PARALLAX BARRIER Meaning and
Definition
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Parallax barrier refers to a technology used primarily in glasses-free 3D displays, where a device is equipped with a special barrier that enables the viewer to perceive three-dimensional images without the need for wearing 3D glasses. The parallax barrier is a layer containing a series of thin, parallel barriers or slits that are placed in front of the display's pixels.
The parallax barrier works by controlling the direction of light emitted by the pixels of the display. Each barrier has a slight offset from the neighboring one, which allows the light to be directed in slightly different directions. When the viewer is positioned in front of the device, the barriers ensure that different images are seen by each eye. This creates a stereoscopic effect, where each eye perceives a slightly different view, thus generating the illusion of depth.
The success of parallax barrier technology largely depends on the viewing angle of the display. At optimal positions, the viewer can experience a convincing 3D effect. However, if the viewer shifts their angle of vision or moves away from the ideal viewing spot, the barrier may obstruct the light and cause visual artifacts or reduce the quality of the 3D effect.
Parallax barrier technology has been implemented in various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and handheld gaming consoles, to offer users a glasses-free 3D experience. With ongoing advancements, researchers are continually working on refining the parallax barrier to improve the viewing experience and expand its applications in the field of 3D display technology.
Etymology of PARALLAX BARRIER
The word "parallax" originates from the Greek word "parallaxis", which means "alternation". It is a combination of the prefix "para-" meaning "beside" or "beyond", and the verb "allaxis" meaning "change" or "exchange". The term describes the apparent displacement or change in position of an object when viewed from different angles.
The word "barrier" comes from the Middle English word "barere" which means "a bar, obstacle, or boundary". It can be traced back to the Old French word "bariere" and the Latin word "barra", both of which carry a similar meaning.
Therefore, when combined, the term "parallax barrier" refers to an obstacle or boundary that creates a parallax effect, leading to a perception of depth or three-dimensionality when viewing an object.
