A lasing pixel device that implements a low-voltage addressable spatially patterned variable loss element placed inside an optically pumped high-gain laser cavity is studied experimentally. A polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) was used as the loss element. It was found to have high output (600 lumens/cm2 at the device faceplate), very high on-screen contrast (1000:1), and narrow spectral linewidth (∼3 nm), which make it potentially useful for a nonscanned laser projection display. A grayscale model of pixel output versus element loss was developed and compared favorably to measurements.

Abstract— A novel approach to projection systems in the form of an optically pumped, voltage‐addressable lasing‐pixel light‐valve array is discussed. The lasing pixel is created from a polymer‐dispersed liquid‐crystal light‐valve sandwiched within a high‐Fresnel‐number optical‐laser cavity. The device configuration, energy output, and pixel efficiency will be presented, and the positive attributes of lasing‐pixel light valves in the context of projection applications will be discussed.