Method for producing optical element of user-customized ophthalmic lens for image-generating display device capable of being positioned on head of user

Abstract

The invention provides a method for producing an optical element of a user-customized ophthalmic lens for an image-generating display device positionable on the head of a user, the method comprising the following steps: A) producing a plurality of substrate stacks (25) of a first variant and a plurality of substrate stacks (25) of a second variant, the substrate stacks (25) of all variants comprise in each case a waveguide (11) having a first side (16) and a second side (17) and a first lens (20) connected to the first side (16), the substrate stacks (25) of the same variant have in each case the same optical property, and the substrate stacks (25) of different variants differ in at least one predetermined optical property; b) producing a customized lens (21) for the user based on the visual impairment of the user and based on the selected substrate stack variants; and C) providing a selected variant of the substrate stack (25) and the produced custom lens (21) in order to be able to connect the produced custom lens (21) with the provided substrate stack (25) in order to produce the ophthalmic lens (3) customized for the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for manufacturing an optical element for a user-customized spectacle lens for an image-generating display device that can be worn on a user's head. This display device can present generated images as virtual images to the user using the user-customized spectacle lens while the device is in a head-mounted state. Such display devices are also commonly referred to as HMD devices (head-mounted display devices) or AR, VR, or MR glasses (AR = Augmented Reality, VR = Virtual Reality, MR = Mixed Reality). A spectacle lens typically used for this purpose may include a waveguide having a first side and a second side, a first lens connected to the first side (also referred to as a pull lens), and a second lens with positive refractive power connected to the second side (also referred to as a push lens). Since the generated image is typically transmitted in the waveguide using collimated light at infinity from the focal plane, the pull lens is used to bring the focal position of the virtual image closer to the near field. The effect of the pull lens is compensated by the push lens for observing the surrounding environment through the spectacle lens. In addition to adapting the focal plane of the virtual image, the pull lens can also be used for individualized refractive correction for the user. Background Technology

[0002] Waveguides are sensitive components, and their surfaces need to be kept undamaged and free of contaminants, otherwise the light required to form a virtual image may be emitted at undesirable locations, resulting not only in intensity loss but also potentially being perceived as foreign light.

[0003] To enable small form factors, the lens and waveguide are permanently joined together, for example, by adhesive bonding or by fixing or mounting, where, for example, an air gap exists between the lens and the waveguide. In this case, all components must be aligned as precisely as possible to ensure satisfactory optical imaging quality.

[0004] Therefore, the fabrication of this structure, including the waveguide and two lenses, should be carried out under optimal conditions, such as in a cleanroom and using highly precise processes. Because this fabrication is cost-intensive, inflexible, and complex, mass production of standardized products is, in principle, appropriate. However, this contradicts the need for individualized adaptation of the refractive power of the stack, including the waveguide and two lenses, to compensate for the refractive errors of individual users. Furthermore, a user's refractive error may change over time. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, taking this as a starting point, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved method for manufacturing optical elements of user-customized eyeglass lenses for display devices that can be worn on a user's head. Furthermore, the present invention aims to provide a method for manufacturing an image generation display device that can be worn on a user's head using such user-customized eyeglass lenses.

[0006] The invention is defined in independent claims 1 and 18. Advantageous improvements are described in detail in the dependent claims.

[0007] The method according to the invention provides a modular manufacturing method for optical elements used to customize refractive correction for spectacle lenses of image-generating display devices that can be worn on a user's head. In this regard, a substrate stack, as a standardized product, can be mass-produced under optimal conditions (e.g., in a cleanroom and using highly precise processes). Individualized fitting for the corresponding user or end user is then achieved by selecting a substrate stack for the user (e.g., based on the user's refractive error) and by producing a custom lens for the user based on the user's refractive error and also based on the selected substrate stack. The substrate stack and the custom lens are the optical elements of the user-customized spectacle lens. The custom lens, produced in this way, can then be attached to the selected substrate stack (e.g., to a first lens) to thus provide a user-customized spectacle lens. If the step of attaching the custom lens to the selected substrate stack is performed, the method according to the invention can also be referred to as a method of manufacturing user-customized spectacle lenses for display devices that can be worn on a user's head.

[0008] Compared to spectacle lenses for display devices that are worn on a user's head and whose refractive power has been individually adapted for refractive error correction, the modular approach described herein allows for the economically attractive and highly precise mass production of substrate stacks of first and second variants, and possibly additional variants (which differ, for example, in their total refractive power and / or in the focal position resulting from the guidance and coupling of the beam output for imaging the generated image as a virtual image, which can be performed using the display device). In particular, multiple variants with varying refractive powers can be produced in a small number of coarsely graded, standardized embodiments.

[0009] The solution according to the invention, for example, also enables highly precise alignment of optical elements (particularly elements of a substrate stack or base stack), which is particularly advantageous when using high refractive power. Individualized, fine-tuned fitting of the user's refractive error is achieved in subsequent process steps of producing a custom element (which can be attached to a provided, selected variant of the substrate stack). The method according to the invention may, but does not necessarily, include the step of attaching the produced custom lens to a provided, selected variant of the substrate stack.

[0010] The production of custom lenses (or custom elements) is less technically demanding than the fabrication of substrate stacks because the waveguide is already protected by optional first and second lenses. Since the refractive power of custom elements can be designed to be weaker, alignment of these elements is less critical.

[0011] The spectacle lens may include an incident portion and a deflection portion spaced apart from the incident portion, an exit portion on the rear side, and a light guiding channel that guides a beam of light containing a generated image coupled into the spectacle lens via the incident portion into the spectacle lens until it reaches the deflection portion. The beam is deflected by the deflection portion in a direction toward the exit portion, and then coupled out of the spectacle lens through the exit portion. Guiding in the light guiding channel can be achieved through at least one reflection.

[0012] A waveguide may include a light guiding channel and a deflection section. The incident section may be formed on the waveguide or on another part of the user-customized eyeglass lens.

[0013] The first lens can have negative refractive power. However, the first lens can also have positive refractive power.

[0014] A custom lens that can be connected to or attached to a provided substrate stack of a selected variant can be used as a protective element for the portion of the provided substrate stack to which the custom lens is attached. For example, this could involve a first lens.

[0015] The predetermined optical characteristics may include the total refractive power of the substrate stack and / or the virtual image presented (i.e., the virtual image virtually formed during the intended use of a user-customized spectacle lens in an image-generating device capable of being worn on the head), the focal position (e.g., spaced 1m, 1.5m, or 2m from the spectacle lens) caused by the guidance and coupling output of the beam (by means of the spectacle lens). The focal position is typically defined by a bringing-in lens or one or more lenses (e.g., a custom lens) through which the beam passes due to the guidance and coupling output. Furthermore, the predetermined optical characteristics may include staining, tinting, and / or polarization effects caused by the functional layers. Additionally, the predetermined optical characteristics may include spherical refractive power, cylindrical correction, and / or prism power. Variations may also exist in the materials used in the spectacle lens (e.g., glass or plastic) and / or the manner of coupling input, guidance, and / or coupling output of the beam (all of which are considered predetermined optical characteristics).

[0016] Custom lenses may have one or more of the aforementioned predetermined optical characteristics.

[0017] In step A, at least one variant of the substrate stack can be produced, such that the substrate stack also has a second lens with positive refractive power connected to a second side. The second lens with positive refractive power is an optical element of a user-customized spectacle lens.

[0018] In step A, a substrate stack having at least one variant of the second lens can be produced, such that the second lens is equipped with an active optics unit and / or at least one functional layer. The active optics unit can be understood to mean, for example, an embodiment of the second lens as a lens with variable refractive power or as a lens including an electrochromic layer. For example, an antireflective layer, a hard layer, a layer with photochromic properties, a coloring layer, a polarizing layer, and / or some other layers can be used as functional layers.

[0019] Furthermore, in step A, a first lens can be produced in at least one variant of the substrate stack, such that the first lens is equipped with an active optics unit and / or at least one functional layer. The active optics unit can be understood to mean, for example, an embodiment of the first lens as a lens with variable refractive power or as a lens including an electrochromic layer. For example, an antireflective layer, a hard layer, a layer with photochromic properties, a coloring layer, a polarizing layer, and / or some other layers can be used as functional layers.

[0020] In this regard, for example, the first lens could be implemented as a Fresnel lens with an outward (away from the waveguide) pointing structure. These structures may not be suitable for everyday use as eyeglass lenses because they are prone to getting dirty or too easily scratched. However, the first lens can be processed under workshop conditions or for short periods without damage. Custom components can then act as a protective layer for the first lens to make the eyeglass lens suitable for everyday use.

[0021] Waveguides can be implemented as, for example, highly sensitive components that can only be handled, for example, under cleanroom / laboratory conditions to avoid damage. In this case, the waveguide can be encapsulated and thus protected by, for example, a first lens and a second lens. This can be achieved, for example, by adhesive bonding, screwing and pressing, connecting in a manner that creates an air gap between the corresponding lens and the waveguide, molding the waveguide into the lens material (resulting in the simultaneous formation of the lens), or by 3D printing the lens directly onto the waveguide.

[0022] In addition, a reversible protective layer can be applied to the substrate stack to enable, for example, transportation.

[0023] The manufactured custom lenses can be detachably attached to a selected substrate stack (e.g., a first or second lens attached to the substrate stack). This allows, for example, the removal and replacement of the existing custom lens with a newly adapted custom lens should a user's refractive power change. The detachable connection (also referred to as a reversible connection) can be achieved, for example, with a reversible adhesive. The reversible adhesive can be based on van der Waals interactions, or it can be a sublimation adhesive or a thermochromic adhesive. Furthermore, the detachable connection can be achieved with mechanical and / or magnetic mounting components.

[0024] In step B, the custom lens can be manufactured as a one-piece custom lens or a custom lens composed of multiple parts. Preferably, the (one-piece or multi-part) custom lens is connected to the first lens. During the intended use of the display device, the first lens preferably faces the user's eyes.

[0025] In step A, at least one variant of the substrate stack can be produced such that the first lens and / or the second lens are produced as Fresnel lenses.

[0026] Furthermore, in step A, at least one variant of the substrate stack can be produced, such that the first side and the second side are each produced as planar sides. In this case, the waveguide is preferably implemented substantially as a planar parallel plate.

[0027] Furthermore, in step A, at least one variant of the substrate stack can be produced such that the first side and / or the second side is produced in a curved manner. This can involve spherical curvature or aspherical curvature. However, the corresponding sides can also be implemented as free-form surfaces in a curved manner.

[0028] A waveguide may include an incident portion (e.g., an incident surface). This portion may be formed on one of the end faces and / or sides of the waveguide. However, the incident portion may also be formed on different elements of the spectacle lens.

[0029] The deflection section may include a single reflective deflection element, a refractive deflection element, and / or a diffractive (e.g., holographic) deflection element, or multiple reflective deflection elements, refractive deflection elements, or diffractive (e.g., holographic) deflection elements arranged adjacent to each other. Multiple deflection elements arranged adjacent to each other may, for example, be implemented in a manner completely concealed within the waveguide. However, these deflection elements may also extend to or be formed on one side or boundary surface of the waveguide, for example. For example, by arranging multiple deflection elements adjacent to each other in a Fresnel-like manner, the desired deflection function and optional imaging function of the deflection section can be achieved (this can, of course, also be achieved with a single deflection element). The deflection elements may be reflective surface segments, refractive surface segments, and / or diffractive surface segments, which may also be referred to as reflective planes, refractive planes, and / or diffractive planes. The reflective surface segments, refractive surface segments, and / or diffractive surface segments may each be implemented in a planar manner. However, the reflective surface segments, refractive surface segments, and / or diffractive surface segments themselves may also be implemented in a curved manner. They can be implemented, for example, in a spherical or non-spherical curved manner, or as a free-form surface. Similarly, individual reflection deflection elements, refractive deflection elements, and / or diffraction deflection elements can be implemented in a planar or curved manner. For the corresponding wavelength or color of the generated image, the reflectivity of the corresponding reflection deflection element (or a single reflection deflection element) can, for example, range from 1% to 100% (inclusive). Therefore, reflection deflection elements can be implemented in a reflective or partially reflective manner.

[0030] Since the deflection portions used for coupling the output are designed to be as invisible as possible and to have as little adverse effect as possible on light from the surrounding environment to the observer's eye, deflection portions that have high transmittance in perspective viewing, combined with low reflectance of the light beam for the generated image to be coupled out, are generally preferred. Values ​​of 50%, 30%, 10%, or 2% uniformly distributed across the visible light wavelength range are commonly used values ​​for the reflectance-to-transmittance ratio.

[0031] The beam of light generating the image is preferably guided to the deflection portion by one or more reflections (especially total internal reflection). One or more reflections or total internal reflection can be achieved, for example, at the first and second sides of the waveguide. If total internal reflection is intended to occur, the desired abrupt change in refractive index is provided at the corresponding boundary surfaces (e.g., on the first and / or second sides) (e.g., by means of an air gap). Of course, a reflective coating or a partially reflective coating can also be provided to generate the reflection.

[0032] In the method according to the invention, in step A, at least three different variants of the substrate stack can be produced such that the total refractive power of the corresponding substrate stack increases by a constant value from one variant to another. This can be achieved in particular by the fact that the refractive power of the first lens varies from one substrate stack to another in the different variants.

[0033] In step B, a custom lens may be manufactured such that it is equipped with an active optics unit and / or at least one functional layer. The active optics unit can be understood to mean, for example, an embodiment of the custom lens as a lens with variable refractive power or as a lens including an electrochromic layer. For example, an antireflective layer, a hard layer, a layer with photochromic properties, a coloring layer, a polarizing layer, and / or some other layers may be used as the functional layer.

[0034] Furthermore, in step B, a custom lens for the user and an additional custom lens can be produced based on the user's refractive error and also based on a selected substrate stack variant, wherein the custom lens can be connected to the first lens and the additional custom lens can be connected to the second lens or a second side.

[0035] The method according to the invention may include a step of inputting refractive error data describing the user's refractive error, and / or a measurement step for measuring the refractive error data describing the user's refractive error.

[0036] In particular, all optical components used in the production of custom-made eyeglass lenses are custom-made eyeglass lenses.

[0037] Step A may include a definition step in which a first and second variant (and possible additional variants) of the substrate stack are designed or defined.

[0038] Of course, it is also possible to produce two lenses for an image-generating display device that can be worn on a user's head, so as to be customized for the user in the manner described.

[0039] Furthermore, a method for manufacturing an image generation display device that can be worn on a user's head is provided, wherein user-customized spectacle lenses are produced by optical elements manufactured or already manufactured according to the method of the present invention and fastened to a holding device that can be worn on a user's head and has an image generation module for generating images fastened thereto, such that, in the head-wearing state of the holding device, the generated images are formed by means of the user-customized spectacle lenses so that the user can perceive them as virtual images.

[0040] The image generation module can generate monochrome or multicolor images.

[0041] The display device may include a control unit that controls the image generation module. Specifically, the control unit can control the image generation module based on provided image data.

[0042] The image generation module (or image generator unit) may specifically include a planar image generator, such as an LCD module, LCoS module, OLED module, µLED module, or tilted mirror matrix. The image generator may include multiple pixels, which may be arranged, for example, in rows and columns. The image generator may be self-emissive or non-self-emissive.

[0043] It goes without saying that, without departing from the scope of the invention, the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the specified combinations, but also in other combinations or individually. Attached Figure Description

[0044] The invention will now be explained in more detail based on exemplary embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings, which also disclose features essential to the invention. These exemplary embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. For example, the description of exemplary embodiments having multiple elements or components should not be construed as meaning that all such elements or components are necessary for implementation. Rather, other exemplary embodiments may also include alternative elements and components, fewer elements or components, or additional elements or components. Unless otherwise stated, elements or components of different exemplary embodiments may be combined with each other. Modifications and variations described with respect to one exemplary embodiment may also apply to other exemplary embodiments. To avoid repetition, identical or corresponding elements in different figures are indicated by the same reference numerals and are not interpreted repeatedly. In the drawings:

[0045] Figure 1 A schematic perspective illustration of one embodiment of the display device is shown;

[0046] Figure 2 A partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the first spectacle lens is shown, which includes a schematic illustration of the image generation module;

[0047] Figures 3 to 5 A diagram illustrating the production sequence for manufacturing user-customized eyeglass lenses 3 is shown;

[0048] Figure 6 A schematic illustration of another variation of the spectacle lens 3 according to the invention is shown;

[0049] Figures 7 to 9 A diagram illustrating the production sequence for producing user-customized eyeglass lenses 3 according to another exemplary embodiment is shown;

[0050] Figures 10 to 12 A diagram illustrating the production sequence for producing user-customized eyeglass lenses 3 according to another exemplary embodiment is shown;

[0051] Figure 13 A schematic cross-sectional view of another spectacle lens 3 according to the present invention is shown;

[0052] Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing an optical element for a user-customized eyeglass lens 3 for an image generation display device 1 capable of being worn on a user's head, according to the present invention, is shown; and

[0053] Figure 15 A flowchart illustrating the manufacturing method of an image generation display device 1, which can be worn on a user's head according to the present invention, is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0054] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the display device 1 according to the present invention includes: a holding device 2, which can be worn on a user's head and can be implemented, for example, in the form of a conventional eyeglass frame; and a first lens 3 and a second lens 4, which are secured to the holding device 2. The holding device 2 having lenses 3 and 4 can be implemented, for example, in the form of sports goggles, sunglasses, and / or eyeglasses for correcting refractive errors, wherein a virtual image can be introduced into the user's field of vision via the first lens 3, which is implemented as an eyeglass lens according to the present invention and can also be referred to as a multifunctional lens, as described below.

[0055] For this purpose, the display device 1 includes an image generation module 5, which can be arranged in the area of ​​the right temple of the eyeglasses in the holding device 2, such as... Figure 1 The image generation module 5 may include an image generation element 6 for generating (monochrome or multicolor) images and an image generator optical unit 7 disposed downstream of the image generation element 6. Figure 2Image generating element 6 can be implemented as a planar image generating element 6, such as an OLED element, LCD element, LCoS element, µLED element, or tilted mirror matrix, each image generating element including multiple pixels, for example, arranged in rows and columns. For a beam emitted by planar image generating element 6, a single beam L1 is schematically depicted in a representative manner.

[0056] For example, it can also be from Figure 2 As can be seen, the image generation module 5 also includes a control unit 8 for controlling the image generation module 5, which has, for example, a processor P and a memory M. Based on the provided image data, the control unit 8 controls the image generation module 5, and in particular the image generation element 6, to generate the desired image, and thus the corresponding light beam L1 is generated and enters the first spectacle lens 3 via the incident portion 9.

[0057] The first lens 3 includes a first lens system 10 (hereinafter also referred to as the zoom lens 10), a waveguide 11, and a second lens 12 (hereinafter also referred to as the zoom lens 12). The waveguide 11 is substantially implemented as a planar parallel plate having an incident portion 9 and a deflection portion 14, the deflection portion including a plurality of spaced-apart reflective deflection elements 15. The first lens system 10 is connected to a first side 16 of the waveguide 11, and the second lens 12 is connected to a second side 17 of the waveguide 11. During the intended use of the display device 1, the side of the first lens system 10 facing away from the first side 16 faces the user's eye, and can therefore also be referred to as the back side 18 of the first lens 3. During the intended use of the display device 1, the side of the second lens 12 facing away from the second side 17 faces away from the user, and can therefore also be referred to as the front side 19 of the first lens 3.

[0058] like Figure 2 As schematically illustrated, the generated image (beam L1) enters the first spectacle lens 3 (or waveguide 11) via the incident portion 9 and is guided by reflections at the first side 16 and the second side 17 of the waveguide 11 until it reaches the deflection portion 14 (preferably implemented in a masking manner), where the image strikes reflective deflection elements 15. These reflective deflection elements then deflect the coupled input image or beam L1 in a direction toward the back side 18, causing the coupled input image (beam L1) to exit from the first spectacle lens 3 via the exit portion 13 in the back side 18. Therefore, the region from the incident portion 9 to the deflection portion 14, where the beam L1 is guided by reflection in the waveguide 11, can also be referred to as the light guiding channel 30. The reflectivity of the reflective deflection elements 15 (also referred to as reflective facets 15) can be, for example, in the range of 1% to 100%.

[0059] The reflection at the first side 16 and / or the second side 17 can be total internal reflection (if there is a desired abrupt change in refractive index at the corresponding side, for example, if there is an air gap between the first side 16 and the first lens system 10 and an air gap between the second side 17 and the second lens 12), or reflection at the reflective coating or partial reflective coating of the corresponding sides 16, 17. The reflective coating or partial reflective coating may also be formed only on the portion of the corresponding sides 16, 17 required for guiding light.

[0060] Since the beam L1 is typically coupled into waveguide 11 and guided within the waveguide as a collimated beam L1, the focal plane is at infinity for the user. Therefore, a zoom lens 10 is provided to bring the focal position of the generated image into the user's near field. The zoom lens 10 can also be described as bringing the focal position closer to the user's near field.

[0061] To enable the user to observe the surrounding environment through the first lens 3, a telephoto lens 12 is provided. This telephoto lens compensates for the change in the focal position of the enhanced image from infinity to the near field (caused by the zoom lens 10) to achieve perspective viewing. Therefore, the user can observe the surrounding environment normally. If, for example, refractive correction is implemented for the user in the zoom lens 10, this effect is maintained for both the enhanced image and the perspective-viewed image.

[0062] Waveguide 11 is an optically sensitive component, and its surfaces (first side 16 and second side 17) need to be kept undamaged and free of contaminants. Otherwise, the light beam L1 that shapes the virtual image or enhances the image will be emitted in unusual places and will not only appear as a loss of intensity but will also be perceived as foreign light.

[0063] To ensure the desired optical quality of the first lens 3, its production should be carried out under optimal conditions, such as in a cleanroom and using highly precise processes. However, this contradicts the requirement to perform individualized refractive error fitting for the respective user.

[0064] Therefore, according to the present invention, in the case of the first spectacle lens 3, the first lens system 10 is implemented in a manner consisting of two parts. This first lens system includes a base element 20 or base lens 20 connected to a first side 16 of the waveguide 11, and a custom element 21 or custom lens 21 connected to the base lens 20. The base lens 20 may also be referred to as the first lens 20.

[0065] Because of the two-part embodiment of the first lens system 10, a substrate stack 25 for the first spectacle lens 3 can be provided, the substrate stack including a waveguide 11, a second lens 12 connected to the waveguide, and a substrate element 20 connected to the waveguide. This substrate stack 25 can be mass-produced under desired optimal conditions. For individualized fitting to a user, a custom lens 21 adapted to the user can then be connected to the substrate element 20 of the substrate stack 25 in a customization step. Thus, the custom lens 21 can advantageously be designed, produced, and then connected to the substrate element 20 in a manner dependent on the total refractive power of the substrate stack 25 and the user's individual refractive error, resulting in the production of the desired, user-customized first spectacle lens 3.

[0066] exist Figures 3 to 5 The sequence is illustrated in the diagram. In this regard, at least two variants of the substrate stack (also referred to below as the definition step) can be defined, wherein the at least two variants differ in at least one predetermined optical property (e.g., the total refractive power of the substrate stack differs, for example, by varying with a constant step size).

[0067] In the subsequent steps, multiple base stacks of each variant can then be produced (also referred to below as step A).

[0068] Then select the base stack body variant, in Figure 3 The selected substrate stack variant is shown in the figure.

[0069] In the subsequent customization, a custom lens 21 for the user is produced based on the user's refractive error and on a selected substrate stack 25 (hereinafter also referred to as step B), and the produced custom lens 21 and a selected variant of the substrate stack 25 are provided so that the two optical elements 21 and 25 can be connected to each other so that the desired user-customized spectacle lens 3 can be produced (hereinafter also referred to as step C).

[0070] In order to produce the user-customized eyeglass lens 3, the custom lens 21 is then connected to the base element 20 of the base stack 25. Figure 4 ), thus producing the first custom-made eyeglass lens 3 ( Figure 5 The step of attaching the custom lens 21 to the base element 20 of the base stack 25 may, but does not have to, be part of step C.

[0071] This procedure enables individualized correction for the user, which can include, for example, spherical, cylindrical, and / or prismatic power, thus allowing for individualized compensation for the user's refractive errors. When using cylindrical power, the axis of the custom lens 21 must be calibrated for the user. This is easily achieved during the integration of the custom lens 21, as it can be shaped specifically for the individual and subsequently integrated with the correct orientation.

[0072] This process also offers the advantage of protecting the optical application surfaces (first side 16 and second side 17) of the waveguide 11 by combining the manufactured substrate stack 25. Thus, customization for the user ensures that the waveguide 11 is protected within the substrate stack 25.

[0073] Because different substrate stack variants are available, a substrate stack 25 suitable for individualized refractive error correction can be selected for users who only require, for example, a custom lens 21 that is easy to manufacture and / or a custom lens 21 with weaker optical power. Since refractive errors are typically more likely to worsen than improve over time, if the refractive power measurement falls between the two provided values, the selection of an appropriate substrate stack 25 (and therefore an appropriate substrate element 20) can follow the principle of choosing the weakest refractive power, i.e., selecting the weaker substrate element 20.

[0074] Custom element 21 is preferably installed in a reversible manner, such that, for example, if the user's refractive error changes, custom element 21 can be detached from and removed from base element 20, and alternatively, a newly adapted custom element 21 can be reattached to base element 20. Therefore, the connection between custom element 21 and base element 20 can be reversible.

[0075] This reversibility can be achieved, for example, with reversible adhesives. Reversible adhesives can be based on van der Waals interactions, or they can be sublimation adhesives or thermochromic adhesives. Mechanical or magnetic mounting components are another possibility.

[0076] In some applications, it is advantageous to protect the substrate element 20 and / or other elements of the substrate stack 25 from external influences by one or more covering layers. For example, the substrate element 20 may be made of one or more materials that need to be protected from environmental influences, and / or may have surface structures that need to be protected from scratches and contamination, and / or may contain sensitive functional layers. In these cases, the substrate element 20 and / or other elements of the substrate stack 25 may then be provided with protective layers. Furthermore, the substrate element 20 may, for example, serve as a protective layer or protective element for a waveguide 11, which may be very sensitive, for example, to mechanical contact.

[0077] Because additional optically effective surfaces are integrated into the first lens 3 by means of custom element 21, materials and geometries can be selected to minimize the aberrations of the entire first lens 3.

[0078] For example, the custom lens 21 can be equipped with an active optics unit or other functional layers. The active optics unit or other functional layers can be customized for the user's refractive measurement.

[0079] The substrate element 20 may be provided with a Fresnelized surface, such as Figure 6 The diagram is schematically illustrated. Optical elements with continuous surfaces tend to have a large shape factor when combined with high refractive power. This is particularly problematic in the case of the described substrate stack 25 or the first lens 3, as the waveguide 11 and the proximity lens 20 result in an increase in the weight and thickness of the first lens 3 compared to vision-correcting glasses. Therefore, it is advantageous to use a Fresnel lens as the proximity lens 10, and particularly as the substrate element 20. The Fresnel lens can then be manufactured in several embodiments (e.g., with refractive power in 1 diopter increments). Furthermore, a custom element 21 protects the surface structure of the substrate element 20, which is implemented as a Fresnel lens.

[0080] The arrangement / sequence of the substrate stack 25 and the custom element 21 can be determined as needed. For example, as an alternative to the exemplary embodiment described above, customization can be implemented using the custom element 23 on the side of the telephoto lens 12, such as... Figures 7 to 9 As shown. In this case, the telephoto lens 12 is implemented in a manner consisting of two parts. This is advantageous, for example, for vision correction in the case of farsighted or presbyopic users.

[0081] Furthermore, for example, both the zoom lens 10 and the telephoto lens 12 can be implemented in a two-part configuration using corresponding custom elements 21 and 23, such as... Figures 10 to 12 As shown.

[0082] The corresponding custom elements 21 and 23 are not limited to a single optical element, such as those previously described. In this regard, the corresponding custom elements 21 and 23 can also be formed by multiple optical elements (e.g., two, three, four, five or more optical elements). Figure 13 The first spectacle lens 3 is schematically shown, wherein the custom element 21 is formed by two partial elements 211 and 212.

[0083] The optical effects of the substrate element 20 are not limited to the examples above, but can also include other effects such as electrochromism and active optics.

[0084] The integration of lenses 12, 20 and waveguide 11 in the base stack 25 can be achieved not only by bonding them together, for example, by adhesive bonding, but also by molding, mechanical mounting, or some other mounting method. Air gaps or materials with low refractive indices (preferably lower than the refractive index of the waveguide 11 material) can also be implemented between elements 12 and 11, and also between elements 20 and 11, in their respective cases.

[0085] In the described exemplary embodiment, the substrate element 20 can, for example, be used to coarsely compensate for refractive errors in the substrate stack 25. If the first spectacle lens 3 is intended to present a virtual image with a focal position of 2m, the design can, for example, be as follows: the telephoto lens 12 is implemented with a refractive power of +0.5Dpt (Dpt = diopter). The substrate element 20 is implemented with refractive powers in nine grades: -5.5Dpt, -4.5Dpt, -3.5Dpt, -2.5Dpt, -1.5Dpt, -0.5Dpt, +0.5Dpt, +1.5Dpt, and +2.5Dpt. The substrate stack 25 is mass-produced under optimal conditions according to each of the nine grades of the substrate element 20.

[0086] Subsequent customization steps require compensating for the refractive errors of each respective user or end-user. If the end-user has a refractive power measurement of, for example, -3.5 Dpt (sph = spherical) and 1 Dpt (cyl = cylindrical), a substrate stack 25 with -3.5 Dpt can be selected, which, combined with the telephoto lens 12, has a total refractive power of -3 Dpt (sph). The customized element 21 is manufactured to have a refractive power of -0.5 Dpt (sph) and +1 Dpt (cyl) and integrated into the substrate stack 25 in an orientation (cylinder axis) adapted to the end-user. Integration of the customized element 21 can be performed in a non-optimal industrial manufacturing environment, such as at the optician's location, at the retailer's location, or in the user's or end-user's home.

[0087] Custom component 21 can be integrated in a reversible manner. Therefore, if the end user's refractive error measurement changes, custom component 21 can be replaced.

[0088] The nine-level substrate elements 20 can also be implemented as Fresnelized substrate elements 20 in their respective cases. Such Fresnel lenses 20 advantageously have a smaller thickness than continuous lenses. If the Fresnel structure is oriented away from the waveguide 11, the surface is advantageously protected from dirt and damage. This is achieved by applying a custom element 21. The gap between the custom element 21 and the substrate element 20 can be filled with air or a filler material. The custom element 21 can be integrated in a reversible manner. Therefore, if the end-user's refractive measurement changes, the custom element 21 can be replaced.

[0089] Alternatively, the substrate element 20 can be selected so that the optical power of the substrate stack 25 without the custom lens 21 is 0 Dpt.

[0090] When the end user has normal refractive power, the substrate element 20 is implemented to have the same refractive power as the telephoto lens 12 (but with the opposite sign). In this way, the resulting refractive power for viewing through the substrate stack 25 is 0 Dpt, and the focal position of the virtual image (or enhanced image) is set by the refractive power of the substrate element. If the end user develops refractive errors over time, this can be compensated for by applying a custom element 21.

[0091] In all the exemplary embodiments described, the following functions may also be used in an advantageous manner.

[0092] Custom lens 21 also acts as a cover layer to protect the underlying layer from environmental influences and to mechanically stabilize the layer sequence of the substrate stack 25.

[0093] Custom component 21 can be integrated in a reversible manner. Therefore, if the end user's refractive error measurement changes, custom component 21 can be replaced.

[0094] Functional layers may also be integrated into the substrate stack 25, which may optionally be protected by custom element 21 and may optionally be replaced by reversible integration of custom element 21.

[0095] The display device 1 can also be configured to present a virtual image via the left lens 4. In this case, the left lens 4 is manufactured as a user-customized multi-functional lens 4 in the manner described above. Furthermore, in this case, the image generation module 5 is preferably arranged in the area of ​​the left temple. Additionally, the display device 1 can image a virtual image via both the left lens 4 and the right lens 3 (e.g., to generate a three-dimensional image impression). In this case, both lenses 3 and 4 can be manufactured as user-customized multi-functional lenses 3 and 4 in the manner described above. Preferably, a separate image generation module 5 is then arranged for each lens 3 and 4 (preferably in the left and right temples).

[0096] The deflection section 14 can serve only to deflect the beam. Preferably, it can also provide imaging effects.

[0097] Therefore, the method for producing optical elements for user-customized eyeglass lenses 3, 4 of the image generation display device 1 that can be worn on a user's head according to the present invention may include the following steps, such as in Figure 14 It is shown schematically in the diagram.

[0098] Step A: Produce multiple first variant substrate stacks 25 and multiple second variant substrate stacks, wherein each variant substrate stack 25 includes a waveguide 11 having a first side 16 and a second side 17, and a first lens 20 connected to the first side 16. Furthermore, substrate stacks 25 of the same variant are characterized in that they each have the same optical properties, but different variant substrate stacks differ in at least one predetermined optical property. Of course, more than two different variants of substrate stacks 25 can also be produced.

[0099] The predetermined optical characteristics may include the total refractive power of the substrate stack 25 and / or the focal position of the virtual image presented (during the intended use of the user-customized spectacle in the image generation device that can be worn on the head) caused by the guidance and coupling output of the beam (e.g., spaced 1m, 1.5m or 2m away from the spectacle).

[0100] Step B: Produce a custom lens 21 for the user based on the user's refractive error and also based on a selected substrate stack variant.

[0101] Step C: Provide the substrate stack of the selected variant and the manufactured custom lens 21. Therefore, eyeglass lenses 3 customized for the user can then be manufactured. Step C may, but does not necessarily, include a sub-step of attaching the manufactured custom lens 21 to the provided substrate stack 25, such as, for example... Figure 5 , Figure 9 and Figure 13 As shown. If the sub-step of connecting the manufactured custom lens 21 to the provided substrate stack 25 is performed, the method can also be referred to as a method for producing user-customized eyeglass lenses 3, 4 for an image generation display device 1 that can be worn on a user's head.

[0102] Therefore, the method for producing optical elements for user-customized eyeglass lenses 3 and 4 for an image generation display device 1 that can be worn on a user's head or the method for producing user-customized eyeglass lenses 3 and 4 for an image generation display device 1 that can be worn on a user's head ends.

[0103] If it is desired to produce an image generation display device 1 that can be worn on a user's head using the user-customized eyeglass lens 3 according to the present invention, the user-customized eyeglass lenses 3 and 4 can be produced first by means of steps A to C, and then in step D ( Figure 14 The user-customized eyeglass lenses 3 and 4 produced in this way are fastened to the holding device 2, which can be worn on the user's head and is fastened to the image generation module 5 that generates the image, so that when the holding device 2 is worn on the head, the generated image is imaged by means of the user-customized eyeglass lenses so that the user can perceive it as a virtual image.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing an optical element for a user-customized eyeglass lens for an image-generating display device that can be worn on a user's head. in, The spectacle lens (3) has a front side (19) and a back side (18), and also guides beams (L1) of the generated image coupled into the spectacle lens (3), and couples these beams out via the back side (18) of the spectacle lens. The method includes the following steps: A) Producing multiple substrate stacks (25) of the first variant and multiple substrate stacks (25) of the second variant, wherein, Each of the substrate stacks (25) of all variants includes a waveguide (11) having a first side (16) and a second side (17) and a first lens (20) connected to the first side (16). The substrate stacks (25) of the same variant each have the same optical properties, and Different variants of the substrate stack (25) differ in at least one predetermined optical property. B) Producing custom lenses for the user based on their refractive error and also based on selected substrate stack variants (21), and C) Provide the substrate stack (25) of the selected variant and the produced custom lens (21) so that the produced custom lens (21) can be connected to the provided substrate stack (25) to produce the eyeglass lens (3) customized for the user.

2. The method as described in claim 1, wherein, In step B, a substrate stack variant is selected based on the user's refractive error.

3. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The predetermined optical characteristics include the total refractive power of the substrate stack (25) and / or the focal position caused by the guidance and coupling output of these beams (L1) that images the generated image as a virtual image, wherein the imaging can be performed using the display device.

4. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step A, a plurality of substrate stacks (25) of at least one additional variant are produced.

5. The method as described in any one of the preceding claims, wherein, In step A, at least one variant of the substrate stack is produced such that the substrate stack (25) also has a second lens (12) with positive refractive power connected to the second side (17).

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, In step A, a substrate stack (25) having at least one variant of the second lens (12) is produced, such that the second lens (12) is equipped with an active optical unit and / or at least one functional layer.

7. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step A, the first lens (20) is produced in at least one variant of the substrate stack (25) such that the first lens is equipped with an active optical unit and / or at least one functional layer.

8. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step B, the custom lens (21) is manufactured so that it can be connected to the first lens (20).

9. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step B, the custom lens (21) is manufactured such that the custom lens is detachably attached to the selected substrate stack (25).

10. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step B, the custom lens (21) is manufactured as a one-piece custom lens (21).

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, In step B, the custom lens (21) is manufactured as a custom lens (21) consisting of multiple parts.

12. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step A, at least one variant of the substrate stack (25) is produced such that the first lens and / or the second lens (20, 12) are produced as Fresnel lenses.

13. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step A, at least one variant of the substrate stack (25) is produced such that the first side (16) and the second side (17) are each produced as planar sides.

14. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step A, at least one variant of the substrate stack (25) is produced such that the first side (16) and / or the second side (17) are produced in a bent manner.

15. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step A, at least three different variants of the substrate stack (25) are produced such that the total refractive power of the corresponding substrate stack (25) increases by a constant value from one variant to another.

16. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step B, the custom lens (21) is manufactured such that the custom lens is equipped with an active optical unit and / or at least one functional layer.

17. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, In step B, a custom lens (21) for the user and an additional custom lens (23) are produced based on the user's refractive error and also based on a selected substrate stack variant. The custom lens (21) can be connected to the first lens (20), and the other custom lens (23) can be connected to the second lens (12) or the second side (17).

18. A method for manufacturing an image generation display device that can be worn on a user's head. in, The optical element produced by any one of the preceding claims is used to produce a user-customized eyeglass lens (3), and the user-customized eyeglass lens is fastened to a holding device (2) which can be worn on the user's head and is fastened to an image generation module (5) that generates an image, such that the generated image is imaged by means of the user-customized eyeglass lens (3) in the head-wearing state of the holding device (2), so that the user can perceive it as a virtual image.

Images