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Toshiba recently showcased an LCD panel capable of partially converting 2D pictures to 3D images that can be viewed by the naked eye.

According to Nikkei Electronics, the 12-inch LCD panel features nine viewpoints with a pixel count of 1,400 x 1,050 for 2D images and 466 x 350 for 3D images.

The panel reportedly operates by displaying 3D images rendered via a GRIN (gradient index) lens that alters the distribution of refraction indexes by controlling the gradient orientation of liquid crystal molecules.

The prototyped panel is equipped with an LCD panel that generates the GRIN lens and is positioned in front of the LCD panel used for displaying images.

When the power of this second LCD panel is off, the refraction index does not change and light passes in a normal way, showing a 2D image. When the power is on, the liquid crystal molecules are aligned in a radial pattern in parallel with the electrodes arranged like stripes in the vertical direction. And they work as lenses to show 3D images.

Nikkei’s Shinya Saeki added that 2D and 3D images were simultaneously displayed by partially activating the second panel, while a third panel helped switch between 2D and 3D images at high speed.