Performance characterization framework for light field 3D display

Abstract Light field 3D displays are widely considered the optimal pathway for immersive visualization to bridge the physical and digital spaces within the metaverse. However, the lack of a unified theoretical foundation leaves hardware design reliant on empirical heuristics, restricting the deterministic development of light field 3D displays. Here, a performance characterization framework is established by introducing ray-phase space to mathematically analyze light field propagation. With regard to viewing angle, the formation mechanism and distributions of correct and crosstalk rays are characterized, enabling the definition of the complete crosstalk-free viewing zone. Regarding depth and resolution, the propagation induced expansion of light field units is analyzed, leading to a depth-dependent spatial resolution model. Following these definitions, the intrinsic constraints among performance metrics are analyzed within typical parameter ranges. This analysis yields a space-bandwidth-product-based feasible domain, providing a deterministic guideline for initial hardware parameter selection. To validate the proposed framework, a 31.5-inch 8 K light field 3D display prototype utilizing a crossed lenticular lens array was constructed. Experimental results demonstrate good agreement with the analytical model. The measured viewing angle closely matches the analytical limits, and the resolution degradation follows the theoretical prediction, with a coefficient of determination of R 2 = 0.8561 for experimental measurements. These results indicate that the proposed framework can support performance characterization and initial hardware parameter selection for light field 3D display systems.