Fig. 8

Multifocal display designs based on polarization-dependent optical distances. (a) A polarizing beam splitter (PBS) separates the paths of two linear polarizations. Then, the difference between the PBS and two mirrors creates the distinct optical distances with quarter-wave plates (QWPs). (b) The modified Savart plate provides different optical distances for ordinary and extraordinary lights. (c) Scattering polarizers only diffuse one linear polarization and transmit the other. (d) CLC cells with opposite handedness reflect one circular polarization and transmit the orthogonal one. In all configurations, a polarization rotator (PR) is employed to switch the incoming polarization states. A linear polarizer (LP) is usually applied for displays with unpolarized light