The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 11, 2000
Filed:
Aug. 26, 1997
Michael James Montour, Vancouver, CA;
Robin John Coope, Vancouver, CA;
The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, CA;
Abstract
Apparatus for controlling an image display device having at least one element with a reflective state in which incident light undergoes total internal reflection and a non-reflective state in which the total internal reflection is prevented. A member is positioned adjacent the element for deformation of the member between a first position in which a gap remains between the member and the element and a second position in which the member is in optical contact with the element. The apparatus incorporates a support structure having one or more display chambers. Each display chamber contains one of the elements and members aforesaid. A first aperture is provided in the support structure for air communication between the display chamber and a second chamber provided in the support structure. A preferably elastomeric valve member is provided in the second chamber, for deformation of the valve member between a closed position in which the valve member is biased against the first aperture to prevent air communication through the first aperture and an open position in which the valve member is biased away from the first aperture to permit air communication through the first aperture. A second aperture is provided in the support structure for air communication against a base of the valve member; and, a third aperture is provided in the support structure for air communication through the second chamber and through the first aperture when the valve member is in the open position.