REAL-TIME HIGH-RESOLUTION 3-D LARGE-SCREEN DISPLAY USING LASER-ACTIVATED LIQUID CRYSTAL LIGHT VALVES

A number of viewers wearing polarized glasses are presented real-time, hiresolution, three-dimensional projected images on a distant screen at video image signal rates. Two laser raster scanners each activate a separate one of two liquid crystal light valves with information representative of left or right eye images. A high intensity light source is polarized through a prism so that one component is directed to one liquid crystal light valve and an orthogonal component reaches the other liquid crystal light valve. Both components of the high intensity light are modulated by the valves and reflected back through the prism onto the distant screen. Laser diodes and solid-state vertical and horizontal deflection components in the laser raster scanners combined with the liquid crystal light valves and a single bi-polar prism result in a reliable, compact unit capable of providing long term economical displays. Three-dimensional viewing in real-time gives planners a more realistic apprisal of certain features such as terrain and obstacles so that responsive decisions may be reached and decisive action may be taken.