Overview
IEC TR 62977-2-4:2018 provides a detailed overview of the application scenarios for transparent electronic displays, focusing on the two major technologies: liquid crystal (LC) displays and organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays. This technical report, developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), introduces key observation and illumination considerations important for establishing reliable measurement methods for transparent displays. The report addresses direct view displays, excluding projection-based systems, and emphasizes the challenges of achieving optimal performance when overlaid information and real-world objects coexist in the same visual field.
Transparent displays are an innovative solution in the rapidly evolving field of electronic visual devices, enabling information to be presented alongside real-world objects in a seamless viewing experience. This standardization document supports stakeholders in understanding core performance factors, typical usage environments, and practical challenges in transparent display implementation.
Key Topics
- Display Technologies: Focuses on transparent LC and OLED display types, outlining their fundamental working principles and performance characteristics.
- Performance Aspects: Distinguishes between on-screen (information generated by the display via emission or transmission) and through-screen (objects or scenes visible behind the display) performance.
- Ambient Light Effects: Highlights how external illumination from both the observer side and the rear side of the display can affect contrast, color, and overall optical performance.
- Visual Information: Discusses intended visual information (the content purposefully displayed) and unwanted contributions from ambient light, such as reflection or scattering, which can degrade display quality.
- Measurement Considerations: Introduces the importance of observation direction, measurement spot control, and the influence of diffraction and scattering on measurement reproducibility and display performance.
- Typical Application Scenarios: Presents various real-world settings, both indoor and outdoor, where transparent displays can be effectively deployed.
Applications
Transparent displays offer new possibilities for interactive and informative environments by enabling visual overlays on real-world objects. Based on IEC TR 62977-2-4, typical application scenarios include:
- Retail and Advertising: Transparent display panels can be integrated into shop windows, product showcases, and refrigerator doors to provide real-time product information without obstructing the physical view of displayed items.
- Augmented Reality (AR): Enables overlaying digital content onto real-world objects, enhancing information delivery in both professional and consumer-facing applications.
- Automotive and Aerospace: Used in head-up displays (HUDs) to project essential information directly into the driver’s or pilot’s line of sight without obstructing their view of the surrounding environment.
- Public Information Displays: Employed in museums or exhibitions to offer additional context or interactive content alongside visible artifacts or scenery.
- Architectural Integration: Embedded into glass walls or partitions in commercial buildings for dynamic signage or interior design features.
When deploying transparent displays, consideration must be given to ambient illuminance, display orientation, and installation location to optimize visual clarity and minimize the impact of unwanted reflections or glare.
Related Standards
For a holistic approach to transparent display performance and measurement, consider these related standards:
- IEC 62341-6-1: OLED Displays – Measuring methods of optical and electro-optical parameters
- IEC 62341-6-2: OLED Displays – Measuring methods of visual quality and ambient performance
- IEC 62341-6-4: OLED Displays – Measuring methods of transparent properties
- IEC 61966-2-1: Multimedia systems and equipment – Colour management – Default RGB colour space (sRGB)
- CIE 15-2004: Colorimetry
These standards provide additional guidance on measurement methods, performance assessment, and color management for electronic and transparent displays.
Keywords: IEC TR 62977-2-4, transparent display, LC display, OLED display, augmented reality, display measurement, ambient light, visual information, electronic display standards, optical performance, display technology standards.