Abstract: New reflective display architecture embodiments are disclosed to create specular or paper-like reflectance comprising a transparent outer sheet with an optional light diffusing layer, a rear backplane electrode, a perforated continuous reflective or non-reflective film with a thin conductive reflective or transparent layer acting as a front electrode facing the transparent outward sheet placed between the transparent outward sheet and rear backplane electrode. Other variations include semi-retroreflective or sintered TiO2 layers atop the front electrode. Light is modulated by reflectance or absorbance of the light rays that pass through the transparent outward sheet by movement of light absorbing electrophoretically mobile particles within an optically transparent liquid or air medium. A voltage bias is applied across the medium by a voltage source to move the electrophoretically mobile particles.

Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to a front-lit display having transparent and selectively emissive light directionality. The disclosed semi-retro-reflective, semi-specular and specular displays include directional front light systems that reflect light in a manner to preserve the non-Lambertian characteristic of the light output. This leads to brighter displays with a higher degree of luminance as compared to conventional microencapsulated electrophoretic displays with substantially Lambertian reflectance where much of the light is not reflected back towards the viewer.

Abstract: The brightness of a TIR-based display is enhanced with a registered reflective element by recycling and reflecting light that passes through the dark pupil region of each hemi-spherical protrusion in the hemi-spherical surface back to the viewer. A method to fabricate a brightness enhanced TIR display comprising an apertured membrane with a thin conductive reflective metal layer facing and registered with the pupils of the hemi-spherical surface.