Abstract:
A two-dimensional (2D)/three-dimensional (3D) switchable backlight unit and an image display apparatus using the 2D/3D switchable backlight unit are provided. The 2D/3D switchable backlight unit includes: a light source unit; a first light guide plate, within which light from the light source unit is totally internally reflected; and a plurality of refraction patterns, each having a trapezoidal form. The light source unit may include a first light source and a second light source.