Patent ID: 8867134

Claim:
A system for projecting one or more synthetic optical images, which demonstrates improved resistance to optically degrading external effects, and which comprises: (a) one or more arrangements of microstructured image icons; and (b) one or more embedded arrangements of image icon focusing elements, wherein interstitial spaces between at least a portion of the image icon focusing elements are filled and the focusing elements are covered, wherein the one or more arrangements of image icon focusing elements is disposed above the one or more arrangements of microstructured image icons such that at least a portion of the image icon focusing elements forms at least one synthetic image of at least a portion of the image icons, wherein all interfaces responsible for focus are embedded within the system, wherein the microstructured image icons are selected from the group consisting of (a) optionally coated and/or filled voids or recesses formed on or within a substrate, wherein the voids or recesses each measure from about 0.5 to about 8 microns in total depth, and (b) shaped posts formed on a surface of a substrate, wherein the shaped posts each measure from about 0.5 to about 8 microns in total height.