provide preprogrammed (or reprogrammable) images or image data to display 2734, communications input/output 2738, and display control electronics 2736.
[0178] Referring to FIGS. 28A and 28B, even larger IMod arrays are shown incorporated into the exterior of an automobile. In this case body panels 2800, 2802 as well as windows 2804, could use reflective and transmissive IMod designs respectively. Dynamic control of the exterior appearance of a car would be a very appealing option for the owner, providing the ability for the owner to customize the appearance himself, or to "download" exteriors in a digital fashion. Such a control 2806 could take the form of a small panel integrated into the dashboard which displayed various exteriors under button control. The same techniques could be applied to other highly style oriented goods in the class and functional category, including motorcycles, sailboats, airplanes and more. FIG. 28B shows a components diagram illustrating one way in which this product could be implemented using off-the-shelf components. In general, they comprise a central controller 2808 (including processor 2810, memory 2812, and low level I/O 2814), high level I/O components (user interface 2816, and logic 2818), display 2828 (logic 2826, drivers 2824, IMod array 2822) and power supply 2820. The central controller handles general purpose operational functions, while high level I/O components dictate how information gets in and out of the product.
[0179] Referring to FIGS. 29A through 29D, billboard-sized arrays 2900 of IMod display segments could be assembled and replace current static displays used for advertising and public service announcements. Display 2900 would include reflective devices to be illuminated by ambient light or a supplemental light source 2902. A large display could be assembled from individual segments 2904 (FIG. 29B) which would support segment pixels 2906. Each segment pixel would include three sets of sub-pixel arrays 2910, 2912, and 2914, which would reside on pixel substrate 2908 (FIG. 29C). The resulting large displays could range from placards on the sides of buses and inside of subways, to billboards, to entire architectural structures such as homes or skyscrapers. In FIG. 30A, skyscraper 3000 is an example of a large building which exploits the aesthetic and cheap manufacture of the IMod array. All of the glass used in the manufacture of such structures is coated with thin films up to 4 or more layers thick to provide energy efficient coatings. Similiar coating techinques could be applied to the manufacture of the IMod arrays. FIG. 30B shows a components diagram illustrating one way in which both of these products could be implemented using off-the-shelf components. In this case, they comprise a central controller 3002 (including processor 3004, memory 3006, and low level I/O 3006), high level I/O components (PC based user interface 3008), display 3020 (logic 3018, drivers 3016, IMod array 3014), lighting control 3012, and power supply 3010. The central controller handles general purpose operational functions, high level I/O components dictate how information gets in and out of the product, and the controller components manipulate supplementary lighting and peripheral components.
[0180] It should be noted that several alternative display technologies may also be applicable to some of the less rigorous aesthetic applications, in particular, small AMLCDs, LCDs fabricated on active crystalline silicon, field emission displays (FEDs), and possibly plasma based displays. These technologies are deficient due to their price, manufacturing complexity, and non-reflective (emissive) operation. However, certain high-end fashion oriented products (luxury watches, jewelry and clothing) may command a price and provide an environment which could make these viable approaches. Organic emitters could be particularly suited for exterior applications which are not necessarily exposed to environmental extremes and which might be seen in dimly lit situations. They are the only emissive technology which offers the potential for very low-cost and ease of manufacture. The Alq/diamine structures and poly(phenylene vinylene) materials, which were described before, could be patterned and directly addressed on a variety of substrates (plastic clothing inserts for example) to provide dynamic exteriors.
[0181] FIG. 31A shows interferometric particles suspended in a liquid crystal medium, 3100, making possible full color liquid crystal displays based on the controlled orientation of the particles within the medium. As shown in FIG. 31B, application of a voltage between electrodes 3102 from source 3104 causes the particles to be driven from their random quiescent orientation 3106 defined by the liquid crystal and the surfaces of the substrate into an orderly orientation 3108. When the particles are randomly oriented, light of a specific color 3110 is reflected. When the particles are ordered, light 3112 passes through.
[0182] Referring to FIG. 32A, two kinds of projection display units, 3200 and 3202, are shown. Each unit comprises components consisting of light source/optics 3206, electronics 3204, projection optics 3210, and IMod array 3208. While the IMod array in projector 3200 is designed for use in transmission mode, the IMod array in projector 3202 is designed for use in reflection mode. The other components are essentially the same with the exception of the need to modify the optics to accommodate the difference in the nature of the optical path. Screen 3212 shows a representative projected image. FIG. 32B shows a components diagram illustrating one way in which this product could be implemented using off-the-shelf components. In this case, they comprise a central controller 3212 (including processor 3214, memory 3216, and low level I/O 3218), high level I/O components (user interface 3220 and logic 3222), display 3236 (logic 3234, drivers 3232, IMod array 3230) focus/light source control 3226, and power supply 3224. The central controller handles general purpose operational functions, high level I/O components dictate how information gets in and out of the product, and the controller components manipulate peripheral devices.
[0183] An application in chemical analysis is illustrated in FIG. 33A. Transparent cavity 3300 is fabricated such that gas or liquid medium 3302 may pass through its length. Light source 3304 is positioned to project broad spectrum light through the medium into tunable IMod array 3306. This array could be coupled to a fiber 3308, or reside on a detector array with 3308 acting as data link to electronics 3310. By spectrally analyzing the light which passes through the medium, much can be determined about its composition in a compact space. Such a device could be used to measure the pollutants in an air stream, the components in a liquid, separations in an chromatographic medium, fluorescing compounds in a medium, or other analytes which can be measured using light, depending on the frequency of the light source. FIG. 33B shows a components diagram illustrating one way in which this product could be implemented using off-the-shelf components. In this case, they comprise a central controller 3312 (including processor 3314, memory 3316, and low level I/O 3318), high level I/O components (user interface 3320, and logic 3322), IMod drivers 3330 and IMod 3328, light source 3326 , and power supply 3324. The central controller handles general purpose operational functions, high level I/O components dictate how information gets in and out of the product, and the controller components manipulate peripheral devices.
[0184] FIG. 34A illustrates an automotive application from a driver's viewpoint. FIG. 34B represents a side view of the windshield and dashboard. A direct view graphical display 3404 portrays a variety of information, for example, an enhanced view of the roadway. An image generated in the windshield via a heads-up display. Such a display is a variation on the previously discussed projection system. In this case, the inside of the windshield acts as a translucent projection screen, and the projector 3406 is mounted in the dashboard. Automotive applications have very stringent requirements for heat, and UV stability, as well as high brightness ambient conditions which would be ideal for an IMod application. FIG. 34C shows a components diagram illustrating one way in which these products could be implemented using off-the-shelf components. In this case, they comprise a central controller 3410 (including processor 3412, memory 3414, and low level I/O 3416), high level I/O components (user interface 3418, digital camera 3428, auto sensors 3424), display 3436 (logic 3434, drivers 3432, IMod array 3430) and power supply 3422. The central controller handles general purpose operational functions, high level I/O components dictate how information gets in and out of the product, and the controller components manipulate peripheral devices.
[0185] FIG. 35A portrays an application involving an instrument panel, in this case an oscilloscope 3500, though many kinds of special purpose tools could benefit from a graphical display. In this situation, display 3502, is used to show a waveform plot but could also, as described previously, display text, or combinations of graphics and text. Portable low-power tools for field use would benefit greatly from a full-color fast response FPD. FIG. 35B shows a components diagram illustrating one way in which these products could be implemented. All of the components are available off-the-shelf and could be configured by one who is skilled in the art. In this case, they comprise a central controller 3508 (including processor 3510, memory 3514, and low level I/O 3516), high level I/O components (user interface 3518 and logic 3520), display 3534 (logic 3532, drivers 3530, IMod array 3528) and power supply 3522. The central controller handles general purpose operational functions, while high level I/O components dictate how information gets in and out of the product.
[0186] Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.
1. A modulator of light comprising
- an interference cavity for causing interference modulation of the light, the cavity having a mirror, the mirror comprising a corrugated surface.
2. A modulator of light comprising
- an interference cavity for causing interference modulation of the light to produce a color condition visible to an observer, the color condition being determined by the spatial configuration of the modulator.
3. The modulator of claim 2 wherein the interference cavity comprises
- a mirror and
- a supporting structure holding the mirror,
- and wherein the spatial configuration comprises the configuration of the supporting structure.
4. The modulator of claim 2 wherein the interference cavity comprises
- a mirror, and wherein
- the spatial configuration comprises patterning of the mirror.
5. The modulator of claim 2 wherein the interference cavity comprises
- a mirror, and
- a supporting structure holding the mirror, and wherein the supporting structure is coupled to a rear surface of the mirror.
6. A structure for modulating light comprising
- modulators of light each including an interference cavity for causing interference modulation of the light, each of the modulators having a viewing cone,
- the viewing cones of different ones of the modulators being aligned in different directions.
7. The structure of claim 6 in which the viewing cones of the different modulators are aligned in random directions.
8. The structure of claim 6 in which the viewing cones of the modulators are narrower than the viewing cone of the overall structure.
9. A structure for modulating light comprising
- modulators of light each including an interference cavity for causing interference modulation of the light, and
- a liquid medium in which the modulators are suspended.
10. A structure for modulating light comprising
- modulators of light each including an interference cavity for causing interference modulation of the light, and
- an optical compensation mechanism coupled to the modulators which enhances the optical performance of the structure.
11. The structure of claim 10 in which the mechanism comprises a combination of one or more of a holographically patterned material, a photonic crystal array, a multilayer array of dielectric mirrors, or an array of microlenses.
12. The structure of claim 1 wherein the brightness and/or color are controlled by error diffusion.
13. A modulator of light comprising
- an interferometric modulator, and
- an optical fiber coupled to the interferometric modulator.
14. The application of claim 13 wherein the IMod is used in the analysis of chemical, organic, or biological components.
15. An information printing system comprising
- an array of interference modulators of light,
- a lens system, and
- a media transport mechanism.
16. An image capture system comprising
- an array of interference modulators of light,
- a lens system, and
- a media transport mechanism.
17. An information projection system comprising
- an array of interference modulators of light,
- a lens system,
- mechanical scanners, and
- control electronics.
18. The system of claim 17 in which the control electronics are configured to generate projected images for virtual environments.
19. The application of claim 18 in which the array includes liquid crystals or microelectromechanical modulators.
20. A product comprising
- an operational element, a display element,
- a housing enclosing the operational element and having a display element, the display element including a surface viewed by a user, and
- an array of interference modulators of light on the surface.
21. The product of claim 20 in which the operational element comprises a personal communications device.
22. The product of claim 20 in which the operational element comprises a personal information tool.
23. The product of claim 20 in which the operational element comprises a vehicular control panel.
24. The product of claim 20 in which the operational element comprises an instrument control panel.
25. The product of claim 20 in which the operational element comprises a time keeping device.
26. The product of claim 20 in which the operational element comprises an article of clothing or portion thereof.
27. The product of claim 20 in which the operational element comprises an item of jewelry.
28. The product of claim 20 in which the operational element comprises a sporting good.
29. The product of claim 20 in which the array substantially alters the aesthetic or decorative features of the surface.
30. The product of claim 29 in which the aesthetic component responds to a state of use of the consumer product.
31. The product of claim 29 in which the aesthetic component is downloaded or derived from an external source.
32. The product of claim 29 wherein the array also provides information.
33. The application of claim 29 wherein liquid crystals, field emission, plasma, or organic emitter based technologies and associated electronics are used as the modulation array.
34. The device of claim 1 comprising an application incorporating aggregate arrays of IMods.
35. The application of claim 34 wherein the array is used to display information on signs or billboards.
36. A vehicle comprising
- a body panel,
- an array of interference modulators of light on a surface of the body panel, and
- electronic circuitry for determining the aesthetic appearance of the body panel by controlling the array of interference modulators.
37. A building comprising
- external surface elements,
- an array of interference modulators of light on a surface of the body panel, and
- electronic circuitry for determining the aesthetic appearance of the surface elements by controlling the array of interference modulators.
38. A full color active display comprising
- a liquid crystal medium, and
- interferometric elements embedded in the medium.
39. A structure comprising
- a substrate,
- micromechanical elements formed on the surface of the substrate, and
- electronics connected to control the elements, the electronics being formed also on the surface of the substrate.
Patent History
Type: Application
Filed: Feb 19, 2002
Publication Date: Sep 12, 2002
Patent Grant number: 7042643
Applicant: Iridigm Display Corporation, a Delaware corporation
Inventor: Mark W. Miles (Boston, MA)
Application Number: 10078282
International Classification: G02F001/03; G02F001/07;


text:
日落 Sunset
日落 Sunset
The first dimension line includes a white silk border and the second dimension only includes the drawing area.
31 ½ in x 31 ½ in (80 cm x 80 cm)
26 ¼ in x 26 ¼ in (67 cm x 67 cm)
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All paintings use traditional Chinese water colors with gouache on top of traditional Chinese rice paper. The paint was applied to both sides of the paper several times in order to maximize the depth, a sense of mystery, and richness of the color, textures, and the meaning.
(If interested in a particular piece, contact the artist directly)

subset: commoncrawl


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Nike L91 Custom Tech Cap
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Dri-FIT technology helps keep you dry and comfortable. Soft hook-and-loop closure lets you adjust your fit. Embroidered eyelets help enhance breathability. Terry sweatband is soft and absorbent. Designed to let you easily apply custom graphics, like a crest or logo. 100% Polyester.
One size fits most.


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Final Technical Reports are required only for grants awarded before FY14. For grants awarded in FY14 and beyond, please visit Post Award Reporting Requirements, Final Summary Overview for a description of the new deliverable requirements.
The Final Technical Report is cumulative (covers the entire award period, including supplements) and describes project activities in sufficient detail to permit replication of the research method and design, including a review of relevant literature, methods including detailed description of data collection and analysis procedures, modifications to or problems with the original research design, findings, and conclusions. In most cases, the Final Technical Report will undergo external peer-review, and, when finalized, will be made available on the NCJRS Web site.
Below is an outline that describes the content and format of Final Technical Reports.
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AbstractThe Abstract contains 600 words or less and presents a concise picture of the proposed research. Major constructs and hypotheses are included. The Abstract is the first section of the final report. The abstract should serve as a succinct and accurate description of the project. Research goals and objectives, research design, and methods for achieving the goals and objectives should be concisely described. The abstract should include statement of purpose, description of research subjects, methods, results and conclusions.
Table of ContentsThe Table of Contents should be placed after the Abstract and prior to the Executive Summary.
Executive SummaryThe Executive Summary contains 2,500 to 4,000 words and includes a brief synopsis of the problem, purpose, research design, findings and conclusions including implications for policy and practice. The Executive Summary should contain sufficient detail as to serve as a "stand-alone" summary of the entire project.
Main Body of the Final Technical ReportThe Main Body should contain the sections listed below.
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Both age and monetary concerns were behind the Green Bay Packers' decision to let former defensive end Cullen Jenkins walk in free agency following the team's win in Super Bowl XLV.
After the lockout ended in late July of 2011, Packers general manager Ted Thompson wasn't even remotely interested in giving Jenkins the kind of length (five years) and dollars ($25 million) he eventually landed, especially after Jenkins turned 30 years old in January of 2011.
Two offseasons later, Thompson and the Packers are still attempting to fill the hole on the defensive line left by Jenkins' departure to the Philadelphia Eagles. In fact, defensive end remains one of the defense's biggest weaknesses as Green Bay limps into another offseason because of a defensive letdown.
With the free agency and the 2013 NFL draft quickly approaching, the position should sit high on Thompson's offseason priority list.
Finding another version of the versatile defensive end might be easier said than done, however.
At 6-2 and 305 pounds, Jenkins never fit the long, slimmer body type of some of the game's best 3-4 defensive ends. Justin Smith of the San Francisco 49ers is 6-4 and 285 pounds, J.J. Watt of the Houston Texans is 6-6 and 295 pounds and Calais Campbell of the Arizona Cardinals is 6-8 and 300 pounds. The top five finishers at the position this season—Watt, Muhammad Wilkerson, Campbell, Jason Hatcher and Smith, according to Pro Football Focus—averaged out at 6-5 and 290 pounds.
Despite a shorter, stockier stature, Jenkins still possessed the kind of agility and quickness needed to collapse pockets as a five-technique in the 3-4 defense. He was also powerful enough to anchor against the run, giving Jenkins an ability to play all three downs regardless of scheme.
The Packers simply don't have a player like Jenkins on the defensive line currently.
C.J. Wilson (6-3, 290) can anchor against the run in the base defense, but he provides next to nothing in terms of a consistent pass rush. Over nearly 1,200 career snaps, Wilson has just 26 quarterback disruptions and 3.5 sacks. While fine as a rotational player, Wilson is nothing more than a below-average starter.
Rookie Mike Daniels (6-0, 290) is far too short to be a three-down player at defensive end. As a situational pass rusher, Daniels can shoot gaps and disrupt passing plays using his quickness. But he isn't nearly big enough to hold up for 30-plus plays against the run, meaning he'll always be somewhat of a limited player.
Fellow first-year player Jerel Worthy (6-2, 290) still has a chance to develop into a Jenkins-like player. His quickness may always be Worthy's go-to attribute, and it was clear that he cut weight to ensure that remained. But he doesn't currently have the height or power in his game to be a regular in the base defense, and an ACL injury that required surgery now clouds his immediate future. He was disappointing as a pass rusher in his first season. What he becomes is still very much up in the air.
Most will view Mike Neal (6-3, 295) as the best hope at the position. He was miles ahead of any other defensive lineman in pressure ratio this season, and his length and power might be the best of any defensive lineman. That said, he struggles to anchor against the run and always seems to be one play away from the training table. The Packers can't be confident that he'll ever be anywhere close to the kind of player against the run that Jenkins was, which limits how often he can be in the base defense.
The numbers support the difference a rare player like Jenkins made.
According to PFF, from 2008-10, Jenkins provided 98 total quarterback disruptions (15 sacks, 21 quarterback hits and 62 hurries) over 927 pass-rushing snaps. He also provided 45 "stops" in the run game, or plays constituting a negative play for the offense.
In the two years since, Green Bay's production from Jenkins' replacements has been mostly lacking against the pass and run.
Over 1,473 (or 546 more) pass-rushing snaps, a combination of Jarius Wynn, Wilson, Neal, Worthy and Daniels has produced just 66 total quarterback disruptions (16/7/43). The five players also combined for 65 stops over nearly twice the amount of overall snaps than Jenkins had over a three-year span.
In comparison, Watt combined for 76 disruptions and 72 stops in 958 snaps over 16 games this season. Jenkins, over 642 snaps at both defensive end and defensive tackle for Philadelphia, recorded 30 disruptions and 18 stops.
The overall defensive ranks also supports Jenkins' impact.
The Packers defense finished the 2009 season ranked seventh in points (18.6), second in yards (284.4), 11th in sacks (37.0) and first against the run (83.3). The next season—Jenkins' last in Green Bay—the Packers finished second in points (15.0), fifth in yards (309.1), second in sacks (47.0) and 18th against the run (114.9).
The first season without Jenkins saw drops across the board. Green Bay finished 2011 ranked 19th in points (22.4), 32nd in yards (411.6), 27th in sacks (29.0) and 14th against the run (111.8). In 2012, the numbers improved slightly. The Packers were 11th in both points (21.0) and yards (336.8), fourth in sacks (47.0) and 17th against the run (118.5).
While hundreds of factors go into the final ranks of a defense, the absence of an impact player at defensive end certainly contributed to such a precipitous drop off.
In the last handful of drafts, Thompson has just missed on the opportunity to land an impact 3-4 defensive end such as Kendall Reyes (6-4, 300), Corey Liuget (6-3, 300) or Wilkerson. Mike Neal shows flashes but remains a work in progress, Worthy struggled in his first year and Daniels is probably nothing more than a rotational player.
While the Packers have a number of personnel issues that need fixing this offseason, possibly no position needs to add an impact player quite like defensive end. Finding a suitable replacement for Jenkins—whether its in the first round of April's draft or elsewhere—is a must if the Packers are going to survive and thrive in the 3-4 defense.
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San Francisco, CAUSA
August 22, 2018
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Help support your group
SF Python is your opportunity to grow your technical career by learning and sharing what you know with other local Python developers!
• If you'd like to submit a 25 or 40 mins talk, please do so via PyBay's CFP process. CFP closes May 12, 2019
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Organized by a handful of volunteers with the help of some faithful sponsors and your generous donations, we host about 20 events a year:
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- Presentation Night on the 2nd Wednesday of each month features intermediate to advanced level tech talks from Python Software Foundation members, core developers of open-source projects, and local software engineers.
- Project Night on the 3rd Wednesday of most months offers a chill evening to hack on projects, get questions answered, mentor other devs, or attend a tutorial. It's usually held at various companies in SF so you get to sample how different companies are using Python.
PyBay, a yearly regional Python Conference
PyBay is the local version of PyCon. It's a 4-day event in August with 750+ Python devs, 9+ workshops, 60+ talks, expo, happy hour, and a lot more.
An annual holiday party
We think you'd agree that if you have been coming to SF Python's events, you have been advancing in your field. So come celebrate the year with us. We will listen to more amazing speakers while enjoying great food, drinks and live music.
Why do we put these events up?
We believe there is power in in-person interactions. We believe in learning, sharing, and helping each other out. And we have seen the results. We have heard stories of people getting their problems solved because of the talks and the people they met at our events. We have witnessed people grow in their career, from receiving their first internship to landing their first speaking gig at conferences. We have even heard companies migrating to a different platform/technologies after attending our conference.
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An English and drama teacher has been jailed for 20 months after he admitted grooming and sexually abusing a teenage girl.
Andrew Willson, of Church Hill, Hollowell, Northamptonshire, will also have to spend 10 years on the sex offenders' register after he pleaded guilty to five counts of indecent assault last year at Burnley Crown Court.
The offences took place between 1995 and 1996 while he was a drama teacher at Fearns High School, Bacup. His victim was a girl aged 13.
Det Con Mick Smith, from the East Public Protection Unit, of Lancashire Constabulary, said: "The victim has shown enormous courage in coming forward and reporting these offences to us and I hope today's result brings her some form of closure and enables her to move forward with her life.
"I also hope the outcome of this case will encourage other victims to come forward and report crimes to the police safe in the knowledge that we are determined to bring those who commit sexual offences to justice, regardless of when they took place."


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Self-proclaimed hardware scientist David Reynolds has quite a knack for music gear, and this visceral fascination for the finest Rolands, Korgs and Akais feeds his dreamlike, soothing techno stylings. The versatile Vancouver-bred producer toys with drum machines daily as a synth technician, fashions wistful cold-wave compositions with both vintage and modern tools, and performs all-hardware live sets full of glowing minimalism and buoyant melodies as Cloudface. His promising debut Wyre Drive (2012), released on cassette tape, upholds Reynolds' mystique with its murky, throbbing transistor ripples.
Video: Diagraf


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MADRID (MarketWatch) -- General Electric Co. GE, -2.69% announced Friday that it earned $4.01 billion in the fourth quarter, or 38 cents a share, compared to $3.73 billion, or 35 cents, in the year-ago quarter. Operating earnings in the quarter were 44 cents a share, a gain of 13%, beating a 43-cent forecast of analysts surveyed by FactSet Research. Revenue for GE was $39.33 billion in the quarter, compared to $37.97 billion in the year-ago quarter. Analysts were forecasting revenue of $38.86 billion. "The outlook for developed markets remains uncertain, but we are seeing growth in China and the resource rich countries. With our largest backlog in history and a substantial amount of cash generated by our businesses in the fourth quarter, we have great momentum going into 2013," said GE Chairman and CEO Jeff Immelt.
GE beats view with op. earnings growth of 44c
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-0.22 -2.69%


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I would love to introduce you to Israelle...here she is with her blessed parents on a recent photoshoot I did as a gift for them here in Red Deer. This little girl and family has been in the heart of our prayers for a long while...I can't even remember when we started praying. I know our inital prayers that were Peter and Theresa would be blessed with a baby through the adoption process...God heard, God answered, God moved! We have seen and been part of God's wonder through a lot of their last year.
The reason this wee girlie is so special to my heart is that she is so near to Abigails age and I have never felt a strong connection to anyone as I have to her through prayer. I have never experienced the power of connection through prayer as she and her family faced so many hospital stays and so much medical stuff. **I can't quote correctly all of the things that Israelle has medically had to endure and continues to live with as it is way beyond my comprehension and I know I won't get the terminology right and all that jazz**
I do this know...a miracle was had here in more way then one...Theresa and Peter have their very own little girl to tuck into bed every.single.night. The doctors were left asking "whose heart is this?" the day before she was scheduled to have open heart surgery (for the second time) as it looked way too good to be Israelle's broken heart and they SENT.THEM.HOME. Can you imagine? You think your baby is going to have her chest cut open AGAIN to repair her heart AGAIN and the doctors are left wondering "what has happened here...this baby's heart looks fine" GOD IS WHAT HAPPENED THERE. God is what is happening there. God is still what is going to happen there. Amazing stuff. I am almost in tears as I repeat the story to you from a couple of months ago.
You just never know why certain people come into your life, or what place they will have. All of this started as a result of Theresa finding my name on the Creative Memories Consultant finder as she and her mom were looking to buy some products. Next thing you know we are given the opportunity to provide hope to a family who has gone through a tremendous amount of heartache and hospital stuff, and prayer to the Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty Healer, Name above all Names...our God.
The smile on this little girls face warms my heart and I am so blessed to know her and her family.


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Auburn v LSU showdown highlights slow weekend
On a weekend when match-ups between top tier teams are lacking, a Saturday night clash of Tigers in Death Valley pits two undefeated SEC squads in a rivalry that has historically produced close games.
The No.6 ranked LSU Tigers come into their SEC home opener looking to knock off a rejuvenated Auburn Tiger squad that has already matched last season's win total under new head coach Gus Malzahn.
"I think they are as talented as the other teams that you would see come out of Auburn, but I just think they are well prepared," Miles said in his weekly press conference released by LSU online. "I think they are flying around for their
coach. Shoot, I wouldn't expect it any differently."
Under center for the Bayou Bengals, senior quarterback Zach Mettenberger leads the SEC in passing efficiency through three games and has thrown for 797 yards and nine touchdowns with zero interceptions.
The former Georgia Bulldog seems to have found a comfort zone under new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron.
"I think he's (quarterback Zach Mettenberger) understanding what we want, doing the things. I think he's kind of ‑‑ he's geared in and his nine touchdown passes in three games is a school record," Miles said.
LSU again sports its usual stable of quality running backs and play maker Odell Beckham, Jr. provides an explosive presence both at the wide receiver position and on special teams.
On the other side, Malzahn leads his Tigers squad into Death Valley on the heels of an exciting 24-20 victory over Mississippi State. The win was Auburn's first SEC victory since the 2011 season.
Junior quarterback Nick Marshall came up huge late, leading the Tigers on a 12 play, 88 yard drive that was capped by an 11 yard game-winning touchdown strike to tight end C.J. Uzomah with 10 seconds left in regulation.
Auburn's rushing attack has the potential to give LSU issues, but the Tigers will need their defence to improve if they hope to spring the upset on the Bayou Bengals. Auburn's defence ranks 92nd nationally in total yards allowed.
LSU, who hasn't lost to Auburn at home since 1999, has recently taken control of this series, winning 5 out of the last 6 contests between the Tigers.
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