Miniature projection display system and AR (Augmented Reality) display equipment

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a micro projection display system and AR display equipment. The micro projection display system comprises a light source module, an optical waveguide device, a light refraction and reflection element, an LCOS display chip and a projection lens. The light source module is used for providing illumination light; the optical waveguide device comprises a coupling-in part and a coupling-out part, the coupling-in part and the light source module are correspondingly arranged, and the optical waveguide device is used for transmitting illumination light rays emitted by the light source module; the light refraction and reflection element is arranged on one side of the optical waveguide device, covers the coupling-out part, and is designed to transmit light rays in a partial region and reflect light rays in a partial region; the LCOS display chip is used for receiving the light rays emitted by the light refraction and reflection element and performing display modulation to form projection light rays; the projection lens is used for receiving the projection light and performing projection imaging.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of optical display devices. More specifically, the embodiments of the present application relate to a micro-projection display system and an AR display device. Background Art

[0002] With the continuous evolution of optical imaging technology, people's demand for immersive visual experience is increasing. In recent years, the rapid development of VR and AR technologies has gradually satisfied people's pursuit of high-quality visual experience. Head-mounted devices create better visual effects for users by freeing their hands and reducing dependence on screens. In current head-mounted devices, near-eye display technology is particularly critical, among which imaging quality and the thinness of the device are two main considerations.

[0003] At present, AR glasses based on diffraction optical waveguide solutions mainly use LCOS (liquid crystal on silicon), DLP (digital light processing) or Micro LED as display screens. However, AR glasses using DLP technology are not conducive to the miniaturization and lightweight design of the equipment due to the use of passive lighting and the relatively large display module architecture. This is particularly prominent in the context of the pursuit of portability of AR glasses. In contrast, both micro LED and LCOS solutions can achieve the miniaturization of AR optical machines. Although micro LED can achieve a smaller volume, its color solution is more expensive and has limited mass production. The LCOS solution can achieve high-resolution color display at a larger field of view (FOV). Therefore, in the LCOS solution that pursues extreme miniaturization, how to achieve a more compact design becomes crucial. Summary of the invention

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a new technical solution for a micro-projection display system and an AR display device.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a micro-projection display system. The micro-projection display system comprises: A light source module, used for providing lighting; An optical waveguide device, comprising a coupling-in portion and a coupling-out portion, wherein the coupling-in portion is arranged corresponding to the light source module, and the optical waveguide device is used to transmit the illumination light emitted by the light source module; A light refraction element, which is arranged on one side of the optical waveguide device and covers the outcoupling part, and is designed to transmit light in a partial area and reflect light in a partial area; An LCOS display chip, used for receiving the light emitted by the light refracting element, performing display modulation to form projection light; The projection lens is used to receive the projection light and project an image.

[0006] Optionally, the micro-projection display system comprises a polarization element, and the polarization element is arranged on a surface of the optical waveguide component on a side away from the light refracting element, and is arranged opposite to the light refracting element.

[0007] Optionally, the micro-projection display system further comprises a phase retarder, and the phase retarder is arranged in the light path between the LCOS display chip and the light refracting element.

[0008] Optionally, the phase retarder is arranged on the effective display surface of the LCOS display chip.

[0009] Optionally, the light refracting element has an optical microstructure, and the optical microstructure includes a plurality of protruding portions extending from the surface of the optical waveguide device toward the LCOS display chip and a planar portion disposed adjacent to the protruding portions.

[0010] Optionally, the protruding portion is arranged obliquely on the surface of the optical waveguide device.

[0011] Optionally, the light source module adopts a partition design and is divided into at least two sub-light source areas, and the brightness or switching state of each sub-light source area can be independently controlled.

[0012] Optionally, the LCOS display chip also adopts a partition design and is divided into at least two sub-display areas. The sub-display areas and the sub-light source areas are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence, and each sub-light source area controls the brightness and switching state of the corresponding sub-display area.

[0013] Optionally, the coupling-in part and the coupling-out part both adopt a partition design; The coupling part includes a plurality of sub-coupling regions, each of which is arranged in one-to-one correspondence with the sub-light source region, and each of the sub-coupling regions is used to couple the illumination light emitted by the corresponding sub-light source region into the optical waveguide device and realize total reflection transmission; The outcoupling portion includes a plurality of sub-outcoupling regions, which are arranged in one-to-one correspondence with the sub-incoupling regions, and each of the sub-outcoupling regions is used to couple the transmitted illumination light to and transmit it to the corresponding sub-display region.

[0014] Optionally, the light source module adopts an integrated design; The coupling-in portion is located in a set area of ​​the optical waveguide device, and the coupling-in portion is located on the light output path of the light source module. The coupling-in portion is used to couple the illumination light emitted by the light source module into the optical waveguide device, and make the light be transmitted by total reflection in the optical waveguide device.

[0015] Optionally, the light source module is a laser module.

[0016] Optionally, the coupling-in portion is used to couple the incident illumination light into the optical waveguide device through a geometric optical method or a diffraction method and make the light be totally reflected in the optical waveguide device and propagate to the coupling-out portion; The coupling-out part is used to couple out the transmitted light through a geometrical optics method or a diffraction method.

[0017] Optionally, the illumination light transmitted by total reflection inside the optical waveguide device: when it is incident on the planar portion of the optical microstructure, it will continue to be totally reflected and propagated; when it is incident on the convex portion of the optical microstructure, it will be transmitted to the phase retarder, and then be incident on the LCOS display chip for modulation to form a projection light carrying image information; the projection light is reflected to the phase retarder, and then sequentially emitted through the optical waveguide device, the polarization element and the projection lens to finally be projected as an image.

[0018] In a second aspect, the present application provides an AR display device, the AR display device comprising: casing; and A micro-projection display system as described in the first aspect.

[0019] The beneficial effects of this application are: The embodiment of the present application provides a micro-projection display system, which adopts an optimized optical architecture. Specifically, by adopting a combination of a light source module, an optical waveguide device, a light refraction element, a projection lens, and an LCOS display chip, an efficient and compact optical display system is constructed; this architecture enables the light to be precisely controlled and guided, and to be fully reflected and propagated in the optical waveguide device, effectively improving the utilization rate and propagation efficiency of the light. In general, the micro-projection display system provided by the embodiment of the present application not only brings excellent imaging quality and visual experience to the AR display device, but also maintains the light and portable characteristics of the device, fully meeting the user's demand for high-quality immersive visual enjoyment.

[0020] Other features and advantages of the present specification will become apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the present specification with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the specification and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the specification.

[0022] Figure 1 One of the structural schematic diagrams of the micro-projection display system provided in the embodiment of the present application; Figure 2 for Figure 1The enlarged view of point A in the middle; Figure 3 for Figure 1 A structural schematic diagram of a light source module shown in FIG. Figure 4 This is a second structural schematic diagram of the micro-projection display system provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0023] Description of reference numerals: 10. light source module; 11. first light source sub-region; 12. second light source sub-region; 13. third light source sub-region; 14. fourth light source sub-region; 20. Optical waveguide device; 21. Incoupling portion; 211. First sub-incoupling region; 212. Second sub-incoupling region; 213. Third sub-incoupling region; 214. Fourth sub-incoupling region; 22. Outcoupling portion; 221. First sub-outcoupling region; 222. Second sub-outcoupling region; 223. Third sub-outcoupling region; 224. Fourth sub-outcoupling region; 30. light refractive element; 31. raised portion; 32. flat portion; 40. Polarization element; 50. LCOS display chip; 60. Projection lens; 70. Phase retarder. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] 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 of components and steps, numerical expressions and numerical values ​​set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the present application.

[0025] The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the present application, its application, or uses.

[0026] Techniques and equipment known to ordinary technicians in the relevant art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, the techniques and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0027] In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limiting. Therefore, other examples of the exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0028] It should be noted that like reference numerals and letters refer to similar items in the following figures, and therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0029] The micro-projection display system and AR display device provided in the embodiments of the present application are described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the present application, a micro-projection display system is provided. Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the micro-projection display system includes a light source module 10, an optical waveguide device 20, a light refractive element 30, an LCOS display chip 50 and a projection lens 60; the light source module 10 is used to provide illumination light; the optical waveguide device 20 includes a coupling portion 21 and a coupling portion 22, the coupling portion 21 is arranged corresponding to the light source module 10, and the optical waveguide device 20 is used to transmit the illumination light emitted by the light source module 10; the light refractive element 30 is arranged on one side of the optical waveguide device 20 and covers the coupling portion 22, and is designed to transmit light in a partial area and reflect light in a partial area; the LCOS display chip 50 is used to receive the light emitted by the light refractive element 30, perform display modulation to form projection light; the projection lens 60 is used to receive the projection light and project an image.

[0031] The micro-projection display system provided in the embodiment of the present application can be applied to, for example, an AR optical display device. Further, the micro-projection display system can be applied to an AR head-mounted smart device, such as AR glasses or an AR helmet.

[0032] The system composition of the micro-projection display system provided in the embodiment of the present application is described as follows.

[0033] The micro-projection display system includes a light source module 10, which is used to provide necessary illumination light, and is the basis of projection display.

[0034] The micro-projection display system includes an optical waveguide device 20, and the optical waveguide device 20 is used to transmit the illumination light emitted by the light source module 10. Specifically, the optical waveguide device 20 has a coupling-in portion 21 and a coupling-out portion 22; wherein the coupling-in portion 21 is arranged corresponding to the light source module 10, and is used to couple the illumination light emitted by the light source module 10 into the optical waveguide device 20; the coupling-out portion 22 is designed to couple out the light transmitted in the optical waveguide device 20 for use by subsequent optical elements.

[0035] The micro-projection display system includes a light refracting element 30, see Figure 1 The light refraction element 30 plays a vital role in the micro-projection display system. This element directly covers the outcoupling portion 22 of the optical waveguide device 20, and through its unique design, it achieves precise control and guidance of light.

[0036] Specifically, the light refractive element 30 has two regions with different functions: one region is designed to transmit light, that is, to allow the illumination light transmitted in the optical waveguide device 20 to be smoothly coupled out through the coupling-out portion 22 and projected onto the effective display surface of the LCOS display chip 50; and the other region is used to reflect light, that is, the light transmitted to this region will not be coupled out but will continue to be transmitted by total reflection in the optical waveguide device 20. This design of partial transmission and partial reflection enables the light refractive element 30 to flexibly control and guide the light coupled out of the coupling-out portion 22 according to actual needs.

[0037] Through such a design, the light refraction element 30 not only ensures the efficient transmission of light in the micro-projection display system, but also realizes the precise control of the light propagation path. This precise light control and guidance capability is of great significance for improving the imaging quality and contrast of the micro-projection display system. At the same time, the compact design of the light refraction element 30 in the form of a thin sheet attached to the optical waveguide device 20 also helps to realize the miniaturization of the micro-projection display system and meet the needs of portable and wearable devices.

[0038] The micro-projection display system includes an LCOS display chip 50. The LCOS display chip 50 can receive the illumination light emitted by the light refracting element 30 and perform display modulation to form a projection light containing image information.

[0039] When the illumination light emitted by the light refractive element 30 reaches the LCOS display chip 50, the LCOS display chip 50 will display and modulate the light according to the preset image information. Specifically, the LCOS display chip 50 controls the switching state of the pixels on its surface to block or transmit the light, thereby forming a projection light containing the set image information. This process is a key link in imaging in a micro-projection display system.

[0040] The micro-projection display system includes a projection lens 60, which is used to receive the projection light modulated by the LCOS display chip 50, and project it into an image, which is finally presented in the field of view of the observer.

[0041] The main function of the projection lens 60 is to focus and amplify the modulated projection light to form a clear and bright image. Under the action of the projection lens 60, the projection light containing image information can be projected into an image and finally presented in the viewer's field of view.

[0042] In the embodiment of the present application, the light source module 10 is arranged corresponding to the coupling portion 21 of the optical waveguide device 20. This design ensures that the illumination light can be efficiently and accurately coupled into the optical waveguide device. By optimizing the position and angle of the light source module 10, light loss can be further reduced and the overall efficiency of the system can be improved.

[0043] In the embodiment of the present application, the optical waveguide device 20 transmits light using the total reflection principle. This design not only reduces the loss of light during transmission, but also makes the structure of the entire micro-projection display system more compact.

[0044] In an embodiment of the present application, the light-refracting element 30 is designed to transmit light in a partial area and reflect light in a partial area. This unique structure enables the micro-projection display system to flexibly control and guide light as needed. By precisely adjusting the microstructure of the light-refracting element 30, precise control of the light propagation path can be achieved, thereby improving the imaging quality and contrast of the system. In addition, the partial transmission and partial reflection design of the light-refracting element 30 provides a flexible light control method that can adapt to different display needs and scenes. This also makes the micro-projection system easy to integrate and expand, and convenient for use in combination with other devices or systems.

[0045] In the embodiment of the present application, the LCOS display chip 50 has high resolution and high contrast characteristics, and can receive the light emitted by the light refracting element 30 and perform display modulation. By optimizing the matching relationship between the LCOS display chip 50, the optical waveguide device 20, and the light refracting element 30, the imaging quality and color reproduction capability of the system can be further improved.

[0046] In the embodiment of the present application, the projection lens 60 is used to receive the projection light modulated by the LCOS display chip 50 and project the image. By optimizing the optical parameters and structure of the projection lens 60, the imaging quality can be further improved, the aberration and distortion can be reduced, and the overall performance of the system can be improved.

[0047] The micro-projection display system provided in the embodiment of the present application realizes efficient utilization and propagation of light through the transmission and outcoupling design of the optical waveguide device 20, combined with the control and guiding function of the light refraction and reflection element 30. The entire micro-projection display system has a compact structure, and the components are closely matched, which is conducive to miniaturization of the system volume. Since the LCOS display chip 50 has high resolution and high contrast characteristics, it can modulate high-quality projection light. The projection lens 60 optimizes the projection imaging effect, so that the final image presented is clear.

[0048] The micro-projection display system provided in the embodiment of the present application adopts an optimized optical architecture, and constructs an efficient and compact optical display system by adopting a combination of a light source module 10, an optical waveguide device 20, a light refraction element 30, a projection lens 60 and an LCOS display chip 50; this architecture enables light to be precisely controlled and guided, and to be fully reflected and propagated in the optical waveguide device 20, thereby effectively improving the utilization rate and propagation efficiency of light.

[0049] In summary, the micro-projection display system provided in the embodiment of the present application not only brings excellent imaging quality and visual experience to the AR display device, but also maintains the light and portable characteristics of the device, fully meeting the user's demand for high-quality immersive visual enjoyment.

[0050] The micro-projection display system provided in the embodiment of the present application is suitable for various application scenarios such as AR display devices, portable projectors, smart wearable devices, etc.

[0051] In some examples of this application, see Figure 1 and Figure 4 The micro-projection display system includes a polarization element 40 , which is disposed on a surface of the optical waveguide device 20 that is away from the light refracting element 30 and is disposed opposite to the light refracting element 30 .

[0052] The polarizing element 40 allows light of a specific polarization state (such as P light) to be incident on the projection lens 60, while blocking light of other polarization states (such as S light) from being incident. This feature helps to optimize the efficiency of light utilization and ensures that only polarized light carrying effective display information is further transmitted to the user's eyes for projection imaging.

[0053] In this example of the present application, the polarization element 40 is, for example, a polarizing plate.

[0054] In AR display devices, contrast enhancement is crucial to improving visual effects. The polarizing element 40 can effectively reduce stray light and unnecessary reflected light by selectively transmitting and cutting off light of different polarization states, thereby significantly improving the contrast of the display image.

[0055] The setting of the polarizing element 40 is closely related to the optical path design of the optical waveguide device 20 and the optical refractive element 30. As a key node in the optical path, it can ensure the transmission and modulation of light in the entire micro-projection display system and provide support for the final display effect.

[0056] It can be seen that the polarization element 40 plays multiple roles in the micro-projection display system of the present application embodiment, such as selective transmission of polarized light, improving product contrast, optimizing optical path design, etc. The realization of these functions provides high-performance and high-quality display effects for AR display devices.

[0057] In some examples of this application, see Figure 1 and Figure 4 The micro-projection display system further includes a phase retarder 70 , which is disposed in the optical path between the LCOS display chip 50 and the light refracting element 30 .

[0058] The phase retarder 70 can be used to change the polarization state of light.

[0059] In this example of the present application, the phase retarder 70 is, for example, a quarter wave plate.

[0060] In this example of the present application, the phase retarder 70 is arranged in the optical path between the LCOS display chip 50 and the light refractive element 30. This arrangement allows further phase adjustment of the polarized light modulated by the LCOS display chip 50 to ensure the correct transmission and processing of light in the entire micro-projection display system.

[0061] In the micro-projection display system design provided in the embodiment of the present application, S-polarized light is used as the incident illumination light, and P-polarized light is used for imaging. This design can significantly improve the optical efficiency, and the specific process is described as follows: The S-linear polarized light emitted from the light refractive element 30 passes through the phase retarder 70 and then irradiates the LCOS display chip 50 . The LCOS display chip 50 modulates the incident S-linear polarized light according to the image information to form projection light carrying the image information. The projection light then passes through the phase retarder 70 .

[0062] The phase retarder 70 can adjust the phase of the light, and convert the projection light modulated by the LCOS display chip into P linear polarized light after passing through the phase retarder 70 again. This conversion process ensures that the polarization state of the light matches the subsequent optical elements (such as the projection lens 60 and the polarization element 40), thereby improving the utilization efficiency of the light.

[0063] The P linear polarized light converted by the phase retarder 70 has better directionality and intensity, reducing the loss and scattering during the transmission process. These P linear polarized lights are then selectively transmitted by the polarization element 40, further improving the contrast of the displayed image. Finally, after being focused and projected by the projection lens 60, a clear, high-quality image is formed.

[0064] Therefore, the design of using S-polarized light as incident light and P-polarized light for imaging, combined with the use of phase retarder 70 and polarization element 40, effectively improves the optical efficiency of the micro-projection display system, thereby providing users with a better visual experience.

[0065] It should be noted that polarized light has a specific vibration direction, which enables them to reduce unnecessary scattering and loss when encountering optical elements. Therefore, the use of polarized light for design can significantly improve the efficiency and performance of the optical system. By adopting the design of S-line polarized light incident and using P-line polarized light imaging, as well as the use of phase retarder 70, the present application effectively improves the optical efficiency. This is because the transmission and processing of polarized light are more efficient, reducing the loss and scattering of light, thereby improving the performance and visual effects of the entire micro-projection display system.

[0066] In some examples of this application, see Figure 1 and Figure 4 The phase retarder 70 is arranged on the effective display surface of the LCOS display chip 50.

[0067] The phase retarder 70 is directly arranged on the effective display surface of the LCOS display chip 50, which can greatly improve the integration of the entire micro-projection display system. This design reduces the use of additional optical elements and makes the entire micro-projection display system more compact.

[0068] In a head-mounted AR display device, space is very valuable. By integrating the phase retarder 70 with the LCOS display chip 50, limited space can be used more effectively, providing more installation space and layout flexibility for other key components.

[0069] In addition, this integrated design in this example of the present application also helps to improve the stability of the micro-projection display system.

[0070] In some examples of this application, see Figure 2 The light refractive element 30 has an optical microstructure, which includes a plurality of protruding portions 31 extending from the surface of the optical waveguide device 20 toward the LCOS display chip 50 and a planar portion 32 disposed adjacent to the protruding portions 31 .

[0071] See also Figure 2The light refractive element 30 has a plurality of protruding portions 31 extending from the surface of the optical waveguide device 20 toward the LCOS display chip 50, and a flat portion 32 disposed adjacent to the protruding portions 31. This design enables light to be transmitted and reflected according to different regions when encountering the light refractive element 30, thereby accurately controlling the propagation path of light. Specifically, the plurality of protruding portions 31 of the light refractive element 30 are glued and connected to the optical waveguide device 20.

[0072] Specifically, when the illumination light emitted from the light source module 10 is coupled into the optical waveguide device 20 through the coupling-in portion 21, it will reach the coupling-out portion 22 in a total reflection propagation mode, at which time, the light will encounter the light refractive element 30 covering one side of the coupling-out portion 22. For the light refractive element 30, due to the presence of the convex portion 31 and the flat portion 32, the light will have different optical behaviors in these areas.

[0073] Regarding the raised portions 31: these areas allow light to pass through, that is, the light does not experience total reflection in these parts, but directly passes through the raised portions 31, and continues to propagate to the LCOS display chip 50 after refraction. This design ensures that part of the light can reach the LCOS display chip 50 for modulation and display.

[0074] Regarding the plane portion 32: In these areas, the light will continue to be transmitted by total reflection inside the optical waveguide device 20. The total reflection principle allows the light to be reflected back into the optical waveguide device 20 at a certain angle when it reaches the inner surface of the optical waveguide device 20, rather than passing through the device. This design increases the optical path and improves the light utilization efficiency.

[0075] In one example, see Figure 2 The illumination light emitted by the light source module 10 is incident on the light refraction element 30 covered on the outcoupling portion 22 of the optical waveguide device 20. When the light encounters the convex portion 31 (i.e. Figure 2 When the light is incident on the planar portion 32 (i.e., the portion shown at ① in the figure), total reflection occurs, so that the light continues to propagate inside the optical waveguide device 20. Figure 2 When the light is reflected by the phase retarder 70 (for example, a quarter wave plate), the light is no longer totally reflected, but is emitted from the light refraction element 30. The emitted light passes through the phase retarder 70 (for example, a quarter wave plate) and is incident on the LCOS display chip 50. The LCOS display chip 50 modulates the incident light so that it carries the information of the LCOS display screen.

[0076] The light refractive element 30 provided in this example of the present application can accurately control the propagation path of the light, ensure that the light is reflected multiple times inside the optical waveguide device 20 to increase the optical path, and allow part of the light to be transmitted to the LCOS display chip 50 for display. This control is crucial to improving display quality, reducing light loss, and optimizing the performance of the micro-projection display system.

[0077] The optical fine structure of the light refractive element 30 allows complex optical functions to be realized in a small space, which reduces the overall size of the optical waveguide device 20. This compact design makes the optical waveguide device more suitable for portable devices and compact optical systems.

[0078] For some examples in this application, please continue to see Figure 2 The protruding portion 31 is arranged obliquely on the surface of the optical waveguide device 20 .

[0079] The light refractive element 30 is closely attached to the surface of the optical waveguide device 20 where the outcoupling portion 22 is provided, and covers the outcoupling portion 22 , so that the convex portion 31 of the light refractive element 30 is located above the outcoupling portion 22 .

[0080] The above-mentioned close fit ensures the optical coupling between the optical waveguide device 20 and the light refractive element 30, reduces the reflection and scattering of light on the interface, and thus improves the light transmission efficiency. The raised portion 31 is located above the outcoupling portion 22, which means that it is above the light exit area of ​​the optical waveguide device 20. This design enables the raised portion 31 to better guide and control the outgoing light, ensuring that the light can be projected onto the LCOS display chip 50 in a predetermined direction.

[0081] In this example of the present application, see Figure 2 The side wall of the raised portion 31 is tilted, which has significant advantages over a vertical side wall. The tilted side wall can guide light more effectively, and the tilted setting can also effectively control the incident and reflection angles of light, so that the light emitted from the light refractive element 30 can be more smoothly projected onto the LCOS display chip 50, thereby improving the display quality.

[0082] In practical applications, the outcoupling performance of the optical waveguide device 20 can be further optimized by adjusting the tilt angle of the protruding portion 31. For example, when the side wall of the protruding portion 31 forms an angle of 60° with the surface of the optical waveguide device 20, this design can more effectively control the incident and reflection angles of light, reduce light loss, and improve light utilization efficiency. By accurately adjusting the tilt angle, optimization can be performed for different optical requirements to meet different display requirements.

[0083] Of course, the protruding portion 31 and the surface of the optical waveguide device 20 may also be arranged perpendicularly.

[0084] In summary, the close fit of the light refractive element 30, the tilted setting of the protruding portion 31, and the adjustment and optimization of the tilt angle together constitute an efficient outcoupling system of the optical waveguide device. This design can ensure that the light is smoothly projected onto the LCOS display chip 50 in a predetermined direction, thereby improving the display quality and meeting different optical requirements.

[0085] In some examples of this application, see Figure 1 The light source module 10 adopts a partition design and is divided into at least two sub-light source areas, and the brightness or switch state of each sub-light source area can be independently controlled.

[0086] In this example of the present application, the light source module 10 is designed to include at least two sub-light source areas, and the brightness or switch state of these sub-light source areas can be independently controlled.

[0087] By adopting a partition design, each sub-light source area can be equipped with an independent control circuit or driving device to achieve precise control of its brightness and switching state. This design enables the light source module 10 to flexibly adjust the output of each sub-light source area according to different display requirements or scenes, thereby improving the display effect and reducing energy consumption.

[0088] In some examples of the present application, the LCOS display chip 50 also adopts a partition design, divided into at least two sub-display areas, the sub-display areas and the sub-light source areas are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence, and each sub-light source area controls the brightness and switch status of the corresponding sub-display area.

[0089] In this example of the present application, the LCOS display chip 50 is also designed to include at least two sub-display areas, which are arranged in one-to-one correspondence with the sub-light source areas of the light source module 10 .

[0090] In this example of the present application, each sub-display area on the LCOS display chip 50 can receive light from the corresponding sub-light source area and display the corresponding image or information according to the control signal. Since each sub-light source area can be independently controlled, the sub-display area can also independently adjust its brightness and / or switching state. This design enables the LCOS display chip 50 to accurately control the display content of each sub-display area according to different display requirements or scenes, thereby improving display quality and user experience.

[0091] When the light source module 10 and the LCOS display chip 50 are both designed with partitions, they can work together to achieve more sophisticated and flexible display control. Specifically, each sub-light source area can independently control the brightness and switch state of its corresponding sub-display area, so as to dynamically adjust according to different display requirements. This can bring the following technical effects: (1) Through partition design, the display content of each sub-display area can be precisely controlled, thereby improving the overall display effect and clarity.

[0092] (2) The output of each sub-light source area can be flexibly adjusted according to different scenarios or display requirements, thereby reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

[0093] (3) Since it can be dynamically adjusted according to different display requirements, it can provide users with a richer and more personalized display experience.

[0094] (4) The implementation of this partition design provides a more flexible and efficient display control method for AR display devices, which helps promote the further development of AR display technology.

[0095] It can be seen that the partition design of the light source module 10 and the LCOS display chip 50 has significant technical effects in improving display effects, reducing energy consumption, enhancing user experience, and promoting the development of AR display technology.

[0096] In some examples of this application, see Figure 1 and Figure 3 , the coupling-in portion 21 and the coupling-out portion 22 are both designed in a partitioned manner; the coupling-in portion 21 includes a plurality of sub-coupling-in regions, which are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the sub-light source regions, and each of the sub-coupling-in regions is used to couple the illumination light emitted by the corresponding sub-light source region into the optical waveguide device 20 and realize total reflection transmission; the coupling-out portion 22 includes a plurality of sub-coupling-out regions, which are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the sub-coupling-in regions, and each of the sub-coupling-out regions is used to couple the transmitted illumination light to and transmit it to the corresponding sub-display region.

[0097] The partition design of the coupling part 21 is described as follows: The coupling portion 21 is divided into a plurality of sub-coupling regions, which are arranged one by one in correspondence with the sub-light source regions of the light source module 10. Since each sub-coupling region has specific optical properties, it is possible to ensure that the illumination light emitted by the corresponding sub-light source region is coupled into the optical waveguide device 20 and achieves total reflection transmission.

[0098] Through the partition design, the coupling part 21 can flexibly process the light from different sub-light source areas, providing high-quality lighting for the subsequent display process.

[0099] The partition design of the coupling-out portion 22 is described as follows: The outcoupling portion 22 is also divided into a plurality of outcoupling sub-areas, which are arranged one-to-one with the incoupling sub-areas (and the corresponding sub-light source areas). Each outcoupling sub-area has a specific light-emitting characteristic and can couple the transmitted illumination light to the corresponding sub-display area.

[0100] Through the partition design, the coupling-out portion 22 can ensure that the light is projected to the corresponding sub-display area of ​​the LCOS display chip 50 according to a predetermined path and angle, thereby achieving a high-quality display effect.

[0101] In the example of the present application, the coupling-in portion 21 and the coupling-out portion 22 of the optical waveguide device 20 both adopt a partition design, which is closely connected with the partition design of the light source module 10 and the LCOS display chip 50, and together constitutes an efficient and flexible projection display system.

[0102] Specifically, the light source module 10 is divided into a plurality of sub-light source areas, each of which can independently control its brightness and on / off state. This design ensures that accurate and appropriate illumination is provided for the corresponding sub-coupling area.

[0103] At the same time, the coupling portion 21 is also divided into a plurality of sub-coupling regions, which correspond one-to-one to the sub-light source regions of the light source module 10. Each sub-coupling region is responsible for efficiently coupling the illumination light emitted by the corresponding sub-light source region into the optical waveguide device 20 and realizing total reflection transmission.

[0104] When the light transmitted inside the optical waveguide device 20 reaches the outcoupling portion 22, it is divided into a plurality of outcoupling sub-regions. These outcoupling sub-regions correspond to the incoupling sub-regions (and the corresponding light source sub-regions) one by one, and are responsible for accurately coupling the transmitted illumination light to the corresponding sub-display region of the LCOS display chip 50.

[0105] The LCOS display chip 50 also adopts a partition design, and its sub-display area can receive light from the corresponding sub-coupling area and display the corresponding image or information according to the control signal. This design not only improves the accuracy and clarity of the displayed content, but also enables the entire projection display system to be dynamically adjusted according to different display requirements or scenes.

[0106] In addition, the partition design of the coupling-in portion 21 and the coupling-out portion 22 is also helpful to optimize the optical path and reduce light loss, thereby further improving the display effect and efficiency.

[0107] In summary, through the partition design of the light source module 10, the coupling part 21, the coupling part 22 and the LCOS display chip 50, they can work together to form an efficient and flexible projection display system to meet the user's demand for high-quality visual experience.

[0108] For a specific example, see Figure 1 and Figure 3 , the micro-projection display system comprises a light source module 10, an optical waveguide device 20, a light refractive element 30, a polarization element 40, an LCOS display chip 50, a projection lens 60 and a phase retarder 70; wherein the light source module 10 adopts a 2*2 partition design, which means that the light source module 10 is divided into four independent sub-light source areas, namely: a first sub-light source area, a second sub-light source area, a third sub-light source area and a fourth sub-light source area, and each sub-light source area can independently control its brightness and switching state; The coupling-in portion 21 and the coupling-out portion 22 of the optical waveguide device 20 also adopt a partition design, see Figure 3 , the coupling-in portion 21 is divided into four sub-coupling regions, namely, the first sub-coupling region 211, the second sub-coupling region 212, the third sub-coupling region 213 and the fourth sub-coupling region 214. These sub-coupling regions correspond one-to-one with the sub-light source regions of the light source module 10, and are responsible for efficiently coupling the light emitted from the corresponding sub-light source regions into the optical waveguide device 20 and realizing total reflection transmission; the coupling-out portion 22 is also divided into four sub-coupling regions, namely, the first sub-coupling region 221, the second sub-coupling region 222, the third sub-coupling region 223 and the fourth sub-coupling region 224. These sub-coupling regions correspond one-to-one with the sub-coupling regions (and the corresponding sub-light source regions), and are responsible for accurately coupling the light transmitted inside the optical waveguide device 20 to the subsequent display components; The LCOS display chip 50 adopts a 2*2 partition design and is divided into four independent sub-display areas: a first sub-display area, a second sub-display area, a third sub-display area, and a fourth sub-display area. These sub-display areas correspond to the sub-outcoupling areas of the outcoupling part 22 one by one, can receive light from the corresponding sub-outcoupling areas, and display corresponding images or information according to the control signal.

[0109] The above 2*2 partition design can meet the actual needs of most AR display devices, and its manufacturing process is relatively simple, it is relatively easy to implement, and it has high feasibility and practicality.

[0110] In some examples of this application, see Figure 4 The light source module 10 adopts an integrated design; the coupling portion 21 is located in a set area of ​​the optical waveguide device 20, and the coupling portion 21 is located on the light output path of the light source module 10, and the coupling portion 21 is used to couple the illumination light emitted by the light source module 10 into the optical waveguide device 20, and make the light transmitted by total reflection in the optical waveguide device 20.

[0111] In this example of the present application, the light source module 10 adopts an integrated design, that is, its various components are integrated into a whole, which enhances the compactness and consistency of the structure. The coupling part 21 is arranged in a specific area of ​​the optical waveguide device 20 and is arranged on the light output path of the light source module 10. Such a layout configuration ensures that the illumination light emitted by the light source module 10 can be accurately projected to the coupling part 21. It is worth noting that the coupling part 21 here does not adopt the aforementioned partition design, but is used as an integral unit to receive and process the light emitted by the light source module 10.

[0112] and Figure 1 Different from the solution shown in , this design in this example of the present application simplifies the structure of the coupling part 21 and reduces the manufacturing complexity and production cost.

[0113] In some examples of the present application, the light source module 10 is a laser module.

[0114] Laser modules can produce high-brightness light, which is crucial for AR display devices because high-brightness light sources can ensure that users can still clearly see the displayed content in complex lighting environments. Laser modules can provide excellent color saturation because the color purity of laser light sources is very high, which can produce more vivid and realistic color effects and enhance the user's visual experience.

[0115] Compared with other light source modules such as LED modules, laser modules have advantages in size and weight. This is especially important for AR display devices, because AR display devices usually need to be worn on the user's head. Miniaturization and lightness can reduce the burden on users and improve wearing comfort. By using laser modules as light sources, AR display devices can be more compact and easy to carry and use.

[0116] In the embodiment of the present application, the light source module 10 is designed as a 2*2 partition structure, for example, and the laser module is used as a light source to easily realize independent control of each partition. The flexibility of this partition lighting enables the AR display device to dynamically adjust the brightness and color of the display screen according to different scenes and needs, providing a more personalized visual experience. By controlling the brightness and switching state of the laser module, a more refined display effect can be achieved, and the contrast and clarity of the AR display device can be improved.

[0117] In some examples of the present application, the coupling-in portion 21 is used to couple the incident illumination light into the optical waveguide device 20 by means of geometric optics or diffraction and to make the light be totally reflected in the optical waveguide device 20 and propagate to the coupling-out portion 22; the coupling-out portion 22 is used to couple the transmitted light out by means of geometric optics or diffraction.

[0118] The structure of geometric coupling is relatively simple, usually including one or more reflective surfaces or lenses to adjust the incident angle and path of light. This simple structure helps to reduce manufacturing cost and complexity. Figure 1 and Figure 4 , the side wall of the optical waveguide device 20 is used as a slope for coupling.

[0119] Compared with geometric coupling, diffraction coupling is more suitable for dealing with complex light situations, such as light with multiple wavelengths. This makes diffraction coupling have a wider application prospect in AR display systems.

[0120] The structure of geometric decoupling is relatively simple, usually consisting of several reflective surfaces or lenses, and has high reliability and stability. This simple structure helps reduce maintenance costs and complexity.

[0121] Diffractive outcoupling uses diffractive optical elements to diffract and interfere light, thereby expanding the viewing angle. This allows users to observe clear AR display images within a wider field of view.

[0122] In summary, geometric in-coupling and diffraction in-coupling, geometric out-coupling and diffraction out-coupling each have unique characteristics and advantages. In practical applications, it is necessary to select appropriate in-coupling and out-coupling methods according to specific AR display requirements and system design requirements, which is not limited in this application.

[0123] In some examples of this application, see Figure 1 and Figure 4, the illumination light transmitted by total reflection inside the optical waveguide device 20: when it is incident on the planar portion 32 of the optical microstructure, it will continue to be totally reflected and propagated, and when it is incident on the convex portion 31 of the optical microstructure, it will be transmitted to the phase retarder 70, and then incident on the LCOS display chip 50 for modulation to form a projection light carrying image information, and the projection light is reflected to the phase retarder 70, and then sequentially emitted through the optical waveguide device 20, the polarization element 40 and the projection lens 60, and finally projected into an image.

[0124] The following is a step-by-step analysis of the optical path provided in this example of the application.

[0125] 1. Total reflection transmission of the optical waveguide device 20: The illumination light from the light source module 10 (in this example, a laser module) is coupled into the optical waveguide device 20. The light is transmitted inside the optical waveguide device 20 by total reflection.

[0126] Total internal reflection occurs when light is emitted from a dense medium (optical waveguide device 20) to an interface of a sparse medium (such as air) and the incident angle is greater than the critical angle.

[0127] 2. Functions of the optical microstructure on the light refractive element 30: Planar portion 32: When light is incident on the planar portion 32 of the optical microstructure, the light will continue to be transmitted along the interior of the optical waveguide device 20 by total reflection without being transmitted.

[0128] Raised portion 31: When light is incident on the raised portion 31 of the optical microstructure, the behavior of the light changes. Due to the structural design of the raised portion 31 (e.g., the refractive index of the optical waveguide device 20 and the refractive index of the raised portion 31 of the optical microstructure are both between 1.7 and 2.0, and the two are equal or similar in size), the light will be transmitted here instead of continuing to be totally reflected.

[0129] 3. The first adjustment of the light by the phase retarder 70: The light transmitted from the protruding portion 31 is then incident on the phase retarder 70, and the phase delay adjusts the phase of the incident light to ensure that the light can maintain a correct polarization state during the subsequent propagation process.

[0130] 4. Incident to the LCOS display chip 50 for modulation The light adjusted by the phase retarder 70 is incident on the LCOS display chip 50, and the LCOS display chip 50 modulates the incident light to form a projection light carrying image information. In this process, the LCOS display chip 50 controls the brightness and color of the light according to the input image signal.

[0131] 5. The second adjustment of the light by the phase retarder 70: The projection light carrying the image information is reflected back to the phase retarder 70 by the LCOS display chip 50, and the reflected light passes through the phase retarder 70 again for phase adjustment to ensure that the polarization state of the light is correct during the subsequent propagation process.

[0132] 6. Projection imaging of the projection lens 60: The light adjusted by the phase retarder 70 enters the optical waveguide device 20 again, and passes through the polarization element 40, and the polarization element 40 only allows light with a specific polarization direction to pass through, thereby further improving the contrast and clarity of the image; finally, the light is focused and projected by the projection lens 60, and finally projected into the target area of ​​other waveguides.

[0133] This optical path design makes full use of the total reflection characteristics of the optical waveguide device 20 and the transmission characteristics of the optical microstructure of the light refractive element 30, and realizes the precise control and transmission of light inside the optical waveguide device 20. Through the modulation effect of the phase retarder 70 and the LCOS display chip 50, a projection light carrying image information is finally formed, and high-quality image projection is achieved through the projection lens 60. This optical path design has broad application prospects in AR display systems.

[0134] According to another embodiment of the present application, an AR display device is provided, comprising a housing and the optical waveguide device as described in any one of the above items.

[0135] The specific implementation of the AR display device in the embodiment of the present application can refer to the various embodiments of the above-mentioned micro-projection display system, so it at least has all the beneficial effects brought by the technical solutions of the above-mentioned embodiments, which will not be repeated here one by one.

[0136] The above embodiments focus on 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. Considering the simplicity of the text, they will not be repeated here.

[0137] Although some specific embodiments of the present application have been described in detail by way of example, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the above examples are only for illustration, not for limiting the scope of the present application. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the above embodiments may be modified without departing from the scope and spirit of the present application. The scope of the present application is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A micro-projection display system, characterized in that: include: A light source module (10), used for providing illumination light; An optical waveguide device (20), comprising an incoupling portion (21) and an outcoupling portion (22), wherein the incoupling portion (21) is arranged corresponding to the light source module (10), and the optical waveguide device (20) is used to transmit illumination light emitted by the light source module (10); A light refractive element (30) is arranged on one side of the optical waveguide device (20) and covers the outcoupling portion (22), and is designed to transmit light in a partial area and reflect light in a partial area; An LCOS display chip (50) is used to receive light emitted by the light refraction element (30) and perform display modulation to form projection light; The projection lens (60) is used to receive the projection light and project an image.

2. The micro-projection display system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The micro-projection display system comprises a polarizing element (40), wherein the polarizing element (40) is arranged on a surface of a side of the optical waveguide device (20) that is away from the light refraction element (30), and is arranged opposite to the light refraction element (30).

3. The micro-projection display system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The micro-projection display system further comprises a phase retarder (70), wherein the phase retarder (70) is arranged in the optical path between the LCOS display chip (50) and the light refraction element (30).

4. The micro-projection display system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The phase retarder (70) is arranged on the effective display surface of the LCOS display chip (50).

5. The micro-projection display system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The light refractive element (30) has an optical microstructure, which comprises a plurality of protruding portions (31) extending from the surface of the optical waveguide device (20) toward the LCOS display chip (50) and a planar portion (32) disposed adjacent to the protruding portions (31).

6. The micro-projection display system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The convex portion (31) is arranged obliquely on the surface of the optical waveguide device (20).

7. The micro-projection display system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The light source module (10) adopts a partition design and is divided into at least two sub-light source areas, and the brightness or switching state of each sub-light source area can be independently controlled.

8. The micro-projection display system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The LCOS display chip (50) also adopts a partition design and is divided into at least two sub-display areas. The sub-display areas and the sub-light source areas are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence, and each sub-light source area controls the brightness and on / off state of the corresponding sub-display area.

9. The micro-projection display system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The coupling-in part (21) and the coupling-out part (22) both adopt a partition design; The coupling-in portion (21) comprises a plurality of sub-coupling-in regions, the sub-coupling-in regions being arranged in one-to-one correspondence with the sub-light source regions, and each of the sub-coupling-in regions being used to couple the illumination light emitted by the corresponding sub-light source region into the optical waveguide device (20) and realize total reflection transmission; The outcoupling portion (22) comprises a plurality of sub-outcoupling areas, the sub-outcoupling areas being arranged in one-to-one correspondence with the sub-incoupling areas, and each of the sub-outcoupling areas being used to couple the transmitted illumination light to and transmit it to the corresponding sub-display area.

10. The micro-projection display system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The light source module (10) adopts an integrated design; The coupling-in portion (21) is located in a set area of ​​the optical waveguide device (20), and the coupling-in portion (21) is located on a light output path of the light source module (10). The coupling-in portion (21) is used to couple the illumination light emitted by the light source module (10) into the optical waveguide device (20), and to cause the light to be transmitted by total reflection in the optical waveguide device (20).

11. The micro-projection display system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light source module (10) is a laser module.

12. The micro-projection display system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The coupling-in portion (21) is used to couple incident illumination light into the optical waveguide device (20) by means of geometric optics or diffraction, and to cause the light to be totally reflected in the optical waveguide device (20) and propagate to the coupling-out portion (22); The coupling-out part (22) is used to couple out the transmitted light through a geometric optical method or a diffraction method.

13. The micro-projection display system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The illumination light transmitted by total reflection inside the optical waveguide device (20) continues to be totally reflected and propagated when incident on the planar portion (32) of the optical microstructure, and is transmitted to the phase retarder (70) when incident on the convex portion (31) of the optical microstructure, and then is incident on the LCOS display chip (50) for modulation to form projection light carrying image information. The projection light is reflected to the phase retarder (70), and then sequentially emitted through the optical waveguide device (20), the polarization element (40) and the projection lens (60), and finally is projected to form an image.

14. An AR display device, characterized in that: include: shell; and A micro-projection display system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13.

Images