Lighting modules, LCOS display systems and optical display devices

Abstract

This application provides an illumination module, an LCOS display system, and an optical display device. The illumination module includes an illumination source, a light-diffusing element, and an LCOS panel. The illumination source emits illumination light. The light-diffusing element diffuses and evens the illumination light. The LCOS panel receives the light after light-diffusing treatment and forms projection light, then reflects the projection light to the coupling portion of a light guide device of an external device. The optical axis of the illumination source is perpendicular to the light-diffusing element. The light-diffusing element is configured to provide the required field of view (FOV) for each pixel on the LCOS panel and deflect the emitted light to illuminate the effective display surface of the LCOS panel. The light transmission path of the projection light reflected from the effective display surface of the LCOS panel is located outside the area enclosed by the lines connecting all edges of the light-diffusing element and the edge of the LCOS panel closest to the light-diffusing element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of projection technology, and more specifically, to a lighting module, an LCOS display system, and an optical display device. Background Technology

[0002] LCOS displays, as an advanced display technology, boast advantages such as high resolution, high brightness, and high contrast, and have broad application prospects in optical display fields such as head-mounted displays and projection displays. However, the illumination section of traditional LCOS displays typically includes many optical components such as condenser lenses, relay lenses, and polarizing beam splitters. These optical components not only increase the complexity and manufacturing cost of the illumination section but also make optical axis alignment difficult, resulting in a bulky illumination section that is not conducive to application in miniaturized and lightweight optical display devices such as smart head-mounted displays. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this application is to provide a new technical solution for a lighting module, an LCOS display system, and an optical display device.

[0004] In a first aspect, this application provides a lighting module for an LCOS display system, the lighting module comprising:

[0005] A light source, used to emit light;

[0006] A light-diffusing element is used to diffuse and diffusing the illumination light emitted by the illumination source.

[0007] An LCOS panel is used to receive light after it has been homogenized and form a projected light beam, which is then reflected onto the coupling portion of the light guide device of an external device.

[0008] The optical axis of the illumination source is perpendicular to the light-diffusing element;

[0009] The light-diffusing element is configured to provide the required field of view (FOV) for each pixel on the LCOS panel and to deflect outgoing light rays onto the effective display surface of the LCOS panel, wherein the light transmission path of the projected light rays reflected from the effective display surface of the LCOS panel is located outside the area enclosed by the lines connecting all edges of the light-diffusing element and the edge of the LCOS panel closest to the light-diffusing element.

[0010] Optionally, the light-diffusing element and the LCOS panel satisfy the following relationship:

[0011]

[0012] Where p is the length of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel, l is the length of the light-diffusing element, d is the straight-line distance from the center of the light-diffusing element to the LCOS panel, FOV is the field of view angle of each pixel on the LCOS panel, θ is the angle between the central ray within the FOV and the LCOS panel, and a is the tilt angle of the light-diffusing element relative to the LCOS panel.

[0013] Optionally, the light-diffusing element is tilted relative to the LCOS panel.

[0014] Optionally, the size of the illumination source is adapted to the size of the light-diffusing element.

[0015] Optionally, the light-diffusing element is arranged parallel to the LCOS panel, and the tilt angle α is α = 0°;

[0016] The light-diffusing element and the LCOS panel satisfy the following relationship:

[0017]

[0018] Optionally, the size of the light-diffusing element is larger than the size of the illumination source.

[0019] Optionally, a diffractive optical element is disposed between the illumination source and the light-diffusing element;

[0020] The diffractive optical element is used to expand the illumination light emitted by the illumination source and project it onto the homogenizing element.

[0021] Optionally, the diffractive optical element is arranged parallel to the illumination source, and the size of the diffractive optical element matches the size of the illumination source.

[0022] Secondly, this application provides an LCOS display system, the LCOS display system comprising:

[0023] The lighting module as described in the first aspect; and

[0024] The optical lens and light guide device, the projected light reflected by the LCOS panel, after passing through the optical lens, is projected onto the coupling portion of the light guide device;

[0025] The light guide device is used to receive light from the coupling part and transmit it through total internal reflection to the coupling part for coupling out.

[0026] The LCOS panel and the light guide device are arranged in parallel.

[0027] Optionally, the illumination source, the light-diffusing element, the LCOS panel, and the optical lens are all located on the same side of the light guide device, and the illumination source, the light-diffusing element, and the optical lens are located between the light guide device and the LCOS panel.

[0028] Optionally, the illumination source and the light-diffusing element are located on one side of the light guide device, and the LCOS panel and the optical lens are located on the other side of the light guide device.

[0029] Thirdly, this application provides an optical display device, the optical display device comprising:

[0030] The outer casing; and

[0031] The LCOS display system as described in the second aspect.

[0032] The beneficial effects of this application are as follows:

[0033] This application provides an illumination module designed to simplify the complexity of the illumination section in traditional LCOS display systems, reduce the number and types of required optical components, and improve optical performance. By employing a simplified optical structure, this application eliminates traditional complex lenses and polarizing elements, including only three main optical components: an illumination source, a light-diffusing element, and an LCOS panel. This significantly simplifies the complexity of the illumination section and reduces manufacturing costs. Furthermore, through a specially designed layout of the light-diffusing element and the LCOS panel, not only is excellent uniformity of the illumination light achieved, improving the energy utilization rate of the illumination source, but the light after light diffusing can also uniformly cover the effective display area of ​​the LCOS panel. Simultaneously, the light transmission path of the projection light reflected from the LCOS panel is completely outside the light-diffusing element, preventing the projection light from passing through it again and allowing it to directly enter the imaging optical path of the LCOS display system. This effectively reduces stray light generation, thus providing users with a higher quality, more efficient, and more reliable display solution.

[0034] Other features and advantages of this specification will become clear from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of this specification and, together with their description, serve to explain the principles of this specification.

[0036] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the lighting module provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0037] Figure 2This is the second schematic diagram of the structure of the lighting module provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 3 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the lighting module provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 4 Fourth schematic diagram of the structure of the lighting module provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 5 This is one of the design schematic diagrams of the light-diffusing element and LCOS panel provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0041] Figure 6 The second schematic diagram of the design principle of the light-diffusing element and LCOS panel provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0042] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0043] 1. Light source; 2. Light homogenizing element; 3. LCOS panel; 4. Optical lens; 5. Light guide device; 6. Diffractive optical element. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Various exemplary embodiments of the present application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the present application.

[0045] The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the scope of this application and its application or use.

[0046] Technologies and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such technologies and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0047] In all the examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0048] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be discussed further in subsequent figures.

[0049] The lighting module, LCOS display system, and optical display device provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] According to one embodiment of this application, an illumination module is provided for use in an LCOS display system. See [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1 to 3 The lighting module includes a lighting source 1, a light-diffusing element 2, and an LCOS panel 3. The lighting source 1 emits lighting light. The light-diffusing element 2 diffuses and evens out the lighting light emitted by the lighting source 1. The LCOS panel 3 receives the evenly shone light and forms a projected light, which is then reflected to the coupling portion of a peripheral light guide device 5. The optical axis of the lighting source 1 is perpendicular to the light-diffusing element 2. The light-diffusing element 2 is configured to provide the required field of view (FOV) for each pixel on the LCOS panel 3 and deflect the emitted light onto the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3. The light transmission path of the projected light reflected from the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3 is located outside the area enclosed by the lines connecting all edges of the light-diffusing element 2 and the edge of the LCOS panel 3 closest to the light-diffusing element 2.

[0051] The lighting module provided in this application embodiment is designed for an LCOS display system. See also Figures 1 to 3 The lighting module mainly integrates three major optical components: a lighting source 1, a light-diffusing element 2, and an LCOS panel 3. The lighting module contains a small number of optical components and has a simple structure.

[0052] The illumination module provided in this embodiment, in conjunction with the peripheral light guide device 5, reduces the overall size of the LCOS display system. In other words, the projected light emitted by the illumination module provided in this embodiment can be transmitted to the human eye for image formation via the peripheral light guide device 5.

[0053] In this system, the illumination source 1 emits illumination light, while the light-diffusing element 2 diffuses and evens out this illumination light, ensuring it uniformly covers the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3. The LCOS panel 3 receives this evenly diffused illumination light, performs high-quality display, and transforms the illumination light into projection light carrying image information. This projection light is then reflected to the light guide device 5 for transmission, thus realizing projection imaging in the LCOS display system.

[0054] The lighting module provided in this application embodiment contains a relatively small number of optical components. Compared to the lighting design of traditional LCOS display systems, the optical structure design of the lighting module provided in this application embodiment is simpler, which helps to reduce the size and weight of the entire lighting module and also reduces production costs.

[0055] The illumination module provided in this application embodiment can provide imaging and display light for the entire LCOS display system. The illumination module of this application is described in detail below.

[0056] The lighting module in this embodiment includes a lighting source 1, which serves as the starting part of the lighting module and is responsible for providing illumination. This is an indispensable source of light energy in the imaging and display process, and its performance directly affects the brightness and color performance of the subsequently displayed image. The lighting source 1 in this application can, for example, be an RGB color light source to form a color image.

[0057] The lighting module of this application embodiment includes a light-diffusing element 2. The light-diffusing element 2 is designed to be located between the lighting source 1 and the LCOS panel 3. The light-diffusing element 2 is responsible for both diffusing and uniformly distributing the illumination light emitted from the lighting source 1. The design of the light-diffusing element 2 is crucial to ensuring that the illumination light emitted from the lighting source 1 can uniformly and consistently illuminate all positions of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3, directly affecting the uniformity and clarity of the displayed image. Simultaneously, the light-diffusing element 2 also provides the required field of view (FOV) for each pixel on the LCOS panel 3. It should be noted that the LCOS panel 3 primarily has a reflective function, and its FOV is designed from the light-diffusing element 2. In other words, the light-diffusing element 2 can provide the required divergence angle FOV for the entire lighting module.

[0058] The lighting module provided in this application embodiment is referred to... Figure 1 The light transmission path of the projected light reflected from the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3 lies outside the area bounded by the lines connecting all edges of the light-diffusing element 2 and the edge of the LCOS panel 3 closest to the light-diffusing element 2. Thus, the projected light reflected from the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3 does not pass through the light-diffusing element 2 again; that is, the light-diffusing element 2 does not obstruct the projected light reflected from the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3. This avoids stray light from being coupled into the light guide device 5, which could affect the quality of the final projected image.

[0059] The light-diffusing element 2 is, for example, a light-diffusing sheet.

[0060] The surface of the light homogenizer is covered with microlens structures, which give it unique light homogenizing and diffusion properties. Specifically, when light is incident on the light homogenizer, these microlenses split the incident light beam into multiple smaller beams. Each microlens projects its portion of the light as a relatively uniformly distributed spot. Due to the refraction of the microlenses, the spot produced by each microlens diffuses to a certain extent in space. This diffusion helps to distribute the originally concentrated light energy over a wider area. The spots produced by multiple microlenses on the light homogenizer will superimpose in the far field or focal plane. Due to the arrangement and optical properties of the microlens array, these spots can compensate for each other during superposition, making the light intensity distribution throughout the illumination area more uniform.

[0061] The lighting module in this embodiment includes an LCOS panel 3. The LCOS panel 3, as the main component of the entire lighting module, is responsible for receiving the illumination light after homogenization and forming the imaging light carrying image information, which then continues to the rear optical elements, such as... Figure 1 The optical lens 4 and light guide device 5 shown in the diagram propagate light. The performance of the LCOS panel 3 will also affect the quality of the displayed image.

[0062] Compared with existing technologies, this application eliminates complex optical components such as lenses and polarizing elements, and instead employs a simpler optical device—the light-diffusing element 2. Through careful design, the light-diffusing element 2 effectively homogenizes the illumination light emitted from the illumination source 1 and guides the light to be projected onto the LCOS panel 3 at an appropriate angle, uniformly and comprehensively covering the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3. In other words, the illumination module provided in this application aims to simplify the complexity of the illumination section of a traditional LCOS display system, reduce the number and types of required optical components, and simultaneously improve optical performance.

[0063] In existing technologies, the light emitted by the illumination source is usually vertically focused onto the LCOS panel.

[0064] However, in the solutions proposed in the embodiments of this application, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, a novel design is employed, in which the illumination light is projected onto the LCOS panel 3 at an angle. This design simplifies the structural design complexity of the light-diffusing element 2.

[0065] Specifically, when the illumination light shines on the LCOS panel 3 at an angle, it also means that the light received by the light-diffusing element 2 is also at an angle. Therefore, when designing the light-diffusing element 2, it is only necessary to focus on whether it can diffuse the light evenly forward and ensure that the light can cover the entire LCOS panel 3. This design greatly simplifies the design task of the light-diffusing element 2, as it only needs to achieve the light-diffusing effect.

[0066] Conversely, if the illumination light is projected perpendicularly onto the LCOS panel 3, the design of the light-diffusing element 2 becomes more complex. It not only needs to achieve uniform light diffusion but also ensure that the light is properly deflected to cover the entire LCOS panel. This additional deflection requirement increases the design difficulty and manufacturing cost of the light-diffusing element 2. Therefore, the tilted projection design proposed in this application is a more efficient and economical solution.

[0067] In some examples of this application, the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 satisfy the following relationship:

[0068]

[0069] Where p is the length of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3, l is the length of the light-diffusing element 2, d is the straight-line distance from the center of the light-diffusing element 2 to the LCOS panel 3, FOV is the field of view angle of each pixel on the LCOS panel 3, θ is the angle between the central ray within the FOV and the LCOS panel 3, and a is the tilt angle of the light-diffusing element 2 relative to the LCOS panel 3.

[0070] See Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 The design of the light-diffusing element 2 when it is tilted relative to the LCOS panel 3 is analyzed in detail below.

[0071] In the design of the lighting module provided in the embodiments of this application, see... Figure 5The design of the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 is particularly crucial. They satisfy a specific relationship, which comprehensively considers the effective display surface length p of the LCOS panel 3, the length l of the light-diffusing element 2, the straight-line distance d from the center of the light-diffusing element 2 to the LCOS panel 3, the field of view (FOV) of each pixel on the LCOS panel 3, the angle θ between the central ray within the FOV and the LCOS panel 3, and the tilt angle α of the light-diffusing element 2 relative to the LCOS panel 3. This relationship ensures that the illumination light emitted from the illumination source 1, after passing through the light-diffusing element 2, can uniformly and consistently illuminate all positions of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3, while meeting certain uniformity and angle requirements. This greatly improves the uniformity of the illumination light distribution on the LCOS panel 3, especially on its effective display surface, and avoids undesirable phenomena such as brightness differences or vignetting caused by uneven illumination light distribution.

[0072] Because the illumination light can evenly cover the LCOS panel 3, the light signal received by the LCOS panel 3 will be more stable, which helps to improve the uniformity and clarity of the displayed image. At the same time, the improved uniformity of the illumination light also helps to reduce image distortion and color distortion, further optimizing display performance.

[0073] The above-described relationship allows for a relatively simple and efficient uniform light distribution between the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3, without the need for additional complex optical components. This helps reduce the overall complexity of the lighting module, simplifies the system structure, and lowers manufacturing costs.

[0074] The lighting module provided in this application, when used in an LCOS display system, reduces display defects and improves the overall display quality and user visual experience. In summary, the lighting module of this application brings a dual improvement in light uniformity and display quality to the LCOS display system.

[0075] When FOV and p are fixed in the relationship provided in this example, and the values ​​of θ and α are also fixed, if l is to be smaller, the size of d needs to be reduced. When the value of d decreases, it means that the distance between the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 is shortened.

[0076] In this example of the application, see [link / reference]. Figure 5 The length direction of the light-diffusing element 2 and the length direction of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3 are both... Figure 5 The horizontal direction is shown in the figure.

[0077] It should be noted that the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 have a width direction in addition to the length direction. Here, the constraints in the width direction are consistent with those in the length direction; that is, both must follow the same constraint principles in design and application.

[0078] In the lighting module of this application, the design of the light-diffusing element 2 not only ensures the uniform distribution of light but also improves the energy utilization rate of the lighting source 1. This means that, under the same lighting conditions, the lighting module of this application embodiment can utilize the light energy emitted by the lighting source 1 more effectively, thereby reducing light energy loss.

[0079] Due to the improved uniformity of light and the increased energy utilization of the light source, the lighting module of this application embodiment has excellent performance in terms of display quality. It can present clearer, more delicate and colorful images or information, bringing users a better visual experience.

[0080] This application adopts a simplified optical structure, eliminating the traditional complex lenses and polarization elements, and includes only an illumination source 1, a light-diffusing element 2, and an LCOS panel 3. This greatly simplifies the complexity of the illumination part and reduces manufacturing costs. At the same time, the light-diffusing element 2 achieves uniform processing of the illumination light, improves the energy utilization rate of the illumination source, and enhances the optical performance of the LCOS display system, bringing users a higher quality, more efficient, and more reliable display solution.

[0081] Based on the above description of the composition of the lighting module provided in this application, it can be determined that, compared with the lighting system design of traditional LCOS displays, the lighting module provided in this application greatly simplifies the structural design. By reducing unnecessary optical devices and components, the entire lighting module not only reduces manufacturing costs but also improves assembly efficiency and reliability.

[0082] See some examples in this application. Figure 1 The light-diffusing element 2 is inclined relative to the LCOS panel 3.

[0083] See Figure 1 When the light-diffusing element 2 is tilted, it can guide the illumination light to the LCOS panel 3 at a flexible angle. This tilt angle helps to achieve a more uniform distribution of light on the LCOS panel 3, avoiding the phenomenon of bright center and dark edge caused by vertical light incidence.

[0084] In the lighting module provided in the embodiments of this application, see... Figure 1Designing the light-diffusing element 2 to be tilted relative to the LCOS panel 3 simplifies its design. Compared to a vertically positioned element, the tilted light-diffusing element 2 is simpler to design. It does not require consideration of how to deflect vertically incident light to cover the entire LCOS panel 3, but only needs to focus on the uniform diffusion of light in the tilt direction. This simplification reduces the manufacturing difficulty and cost of the light-diffusing element 2, while also helping to improve production efficiency.

[0085] See some examples in this application. Figure 1 The size of the lighting source 1 is adapted to the size of the light-diffusing element 2.

[0086] When the light-diffusing element 2 is tilted relative to the LCOS panel 3, and the illumination source 1 is parallel to the light-diffusing element 2, the size of the illumination source 1 is designed to match the size of the light-diffusing element 2.

[0087] The design of the illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2, which are size-matched, ensures that the light emitted by the illumination source 1 can be received by the light-diffusing element 2 to the maximum extent. Because their sizes are matched, light transmission will not result in light leakage or loss due to size mismatch, thereby improving light energy transmission efficiency. This efficient light energy transmission helps to enhance the light intensity received by the LCOS panel 3, thereby improving the brightness and clarity of the displayed image.

[0088] This example of the application enables the optimization of illumination uniformity. Specifically, the matching size of the illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 helps to achieve a more uniform light distribution. The light-diffusing element 2 can more effectively diffuse and homogenize the light from the illumination source 1, ensuring that the light can uniformly and consistently illuminate all positions of the effective light-emitting surface of the LCOS panel 3.

[0089] Furthermore, the size-matched design simplifies the structure of the lighting module. Specifically, since the lighting source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 are the same size, their positioning becomes much simpler. This not only reduces manufacturing costs but also improves assembly efficiency, making the entire lighting module more compact and reliable.

[0090] Although the dimensions of the illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 are matched in this example of the application, this design does not limit the flexibility of the system. In practical applications, the dimensions of the illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 can be adjusted as needed to meet the requirements of LCOS display systems with different specifications and performance.

[0091] For example, for display systems requiring higher brightness or a wider illumination range, the size of the illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 can be increased. Conversely, for applications requiring miniaturization and lightweight design, the size can be reduced to accommodate space constraints.

[0092] See some examples in this application. Figure 2 and Figure 6 The light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 are arranged in parallel, and the tilt angle α is α = 0°.

[0093] The light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 satisfy the following relationship:

[0094]

[0095] In this example of the application, see Figure 2 The light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 are arranged in parallel, a design that is consistent with... Figure 1 Compared to the optical structures shown, the parallel arrangement significantly reduces the overall height of the lighting module, improving its compactness and integration. This design demonstrates significant advantages in optical applications that prioritize miniaturization and high efficiency.

[0096] In the relational expression provided in this example application: see Figure 6 p is the length of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3, l is the length of the light-diffusing element 2, d is the straight-line distance from the center of the light-diffusing element 2 to the LCOS panel 3, FOV is the field of view angle of each pixel on the LCOS panel 3, and θ is the angle between the central ray within the FOV and the LCOS panel 3.

[0097] According to the design scheme provided in this example, light is ensured to be evenly distributed before entering the LCOS panel 3, effectively reducing the problem of uneven brightness and improving the efficiency of light utilization. By controlling the distance and angle relationship between the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3, the clarity of the displayed image is significantly improved. In addition, parallel setting and angle control help reduce optical distortion caused by improper position or angular deviation of optical elements, thereby providing a more accurate image display.

[0098] According to the relationship provided in this example of the application, when the length dimensions p of FOV and LCOS are fixed, and the size of the angle θ is fixed, if l is to be smaller, the size of d needs to be reduced.

[0099] The lighting module provided in the embodiments of this application, see [link to application]. Figure 6To prevent the projected light reflected from the edge of the LCOS panel 3 from passing through the homogenizing element 2, the following condition must be met: p ≤ d / tan(θ + FOV / 2); where p is the length of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3, d is the straight-line distance from the center of the homogenizing element 2 to the LCOS panel 3, FOV is the field of view angle of each pixel on the LCOS panel 3, and θ is the angle between the central ray within the FOV and the LCOS panel 3. This example helps avoid interference with imaging, such as reducing stray light formation.

[0100] See some examples in this application. Figure 2 The size of the light-diffusing element 2 is larger than the size of the lighting source 1.

[0101] In this example of the application, the fact that the size of the light-diffusing element 2 is greater than the size of the lighting source 1 means that the area of ​​the light-diffusing element 2 is greater than the light-emitting area of ​​the lighting source 1.

[0102] See Figure 2 Both the illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 are arranged parallel to the LCOS panel 3; wherein the area of ​​the illumination source 1 is smaller than the light-emitting area of ​​the light-diffusing element 2. This design allows for a reduction in the size of the illumination source 1 to a certain extent, while still ensuring that the light processed by the light-diffusing element 2 can uniformly cover the LCOS panel 3.

[0103] In this example of the application, the light-diffusing element 2 can form a set deflection angle relative to the light emission direction of the illumination source 1 to ensure that the illumination light from the light-diffusing process can cover the LCOS panel 3 more evenly, reducing the problem of dead angles where the illumination light cannot reach.

[0104] See some examples in this application. Figure 3 A diffractive optical element 6 is provided between the illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2; the diffractive optical element 6 is used to expand the illumination light emitted by the illumination source 1 and project it onto the light-diffusing element 2.

[0105] exist Figure 2 Above the lighting module architecture shown, another example of this application can be found in [link to application]. Figure 3 When the light-emitting area of ​​the illumination source 1 is relatively small, which may affect the uniformity of light, a diffractive optical element 6 is introduced in this example of the application.

[0106] The addition of the diffractive optical element 6 greatly enhances the uniform distribution and diffusion of the illumination light, ensuring that every corner of the LCOS panel 3 receives a uniform and consistent light intensity. This improvement not only significantly enhances the image quality of the LCOS-based illumination module but also effectively reduces potential unevenness in brightness and light spots in the image, providing users with a clearer and brighter visual experience.

[0107] See some examples in this application. Figure 3 The diffractive optical element 6 is arranged parallel to the illumination source 1, and the size of the diffractive optical element 6 matches the size of the illumination source 1.

[0108] See Figure 3 In this example of the application, the diffractive optical element 6 is described as being arranged parallel to the illumination source 1, and its area is matched with the emitting area of ​​the illumination source 1. The diffractive optical element 6 is mainly used to expand the illumination light emitted by the illumination source 1 to ensure that the beam size incident on the homogenizing element 2 matches the homogenization requirements.

[0109] The introduction of the diffractive optical element 6 can pre-expand the illumination light, making the beam size incident on the homogenizing element 2 more in line with the homogenizing requirements, thereby improving the utilization rate and uniformity of the light.

[0110] Furthermore, the parallel arrangement and size matching of the diffractive optical element 6 and the illumination source 1 reduce the difficulty of manufacturing and assembly, and improve production efficiency.

[0111] See some examples in this application. Figures 1 to 3 The optical axis of the illumination source 1 is perpendicular to the light-diffusing element 2.

[0112] See also in this application. Figures 1 to 3 The lighting source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 are arranged parallel to each other. This arrangement allows the lighting light emitted from the lighting source 1 to be directly and efficiently projected onto the light-diffusing element 2 without the need for complex turns or adjustments.

[0113] Because the lighting source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 are arranged parallel to each other, the optical path design is simplified. Specifically, the lighting light reduces unnecessary refraction and reflection during propagation, thereby reducing light loss and improving light energy utilization.

[0114] The parallel arrangement also helps to improve the uniformity of light. Specifically, the light-diffusing element 2 can more effectively diffuse and homogenize parallel incident light, ensuring that the light can uniformly cover all positions on the LCOS panel 3, thereby forming uniform imaging light.

[0115] Furthermore, the parallel arrangement simplifies manufacturing and assembly. For example, positioning and alignment between components are relatively easy, reducing production difficulty and cost.

[0116] It should be noted that when the lighting module of this application is applied in, for example, an LCOS display system, see [reference needed]. Figures 1 to 3 The lighting module can be entirely located on one side of the light guide device 5 in the LCOS display system. Alternatively, the lighting module can be located on both sides of the light guide device 5, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4 The lighting source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 are disposed on one side of the light guide device 5, and the LCOS panel 3 is disposed on the other side of the light guide device 5.

[0117] According to another embodiment of this application, an LCOS display system is provided, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1 to 4 The LCOS display system includes the illumination module as described above, as well as the optical lens 4 and the light guide device 5; the projection light reflected by the LCOS panel 3 passes through the optical lens 4 and is projected onto the coupling portion of the light guide device 5; the light guide device 5 is used to receive the light from the coupling portion and transmit it through total internal reflection to the coupling portion for coupling out; the LCOS panel 3 and the light guide device 5 are arranged in parallel.

[0118] In the LCOS display system of this application, the optical lens 4 is located on the reflection path of the LCOS panel 3. The optical lens 4 is used to focus and correct the image light emitted by the LCOS panel 3 to ensure image quality.

[0119] The optical lens 4 may include one or more lenses. The specific number of lenses can be flexibly adjusted according to the imaging quality requirements, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0120] The light guide device 5 is located on the light exit path of the optical lens 4. The addition of the light guide device 5 enables the LCOS display system of this application to better manage light, reduce light loss, and improve light utilization. The light guide device 5 can transmit light carrying image information to the human eye to form an image in the human eye.

[0121] In the LCOS display system provided in this application embodiment, the light guide device 5 is, for example, a diffractive waveguide. The diffractive waveguide is provided with an insertion portion and an exit portion. The light rays carrying image information emitted from the optical lens 4 are propagated through the insertion portion to the interior of the diffractive waveguide, and after encountering the exit portion, they are coupled out to the human eye for imaging.

[0122] Please continue reading Figures 1 to 4 The light guide device 5 and the LCOS panel 3 are designed to be arranged in parallel. This design helps simplify the overall structure of the lighting module, making the spatial relationship between the various optical components clearer and more compact. At the same time, the parallel arrangement can also reduce problems such as light loss or image distortion caused by angular deviations between components.

[0123] By reducing light loss or image distortion caused by angular deviations, this design helps improve the overall performance of the system, resulting in a more accurate and clearer final image.

[0124] Furthermore, the parallel arrangement of the light guide device 5 and the LCOS panel 3 greatly simplifies the overall structure of the lighting module, making the assembly process of the lighting module more convenient.

[0125] See some examples in this application. Figures 1 to 3 The illumination source 1, the light-diffusing element 2, the LCOS panel 3, and the optical lens 4 are all located on the same side of the light guide device 5, and the illumination source 1, the light-diffusing element 2, and the optical lens 4 are located between the light guide device 5 and the LCOS panel 3.

[0126] See Figures 1 to 3 The optical structure layout shown includes: the illumination source 1, the light-diffusing element 2, and the optical lens 4 (possibly also including a diffractive optical element 6, see [link]). Figure 3 The light is positioned within the space between the light guide device 5 and the LCOS panel 3. This layout design means that after light is emitted from the illumination source 1, it is first homogenized by the light homogenizing element 2 before being projected onto the LCOS panel 3. The LCOS panel 3 reflects the light to the optical lens 4, where it is then focused and corrected before finally entering the light guide device 5 for further light adjustment or guidance. Ultimately, the processed image light is directed to the user's eyes or other target areas. This layout ensures that every step from light generation to output is effectively controlled and optimized, thereby improving light utilization and image quality.

[0127] The layout design in this example improves the integration of the entire lighting module, making the connections between the various components tighter and more efficient.

[0128] See some examples in this application. Figure 4 The illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 are located on one side of the light guide device 5, and the LCOS panel 3 and the optical lens 4 are located on the other side of the light guide device 5.

[0129] By placing the illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 on opposite sides of the light guide device 5, respectively, the layout design effectively utilizes the space on both sides of the light guide device 5.

[0130] Lighting sources generate heat during operation. In the example of this application, heat dissipation design can be more easily achieved by placing the lighting source 1 on one side of the light guide device 5.

[0131] Please continue reading Figure 4 The illumination source 1, the light-diffusing element 2, the LCOS panel 3, and the optical lens 4 are all parallel to the light guide device 5. This parallel arrangement simplifies the structural layout of the entire illumination module and reduces the complexity of manufacturing and assembly.

[0132] The following four embodiments describe the layout of the lighting module provided in the embodiments of this application in the LCOS display system.

[0133] Example 1

[0134] See Figure 1 The LCOS display system includes an illumination module, an optical lens 4, and a light guide device 5;

[0135] The lighting module includes an illumination source 1, a light-diffusing element 2, and an LCOS panel 3 arranged sequentially along the optical path. The illumination source 1 provides illumination light. The light-diffusing element 2 diffuses and evens the illumination light, allowing it to be deflected and illuminate the LCOS panel 3, covering its effective display surface, while providing the field of view (FOV) required for the LCOS panel 3 to reflect the light. The illumination light is projected obliquely onto the LCOS panel 3. The LCOS panel 3 receives the evenly treated illumination light for display to form projection light. The projection light reflected by the LCOS panel 3 does not pass through the light-diffusing element 2 when propagating towards the optical lens 4.

[0136] The light-diffusing element 2 is inclined relative to the LCOS panel 3, and the relationship between the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 is as follows:

[0137]

[0138] Where p is the length of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3, l is the length of the light-diffusing element 2, d is the straight-line distance from the center of the light-diffusing element 2 to the LCOS panel 3, FOV is the field of view angle of each pixel on the LCOS panel 3, θ is the angle between the central ray in the FOV and the LCOS panel 3, and a is the tilt angle of the light-diffusing element 2 relative to the LCOS panel 3.

[0139] The optical lens 4 is located on the reflection path of the LCOS panel 3, and the light guide device 5 is located on the light-emitting side of the optical lens 4. The light guide device 5 is arranged parallel to the LCOS panel 3.

[0140] The illumination source 1, the light-diffusing element 2, and the optical lens 4 are located between the light guide device 5 and the LCOS panel 3.

[0141] Example 2

[0142] See Figure 2 The LCOS display system includes an illumination module, an optical lens 4, and a light guide device 5;

[0143] The lighting module includes an illumination source 1, a light-diffusing element 2, and an LCOS panel 3 arranged sequentially along the optical path. The illumination source 1 provides illumination light. The light-diffusing element 2 diffuses and evens the illumination light, allowing it to be deflected and illuminate the LCOS panel 3, covering its effective display surface, while providing the field of view (FOV) required for the LCOS panel 3 to reflect the light. The illumination light is projected obliquely onto the LCOS panel 3. The LCOS panel 3 receives the evenly treated illumination light for display to form projection light. The projection light reflected by the LCOS panel 3 does not pass through the light-diffusing element 2 when propagating towards the optical lens 4.

[0144] The light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 are arranged in parallel, and the following relationship exists between the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3:

[0145]

[0146] Where p is the length of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3, l is the length of the light-diffusing element 2, d is the straight-line distance from the center of the light-diffusing element 2 to the LCOS panel 3, FOV is the field of view angle of each pixel on the LCOS panel 3, and θ is the angle between the central ray within the FOV and the LCOS panel 3.

[0147] The optical lens 4 is located on the reflection path of the LCOS panel 3, and the light guide device 5 is located on the light-emitting side of the optical lens 4. The light guide device 5 is arranged parallel to the LCOS panel 3.

[0148] The illumination source 1, the light-diffusing element 2, and the optical lens 4 are located between the light guide device 5 and the LCOS panel 3.

[0149] Example 3

[0150] See Figure 3 The LCOS display system includes an illumination module, an optical lens 4, and a light guide device 5;

[0151] The lighting module includes an illumination source 1, a light-diffusing element 2, and an LCOS panel 3 arranged sequentially along the optical path. The illumination source 1 provides illumination light. The light-diffusing element 2 diffuses and evens the illumination light, allowing it to be deflected and illuminate the LCOS panel 3, covering its effective display surface, while providing the field of view (FOV) required for the LCOS panel 3 to reflect the light. The illumination light is projected obliquely onto the LCOS panel 3. The LCOS panel 3 receives the evenly treated illumination light for display to form projection light. The projection light reflected by the LCOS panel 3 does not pass through the light-diffusing element 2 when propagating towards the optical lens 4.

[0152] The light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 are arranged in parallel, and the following relationship exists between the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3:

[0153]

[0154] Where p is the length of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3, l is the length of the light-diffusing element 2, d is the straight-line distance from the center of the light-diffusing element 2 to the LCOS panel 3, FOV is the field of view angle of each pixel on the LCOS panel 3, and θ is the angle between the central ray within the FOV and the LCOS panel 3.

[0155] Furthermore, a diffractive optical element 6 is arranged in parallel between the illumination source 1 and the homogenizing element 2. The size of the diffractive optical element 6 matches the size of the illumination source 1. The diffractive optical element 6 is used to expand the illumination light emitted by the illumination source 1 to ensure that the size of the beam incident on the homogenizing element 2 matches the homogenizing requirements.

[0156] The optical lens 4 is located on the reflection path of the LCOS panel 3, and the light guide device 5 is located on the light-emitting side of the optical lens 4. The light guide device 5 is arranged parallel to the LCOS panel 3.

[0157] The illumination source 1, the light-diffusing element 2, and the optical lens 4 are located between the light guide device 5 and the LCOS panel 3.

[0158] Example 4

[0159] See Figure 4 The LCOS display system includes an illumination module, an optical lens 4, and a light guide device 5;

[0160] The lighting module includes a lighting source 1, a light-diffusing element 2, and an LCOS panel 3. The lighting source 1 provides illumination light. The light-diffusing element 2 diffuses and evens the illumination light, allowing it to be deflected and illuminate the LCOS panel 3, covering its effective display surface, while providing the field of view (FOV) required for the LCOS panel 3 to reflect the light. The illumination light is projected obliquely onto the LCOS panel 3. The LCOS panel 3 receives the evenly treated illumination light for display to form projection light. The projection light reflected by the LCOS panel 3 does not pass through the light-diffusing element 2 when propagating towards the optical lens 4.

[0161] The light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3 are arranged in parallel, and the following relationship exists between the light-diffusing element 2 and the LCOS panel 3:

[0162]

[0163] Where p is the length of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel 3, l is the length of the light-diffusing element 2, d is the straight-line distance from the center of the light-diffusing element 2 to the LCOS panel 3, FOV is the field of view angle of each pixel on the LCOS panel 3, and θ is the angle between the central ray within the FOV and the LCOS panel 3.

[0164] The illumination source 1 and the light-diffusing element 2 are arranged in parallel and located on one side of the light guide device 5, and the optical lens 4 and the LCOS panel 3 are arranged in parallel and located on the other side of the light guide device 5; wherein, the light-diffusing element 2 and the optical lens 4 are close to the light guide device 5; the optical lens 4 is located on the light-emitting side of the LCOS panel 3, and the light guide device 5 is located on the light-emitting side of the optical lens 4.

[0165] The illumination source 1, the light-diffusing element 2, the LCOS panel 3, and the optical lens 4 are all arranged parallel to the light guide device 5.

[0166] The difference between Embodiment 4 and Embodiments 1 to 3 is that the light emitted from the light-diffusing element 2 is transmitted to the LCOS panel 3 via the light guide device 5.

[0167] The specific layout of Embodiments 1 to 4 can be flexibly selected according to the size of the lighting module and the imaging requirements.

[0168] According to another embodiment of this application, an optical display device is provided, the optical display device including a housing and an LCOS display system as described above.

[0169] The optical display device provided in this application embodiment can be a smart head-mounted device, such as an AR smart head-mounted device, like AR glasses or an AR helmet.

[0170] Of course, the optical device can also be used in fields such as vehicle projection, and this application does not limit its use.

[0171] The specific implementation of the smart head-mounted device in this application can refer to the various embodiments of the lighting module described above. Therefore, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, and will not be described in detail here.

[0172] The above embodiments mainly describe the differences between the various embodiments. As long as the different optimization features between the various embodiments are not contradictory, they can be combined to form a better embodiment. For the sake of brevity, they will not be elaborated here.

[0173] While specific embodiments of this application have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the above examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of this application. The scope of this application is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A lighting module for an LCOS display system, characterized in that, include: Light source (1), used to emit light; The light-diffusing element (2) is used to diffuse and diffusing the illumination light emitted by the illumination source (1); The LCOS panel (3) is used to receive light after light homogenization and form projection light, and then reflect the projection light to the coupling part of the light guide device (5) of the peripheral device. The optical axis of the illumination source (1) is perpendicular to the light-diffusing element (2); The light-diffusing element (2) is configured to provide the required FOV for each pixel on the LCOS panel (3) and deflect the emitted light to illuminate the effective display surface of the LCOS panel (3), and the light transmission path of the projected light reflected by the effective display surface of the LCOS panel (3) is located outside the area enclosed by the lines connecting all edges of the light-diffusing element (2) and the edge of the LCOS panel (3) near the light-diffusing element (2); The light-diffusing element (2) and the LCOS panel (3) satisfy the following relationship: Where p is the length of the effective display surface of the LCOS panel (3), l is the length of the light-diffusing element (2), d is the straight-line distance from the center of the light-diffusing element (2) to the LCOS panel (3), FOV is the field of view angle of each pixel on the LCOS panel (3), θ is the angle between the central ray in the FOV and the LCOS panel (3), and a is the tilt angle of the light-diffusing element (2) relative to the LCOS panel (3).

2. The lighting module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-diffusing element (2) is tilted relative to the LCOS panel (3).

3. The lighting module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The size of the lighting source (1) is adapted to the size of the light-diffusing element (2).

4. The lighting module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The light-diffusing element (2) and the LCOS panel (3) are arranged in parallel, and the tilt angle a is a = 0°; The light-diffusing element (2) and the LCOS panel (3) satisfy the following relationship:

5. The lighting module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The size of the light-diffusing element (2) is larger than the size of the lighting source (1).

6. The lighting module according to claim 4, characterized in that, A diffractive optical element (6) is disposed between the illumination source (1) and the light-diffusing element (2); The diffractive optical element (6) is used to expand the illumination light emitted by the illumination source (1) and project it onto the homogenizing element (2).

7. The lighting module according to claim 6, characterized in that, The diffractive optical element (6) is arranged parallel to the illumination source (1), and the size of the diffractive optical element (6) matches the size of the illumination source (1).

8. An LCOS display system, characterized in that, include: The lighting module as described in any one of claims 1-7; and The optical lens (4) and the light guide device (5) project the projected light reflected by the LCOS panel (3) into the coupling portion of the light guide device (5) after passing through the optical lens (4); The light guide device (5) is used to receive light from the coupling part and transmit it through total internal reflection to the coupling part for coupling out. The LCOS panel (3) and the light guide device (5) are arranged in parallel.

9. The LCOS display system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The illumination source (1), the light-diffusing element (2), the LCOS panel (3) and the optical lens (4) are all located on the same side of the light guide device (5), and the illumination source (1), the light-diffusing element (2) and the optical lens (4) are located between the light guide device (5) and the LCOS panel (3).

10. The LCOS display system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The illumination source (1) and the light-diffusing element (2) are located on one side of the light guide device (5), and the LCOS panel (3) and the optical lens (4) are located on the other side of the light guide device (5).

11. An optical display device, characterized in that, include: shell; and The LCOS display system as described in any one of claims 8-10.

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