Wearable Head-Up Display

Abstract

A wearable head-up display (WHUD) having an eyeglass frame is provided, the eyeglass frame may include a front frame and a first temple arm and a second temple arm, each coupled to the front frame. At least a portion of the first temple arm is capable of being folded relative to the front frame at a first junction, the first junction being disposed along the first temple arm at a first distance from the front frame. Similarly, at least a portion of the second temple arm is capable of being folded relative to the front frame at a second junction, the second junction being disposed along the second temple arm at a second distance from the front frame. The first distance may be different from the second distance. The WHUD may also include a light engine and a display optical device, both of which are mounted to the eyeglass frame and used to form an image that can be viewed by a user of the WHUD.

Description

Background Art

[0001] The display may be used to form a still image or a moving image. Some displays may use a display panel to form an image. Examples of such display panels include light emitting diode (LED) display panels, liquid crystal display (LCD) panels, etc. In addition, some displays may use a projector to project still images or moving images. Small displays may be used to form or be part of a mobile or wearable device. For example, some displays may form or be part of a wearable head-up display. Summary of the invention

[0002] According to an embodiment of the present specification, a wearable head-up display (WHUD) is provided, comprising: a glasses frame, the glasses frame comprising a front frame and a first temple arm and a second temple arm respectively coupled to the front frame, at least a portion of the first temple arm being foldable relative to the front frame at a first intersection, the first intersection being arranged along an inner side of the first temple arm at a first distance from the front frame; and at least a portion of the second temple arm being foldable relative to the front frame at a second intersection, the second intersection being arranged along an inner side of the second temple arm at a second distance from the front frame, the first distance being different from the second distance, and the inner side of the first temple arm facing the inner side of the second temple arm; a light engine, the light engine being mounted to the glasses frame, the light engine generating display light; and a display optical device, the display optical device being mounted to the glasses frame, the display optical device receiving the display light from the light engine and directing the display light to eyes of a user of the WHUD to form an image that can be viewed by the user.

[0003] The first distance may be longer than the second distance.

[0004] A light engine may be mounted to the first temple arm.

[0005] The first temple arm may include: a first portion disposed between the first interface and the front frame; and a second portion disposed between the first interface and a distal end of the first temple arm away from the front frame. The light engine may be mounted to the first portion of the first temple arm.

[0006] The first interface may be positioned outside of a light path of the display light from the light engine to the display optics.

[0007] The first portion may be non-removably coupled to the front frame.

[0008] The first interface may extend from a first interface position to a first perceived interface position, wherein the first interface position is located at a first distance from the front frame along the inner side of the first temple arm, and the first perceived interface position is located at a third distance from the front frame along the outer side of the first temple arm. The second interface may extend from a second interface position to a second perceived interface position, wherein the second interface position is located at a second distance from the front frame along the inner side of the second temple arm, and the second perceived interface position is located at a third distance from the front frame along the outer side of the second temple arm. The outer side of the first temple arm may be opposite to the inner side of the first temple arm, and the outer side of the second temple arm may be opposite to the inner side of the second temple arm.

[0009] The third distance may be different from the first distance and the second distance.

[0010] At least one of the first interface and the second interface may be curvilinear.

[0011] The second distance may be approximately zero.

[0012] One or more of the first temple arm and the second temple arm can be hinged at the first intersection and the second intersection, respectively; and one or more of the corresponding first intersection and the second intersection can respectively include a first hinge position along the first temple arm and a second hinge position along the second temple arm.

[0013] The light engine may include a light source that emits display light.

[0014] The light source may include a laser that emits display light.

[0015] The light engine may also include a spatial modulator to receive display light from the light source and direct the display light onto the display optics.

[0016] The spatial modulator may include a movable reflector.

[0017] The display optics may include a diffractive optical element.

[0018] The WHUD may also include a lens mounted to the front frame; and the display optics may be mounted to the lens.

[0019] The WHUD may also include a battery to power the light engine.

[0020] The first distance may be longer than the second distance; and the battery may be mounted to the second temple arm.

[0021] The WHUD may also include a controller in communication with the light engine, the controller controlling the light engine.

[0022] The light engine may include a light source and a spatial modulator, and the controller may control one or more of the light source and the spatial modulator.

[0023] The first distance may be longer than the second distance; and the eyeglass frame may have a folding configuration, wherein: the portion of the second temple arm is folded against the front frame to form a folded second temple arm; and a corresponding portion of the first temple arm is folded against the folded second temple arm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] In the drawings, the same reference numerals represent similar elements or actions. The sizes and relative positions of the elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the shapes and angles of the various elements are not necessarily drawn to scale, and some of the elements are arbitrarily enlarged and positioned to improve the legibility of the drawings. In addition, the particular shapes of the depicted elements are not necessarily intended to convey any information about the actual shape of the particular element, and are selected only for ease of identification in the drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram is shown of an example system that may be used to form or project an image according to non-limiting embodiments of the present description.

[0026] Figure 2 A partially cutaway perspective view of an example wearable heads-up display according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present specification is shown.

[0027] Figure 3 A partial top perspective view of another example wearable heads-up display according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present specification is shown.

[0028] Figure 4 Shows Figure 3 A top plan view of a wearable heads-up display is shown.

[0029] Figure 5 Shown in a folded configuration Figure 3 A top plan view of a wearable heads-up display is shown.

[0030] Figure 6 A partially cutaway perspective view of yet another example wearable heads-up display according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present specification is shown.

[0031] Figure 7 A partial top perspective view of yet another example wearable heads-up display according to non-limiting embodiments of the present specification is shown.

[0032] Figure 8 Shows Figure 7 A top plan view of a wearable heads-up display is shown.

[0033] Fig. 9Shown in a folded configuration Figure 7 A top plan view of a wearable heads-up display is shown.

[0034] Fig.10 Simplified top and side plan views of example configurations of temple arms for a wearable heads-up display are shown in accordance with non-limiting implementations of the present specification.

[0035] Fig.11 Simplified top and side plan views of alternative example configurations for temple arms for a wearable heads-up display are shown in accordance with non-limiting embodiments of the present specification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] In the following description, certain specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specific details or using other methods, components, materials, etc. In other cases, well-known structures associated with light sources are not shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments.

[0037] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout this specification and the appended claims, the word "comprise" and variations such as "include" and "comprising" are to be interpreted in an open, inclusive sense, ie, "including, but not limited to."

[0038] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term "or" is generally used in its broadest sense, i.e., meaning "and / or," unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0039] The titles and abstracts of the disclosure provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.

[0040] Throughout this specification and the appended claims, the terms "carrying" or "mounted" and variations such as "carried by," "mounted to," or "mounted on" are generally used to refer to a physical coupling between two objects. The physical coupling may be a direct physical coupling (i.e., direct physical contact between the two objects) or an indirect physical coupling that may be mediated by one or more additional objects. Thus, the term carrying and variations such as "carried by" are intended to generally cover all direct and indirect physical coupling methods, including, but not limited to: carried on, carried in, physically coupled to, fixed to, mounted to, mounted on, or supported by, with or without any number of intervening physical objects.

[0041] Figure 1A schematic representation of an example system 100 is shown, which can be used to form or project an image that can be viewed by a viewer's eye 105. The system 100 may also be referred to or described as an image projection device, a display device, a display system, or a display. The viewer may also be described as a user of the system 100. The system 100 may include a light engine 102 to generate a beam of display light 115. In some examples, the light engine 102 may include a light source 110 to generate the display light 115. The light source 110 may include at least one laser, at least one light emitting diode, etc. The light engine 102 may also include a spatial modulator 120 to receive the display light 115 from the light source 110. In some examples, the spatial modulator 120 may include a movable reflector. In some examples, such a movable reflector may be manufactured as or incorporated in a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS), a digital micromirror device (DMD), etc. In some examples, the spatial modulator 120 may be part of the relay optics of the system 100.

[0042] Although Figure 1 Light engine 102 is shown as including spatial modulator 120, but it is contemplated that in some examples, light engine 102 need not include spatial modulator 120 or light source 110. In some examples, light engine 102 can include a microdisplay or other light source suitable for forming an image.

[0043] In addition, the system 100 can include a display optics 125 to receive the display light 115 from the light engine 102 and direct the display light toward the eye 105 of a user of the system 100 to form an image that can be viewed by the user. In some examples, the display optics 125 can include a light guide and / or a waveguide. In addition, in some examples, the display optics 125 can also include an inner coupler and an outer coupler optically coupled to the light guide and / or the waveguide.

[0044] Furthermore, in some examples, one or more of the inner coupler and the outer coupler can include a diffractive optical element, such as a surface relief grating, a hologram, etc. The inner coupler can receive the display light 115 from the light engine 102 and introduce at least a portion of the display light into the light guide to form an inner coupled light that propagates in the light guide. Once the inner coupled light is incident on the outer coupler, the outer coupler can direct at least a portion of the inner coupled light out of the light guide to form an outer coupled light that propagates toward the eye 105 of the user of the system 100.

[0045] Additionally, in some examples, system 100 may be part of or incorporated into a wearable head-up display (WHUD). Such a head-up display may have different designs or form factors, such as a form factor of glasses, as described with respect to Figures 2 to 9In some examples where system 100 has a form factor of glasses, display optics 125 can be on or in the lenses of the glasses.

[0046] Additionally, in some examples, the light engine 102 may include a controller 130 in communication with the light source 110 and the spatial modulator 120. The controller 130 may control the light source 110 and the spatial modulator 120 to project an image. In some examples, the image to be projected may be a still image, a moving image or video, an interactive image, a graphical user interface, etc. It is also contemplated that in some examples, the controller 130 need not be part of the light engine 102. In such examples, the controller 130 may be a component of the system 100 that is external to or distinct from the light engine 102.

[0047] In some examples, a controller described herein, such as controller 130, may include a processor in communication with a non-transitory processor-readable medium. The processor-readable medium may include instructions for the processor to control the light source and the spatial modulator to form an image that can be viewed by a user of the system 100. Furthermore, in some examples, the controller may be a stand-alone component, while in other examples, the controller may include functional modules incorporated into other components of its corresponding system.

[0048] In addition, in some examples, the controller or its functionality may be implemented in other ways, including: via an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), in a standard integrated circuit, as one or more computer programs executed by one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs executed by one or more controllers (e.g., microcontrollers), as one or more programs executed by one or more processors (e.g., microprocessors, central processing units, graphics processing units), as firmware, etc., or as a combination thereof.

[0049] Now turn to Figure 2 , a partially cutaway perspective view of an example wearable head-up display (WHUD) 200 is shown. The WHUD 200 includes a support structure 205, which is worn on the user's head in use and has the general form factor and appearance of an eyeglass (e.g., sunglass) frame. Eyeglasses or sunglasses may also be collectively referred to as "eyeglasses". Figure 2 As shown, the support structure 205 may include an eyeglass frame including a front frame 206 and a first temple arm 207 and a second temple arm 208 each coupled to the front frame 206 .

[0050] In some examples, the front frame can include a portion of the eyeglass frame that is worn in front of the face of a user of the glasses. Additionally, in some examples, the front frame can also include a bridge or bridge portion to extend over the user's nose. Additionally, in some examples, the front frame can receive or otherwise support one or more lenses to be positioned in the user's field of vision when the user wears the glasses.

[0051] In addition, in some examples, when the user wears the glasses, the temple arms are worn on a side close to the user's head. With respect to the wearing manner or wearing position of the temple arms, "the side close to the user's head" may also be described as "the side close to the user's face". In addition, in some examples, the temple arms may extend beyond or behind the corresponding ears of the user. When the user wears the glasses, the temple arms may be connected to the front frame to support the front frame in front of the user's face.

[0052] Back to Figure 2 , the eyeglass frame is shown in an extended or unfolded configuration to allow a user to wear WHUD 200. To allow for more compact storage, at least a portion of each of the temple arms 207 and 208 can be folded relative to the front frame 206. Figure 2 As shown, the temple arm 207 can be folded relative to the front frame 206 at the intersection 211. The intersection can be the position where the end of the temple arm 207 is attached to the front frame 206. In addition, the temple arm 208 can be folded relative to the front frame 206 at the intersection 212. Similar to the intersection 211, the intersection 212 can also be located at the position where the end of the temple arm 208 is attached to the front frame 206.

[0053] Although in Figure 2 In the embodiment, the intersections 211 and 212 are provided at the respective ends of the temple arms 207 and 208, but it is contemplated that in some examples, the intersections may be provided at different locations along the length of each temple arm. Figure 2 In the embodiment, the distance between each of the intersections 211 and 212 and the front frame 206 is approximately zero, but it is contemplated that in some examples, one or more of the intersections 211 and 212 may be disposed at a greater non-zero distance away from the front frame 206 along the temple arms 207 and 208, respectively. Figures 6 to 9 Examples of such interfaces are described in greater detail, wherein the interfaces are disposed further away from the front frame along their respective temple arms.

[0054] In addition, in some examples, one or more of the temple arms 207 and 208 can be hinged to the front frame 206 at junctions 211 and 212, respectively. Such hinges can allow the temple arms to be folded relative to the front frame 206. In addition, the support structure 205 can carry components of a system (such as system 100) to display an image. For example, a light engine can be mounted to the temple arm 207 of the support structure 205. In addition, in some examples, a light source of the light engine can be received in a space 210 in the temple arm 207 of the support structure 205.

[0055] The spatial modulator of the light engine can be received in or as part of component 215 of support structure 205. The spatial modulator can then direct the display light to display optics 220, which is mounted to lens 225 of support structure 205. In some examples, display optics 220 can be similar in structure or function to display optics 125. Additionally, in some examples, a power source for powering the light engine can be mounted to temple arm 208 of support structure 205. In some examples, the power source can include a battery or the like.

[0056] like Figure 2 As shown, when the user wears WHUD 200, the temple arm 207 can be worn on the right side close to the user's head, and the temple arm 208 can be worn on the left side close to the user's head. Figure 2 The light engine is shown as being mounted to the temple arm 207, and the power source is described as being mounted to the temple arm 208, but it is contemplated that in some examples, the light engine may be mounted to the temple arm 208, and the power source may be mounted to the temple arm 207. In examples where the light engine is mounted to the temple arm 208, the display optics may also be mounted to the lens 230, which is mounted to the front frame 206.

[0057] It is also conceivable that in some examples, the light engine and the power supply can be carried in the same temple arm of the eyeglass frame of the WHUD. In addition, it is also conceivable that in some examples, the light engine can exist in two temple arms, or the power supply can exist in two temple arms.

[0058] Now turn to Figure 3, a partial top perspective view of another example WHUD 300 is shown. WHUD 300 can be similar to WHUD 200. WHUD 300 can include a front frame 305, and temple arms 310 and 315 each coupled to the front frame 305. Temple arms 310 can be foldable relative to the front frame 305 at an intersection 320. In some examples, temple arms 310 can be hinged to the front frame 305 at the intersection 320. Similarly, temple arms 315 can be foldable relative to the front frame 305 at an intersection 325. In some examples, temple arms 315 can be hinged to the front frame 305 at the intersection 325. In addition, although in Figure 3 WHUD 300 is shown without components similar to component 215 of WHUD 200 , but it is contemplated that WHUD 300 may include components similar in structure, function, or placement to component 215 of WHUD 200 .

[0059] Figure 4 A top plan view of WHUD 300 is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4 , WHUD 300 is shown in its extended or deployed configuration. Figure 5 Next, the WHUD 300 is shown in a folded configuration. Figure 5 As shown, the temple arms 310 are folded against the front frame 305 at the junction 320. The temple arms 315 are then folded against the folded temple arms 310 at the junction 325.

[0060] Return to reference Figure 2 , display light generated by the light engine traverses an optical path extending from the light engine mounted to temple arm 207 to display optics mounted to lens 225, which in turn is carried by front frame 206. In some examples, a first portion of the optical path can be at least partially internal to temple arm 207 and can extend between a light source housed in space 210 and a spatial modulator housed in or implemented as component 215. A second portion of the optical path can be external to temple arm 207 and can extend from component 215 to display optics 220.

[0061] The interface 211 can be disposed in the optical path. More specifically, the interface 211 can be disposed in a second portion of the optical path extending from the component 215 to the display optical device 220. Describing the interface 211 as being in the second portion of the optical path indicates that the interface 211 is positioned such that folding the temple arm 207 about the interface 211 may change or interfere with the second portion of the optical path. Additionally, in some examples, changing or interfering with the second portion of the optical path may include changing where or whether display light propagating from the component 215 is incident on the display optical device 220.

[0062] The interface 211 disposed in the optical path between the component 215 and the display optics 220 may present challenges in achieving or maintaining proper optical alignment between the component 215 and the display optics 220. In other words, since the component 215 of the temple arm 207 is foldable (i.e., movable) relative to the display optics 220 fixed to the front frame 206, movement or positioning of the temple arm 207 relative to the front frame 206 may result in changes in the optical alignment between the component 215 and the display optics 220 and potential consequent misalignment. Such misalignment may result in artifacts or aberrations in the image displayed by the WHUD 200, which may degrade the quality of the image formed by the WHUD 200.

[0063] Additionally, having an intersection in the optical path of the display light may allow the position of the temple arms to be changed relative to the front frame to change the optical path of the display light emitted from the light engine so that the display light may be directed to a point other than toward the display optics 220 or the lens 225. Because the display light may include laser light, such erroneous or misdirected laser light may pose a laser exposure safety risk to a user of the WHUD or a bystander.

[0064] To reduce the alignment and safety challenges associated with having an interface in the optical path between the light engine and the display optics, the interface can be moved to different locations along the temple arm to move the interface out of the optical path of the display light extending from the light engine mounted to the temple arm to the display optics mounted to the front frame. Figures 6 to 9 An example WHUD is shown in which the corresponding interface is moved out of the optical path of the display light to at least partially address the alignment and safety challenges discussed above.

[0065] Now turn to Figure 6 , a partially cutaway perspective view of an example WHUD 600 is shown. WHUD 600 may be similar to WHUD 200. The difference between WHUD 600 and WHUD 200 is that WHUD 600 includes a temple arm 602 coupled to front frame 206, instead of temple arm 207. Temple arm 602, in turn, may be similar to temple arm 207. The difference between temple arms 602 and 207 is that a portion of temple arm 602 is foldable relative to front frame 206 at an intersection 605, which is disposed a distance 610 away from front frame 206 along temple arm 602.

[0066] Functionally, the junction 605 divides the temple arm 602 into a first portion 615 and a second portion 620, wherein the first portion is disposed on a first side of the junction 605 disposed between the junction 605 and the front frame 206, and the second portion is disposed on a second side of the junction 605. The second portion 620 is foldable relative to the front frame 206 at the junction 605, while the first portion 615 is non-movably coupled to the front frame 206. In some examples, the first portion 615 can be fixed to the front frame 206 using a fixing device (such as a fastener, an adhesive, a snap fitting, etc.). In addition, in some examples, the first portion 615 can be integrally formed with the front frame 206.

[0067] In WHUD 600, the light engine is mounted to the first portion 615 of the temple arm 602. Housing the light engine in the first portion 615 and moving the interface 605 a distance 610 away from the front frame 206 can allow the interface 605 to be moved out of the optical path of display light from the component 215 of the light engine to the display optics 220 mounted to the front frame 206.

[0068] like Figure 6 As shown, the interface 605 is a distance 610 away from the front frame 206. The interface 212 is then located at or substantially at the end of the temple arm 208 near the front frame 206. In other words, the interface 212 is disposed at a corresponding distance along the temple arm 208 away from the front frame 206, and the corresponding distance is zero or substantially zero. It is contemplated that in some examples, the distance 610 and the corresponding distance of the interface 212 along the temple arm 208 may be different from Figure 6 For example, it is contemplated that the distance between the interface 212 and the front frame 206 along the temple arm 208 may be greater than zero.

[0069] In some examples, distance 610 can be greater than a corresponding distance of interface 212 from front frame 206 along temple arm 208. Additionally, in some examples, setting distance 610 greater than a corresponding distance of interface 212 along temple arm 208 can allow temple arm 602 to be divided into a first portion and a second portion. The first of these portions can be large enough to accommodate or otherwise carry a light engine, which in turn can allow interface 605 to be positioned outside of an optical path of display light between component 215 and display optics 220.

[0070] In examples where the temple arm 208 houses a battery for the WHUD 600, considerations related to moving the corresponding interface out of the optical path need not apply to the temple arm 208. In such examples, the interface associated with the temple arm 208 can be positioned at a distance along the temple arm 208 that is zero or substantially zero from the front frame 206.

[0071] When the user wears the WHUD 600, the temple arm 602 and the light engine mounted to the temple arm 602 may be worn on the right side near the user's face. When worn on the right side near the user's face, the position of the temple arm 602 may also be described as being near the right side of the user's head. In addition, when the user wears the WHUD 600, the temple arm 208 and the battery mounted to the temple arm 208 may be worn on the left side near the user's face. This position of the temple arm 208 may also be described as being near the left side of the user's head.

[0072] Furthermore, while in WHUD 600, the light engine is mounted to temple arm 602 and the battery is mounted to temple arm 208, it is contemplated that in some examples, the light engine may be mounted to temple arm 208 and the battery may be mounted to temple arm 602. Furthermore, it is contemplated that in some examples, both temple arms may carry corresponding light engines, or both temple arms may carry corresponding batteries. In examples where the light engine is mounted to temple arm 208, interface 212 may also be moved further from front frame 206 along temple arm 208 to move interface 212 out of the optical path between the light engine mounted to temple arm 208 and the display optics mounted to front frame 206.

[0073] Additionally, in some examples, one or more of the temple arms 602 and the temple arms 208 can be hinged at the junctions 605 and 212, respectively. In such examples, the junctions 605 and 212 can also be described as hinge locations. It is also contemplated that in some examples, one or more of the portion 620 and the temple arms 208 can be folded relative to the front frame 206 using a suitable folding mechanism other than a hinge.

[0074] To increase the compactness of the folded configuration of the eyeglass frame of WHUD 600, the distance 610 may be reduced by moving the interface 605 closer to the front frame 206 along the temple arm 602. To facilitate such movement, the size of the light engine housed in the first portion 615 may be reduced to allow the light engine to be housed in a relatively smaller first portion, which would occur when the interface 605 is moved closer to the front frame 206. Figure 7 A WHUD 700 is shown that is similar to WHUD 600, except that in WHUD 700 the junction in the temple arms that supports the light engine is moved closer to the front frame.

[0075] Now turn to Figure 7, a partial top perspective view of another example WHUD 700 is shown. WHUD 700 can be similar to WHUD 600. WHUD 700 can include a front frame 705, and temple arms 710 and 715 each coupled to the front frame 705. At least a portion of the temple arm 710 can be folded relative to the front frame 705 at a junction 720. The junction 720 can be disposed a distance 730 away from the front frame 705 along the temple arm 710. In some examples, the temple arm 710 can be hinged to the front frame 705 at the junction 720.

[0076] In some examples, the distance 730 may be equal to or less than about 5 cm. Further, in some examples, the distance 730 may be equal to or less than about 4 cm. Further, in some examples, the distance 730 may be equal to or less than about 3 cm. Further, in some examples, the distance 730 may be equal to or less than about 2 cm. In some examples, the distance 730 may be equal to or less than about 1 cm. It is also contemplated that in some examples, the distance 730 may be greater than about 5 cm.

[0077] The temple arms 715 can then be folded relative to the front frame 705 at the junction 725. The junction 725 can also be disposed along the temple arms 715 at a corresponding distance away from the front frame 705. The distance 730 can be greater than the corresponding distance between the junction 725 and the front frame 705. In some examples, the corresponding distance between the junction 725 and the front frame 705 can be zero or approximately zero. It is also contemplated that in some examples, the corresponding distance between the junction 725 and the front frame 705 can be greater than zero.

[0078] Additionally, in some examples, the temple arms 715 can be hinged to the front frame 705 at the junction 725. Figure 7 The WHUD 700 shown in FIG. 7 does not have a component similar to the component 215 of the WHUD 200, but it is contemplated that the WHUD 700 may include a component similar in structure, function, or arrangement to the component 215 of the WHUD 200. The component may be disposed in a first portion of the temple arm 710, the first portion being disposed between the interface 720 and the front frame 705.

[0079] Figure 8 Shows Figure 7 A top plan view of WHUD 700 is shown. Figure 7 and Figure 8 , WHUD 700 is shown in its extended or deployed configuration. Fig. 9 Next, WHUD 700 is shown in a folded configuration. Fig. 9As shown, the temple arm 715 is folded against the front frame 705 at the junction 725. The temple arm 715 folded in this manner can be described as a folded temple arm 715. In some examples, to achieve this folded configuration, the temple arm 715 can be folded until the temple arm 715 abuts against the front frame 705. Furthermore, in some examples, the temple arm 715 can be folded until it reaches the end of its folding range of motion. The end of the folding range of motion can be determined by the geometry of the eyeglass frame of the WHUD 700 or by the characteristics of the folding mechanism at the junction 725. In some examples, the folding mechanism can include a hinge or the like.

[0080] The temple arm 710 then folds against the folded temple arm 710 at the junction 725. In some examples, to achieve this folded configuration, the temple arm 710 can be folded until it abuts against one or more of the folded temple arm 715 or the front frame 705. Further, in some examples, the temple arm 710 can be folded until it reaches the end of its folding range of motion. The end of the folding range of motion can be determined by the geometry of the eyeglass frame of the WHUD 700 or by the characteristics of the folding mechanism at the junction 720. In some examples, the folding mechanism can include a hinge or the like.

[0081] Fig.10 Simplified top and side plan views of example configurations of unfolded temple arms for a WHUD are shown in accordance with one or more non-limiting embodiments. In particular, Fig.10 An example deployed configuration 1001 is included, depicting a left temple arm 1010 and a right temple arm 1030 .

[0082] A simplified top plan view of the left temple arm 1010 includes a folding mechanism 1015 (e.g., a hinge) and a linear intersection 1025 between two portions of the left temple arm, wherein the two portions rotate apart when the folding mechanism 1015 is engaged. A simplified side plan view of the left temple arm 1010 shows the perceived intersection 1020 of the two portions of the left temple arm. Similarly, a simplified top plan view of the right temple arm 1030 includes a folding mechanism 1035 (e.g., a hinge) and a linear intersection 1045 between two portions of the right temple arm, wherein the two portions rotate apart when the folding mechanism 1035 is engaged. A simplified side plan view of the right temple arm 1030 shows the perceived intersection 1040 of the two portions of the right temple arm.

[0083] Notably, the asymmetric configuration of the folding mechanisms 1015 and 1035 is visually apparent from an external side view of the deployed configuration 1001, i.e., an external observer viewing the deployed configuration first from the left side and then from the right side (or vice versa) will readily detect that the respective temple arms 1010 and 1030 will be folded at different distances from the front frame because the perceived interface 1020 of the left temple arm 1010 is located at a different distance from the front frame than the perceived interface 1040 of the right temple arm 1030. In certain scenarios, this asymmetric nature of the perceived interface may be distracting or otherwise negatively impact an external observer's perception of the WHUD.

[0084] Fig.11 Simplified top and side plan views of alternative example configurations of deployed temple arms for a WHUD are shown in accordance with one or more non-limiting embodiments. Example deployed configuration 1101 depicts left temple arm 1110 and right temple arm 1130 .

[0085] A simplified top plan view of the left temple arm 1110 includes a folding mechanism 1115 (e.g., a hinge) and a curvilinear interface 1125 between two foldable portions of the left temple arm that rotate apart when the folding mechanism 1115 is engaged. A simplified side plan view of the left temple arm 1110 shows a perceived interface 1120 of the two foldable portions of the left temple arm. Similarly, a simplified top plan view of the right temple arm 1130 includes a folding mechanism 1135 (e.g., a hinge) and a curvilinear interface 1145 between two foldable portions of the right temple arm that rotate apart when the folding mechanism 1135 is engaged. A simplified side plan view of the right temple arm 1130 shows a perceived interface 1140 of the two foldable portions of the right temple arm.

[0086] and Fig.10 Compared to the example embodiment of Fig.11 In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the asymmetric configuration of the folding mechanisms 1115 and 1135 is generally not easily observable from an external side view of the unfolded configuration 1101, i.e., an external observer viewing the unfolded configuration first from the left side and then from the right side (or vice versa) will generally not be able to detect that the corresponding temple arms 1110 and 1130 will be folded at different distances from the front frame because the perceived interface 1120 of the left temple arm 1110 is located at the same distance from the front frame as the perceived interface 1140 of the right temple arm 1130. In particular, both the perceived interfaces 1120 and 1140 are arranged along the same axis 1150. In some scenarios, this configuration can alleviate or reduce the risk of folding the temple arms 1110 and 1130 from being folded. Fig.10 any distracting or other negative perception of the WHUD associated with the asymmetric configuration described.

[0087] It should be understood that in various embodiments and configurations, additional types of interfaces may be used between the foldable portions of the left temple arm 1110 and the right temple arm 1130. For example, in addition to Fig.11 In addition to those curved intersections depicted in , a variety of curved intersections can be used. As another example, straight line intersections can be used, but they still mask the asymmetric distance between the front frame of the WHUD and the folding mechanism 1115 at 1135, respectively, such as by forming a first straight line intersection between the folding mechanism 1115 and the perceived intersection 1120 (relative to the left temple arm) and a second straight line intersection between the folding mechanism 1135 and the perceived intersection 1140 (relative to the right temple arm). In this way, straight line intersections between the folded portions of the corresponding temple arms can be used, while the perceived intersections 1120 and 1140 are still positioned along the axis 1150. In addition, such intersections (curved and / or straight lines) can be used to communicate with other places in this document regarding Figures 1 to 9 The features described are consistent with and / or include various embodiments of these features.

[0088] Throughout this specification and the appended claims, infinitive verb forms are frequently used. Examples include, but are not limited to: "receive," "generate," "form," etc. Unless the specific context requires otherwise, such infinitive verb forms are used in an open, inclusive sense, i.e., "at least receive," "at least generate," "at least form," etc.

[0089] The description of the example embodiments described above (including what is described in the Abstract) is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. Although specific embodiments and examples are described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art. In addition, the various example embodiments described herein may be combined to provide further embodiments.

[0090] Generally, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should be construed to include all possible embodiments and the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Therefore, the claims are not limited by this disclosure.

Claims

1. A wearable head-up display (WHUD), comprising: An eyeglass frame, comprising a front frame and a first temple arm and a second temple arm each coupled to the front frame, wherein: At least a portion of the first temple arm is foldable relative to the front frame at a first intersection, and the first intersection is arranged along an inner side of the first temple arm at a first distance from the front frame; and At least a portion of the second temple arm is foldable relative to the front frame at a second intersection, the second intersection is arranged along the inner side of the second temple arm at a second distance from the front frame, the first distance is different from the second distance, and the inner side of the first temple arm faces the inner side of the second temple arm; a light engine mounted to the eyeglass frame, the light engine generating display light; and display optics mounted to the eyeglass frame, the display optics receiving display light from the light engine and directing the display light toward an eye of a user of the WHUD to form an image viewable by the user, in: The first interface extends from a first interface position to a first perceived interface position, wherein the first interface position is located at a first distance from the front frame along the inner side of the first temple arm, and the first perceived interface position is located at a third distance from the front frame along the outer side of the first temple arm; The second interface extends from a second interface position to a second perceived interface position, wherein the second interface position is located along the inner side of the second temple arm at the second distance from the front frame, and the second perceived interface position is located along the outer side of the second temple arm at the third distance from the front frame; and The outer side of the first temple arm is opposite to the inner side of the first temple arm, and the outer side of the second temple arm is opposite to the inner side of the second temple arm, wherein The third distance is different from the first distance and the second distance.

2. The WHUD according to claim 1, wherein: The first distance is longer than the second distance.

3. The WHUD according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The light engine is mounted to the first temple arm.

4. The WHUD according to claim 3, wherein: The first temple arm comprises: a first portion, the first portion is arranged between the first intersection and the front frame; and a second portion, the second portion is arranged between the first intersection and a distal end of the first temple arm away from the front frame; and The light engine is mounted to the first portion of the first temple arm.

5. The WHUD according to any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein: The first interface is positioned outside of a light path of the display light from the light engine to the display optics.

6. The WHUD according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein: The first portion is non-removably coupled to the front frame.

7. The WHUD according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first interface and the second interface is curvilinear.

8. The WHUD according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein: The second distance is approximately zero.

9. A WHUD according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: One or more of the first temple arm and the second temple arm are hinged at the first intersection and the second intersection, respectively; and One or more of the corresponding first and second interfaces include a first hinge location along the first temple arm and a second hinge location along the second temple arm, respectively.

10. A WHUD according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The light engine includes a light source that emits the display light.

11. The WHUD according to claim 10, wherein: The light source includes a laser that emits the display light.

12. The WHUD according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein: The light engine also includes a spatial modulator to receive display light from the light source and direct the display light onto the display optics.

13. The WHUD according to claim 12, wherein: The spatial modulator includes a movable reflector.

14. A WHUD according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The display optics include a diffractive optical element.

15. A WHUD according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The WHUD further comprises a lens mounted to the front frame; and The display optics are mounted to the lens.

16. The WHUD of any preceding claim, further comprising a battery for powering the light engine.

17. The WHUD of claim 16, wherein: The first distance is longer than the second distance; and The battery is mounted to the second temple arm.

18. The WHUD of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a controller in communication with the light engine, the controller controlling the light engine.

19. The WHUD according to claim 18, wherein: The light engine includes a light source and a spatial modulator, and the controller controls one or more of the light source and the spatial modulator.

20. A WHUD according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first distance is longer than the second distance; and The eyeglass frame has a folded configuration, wherein: The portion of the second temple arm is folded against the front frame to form a folded second temple arm; and A corresponding portion of the first temple arm is folded against the folded second temple arm.

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