A volumetric three-dimensional display based on integrated waveguides

A volumetric three-dimensional display based on integrated channel waveguides was constructed. The prototype display volume occupies approximately six cubic inches and contains over two thousand voxels (display elements). The display is capable of showing observers an all around view of full motion three-dimensional color images. The images are created inside the display volume by selectively addressing a three-dimensional array of voxels. A separate integrated channel waveguide extends from the edge of the display to each voxel. When light is coupled into the desired waveguides, the corresponding voxels become bright. The sum of the bright voxels forms a three-dimensional color image, which can be modified in real time. The channel waveguides are formed into thin glass substrates by locally increasing the refractive index of the host glass through a field assisted ion exchange process. The ion exchange replaces some of the sodium ions present in the glass matrix with potassium ions from a molten salt mix. The process takes place at 400...