Deformation directional lighting device

Abstract

A morphing near-eye display device includes a spatial light modulator having asymmetric pixels; inputting a transverse deformation lens; and an extraction waveguide passing the input light in the first direction through the lateral deformation reflector, the lateral deformation reflector being arranged to reflect the light back through the waveguide. A partially reflective extraction element is arranged between the posterior and anterior guide surfaces of the waveguide to extract the reflected light toward the pupil of the observer to maintain the sector directivity of the light rays from the spatial light modulator and the morphing imaging system. Thin, transparent and efficient morphing display devices for augmented reality and virtual reality displays are provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to near-eye display devices and illumination systems for near-eye display devices. Background Art

[0002] Head-mounted displays incorporating near-eye display devices can be arranged to provide fully immersive imagery (as in virtual reality (VR) displays) or augmented imagery superimposed on a view of the real world (as in augmented reality (AR) displays). If the superimposed imagery is aligned or superimposed with the real world, it can be referred to as mixed reality (MR). In VR displays, the near-eye display device is typically opaque to the real world, while in AR displays, the optical system is partially transmissive to light from the real world.

[0003] Near-eye display devices for AR and VR displays are intended to provide images to at least one eye of a user in full color, high resolution, high brightness, and high contrast, and with a wide field of view (angular size of the image), large eyebox size (geometry over which the eye can move while having visibility of the entire image field of view). Such displays are desirable in a slim form factor, light weight, and for low manufacturing cost and complexity.

[0004] Further, AR near-eye display devices are intended to have high transmission of real-world light without image distortion or degradation, and reduced glare from stray light away from the wearer of the display. AR optics can be roughly classified as either reflective combiner type or waveguide type. The waveguide type typically achieves reduced form factor and weight due to the folding of the light path within the waveguide. Known methods for injecting images into waveguides can use a spatial light modulator and a projection lens arrangement with a prism or grating to couple light into the waveguide. The pixel sites in the spatial light modulator are converted into a fan of light directions by the projection lens. In other arrangements, a laser scanner can provide a fan of light directions. The angular position is propagated through the waveguide and output to the user's eye. The optical system of the eye collects the angular position and provides a spatial image at the retina. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a deformable near-eye display device is provided, the deformable near-eye display device comprising: an illumination system, the illumination system comprising a spatial light modulator, the illumination system being arranged to output light; and an optical system, the optical system being arranged to guide the light from the illumination system to the eyes of a viewer, wherein the optical system has an optical axis and has a deformable property in a lateral direction and a transverse direction perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein the spatial light modulator comprises pixels distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse deformable component, the transverse deformable component having a positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse deformable component is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator, and the illumination system is arranged so that the light output from the transverse deformable component is guided to a direction distributed in the transverse direction; an extraction waveguide, the extraction waveguide The invention relates to a light guide arranged to receive light from a lateral deformation component; a lateral deformation component, the lateral deformation component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the extraction waveguide arranged to guide light from the lateral deformation component along the extraction waveguide to the lateral deformation component in a first direction; and a light reverse reflector, the light reverse reflector arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide in the first direction so that the reflected light is guided along the extraction waveguide in a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein the extraction waveguide includes an array of reflective extraction features arranged inside the extraction waveguide, the reflective extraction features are arranged to transmit light guided along the extraction waveguide in the first direction and extract light guided along the extraction waveguide in the second direction toward the eye of a viewer, and the array of reflective extraction features are distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion.

[0006] The deformable near-eye display device can provide an image with a wide field of view with high brightness and high efficiency. The compact physical orientation and low weight of the deformable near-eye display device can be implemented to provide high comfort of use and extend viewing time. High transparency can be provided. On at least one axis, the image can be provided with reduced color blur. A large-sized eye box can be implemented to relax the restriction of pupil positioning at a desired visual relief distance, and a non-vignetting image can be achieved over a wide range of observer pupil positions and for a wide field of view. The deformable near-eye display device can be suitable for augmented reality applications and virtual reality applications.

[0007] The reflective extraction feature may include an extraction reflector extending across at least a portion of the extraction waveguide.Advantageously, chromatic aberration may be reduced and the size of the eye box may be increased.

[0008] The array of reflectors may have a reflectivity defined across their entire area that increases with increasing distance along the optical axis. Advantageously, the uniformity of the output image with viewing angle may be improved.

[0009] The extraction reflector may include extraction surfaces separated by a partially reflective coating. Advantageously, an image may be provided without missing corner regions. Efficiency, brightness and contrast may be improved, and the visibility of artifacts (including ghosting and ghost images) caused by stray light may be reduced.

[0010] The partially reflective coating may include at least one dielectric layer. Advantageously, manufacturing costs may be reduced. The at least one dielectric layer may include a stack of dielectric layers. Advantageously, brightness and uniformity may be improved. The partially reflective coating may be metallic. Advantageously, manufacturing costs may be reduced.

[0011] The extraction reflector may include extraction surfaces separated by gaps. Advantageously, manufacturing costs may be reduced and image uniformity may be improved. The extraction surface may have an anti-reflective coating. Advantageously, visibility of stray light may be reduced. Efficiency, brightness and contrast may be improved and visibility of stray light, double images and ghost images may be reduced.

[0012] The extraction reflector may extend partially across the extraction waveguide, between the relative rear and front guiding surfaces of the extraction waveguide in a continuously shifted position. Advantageously, the manufacturing cost of the extraction waveguide may be reduced. High uniformity with viewing angles may be achieved across a headbox for pupil locations. The extraction reflector may extend to the relative rear and front guiding surfaces of the extraction waveguide. Advantageously, extraction efficiency may be improved. The extraction reflector may not extend to the relative rear and front guiding surfaces of the extraction waveguide. The rear and front guiding surfaces may be provided to advantageously reduce the visibility of stray light artifacts.

[0013] The anamorphic near-eye display device may further include an intermediate reflector extending along the extraction waveguide between adjacent pairs of extraction reflectors. Advantageously, manufacturing costs may be reduced.

[0014] The intermediate reflector may comprise intermediate surfaces spaced apart by partially reflective coatings.Advantageously, improved operating efficiencies may be achieved.

[0015] The partially reflective coating may include at least one dielectric layer, or at least one dielectric layer may include a stack of dielectric layers. The partially reflective coating may be metallic. The intermediate reflector may include intermediate surfaces separated by gaps. The intermediate surfaces may have an anti-reflective coating. Efficiency and brightness may be modified, and visibility of stray light artifacts may be reduced. Cost may be reduced.

[0016] The extraction waveguide may comprise a plurality of component parts having facing stepped surfaces attached together, the stepped surfaces being shaped with alternating extraction surfaces extending in a lateral direction and intermediate surfaces extending along the extraction waveguide, wherein the extraction reflector comprises the facing extraction surfaces. Advantageously, cost and complexity may be reduced.

[0017] The intermediate surfaces may be optically coupled together. The efficiency of light propagation towards the optical retroreflector may be improved.

[0018] The extraction reflector may include a plurality of sets of extraction reflectors, wherein within each set of extraction reflectors, the extraction reflectors partially extend across the extraction waveguide at continuously shifted positions in a lateral direction, and different sets of extraction reflectors overlap in extent in the lateral direction. The size of the eye box may be increased. The size of the extraction reflector may be increased, and image blur due to diffraction from the extraction reflector may be reduced.

[0019] At least a portion of the extraction waveguide may include a plurality of component plates optically coupled together, wherein an extraction reflector may be formed between the component plates. The extraction reflector may extend between the opposite rear guide surface and the front guide surface of the extraction waveguide. The extraction reflector may have the same reflection area. The thickness of the extraction waveguide may be reduced. The visibility of diffraction blur from the extraction reflector may be reduced.

[0020] The extraction reflector may be patterned to have different reflective zones having reflectivities defined across their entire area that increase with increasing distance along the optical axis. Advantageously, the uniformity of the perceived image may be improved.

[0021] The extraction reflector may have a surface normal direction that may be tilted relative to a direction along the extraction waveguide at an angle in the range of 20 to 40 degrees, preferably at an angle in the range of 25 to 35 degrees, and most preferably at an angle in the range of 27.5 to 32.5 degrees. Advantageously, stray light may be reduced and the visibility of ghost images may be reduced.

[0022] The optical system may further include: an input linear polarizer, the input linear polarizer being disposed between the lateral deformation component and the input end of the extraction waveguide; and a polarization conversion retarder, the polarization conversion retarder being disposed between the lateral deformation component and the input linear polarizer, the polarization conversion retarder being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state. The polarization conversion retarder may have a quarter wavelength delay at a visible light wavelength (e.g., 550 nm). Reflection of stray light from the input end may be reduced. Advantageously, image contrast and image uniformity may be improved.

[0023] The extraction waveguide may comprise a transmissive element and a diffractive optical element optically coupled together, wherein the reflective extraction features comprise parts of the diffractive optical element. Advantageously, the complexity of waveguide manufacturing may be reduced.

[0024] The diffractive optical element may be a volume hologram. Advantageously, the efficiency of the reflection may be increased.

[0025] The extraction waveguide may have opposing rear and front guiding surfaces with anti-reflection coatings. Advantageously, stray light may be reduced.

[0026] The extraction waveguide may have an input end extending in a lateral direction and a transverse direction, the extraction waveguide being arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input end. The direction of the optical axis through the transverse deformation component may be tilted relative to a first direction and a second direction along the extraction waveguide. The input end may be tilted relative to the first direction and the second direction along the extraction waveguide. Light may be input into the waveguide at an angle where it can be extracted without ghosting. Image contrast may advantageously be improved.

[0027] The extraction waveguide may be arranged to receive light from the illumination system through an input region of one of the opposing surfaces of the extraction waveguide, the extraction waveguide further comprising a diffractive deflector element opposite the input region on the other of the opposing surfaces of the extraction waveguide, the diffractive deflector element being arranged to deflect light received through the input region along the extraction waveguide. Advantageously, the size of the input optical element may be reduced.

[0028] The light retro-reflector may be a reflective end of an extraction waveguide. The laterally deformable assembly may include a light retro-reflector. Advantageously, manufacturing costs and complexity may be reduced. Interface losses may be reduced.

[0029] The lateral deformation assembly may include: a reflective linear polarizer, the reflective linear polarizer being disposed between the light retroreflector and the array of reflective extraction features; and a polarization conversion retarder, the polarization conversion retarder being disposed between the reflective polarizer and the light retroreflector, the deflection conversion retarder being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state. The reflective linear polarizer may be curved in the lateral direction. The light retroreflector may be curved in the lateral direction. The curvature of the light retroreflector may be reduced for a desired optical power, and aberrations may be controlled to achieve an increased modulation transfer function and advantageously reduce image blur.

[0030] The light retro-reflector may not be curved in the lateral direction.Advantageously, the length of the waveguide in the first direction may be reduced and a smaller near-eye display device may be achieved.

[0031] The polarization converting retarder may be curved in the lateral direction. The complexity of assembly of the extraction waveguide may be reduced and advantageously, the cost may be reduced. Additional reduction of aberrations may be achieved.

[0032] The polarization-converting retarder may have a quarter-wavelength retardation at visible wavelengths (eg, 550 nm). Advantageously, image contrast may be improved, and efficiency may be increased.

[0033] The optical system may include an input linear polarizer disposed between the spatial light modulator and the array of extraction reflectors. The input linear polarizer and the reflective linear polarizer of the lateral deformation assembly may be arranged to deliver a common polarization state. Stray light may be reduced and image contrast may advantageously be improved.

[0034] The lateral deformation assembly may further include: a polarization control retarder, the polarization control retarder is arranged between the reflective polarizer and the array of reflective extraction features, the polarization control retarder is arranged to change the polarization state of light passing through the polarization control retarder; and an absorbing linear polarizer, the absorbing linear polarizer is arranged between the polarization control retarder and the reflective polarizer, wherein the absorbing linear polarizer and the linear polarizer can be arranged to pass a common linear polarization state, which is a component of the polarization state output from the polarization control retarder in the direction along the waveguide. The polarization control retarder may have a quarter wavelength or half wavelength delay at a visible light wavelength (e.g., 550nm). The optical system may include an input linear polarizer, which is arranged between the spatial light modulator and the array of extraction reflectors. The light output transmitted along the waveguide in the first direction and reflected from the extraction reflector is reduced, and the light output transmitted along the waveguide in the second direction and reflected from the extraction reflector is increased. Advantageously, glare for external observers is reduced and image contrast is improved.

[0035] The optical system may include an input linear polarizer disposed between the spatial light modulator and the array of extraction reflectors and a polarization conversion retarder disposed between the light retro-reflector and the array of reflective extraction features, the polarization conversion retarder being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state. The polarization conversion retarder may have a quarter wavelength retardation at a visible light wavelength (e.g., 550 nm).

[0036] A polarization selective extraction reflector may be provided, and advantageously, stray light may be reduced. Polarized light may propagate within the extraction waveguide along the extraction waveguide in a first direction with low extraction efficiency, and propagate in a second direction opposite to the first direction with higher extraction efficiency. Light output passing along the waveguide in a first direction and reflected from the extraction reflector is reduced, and light output passing along the waveguide in a second direction and reflected from the extraction reflector is increased. Advantageously, glare for external observers is reduced, and image contrast is improved. Efficiency and brightness are improved, and power consumption for desired brightness is reduced.

[0037] The input linear polarizer can be arranged to pass light in the extraction waveguide in a p-polarization state. For light passing along the waveguide in a first direction, the p-polarization state can be preferentially transmitted by the light extraction feature. Advantageously, efficiency and brightness are improved, and power consumption for a desired brightness is reduced.

[0038] The lateral deformation component may include a lens. Advantageously, improved aberrations may be achieved across the field of view and for a larger exit pupil.

[0039] The optical system may include an input section including an input reflector, which is a laterally deformable component and may be arranged to reflect light from the illumination system and guide the light along an extraction waveguide. Advantageously, manufacturing complexity, cost may be reduced, and weight may be reduced.

[0040] The lateral anamorphic assembly may further include a lens. Advantageously, aberrations may be reduced, image fidelity may be improved, and the size of the dynamic head frame may be increased.

[0041] The input section may further include an input face, the input face being disposed on the front side or the rear side of the waveguide and facing the input reflector, and the input section may be arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input face. In the case where the input face is on the front side of the waveguide, the input face may extend to the front guide surface at an acute angle, or in the case where the input face is on the rear side of the waveguide, the input face may extend to the rear guide surface at an acute angle. In the case where the input face is on the front side of the waveguide, the input face may extend parallel to the front guide surface, or in the case where the input face is on the rear side of the waveguide, the input face may extend parallel to the rear guide surface. In the case where the input face is on the front side of the waveguide, the input face may be coplanar with the front guide surface, or in the case where the input face is on the rear side of the waveguide, the input face may be coplanar with the rear guide surface. The input face may be disposed outside one of the front guide surface or the rear guide surface. The input section may further include a separation face, the separation face extending outwardly from one of the front guide surface or the rear guide surface to the input face. Advantageously, an improved mechanical arrangement of the illumination system and the optical system may be achieved.

[0042] The input section may be integral with the waveguide. Advantageously, manufacturing complexity may be reduced and lower costs may be achieved.

[0043] The waveguide may have an end which is an input face, the waveguide being arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input face, and the input section may be a separate element from the waveguide, the separate element may further comprise an output face and be arranged to guide light reflected by the input reflector through the output face and into the waveguide through the input face of the waveguide. Advantageously, improved aberrations may be achieved. The reflective surface may be protected.

[0044] The lens of the lateral anamorphic assembly may include an air gap and a surface facing the air gap.Control of aberrations may be improved, and advantageously, the modulation transfer function for off-axis directions may be increased and image blur may be reduced.

[0045] The air gap may have an edge, and the deformable near-eye display device may include a reflector extending across the edge of the air gap. Advantageously, light losses may be reduced and image uniformity may be improved.

[0046] The lens of the lateral anamorphic assembly may be a Pancharatnam-Berry lens. Advantageously, the size of the lateral anamorphic assembly may be reduced.

[0047] The lateral anamorphic assembly may include a lens. The lens of the lateral anamorphic assembly may be a composite lens. Advantageously, aberrations in the lateral direction may be reduced.

[0048] The pixels of the spatial light modulator may also be distributed in a lateral direction, so that light output from the lateral anamorphic component may be directed in directions distributed in the lateral direction. Advantageously, image rows may be provided simultaneously. Image splitting artifacts may be reduced.

[0049] The lighting system may further comprise a deflector element arranged to deflect light output from the lateral deformation assembly by a selectable amount, the deflector element being selectively operable to direct light output from the lateral deformation assembly into directions distributed in the lateral direction. Advantageously, the complexity of the lighting system may be reduced.

[0050] The extraction waveguide may have planar and parallel opposing rear and front guiding surfaces. Advantageously, ghost images, ghost images and other stray light artifacts may be reduced. Image contrast may be improved.

[0051] The reflective extraction feature can be tilted along the optical axis relative to the first direction and the second direction. The light can be extracted near or perpendicular to the extraction waveguide. The eye box can be arranged at a desired distance from the output surface of the extraction waveguide.

[0052] The reflection extraction features may be tilted at the same angle. Advantageously, the appearance of ghost and double images may be reduced.

[0053] The reflective extraction features can have varying pitches along the extraction waveguide. The reflective extraction features can have varying extents between the opposing rear and front guiding surfaces of the extraction waveguide. Reduced diffraction blur can be achieved in most common viewing directions, and image quality can be improved. The eye box can be extended while achieving reduced waveguide thickness.

[0054] The spatial light modulator may include pixels having a pitch in the lateral direction and the transverse direction, and the ratio of the pitch may be the same as the inverse of the ratio of the optical powers of the lateral anamorphic optical element and the transverse anamorphic optical element. Advantageously, an observer may perceive square pixels. Image fidelity may be improved.

[0055] The anamorphic near-eye display device may further comprise a control system arranged to operate the illumination system to provide light input in accordance with image data representing the image. Advantageously, the image data may be perceived to provide an augmented reality image or a virtual reality image.

[0056] The reflective extraction arrangement may comprise two separate regions, each region being arranged to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide towards a respective eye of a viewer.Advantageously, the weight of the headgear may be reduced and the cost and complexity of the headgear may be reduced.

[0057] At least one of the input end of the extraction waveguide, the lateral anamorphic component and the spatial light modulator may have a curvature in the lateral direction that compensates for the Petzval field curvature of the lateral anamorphic component. Advantageously, the modulation transfer function for the off-axis direction may be increased and image blur may be reduced.

[0058] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a head mounted display device is provided, the head mounted display device comprising the deformable near eye display device according to the first aspect, arranged to fix the deformable near eye display device on the head of a wearer, wherein the deformable near eye display device extends across at least one eye of the wearer. Virtual reality images and augmented reality images can be conveniently provided to a moving observer.

[0059] The head mounted display device may further include a lens having optical power, the anamorphic near eye display device overlying one or each lens. The nominal viewing distance of the virtual image may be adjusted to achieve a reduced difference between focusing and converging depth cues in the stereoscopic display device. Correction for the visual characteristics of the viewer's eyes may be provided.

[0060] The head mounted display device may include a pair of glasses. Advantageously, a light weight transparent head mounted display device suitable for augmented reality applications may be achieved.

[0061] The deformed near-eye display device may be a first deformed near-eye display device, and the head mounted display device may further include a second near-eye display device, wherein the second deformed near-eye display device is arranged in series with the first deformed near-eye display device. Improved image resolution, improved brightness, increased exit pupil size; reduced image diffraction; and increased field of view may be provided.

[0062] The virtual image distance for light from the second variant near-eye display device may be different from the virtual image distance for light from the first variant near-eye display device.The difference between stereoscopic cues and accommodative depth cues may be reduced, and advantageously, user comfort may be improved.

[0063] The head mounted display device may further include a non-deformed near eye display device, wherein the non-deformed near eye display device may include a non-deformed spatial light modulator and a non-deformed magnification optical system; and wherein the non-deformed near eye display device is arranged in series with the deformed near eye display device. Improved image resolution, improved brightness, increased exit pupil size; reduced image diffraction; and increased field of view may be provided.

[0064] The virtual image distance for light from a non-anamorphic near-eye display device may be different than the virtual image distance for light from an anamorphic near-eye display device. The difference between stereoscopic cues and accommodative depth cues may be reduced, and advantageously user comfort may be improved.

[0065] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a deformable directional lighting device is provided, the deformable directional lighting device comprising: a lighting system, the lighting system comprising an array of light sources, the lighting system being arranged to output light; and an optical system, the optical system being arranged to guide the light from the lighting system to the eyes of a viewer, wherein the optical system has an optical axis, and has a deformable property in a lateral direction and a transverse direction perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein a spatial light modulator comprises pixels distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse deformable component, the transverse deformable component having a positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse deformable component is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator, and the lighting system is arranged so that the light output from the transverse deformable component is guided to the eyes of a viewer distributed in the transverse direction. In an upward direction; an extraction waveguide, the extraction waveguide is arranged to receive light from a lateral deformation component; a lateral deformation component, the lateral deformation component has a positive optical power in the lateral direction, the extraction waveguide is arranged to guide the light from the lateral deformation component along the extraction waveguide to the lateral deformation component in a first direction; and a light reverse reflector, the light reverse reflector is arranged to reflect the light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide in the first direction so that the reflected light is guided along the extraction waveguide in a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein the extraction waveguide includes at least one reflective extraction feature disposed inside the extraction waveguide, the reflective extraction feature is arranged to transmit the light guided along the extraction waveguide in the first direction and extract the light guided along the extraction waveguide in the second direction. The deformable directional lighting device can be provided in a compact arrangement at a low cost. A controllable high-resolution output beam can be provided.

[0066] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vehicle exterior lamp device, comprising: a deformed directional lighting device according to the third aspect. The height of the emission aperture can be reduced to advantageously achieve a desired aesthetic appearance. High illumination of the illuminated scene can be achieved by high resolution imaging of addressable light cones in one or two dimensions. High image contrast can be achieved for adjustable beam shaping. Image glare for an oncoming viewer of the lighting device can be reduced, while improved visibility of the scene surrounding the oncoming viewer can be achieved.

[0067] Any of the various aspects of the present disclosure may be applied in any combination.

[0068] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in various optical systems. Embodiments can include various projectors, projection systems, optical components, displays, microdisplays, computer systems, processors, self-contained projector systems, vision and / or audio-visual systems, and electrical devices and / or optical devices, or work together with various projectors, projection systems, optical components, displays, microdisplays, computer systems, processors, self-contained projector systems, vision and / or audio-visual systems, and electrical devices and / or optical devices. Aspects of the present disclosure can be used together with almost any equipment related to optical devices and electrical devices, optical systems, demonstration systems, or any equipment that can include any type of optical system. Therefore, embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in optical systems, devices used in visual presentation and / or optical presentation, visual peripherals, etc., and in several computing environments and automotive environments.

[0069] Before continuing to discuss the disclosed embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details of the specific arrangements shown in its application or creation, as the present disclosure is capable of other embodiments. Moreover, various aspects of the present disclosure may be set forth in different combinations and arrangements to define their own unique embodiments. In addition, the terms used herein are for the purpose of description rather than limitation.

[0070] These and other advantages and features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after reading this disclosure in its entirety. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0071] The embodiments are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate similar parts, and in which:

[0072] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a morphing near-eye display device;

[0073] Figure 1B is a graphic illustration used for Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a front perspective view of a coordinate system arrangement of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0074] Figure 1C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, the operation of a near-eye display in a transverse plane;

[0075] Figure 1D is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, operation of a near-eye display in a lateral plane orthogonal to the transverse plane;

[0076] Figure 1E is a graphic illustration used for Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a front perspective view of a coordinate system mapping of a deformable near-eye display device;

[0077] Figure 1F It is a graphic illustration Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a field of view plot of an output of a deformable near-eye display device for multi-color illumination;

[0078] Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C is illustrated in front view for Figure 1A Schematic diagram of an arrangement of a spatial light modulator including spatially multiplexed red, green and blue sub-pixels used in a deformed near-eye display device;

[0079] Figure 2D is illustrated in front view for Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a spatial light modulator for use with time-multiplexed spectral illumination used in a deformable near-eye display device;

[0080] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light input into an extraction waveguide;

[0081] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light propagation along a first direction in an extraction waveguide;

[0082] Figure 3C The illustration is from Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a side view of light extraction of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0083] Figure 4A is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light output from a morphing near-eye display device for a single extraction reflector;

[0084] Figure 4B is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light output from an anamorphic near-eye display device for a plurality of extraction reflectors to achieve a full cone of light input into a pupil of an observer in a lateral direction;

[0085] Figure 4C is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of light output from an anamorphic near-eye display device for multiple locations for an observer moving in a lateral direction;

[0086] Figure 5A It is a diagram illustrating Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a front view of light output by a deformed near-eye display device;

[0087] Figure 5B This is a diagram illustrating the position of a single pupil. Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a front view of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0088] Figure 5C is a diagram illustrating the position of the pupil for multiple Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a front view of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0089] Figure 5D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an expanded imaging system arranged for imaging in a lateral direction, wherein a reflection extraction feature is not provided;

[0090] Figure 5E is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic top view of a deployed imaging system arranged to image in a lateral direction;

[0091] Fig. 5F is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an unfolded imaging system arranged for imaging in a lateral direction, wherein an array of extraction reflectors is provided as a reflective extraction feature;

[0092] Fig. 6A It is a graphic illustration Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a side view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device;

[0093] Figure 6B It is a graphic illustration Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a front view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device;

[0094] Figure 6C It is illustrated by FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0095] Fig.6D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of optical isolation for a morphed near-eye display device including an emissive spatial light modulator;

[0096] Fig. 6E It is illustrated by Fig.6D Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0097] Fig. 6F is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of optical isolation for a morphed near-eye display device including a transmissive or reflective spatial light modulator;

[0098] Figure 6G It is illustrated by Fig. 6F Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0099] Fig. 7A is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of propagation of polarized input light around an extraction reflector;

[0100] Figure 7Bis a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of propagation of polarized light around an extraction reflector after reflection from a reflective end, the extraction reflector comprising a single dielectric layer;

[0101] Figure 7C is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of propagation of polarized light around an extraction reflector after reflection from a reflective end, the extraction reflector comprising a stack of dielectric layers;

[0102] Fig. 8A is a schematic graph illustrating the variation of reflectivity versus wavelength for light propagating through an extraction reflector including the dielectric layers listed in Table 2;

[0103] Figure 8B is a flow chart illustrating compensation of pixel data for pixel sites in a lateral direction;

[0104] Fig.9A , Fig. 9B , Fig. 9C , Fig.9D and Fig.9E is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative arrangement of an extraction waveguide including a partially reflective coating;

[0105] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an extraction waveguide including a gap;

[0106] Fig.11A , Fig. 11B , Fig. 11C , Fig.11D and Fig.11E is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative arrangement of an extraction waveguide including a gap;

[0107] Fig.12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an extraction reflector and an adjacent intermediate surface, the extraction reflector comprising a partially reflective material and the adjacent intermediate surface comprising an intermediate surface material;

[0108] Fig.13A is a schematic graph of stepped surface height as a function of position along a waveguide for various illustrative arrangements of steps for the stepped surface;

[0109] Fig. 13B is a schematic graph of alternative variations of facet width w with position along the extraction waveguide;

[0110] Fig. 13C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, an arrangement of a chirp extraction reflector for a monocular near-eye anamorphic display device;

[0111] Fig.13Dis a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, an arrangement of a chirp extraction reflector for a binocular near-eye anamorphic display device;

[0112] Fig.14A is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head mounted display device in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head mounted display device including a right eye anamorphic display device having a spatial light modulator arranged at an eyebrow position;

[0113] Fig. 14B is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head mounted display device in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head mounted display device including a left eye anamorphic display device and a right eye anamorphic display device having spatial light modulators arranged at eyebrow locations;

[0114] Fig. 14C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in a perspective front view, an eyepiece arrangement for an augmented reality head mounted display device;

[0115] Fig.15A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in a perspective front view, a deformable near-eye display device having a spatial light modulator at the temple location;

[0116] Fig. 15B is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head mounted display device in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head mounted display device including a left eye anamorphic display device having a spatial light modulator disposed at a temple position;

[0117] Fig. 15C is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head mounted display device in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head mounted display device including a left eye anamorphic display device and a right eye anamorphic display device having spatial light modulators arranged at temple positions;

[0118] Fig.16A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, a virtual reality head mounted display device including a left eye anamorphic display device and a right eye anamorphic display device;

[0119] Fig. 16B is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a virtual reality head mounted display device including a morphing near eye display device;

[0120] Fig. 16C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, a morphed near-eye display device including a single waveguide adapted for use with both eyes of a display user;

[0121] Fig.16D is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device including two deformed near-eye display devices;

[0122] Fig.16Eis a schematic diagram illustrating a composite image;

[0123] Fig.16F is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a virtual reality head mounted display device including a deformable near eye display device arranged to receive light from a magnifying lens and an attached spatial light modulator;

[0124] Figure 16G is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a virtual reality head mounted display device including an anamorphic near eye display device disposed between an anamorphic spatial light modulator and a magnifying lens of a non-anamorphic near eye display device;

[0125] Fig.16H is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, an arrangement of a virtual image distance for a virtual reality display device;

[0126] Fig.16I and Fig.16J This diagram is for Fig.16H a schematic diagram of an arrangement of displayed images;

[0127] Fig.17A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in perspective front view, an alternative arrangement of an anamorphic near-eye display device, wherein the extraction reflector comprises a plurality of constituent panels;

[0128] Fig. 17B Is a graphic description input to Fig.17A A schematic diagram of a side view of light in a deformed near-eye display device;

[0129] Fig. 17C It is a graphic illustration Fig.17A A schematic diagram of a front view of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0130] Fig.17D is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic perspective view of an optical design for a near-eye anamorphic display device;

[0131] Fig.18A It is a graphic illustration Fig.17A Schematic diagram of a side view of polarized input light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device;

[0132] Fig.18B It is a graphic illustration Fig.17A A schematic diagram of a side view of propagation of polarized light after reflection from a reflective end in a deformed near-eye display device;

[0133] Fig.18C is a diagram illustrating the reflectivity of the polarization beam splitter along Fig.17A Schematic diagram of the changes of the waveguide;

[0134] Fig.19Ais illustrated in a perspective front view Fig.17A Schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a deformed near-eye display device in which some of the polarizing beam splitters do not extend the entire thickness of the waveguide;

[0135] Fig.19B is illustrated in side view Fig.19A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0136] Fig. 20A is illustrated in a perspective front view Fig.17A Schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a deformed near-eye display device in which a polarizing beam splitter is patterned;

[0137] Fig. 20B is illustrated in side view Fig. 20A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0138] Fig.21A is a diagram illustrating a perspective front view of a plurality of partially reflective metal interfaces Fig.17A Schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0139] Fig. 21B is illustrated in side view Fig.21A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0140] Fig.22A is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an extraction waveguide including a plurality of stepped interface layers;

[0141] Fig. 22B Is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing Fig.22A A schematic diagram of a method for extracting an extraction region of a waveguide;

[0142] Fig. 22C and Fig.22D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative arrangement of an extraction waveguide including two types of partially reflecting extraction reflectors;

[0143] Fig.23A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in a perspective front view, an alternative arrangement of an anamorphic near-eye display device including a diffractive optical element;

[0144] Fig. 23B is illustrated in side view Fig.23A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0145] Fig.23C is illustrated in front view Fig.23A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0146] Fig.23D is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, the operation of a waveguide including a diffractive optical element;

[0147] Fig.24A is illustrated in a perspective front view further comprising a diffractive input deflector element Fig.23A Schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0148] Fig. 24B is illustrated in a perspective front view further comprising a diffractive input deflector element Fig.23A Schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a morphable near-eye display device in which a diffractive input beam deflector has optical power in a lateral direction;

[0149] Fig.24C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a full-color anamorphic display device comprising a stack of three extraction waveguides, the extraction waveguides comprising a diffractive optical element;

[0150] Fig.24D is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view a full-color anamorphic display device comprising a stack of two extraction waveguides, the extraction waveguides comprising a diffractive optical element;

[0151] Fig.24E , Fig.24F and Figure 24G is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative arrangement of an extraction waveguide including a combination of reflective extraction features;

[0152] Fig.25A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, an anamorphic near-eye display device including a laterally anamorphic component that is refractive and reflective;

[0153] Fig.25B is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, an anamorphic near-eye display device including a laterally anamorphic component, the laterally anamorphic component being a reflective end of a waveguide including a Fresnel reflector;

[0154] Fig.25C is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view an anamorphic near-eye display device including a laterally anamorphic component, the laterally anamorphic component being a refractive component including an air gap and an air gap mirror;

[0155] Fig.25D is illustrated in side view Fig.25C Schematic diagram of a deformable near-eye display device;

[0156] Fig.26A is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformable near-eye display device in front view, wherein an input end of an extraction waveguide has a curvature in a lateral direction;

[0157] Fig.26B is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein an input end of an extraction waveguide has a curvature in a lateral direction, and a lateral anamorphic component has a curvature in a lateral direction;

[0158] Fig.26C is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein an input end of an extraction waveguide has a curvature in a lateral direction, a lateral anamorphic component has a curvature in a lateral direction, and a spatial light modulator has a curvature in a lateral direction;

[0159] Fig.26D is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein an input end of an extraction waveguide has a curvature in a lateral direction, a lateral anamorphic component has a curvature in a lateral direction, and a spatial light modulator has a curvature in a lateral direction, wherein the direction of the curvature is in parallel with Fig.26C in the opposite direction of the direction;

[0160] Fig.26E is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein an input end of an extraction waveguide has a curvature in a lateral direction, a lateral anamorphic component has a curvature in a lateral direction, and a spatial light modulator has a curvature in a lateral direction, wherein the directions of the curvatures of these components are different;

[0161] Fig.27A is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein the side anamorphic assembly further includes a planar reflective polarizer and a quarter-wave retarder, the quarter-wave retarder being disposed between the reflective end and the reflective polarizer;

[0162] Fig.27B It is illustrated by Fig.27A Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0163] Fig.27C is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein the side anamorphic assembly further includes a curved reflective polarizer and a quarter-wave retarder, the quarter-wave retarder being disposed between the reflective end and the reflective polarizer;

[0164] Fig.27D is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein the side anamorphic assembly further includes a planar reflective end, a curved reflective polarizer, and a quarter-wave retarder, the quarter-wave retarder being disposed between the planar reflective end and the reflective polarizer;

[0165] Fig.27Eis a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein a side anamorphic assembly includes a curved reflective end, a curved reflective polarizer, a quarter-wave retarder, and a refractive lens, the quarter-wave retarder being disposed between the flat reflective end and the reflective polarizer, and the refractive lens being disposed between the input end and the reflective polarizer;

[0166] Fig.27F is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein the side anamorphic assembly further comprises a planar reflective polarizer, a quarter wave retarder, and a further quarter wave retarder, the quarter wave retarder being arranged between a reflective end and the reflective polarizer, the further quarter wave retarder being arranged between an input end and the reflective polarizer, wherein the input linear polarizer is incorporated in an extraction waveguide;

[0167] Figure 27G It is illustrated by Fig.27F Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0168] Fig.27H is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device in front view, wherein the side anamorphic assembly further comprises a planar reflective polarizer, a quarter wave retarder, and a further half wave retarder, the quarter wave retarder being disposed between the reflective end and the reflective polarizer, and the further half wave retarder being disposed between the input end and the reflective polarizer;

[0169] Fig.27I It is illustrated by Fig.27H Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0170] Fig.28A is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view an anamorphic near-eye display device including a reflective end, the reflective end including a Pancharatnam-Berry lens;

[0171] Fig.28B is a schematic diagram illustrating the optical structure of a Pancharatnam-Berry lens in end view;

[0172] Fig.28C is illustrated in front view Fig.28B Schematic diagram of the optical structure of the Pancharatnam-Berry lens;

[0173] Fig.29 This diagram is for Fig.28B Schematic diagram of the variation of the phase difference of an illustrative Pancharatnam-Berry lens with lateral position;

[0174] Fig.30 is illustrated in side view Fig.28A Schematic diagram of the operation of the Pancharatnam-Berry lens;

[0175] Fig.31A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, the operation of an anamorphic near-eye display device further including a corrective eyeglass lens;

[0176] Fig.31B is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, the operation of an anamorphic near-eye display device further comprising a corrective Pancharatnam-Berry lens and a corrective eyeglass lens;

[0177] Fig.32A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device including a first focal plane modifying lens and a second focal plane modifying lens;

[0178] Fig.32B is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device, the head mounted display device including a plurality of extraction waveguides and further including a first focal plane modifying lens and a second focal plane modifying lens;

[0179] Fig.32C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device including a plurality of extraction waveguides and three focal plane modifying lenses;

[0180] Fig.32D is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device including a non-deformed near-eye display device and a deformed extraction waveguide;

[0181] Fig.32E is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device including a non-anamorphic near eye display device, an anamorphic extraction waveguide, and a focal plane modifying lens disposed between the non-anamorphic near eye display device and the anamorphic near eye display device;

[0182] Fig.32F is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device including a non-anamorphic near eye display device, an anamorphic extraction waveguide, and a focal plane modifying lens arranged to receive light from the non-anamorphic near eye display device and the anamorphic near eye display device;

[0183] Figure 32G is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device including a non-deformed near-eye display device, a deformed extraction waveguide, and two focal plane modifying lenses;

[0184] Fig.32H is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device including a non-deformed near-eye display device, two deformed extraction waveguides, and a focal plane modifying lens;

[0185] Fig.33A is a schematic diagram illustrating details of the arrangement of an input focusing lens in side view;

[0186] Fig.33B is illustrated in front view Fig.33A A schematic diagram of details of the arrangement of the input focusing lens;

[0187] Fig.34A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, an arrangement of spatial light modulators for use in the anamorphic near-eye display device of FIG. 1 , the anamorphic near-eye display device including separate red, green and blue spatial light modulators and a beam combining element;

[0188] Fig.34B is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, an illumination system for use in the modified near-eye display device of FIG. 1 including a birdbath folding arrangement;

[0189] Fig.35A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformed near-eye display device including an input reflector;

[0190] Fig.35B It is a graphic illustration Fig.35A A schematic diagram of a side view of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0191] Fig.35C It is a graphic illustration Fig.35A A schematic diagram of a front view of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0192] Fig.35D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative deformable near-eye display device including an input reflector;

[0193] Fig.35E is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a deformed near-eye display device including an alternative input reflector;

[0194] Fig.35F is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a deformed near-eye display device including an alternative input reflector;

[0195] Figure 35G is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a deformed near-eye display device including an alternative input reflector;

[0196] Fig.36A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of an input focusing lens in a perspective front view;

[0197] Fig.36Bis a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a spatial light modulator arrangement for use in the anamorphic near-eye display device of FIG. 1 , the anamorphic near-eye display device including a spatial light modulator including a laser scanner and a light diffusing screen;

[0198] Fig.37A is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view an input of an extraction waveguide including a laser source and a scanning arrangement;

[0199] Fig.37B is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view a spatial light modulator arrangement comprising a Fig.37A An array of laser light sources for use in an arrangement;

[0200] Fig.37C is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view a spatial light modulator arrangement including an array of laser light sources, a beam expander, and a scanning mirror;

[0201] Fig.38A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in a perspective front view, a deformable near-eye display device, the deformable near-eye display device including a stepped extraction interface and an eye tracking arrangement;

[0202] Fig.38B is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view an anamorphic near-eye display device including an eye tracking arrangement having a transmissive aperture disposed at a reflective end;

[0203] Fig.38C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, an anamorphic near-eye display device including an eye tracking arrangement having a partially transmissive mirror disposed at a reflective end;

[0204] Fig.39A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformed directional lighting device; and

[0205] Fig.39B is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a vehicle including a vehicle exterior light apparatus including Fig.39A Deformed directional lighting device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0206]

[0046] The terminology associated with optical retarders for the purposes of the present disclosure will now be described.

[0207] In a layer comprising a uniaxial birefringent material, there is a direction that controls the optical anisotropy, while all directions perpendicular to it (or at a given angle thereto) have equivalent birefringence.

[0208] The optical axis of an optical retarder refers to the direction of propagation of light rays in a uniaxial birefringent material where no birefringence is experienced. This is different from the optical axis of an optical system which may be, for example, parallel to the line of symmetry or perpendicular to the display surface along which the principal rays propagate.

[0209] For light propagating in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis, when linearly polarized light with an electric vector direction parallel to the slow axis propagates at the slowest speed, the optical axis is the slow axis. The slow axis direction is the direction with the highest refractive index at the design wavelength. Similarly, the fast axis direction is the direction with the lowest refractive index at the design wavelength.

[0210] For a uniaxial birefringent material with positive dielectric anisotropy, the slow axis direction is the extraordinary axis of the birefringent material. For a uniaxial birefringent material with negative dielectric anisotropy, the fast axis direction is the extraordinary axis of the birefringent material.

[0211] The terms half wavelength and quarter wavelength refer to the operation of the retarder for a design wavelength λ0, which may typically be between 500 nm and 570 nm. In this illustrative embodiment, unless otherwise specified, exemplary retardation values ​​are provided for a wavelength of 550 nm.

[0212] The retarder provides a phase shift between two perpendicular polarization components of a light wave incident thereon, and the phase shift is characterized by the relative phase amount Γ it imparts to the two polarization components; the relative phase amount Γ is related to the birefringence Δn and thickness d of the retarder with a retardation Δn.d by the following equation:

[0213] Γ=2.π.Δn.d / λ0 Equation 1.

[0214] In Equation 1, Δn is defined as the difference between the extraordinary refractive index and the ordinary refractive index, that is,

[0215] Δn=n e -n o Equation 2.

[0216] For a half-wave retarder, the relationship between d, Δn and λ0 is chosen such that the phase shift between the polarization components is Γ = π. For a quarter-wave retarder, the relationship between d, Δn and λ0 is chosen such that the phase shift between the polarization components is Γ = π / 2.

[0217] Some aspects of the propagation of light through a transparent retarder between a pair of polarizers will now be described.

[0218] The polarization state (SOP) of light is described by relative amplitude and phase shift between any two orthogonal polarization components. Transparent retarder does not change the relative amplitude of these orthogonal polarization components, but only acts on their relative phase. Net phase shift between the orthogonal polarization components is provided to change SOP, and keeps net relative phase to keep SOP. In current specification, SOP can be referred to as polarization state.

[0219] The linear SOP has a polarization component with non-zero amplitude and an orthogonal polarization component with zero amplitude. The p polarization state is a linear polarization state located in the incident plane of the light including the p polarization state, and the s polarization state is a linear polarization state located orthogonal to the incident plane of the light including the p polarization state. For the linearly polarized SOP incident on the retarder, the relative phase Γ is determined by the angle between the optical axis of the retarder and the direction of the polarization component.

[0220] A linear polarizer transmits a unique linear SOP having a linear polarization component parallel to the electric vector transmission direction of the linear polarizer, and attenuates light having a different SOP. The term "electric vector transmission direction" refers to the non-directional axis of the polarizer, parallel to which the electric vector of the incident light is transmitted, even though the transmitted "electric vector" always has an instantaneous direction. The term "direction" is often used to describe this axis.

[0221] An absorbing polarizer is a polarizer that absorbs one polarization component of incident light and transmits a second, orthogonal polarization component. An example of an absorbing linear polarizer is a dichroic polarizer.

[0222] A reflective polarizer is a polarizer that reflects one polarization component of incident light and transmits a second orthogonal polarization component. An example of a reflective polarizer that is a linear polarizer is a multilayer polymer film stack (such as DBEF from 3M Company). TM or APF TM ) or a wire grid polarizer (such as the ProFlux from Moxtek TM ). The reflective linear polarizer may further comprise a cholesteric reflective material and a quarter wave retarder arranged in series.

[0223] A retarder disposed between a linear polarizer and a parallel linear analyzing polarizer that introduces no relative net phase shift provides total transmission of light except for residual absorption within the linear polarizer.

[0224] A retarder providing a relative net phase shift between the orthogonal polarization components changes the SOP and provides attenuation at the analyzing polarizer.

[0225] An achromatic retarder may be provided, wherein the material of the retarder is provided with a retardation Δn.d that varies with wavelength λ as follows:

[0226] Δn.d / λ=κEquation 3

[0227] where κ is essentially a constant.

[0228] Examples of suitable materials include modified polycarbonates from Teijin Films.As will be described below, an achromatic retarder may be provided in embodiments of the present application to advantageously minimize color variation between extreme angle viewing directions with low brightness reduction and extreme angle viewing directions with increased brightness reduction.

[0229] In the present disclosure, "A-plate" refers to an optical retarder using a layer of birefringent material, wherein its optical axis is parallel to the plane of the layer. The optical axis direction of the optical retarder is arranged to provide a delay corresponding to the SOP of the incident light, for example to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light, or vice versa.

[0230] The structure and operation of various variant near-eye display devices will now be described. In this description, common elements have common reference numerals. Note that the disclosure associated with any element is applicable to each device in which the same or corresponding element is provided, after appropriate modification. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, such disclosure is not repeated. Similarly, the various features of any of the following examples can be combined together in any combination.

[0231] It would be desirable to provide an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 having a slim form factor, large freedom of movement, high resolution, high brightness, and a wide field of view. The anamorphic near-eye display device 100 will now be described.

[0232] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformed near-eye display device 100; and Figure 1B is a graphic illustration used for Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a front perspective view of a coordinate system arrangement of a deformed near-eye display device 100.

[0233] Figure 1A The figure illustrates a deformable directional lighting device 1000, which is a deformable near-eye display device 100. In the present description, the deformable near-eye display device 100 is provided in the vicinity of the eye 45 to provide light to the eye 45 of the observer 47. In the illustrative embodiment, the eye 45 can be arranged at a nominal viewing distance e between 5 mm and 100 mm, and preferably between 8 mm and 20 mm, from the output surface of the deformable near-eye display device 100. R Such displays differ from direct-view displays in that the viewing distance is typically greater than 100 mm. R It can be called visual clearance.

[0234] The anamorphic near-eye display device 100 includes an illumination system 240 arranged to provide output light (including illumination from a spatial light modulator 48) and an optical system 250 arranged to direct light from the illumination system 240 to an eye 45 of an observer 47. The illumination system 240 is arranged to output light rays 400, including illustrative light rays 401, 402 input into the optical system 250.

[0235] In operation, it is desirable that the spatial pixel data provided on the spatial light modulator 48 be directed as angular pixel data to the pupil 44 of the eye 45. The lens of the observer's eye 45 relays the angular spatial data to the spatial pixel data at the retina 46 of the eye 45 so that an image is provided by the deformed near-eye display device 100 to the observer 47.

[0236] The pupil 44 is located in a volume of space (often referred to as the exit pupil 40 or oculomotor box) near the anamorphic near-eye display device 100. When the pupil 44 is located within the exit pupil 40, the observer 47 is presented with the entire image without missing portions of the image, that is, the image does not appear vignetted at the observer's retina 46. The shape of the exit pupil 40 is determined at least by the anamorphic imaging properties of the anamorphic near-eye display device and the respective aberrations of the anamorphic optical system. The nominal eye relief distance e is R The exit pupil 40 at may have a dimension e in the lateral direction 195 L and the dimension e in the transverse direction 197 T . Maximum visual clearance distance e Rmax Refers to the maximum distance of the pupil 44 from the deformed near-eye display device 100 where there is no image vignetting. In the embodiment of the present application, increasing the size of the exit pupil 40 refers to increasing the size e L 、e T As will be further described below, the enlarged exit pupil 40 enables increased viewer freedom and Rmax increase.

[0237] As hereinafter (for example in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D and Fig.37A As will be further described in the text, the spatial light modulator 48 includes pixels 222 distributed at least in the lateral direction 195. Figure 1A In the illustrative embodiment of , the illumination system 240 includes a transmissive spatial light modulator 48 that includes an array of spatially separated pixels 222 distributed in a lateral direction 195 (48) and a transverse direction 197 (48). Figure 1A In an embodiment of the present invention, the spatial light modulator 48 is a TFT-LCD, and the illumination system 240 further includes a backlight source 20 arranged to illuminate the spatial light modulator 48.

[0238] The anamorphic near-eye display device 100 further comprises a control system 500 arranged to operate the illumination system 240 to provide light that is spatially modulated in accordance with image data representing an image.

[0239] As described below, the optical system 250 includes a transverse lens 61 that forms Figure 1A The lateral deformation component 60 in the embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the lateral lens 61 includes a cylindrical lens.

[0240] In the present disclosure, as hereinafter described, for example, Fig.36A As will be described in , the term lens most commonly refers to a single lens element, or most often to a compound lens (group of lens elements); and is arranged to provide optical power. The lens may include a single refractive surface, multiple refractive surfaces, or reflective surfaces so that the lens may include a catadioptric lens element that combines a refractive surface and a reflective surface. The lens may further or alternatively include a diffractive optical element. A transverse lens is a lens that provides optical power in the transverse direction, and may provide substantially no optical power in the lateral direction. A transverse lens may be referred to as a cylindrical lens, although the profile in the cross-section of the surface or surfaces that provide optical power may be different from a segment of a circle, such as parabolic, elliptical, or aspherical.

[0241] Figure 1A The lateral lens 61 in the embodiment of the embodiment extends in a lateral direction 195(60), which is parallel to the lateral direction 195(48) of the spatial light modulator 48. The lateral anamorphic component 60 has positive optical power in a lateral direction 197(60), which is parallel to the direction 197(48) and orthogonal to the lateral direction 195(60); and has no optical power in the lateral direction 195(60). The lateral anamorphic component 60 is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator 48. The optical system 250 is arranged so that light output from the lateral anamorphic component 60 is directed in directions distributed in the lateral direction 197(60).

[0242] Expressed mathematically, for any location within the anamorphic near-eye display device 100, the optical axis direction 199 may be referred to as the O unit vector, the lateral direction 197 may be referred to as the T unit vector, and the lateral direction 195 may be referred to as the L unit vector, where the optical axis direction 199 is the cross product of the lateral direction 197 and the lateral direction 195:

[0243] O=T×L Equation 4

[0244] The various surfaces of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 transform or replicate the optical axis direction 199; however, for any given ray, the expression of Equation 4 may be applied.

[0245] The optical system 250 further comprises an extraction waveguide 1 arranged to guide light 400 in a cone 491 from the lateral deformation component 60 along the extraction waveguide 1 to the lateral deformation component 110 in a first direction 191. The extraction waveguide 1 has planar and parallel opposing rear and front guide surfaces 6, 8. The extraction waveguide 1 further has an input end 2 extending in a lateral direction 195 (60) and a transverse direction 197 (60), the extraction waveguide 1 being arranged to receive light 400 from the illumination system 240 through the input end 2. The input end 2 extends between the edges 22, 24 of the extraction waveguide 1 in the lateral direction 195 and between the opposing rear and front guide surfaces 6, 8 of the extraction waveguide 1 in the transverse direction.

[0246] The optical system 250 further includes a light reverse reflector 140, which is arranged to reflect the light 400 in the light cone 491 that has been guided along the extraction waveguide 1, so that the reflected light 400 in the light cone 493 is guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 opposite to the first direction 191, and so that the reflected cone 493 is guided back through the extraction waveguide 1.

[0247] exist Figure 1A In an embodiment of the present invention, the light retro-reflector 140 is the reflective end 4 of the extraction waveguide 1. In addition, the light retro-reflector 140 forms a lateral deformable component 110. Specifically, the reflective end 4 of the extraction waveguide 1 has a curved shape in the lateral direction 195 that provides positive optical power, thereby affecting the light in the cone 491 in the lateral direction 195 (110), and does not provide positive optical power in the transverse direction 197 (110). The optical system 250 is therefore arranged so that the light output from the lateral deformable component 110 is guided to directions distributed in the transverse direction 197 (110) and the lateral direction 195 (110). As will be further described below, the curved shape of the reflective end 4 can be a shape of a cross-section of a sphere, ellipse, parabola or other non-spherical shape to achieve desired imaging of the light from the spatial light modulator 48 to the pupil 44 of the eye 45.

[0248] The extraction waveguide 1 comprises an array of extraction reflectors 170 disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1, the extraction reflectors 170 being arranged to transmit light 400 guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a first direction 191 and to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 towards a viewer's eye 45. The array of extraction reflectors 170 is distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 so as to provide an exit pupil expansion.

[0249] As will be further described below, extraction reflectors 170A to 170E are examples of reflective extraction features 169, and each includes a set of layers that are reflective layers. FIG. 23A to FIG. 23D As described in , the function of the extraction reflector 170 can be performed by the reflection extraction feature 169, which is a diffractive feature (including, for example, a phase grating).

[0250] The extraction waveguide 1 is further arranged to receive a light cone 493 from the transverse deformation assembly 60 and the lateral deformation assembly 110; and comprises an array of extraction reflectors 170A to 170E disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1. The extraction reflectors 170 are tilted relative to the first direction 191 and the second direction 193 along the optical axis 199 of the extraction waveguide 1. The extraction reflectors 170 extend partially across the extraction waveguide 1 between the opposing rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8.

[0251] The extraction waveguide 1 includes an intermediate surface 172 extending along the extraction waveguide between adjacent pairs of extraction reflectors 170. Figure 1A In an embodiment, the intermediate surface 172 is arranged between the extraction reflector pairs 170A to 170B, 170B to 170C, 170C to 170D, and 170D to 170E.

[0252] As will be further described below, the extraction reflector 170 is arranged to transmit at least some of the light cone 491 guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a first direction 191 and to extract at least some of the light cone 493 guided back along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 toward the eye 45 of the viewer 47.

[0253] The coordinate system and operating principles of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 will now be further described. The optical system 250 has an optical axis 199 and has anamorphic properties in a lateral direction 195 and a transverse direction 197 that are perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis 199 .

[0254] Figure 1B The diagram illustrates the changes in the direction of the optical axis 199, the lateral direction 195, and the transverse direction 197 as the light propagates through the optical system 250. In this description, the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197 are defined relative to the direction of the optical axis 199 in any part of the illumination system 240 or the optical system 250, and are not in constant directions in space. Figure 1BIn an embodiment of the present invention, lateral direction 197(60) illustrates lateral direction 197 at lateral morphing assembly 60 formed by lateral lens 61; lateral direction 197(110) illustrates lateral direction 197 at lateral morphing assembly 110; and lateral direction 197(44) illustrates lateral direction 197 at eye 45 of observer 47. Lateral morphing assembly 60 has lateral direction 195(60) that is the same as lateral direction 195(110) of lateral morphing assembly 110 and lateral direction 195(44) at pupil 44 of eye 45. The Euclidean coordinate system illustrated by the x-direction, y-direction, and z-direction is invariant, while lateral direction 197, lateral direction 195, and optical axis direction 199 may be transformed at various optical components, particularly by reflection from optical components of morphing near-eye display device 100.

[0255] We will now describe Figure 1A Further features of the arrangement.

[0256] The optical system 250 may include an input linear polarizer 70 disposed between the spatial light modulator 48 and the extraction reflector 170 of the extraction waveguide 1. Figure 1A In FIG. 5 , an input linear polarizer 70 is arranged between the transverse deformation component 60 and the extraction waveguide 1. The input linear polarizer 70 is an absorbing polarizer, such as a dichroic iodine polarizer arranged to transmit a linear polarization state and absorb an orthogonal polarization state.

[0257] Further, the optical system 250 may include a polarization conversion retarder 72 disposed between the light retro-reflector 140 and the array of extraction reflectors 170. The polarization conversion retarder 72 may be an A-plate having an optical axis direction, arranged to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light and to convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light.

[0258] In the following, we will focus on at least 6A to 6F The operation of input linear polarizer 70 and polarization conversion retarder 72 is further described.

[0259] In operation, the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to guide light rays 400 between opposing rear and front guiding surfaces 6, 8 as illustrated by the zigzag paths of the guided light rays 401, 402.

[0260] In the first direction 191, at least some of the light rays 400 propagate through the extraction reflector 170. The waveguide 1 further comprises a reflective end 4, which is arranged to receive the guided light rays 401, 402 from the input end 2. The side deformation component 110 comprises the reflective end 4 of the extraction waveguide 1, wherein a reflective material is provided on the reflective end 4. The reflective material can be a reflective film, such as ESR from 3M.TM , or it can be a evaporated or sputtered metal material. Figure 1A In an embodiment, the lateral deformation component 110 is therefore a curved mirror having positive optical power in the lateral direction 195 and no optical power in the transverse direction 197.

[0261] For light cone 493 propagating in second direction 193 , extraction reflector 170 is oriented to extract light directed back along extraction waveguide 1 through second light guiding surface 8 and towards pupil 44 of eye 45 disposed in oculomotor box 40 .

[0262] The operation of the near-eye display device 100 as an augmented reality display will now be further described.

[0263] The extraction waveguide 1 is transmissive for light passing through the intermediate surface 172 so that an on-axis real image point 31 on the real world object 30 is directly viewed via the extraction waveguide 1 by light ray 32. Similarly, a virtual image 34 with aligned on-axis virtual pixels 36 is desirably viewed using virtual light rays 37. Such virtual light rays 37 are provided by on-axis light rays 401 after reflection from the extraction reflector 170C to the pupil 44 of the eye 45. Similarly, off-axis virtual light rays 39 for viewing the virtual pixels 38 are provided by off-axis light rays 402 after reflection from the extraction reflector 170D. An augmented reality display advantageously having a high transmission of external light rays 32 can be provided.

[0264] The imaging properties of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 will now be further described using an expanded schematic illustration, in which the described transformation of the coordinate system is removed for illustrative purposes.

[0265] Figure 1C is a schematic diagram illustrating operation of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a transverse plane in side view; and Figure 1D is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, the operation of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a lateral plane orthogonal to the transverse plane; and Figure 1E is a graphic illustration used for Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a front perspective view of a coordinate system mapping of a deformed near-eye display device 100. Figure 1C to Figure 1E Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0266] For the purpose of illustration, Figure 1C to Figure 1D In Figure 1A to Figure 1B The change in the optical axis direction 199 illustrated in the figure is omitted. Figure 1C to Figure 1D Illustration with expanded illustrative arrangement Figure 1AThe deformed near-eye display device 100 has the same lateral field of view φ as the observer 47. T and the lateral field of view φ L The operating principle of implementing a near-eye image, that is, for illustration purposes, a square image is provided to the retina 46. The pupil 44 is shown at a common viewing distance e from the output light directing surface 8 of the optical system 250. R Place.

[0267] Figure 1C The diagram illustrates the lateral imaging properties of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100. An illumination system 240 is provided with top illuminated pixels 222T, center illuminated pixels 222C, and bottom illuminated pixels 222B across a lateral direction 197, wherein light rays are output to a lateral anamorphic component 60 having optical power only in the lateral direction, collimating the output from each pixel 222L, 222C, 222R and directing it toward the eye 45. Light ray 460T passes through the pupil 44 of the eye 45 onto the retina 46 of the eye 45 and creates an off-axis image point 461T. Light ray 460C passes onto the retina 46 and creates a center image point 461C, and light ray 460B passes onto the retina 46 and creates an off-axis image point 461B.

[0268] Figure 1D The diagram illustrates the lateral imaging properties of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100. The illumination system 240 is provided with a right illuminated pixel 222L, a middle illuminated pixel 222M, and a left illuminated pixel 222R across a lateral direction 195, wherein light rays are output to the lateral anamorphic component 110, which has optical power only in the lateral direction, collimates the output from each pixel 222L, 222M, 222R and directs it toward the pupil 44 of the eye 45. Light ray 460L passes through the pupil 44 of the eye 45 onto the retina 46 of the eye 45 and creates an off-axis image point 461L. Light ray 460M passes onto the retina 46 and creates an image point 461M, and light ray 460R passes onto the retina 46 and creates an image point 461R.

[0269] The observer perceives a magnified virtual image having the same field of view φ in each of the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197 using an optical system 250 arranged between the virtual image 34 and the eye 45 .

[0270] In the deformable near-eye display device 100 of the embodiment of the present application, the distance f between the first principal planes of the lateral deformation component 60 of the optical system 250 is T The distance f between the first principal planes of the lateral deformation component 110 of the optical system 250 is different from L Similarly, for a square output field of view (φ TWith φ L The same), the interval D between pixels 222T and 222B in the lateral direction T Different from the spacing D between pixels 222R and 222L in the lateral direction 195 L .

[0271] In this description, the lateral angular magnification M provided by the lateral deformation component 110 of the optical system 250 is L can be given as:

[0272] M L =φp L / P L Equation 5

[0273] And the lateral angular magnification M provided by the lateral deformation component 60 of the optical system 250 T can be given as:

[0274] M T =φp T / P T Equation 6

[0275] where φp L is the angular size of the virtual pixel 36 seen by the eye in the lateral direction 195, P L is the pixel pitch in the lateral direction 195, φp T is the angular size of the virtual pixel 36 seen by the eye in the lateral direction 197, and P T is the pixel pitch in the lateral direction 197. In the case where the angular virtual pixel 36 is a square, then φp L and φp T are equal, and the angular magnification provided by the lateral deformation component 110 can be given as:

[0276] M L =M T *P T / P L Equation 7.

[0277] The angular magnification M of the lateral anamorphic optical element 110 and the transverse anamorphic optical element 60 is L 、M T The respective optical powers K of the elements 60 and 110 L , K T The spatial light modulator 48 may include a plurality of light beams having a pitch P in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197. L , P T The pixels are 222, with a pitch of P L , P T The ratio P L / PT With K T / K L Same, K T / K L is the inverse of the ratio of the optical powers of the laterally anamorphic optical element 110 and the transversely anamorphic optical element 60.

[0278] The output coordinate system is Figure 1E , where output light from a center pixel 225 is directed along optical axis 199 ( 60 ) through the lateral deformation component 60 and into the extraction waveguide 1 , from which the light is visible along the optical axis 199 ( 44 ) at the pupil 44 .

[0279] The row 221Tc of pixels 222 extending in the lateral direction 195 through the central pixel 225 is a light fan 493 L Outputted, each ray represents a virtual pixel 38 across a lateral direction 195 at the angle at which it is presented to the pupil 44 .

[0280] The column 221Lc of pixels 222 extending in the lateral direction 197 through the central pixel 225 is a light fan 493 T Outputted, each ray represents a virtual pixel 38 across a lateral direction 197 at the angle at which it is presented to the eye 45.

[0281] For pixels 227 arranged in a quadrant of spatial light modulator 48 , output light 427 is provided to pupil 44 , which is imaged first by lateral anamorphic component 60 and then by lateral anamorphic component 110 .

[0282] We will now describe Figure 1A Illustrative imaging properties of the deformed near-eye display device 100.

[0283] Figure 1F It is a graphic illustration Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a field of view plot of the output of a deformed near-eye display device 100 for multi-color illumination.

[0284] Figure 1F is a graph of lateral viewing angles compared to sideways viewing angles. Sideways viewing angle φ L is 60 degrees, and the lateral field of view φ T It is 60 degrees.

[0285] The point with 0 degree lateral field of view is located at the lateral light cone 493 L The point with a 0 degree lateral field of view is located in the lateral light cone 493 T The relative aberrations at various image points are illustrated by the blurred point spread function 452.

[0286] The lateral size 454 of the blurred PSF 452 L and horizontal size 454 T is determined by the aberrations of the optical system 250. The elliptical blur PSF 452 is an illustrative profile of the relative blur from a point at a pixel 227 on the spatial light modulator 48 as it is output to the eye 45 as an angular cone, and therefore represents the relative PSF size and location at the retina 46 of the eye 45 in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197.

[0287] For illustration purposes, the blur point spread function (PSF) 452 is Figure 1F is shown as having a lateral size of 454 L and horizontal size 454 T More generally, the shape of the blur PSF can be circular, elliptical, coma, astigmatism, or other profiles (which can include scattering artifacts). The illustrated blur elliptical PSF 452 profile can be used to describe the weighted blur PSF 452 in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197. For illustrative purposes, the size 454 of the blur PSF 452 T ,454 L is shown as Figure 1F The scale of the drawing is exaggerated and does not represent the actual angular magnitude of the blur at each angular pixel at the pupil 44 .

[0288] The size 454 of the blurred PSF 452R for the red pixel 222R T R, 454 L R may be different from the size 454 of the blurred PSF 452B for the blue pixel 222B. T B.454 L B. Further, the center of gravity of the blurred PSF 452B may be displaced in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197 by the color blur 455 L ,455 T .

[0289] An illustrative arrangement of pixels 222 of a spatially multiplexed spatial light modulator 48 will now be described.

[0290] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C is illustrated in front view for Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a spatial light modulator 48 including spatially multiplexed red sub-pixels 222R, green sub-pixels 222G, and blue sub-pixels 222B used in a modified near-eye display device 100. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0291] The spatial light modulator 48 may be a transmissive spatial light modulator 48, such as Figure 1A 222. Alternatively, the spatial light modulator 48 may be a reflective spatial light modulator 48, such as a liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) or a micro-opto-electromechanical (MOEMS) array of micro-mirrors (such as a DMD from Texas Instruments). Alternatively, the spatial light modulator 48 may be an emissive spatial light modulator 48 using a material system such as an OLED or an inorganic micro-LED. A silicon backplane may be provided to enable high speed addressing of a high resolution array of pixels 222.

[0292] exist FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C , the pixels 222 of the spatial light modulator 48 are distributed in the lateral direction 195 (48) and also in the transverse direction 197 (48), so that the light output from the transverse deformation component 60 is guided to the direction distributed in the transverse direction 197, and the light output from the lateral deformation component 110 is guided to the direction distributed in the lateral direction 195 when it is output toward the pupil 44 of the eye 45.

[0293] The white pixel 222 including the red sub-pixel 222R, the green sub-pixel 222G and the blue sub-pixel 222B is provided spatially separately in the lateral direction 195, and the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B are elongated with a pitch P in the lateral direction. L , spacing P L Greater than the spacing P in the transverse direction 197 T .

[0294] consider FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D implementation plan and Figure 1C to Figure 1D , it may be desirable to provide square white pixels in the final perceived virtual image 34. The pitch P L Magnified by the lateral deformation component to an angle of φ L (with a spatial spacing δ at the retina 46 L ), and the spacing P T Magnified by the lateral deformation component to an angle of φ T (with a spatial spacing δ at the retina 46 T ). Spacing P L , P T The different angular magnifications may be determined to advantageously achieve square angle pixels from the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 .

[0295] The pixels 222 are arranged into columns 211L, wherein the columns 221L are distributed in the lateral direction 195 , and the pixels along the columns 221L are distributed in the transverse direction 197 ; and the pixels 222 are further arranged into rows 221T, wherein the rows 221T are distributed in the transverse direction 197 , and the pixels along the rows 221T are distributed in the lateral direction 195 .

[0296] exist Figure 2A In the embodiment of the present invention, sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B are distributed in columns of red pixels, green pixels and blue pixels. Advantageously, vertical image lines and horizontal image lines can be provided with high fidelity.

[0297] exist Figure 2B In an alternative embodiment, sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B are distributed along a diagonal line. Advantageously, Figure 2A Compared to the embodiment of the present invention, the reproduction of natural images can be improved.

[0298] Sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B may be provided by white light emission and patterned color filters, or may be provided by direct emission of respective colored light. L , the sub-pixel 222 pitch P L Larger than other known arrangements including symmetrical input lenses for thin waveguides.

[0299] exist Figure 2C In an alternative embodiment, a plurality of blue pixels 222B1 and 222B2 may be provided. The blue pixels 222B1, 222B2 may be driven with a reduced current for a desired output brightness. Advantageously, the life of the pixel may be improved, for example when the spatial light modulator 48 is provided by an OLED microdisplay. In other embodiments, additional or alternative white pixels (e.g., without a color filter) or a fourth color (e.g., yellow) may be provided. Color gamut and / or brightness and efficiency may be advantageously achieved.

[0300] Figure 2D is illustrated in front view for Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a modified near-eye display device 100 having a spatial light modulator 48 for use with pixels 222 for use with time-multiplexed spectral illumination. Figure 2D Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0301] The spatial light modulator 48 may be used for monochromatic illumination. In an alternative embodiment, wide color gamut images may be provided by time sequential illumination (e.g., by red, green, and blue illumination synchronized with red, green, and blue image data provided on the spatial light modulator 48). Advantageously, image resolution may be improved.

[0302] Compared to a non-deformed image projector (in which equal angular magnification is provided between the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197), the present embodiment provides a pixel pitch P L , for a given angular image size and magnification in the lateral direction 197, the pixel pitch P L Such an increased size can advantageously achieve increased brightness, increased efficiency, and reduced alignment tolerances for the spatial light modulator 48 and the illumination system 240.

[0303] In a color filter type spatial light modulator 48, the size of the color filter can be increased. Advantageously, the cost and complexity of the color filter can be reduced. The aperture ratio of the pixel 222 can be improved. In a direct emission display, the size of the emission area can be increased. Advantageously, the cost and complexity of making the pixel can be reduced, and the brightness can be improved. In an inorganic micro-LED spatial light modulator 48, the efficiency loss due to recombination losses at the edges of the pixel can be reduced, and the system efficiency and brightness can be advantageously improved.

[0304] The input to Figure 1A Deformed light input in the near-eye display device 100.

[0305] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light input into the extraction waveguide 1; Figure 3B is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light propagation along a first direction 191 in an extraction waveguide 1; and Figure 3C is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light extraction from the extraction waveguide 1 . FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0306] Now refer to Figure 3A To describe the lateral light cone 491 input into the extraction waveguide 1 T Input.

[0307] exist Figure 3AIn the illustrative embodiment, the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 is inclined, in particular, has a surface normal inclined at an angle δ relative to the surface perpendicular to the rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8, that is, the input end 2 is inclined at an angle δ relative to the first direction 191 and the second direction 193 along the extraction waveguide 1.

[0308] The spatial light modulator 48 and the transverse deformation assembly 60 formed by the transverse lens 61 are tilted at an angle δ relative to the normals of the rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8. The direction of the optical axis 199 (60) passing through the transverse deformation assembly 60 is therefore tilted relative to the first direction 191 and the second direction 193 along the extraction waveguide 1. The direction of the optical axis 199 (60) is generally parallel to the surface normal of the input end 2, so that the optical axis direction 199 (60) is tilted at an angle of 90-δ relative to the first direction 191 and the second direction 193. Figure 1F Advantageously, improved aberrations may be achieved and the height 454 of the pixel blur ellipse 452 may be reduced in at least the lateral direction 197 .

[0309] The optical system 250 further includes a tapered surface 18, which is a surface inclined at an angle x provided near the input end 2 to guide the light beam in the transverse direction 197 from the transverse deformation component 60 into the extraction waveguide 1 at a desired propagation angle. The tapered surface 18 is arranged between the input end 2 and the light guiding surface 8, wherein the surface normal direction is inclined at an angle x relative to a surface perpendicular to the light guiding surface 8. In an alternative embodiment, the tapered surface 18 can be arranged on the first light guiding surface 6.

[0310] Table 1 shows Figure 3A The geometric configuration of the arrangement is for an illustrative embodiment where the extraction waveguide 1 has a refractive index of 1.5.

[0311] Angle compared to the direction 191 along the waveguide Illustrative Embodiments Input side 2 tilt angle δ 60° Conical surface 18 inclination angle x 44° <![CDATA[The cone 491 in the material of the waveguide T Half angle, τ]]> 10° Extract the reflector 170 tilt angle α 60° Inclination angle ν of the intermediate surface 172 0° The incident angle κ of the central output light ray 460C at the output surface 8 is 90°

[0312] Table 1

[0313] The center pixel 222C provides illumination to the lateral deformation component 60 with illustrative light rays 460CA, 460CB. Light ray 460CA is input through the input end 2 without deflection and is guided to just miss the interface 19 of the tapered surface 18 and the second light guiding surface 8 and is therefore not deflected. However, light ray 460CB is incident on the area of ​​the first light guiding surface 6 opposite the tapered surface 18 and is reflected by total internal reflection into the same interface 19, where it is just totally internally reflected, so that light rays 460CA, 460CB overlap and are guided in the first direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1.

[0314] The extraction reflector 170 desirably has a surface normal direction nR , surface normal direction n R An angle α′ (which is inclined at a direction 191 along the waveguide) in the range of 20 to 40 degrees Figure 3A 90-α), preferably at an angle within the range of 25 to 35 degrees, and most preferably at an angle within the range of 27.5 to 32.5 degrees. Advantageously, such an arrangement reduces stray light.

[0315] In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflector can have an angle α' in the range of 50 degrees to 70 degrees, preferably in the range of 55 degrees to 65 degrees, and most preferably in the range of 57.5 degrees to 62.5 degrees. Such an arrangement guides light ray 460C through light guiding surface 8 when light ray 460C has not been reflected from intermediate surface 172 after reflecting from light guiding surface 8.

[0316] The embodiment of Table 1 illustrates a design for a refractive index of 1.5. The refractive index of the extraction waveguide 1 can be increased, for example to a refractive index of 1.7 or more. Advantageously, the size of the light cone T can be enlarged, and a larger angular image can be seen in the lateral direction.

[0317] The outer pixels 222T, 222B in the lateral direction 195 (48) define a light cone 491 that propagates at an angle τ on both sides of the light rays 460CA, 460CB. T A. 491 T The outer limit of B. The conical surface 18 is provided so that the entire light cone 491 T A is not deflected near the input terminal 2, thereby advantageously achieving reduced crosstalk and high efficiency. T A. 491 T After B passes through the interface 19 , they then recombine to propagate along the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0318] Now refer to Figure 3B To describe the transverse light cone 491 T Propagation along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191, for Figure 3B , for clarity of explanation, the extraction reflector 170 is omitted.

[0319] consider Figure 3B , the propagation of light rays distributed in the lateral direction 197 in the cone 491 is illustrated. The on-axis light ray 37 from the central pixel 222 of the spatial light modulator 48 is guided into the extraction waveguide 1 through the lateral deformation component 60.

[0320] The direction of the optical axis 199 ( 60 ) passing through the lateral deformation component 60 is tilted at an angle δ and is tilted at an angle 90-δ with respect to the first direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0321] After interface 19, the light cone 491 T The incident light is incident on the first light guiding surface 6 at an incident angle δ and is reflected by total internal reflection so that the replicated light cone 491 T f is provided to propagate along the extraction waveguide 1 in direction 191.

[0322] Figure 3C Illustration of the corresponding reflected light cone 493 T ,493 T f propagation after reflection at the light reversing component 140. In the lateral direction, the laterally deformable component 110 has no optical power and has a surface normal direction n4 which is desirably parallel to the first directions 191, 193. The visibility of artifacts caused by stray light (including double images and ghost images) can be reduced.

[0323] Reflected Light Cone 493 T ,493 T f propagates along a second direction 193 at an angle τ about the optical axis 199(60), 199f(60). The corresponding lateral directions 197(60), 197f(60) are also indicated.

[0324] Two cones 493 T ,493 T f includes image data, which is in the cone 493 T ,493 T f, is flipped about direction 191, thus providing degeneracy in the direction of light rays for a given pixel 222 on the spatial light modulator 48. It is desirable to remove such degeneracy so that the cone 493 T ,493 T Only one of f is extracted and the secondary image is not directed to the pupil 44 of the eye 45 .

[0325] The central output ray 37 propagates by total internal reflection off the opposing surfaces 6, 8 until it is incident on the intermediate surface 172 where at least some of the light is reflected and then incident on the extraction reflector 170 where at least some of the light is further reflected as will be further described below to cause the light cone 493 to be T is preferentially guided toward the second light guiding surface 8. After being refracted at the light guiding surface 8, the cone 495 T The light is directed toward the eye 45 to have a cone 493 T The cone angle is extracted compared to the increased size.

[0326] The extraction reflectors 170A to 170E are tilted at the same angle α so that Figure 1A Each of the light extraction reflectors 170A to 170E has a light cone 493 T are parallel, and image blur is advantageously reduced for light extracted to the pupil 44 from the different extraction reflectors 170 across the waveguide.

[0327] By comparison, the light cone 493 around the central ray 460C T With an incident angle different from the incident angle δ, the central ray 460C is incident on the surface 8 and then directly on the extraction reflector 170 without first reflecting from the intermediate surface 72. The difference in the incident angle provides preferential transmission through the extraction reflector 170, and the light cone 493 T f is not directed towards the eye 45. Degeneracy is reduced or removed and image crosstalk is advantageously reduced.

[0328] The inclined input end 2 and the inclined lateral deformation component 60 thus provide non-overlapping cones 493 T ,493 T f, wherein one of the cones is preferentially extracted toward the eye 45 and the other is preferentially retained within the extraction waveguide. The tilted input end 2 and the tilted lateral deformation component 60 thus advantageously achieve a single image visible to the eye 45, and ghosting is minimized. In some of the illustrative embodiments described below, the surface normal of the input end 2 is not tilted toward the first direction 191 and the second direction 193, but this is to simplify the illustrations described below and is not a typical arrangement.

[0329] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the central output light ray 37 may be tilted toward a surface perpendicular to the light guiding surface 8, for example to adjust the extracted light cone 495. T The angular location of the center of the field of view.

[0330] Pupil dilation in the lateral direction will now be described.

[0331] Figure 4A is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light output from a deformed near-eye display device 100 for a single extraction reflector 170; Figure 4B is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light output from the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 for a plurality of extraction reflectors 170A to 170N to achieve a full light cone input into the pupil 44 of the observer in a lateral direction 197 ( 44 ); Figure 4C is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light output from an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 for multiple locations for an observer 47 moving in a lateral direction 197 ( 44 ). FIG. 4A to FIG. 4CFeatures of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0332] As will now be described, an array of extraction reflectors 170 is distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 to provide an exit pupil 40 expansion, that is, to increase the size of the eye box 40 in the lateral direction 197. T .

[0333] The extraction reflector 170 extends partially across the extraction waveguide 1, between the opposite rear guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1, at continuously shifted positions. The continuously shifted positions are arranged along the waveguide in the direction 191. In other words, in the lateral direction 197, the extraction reflector 170 extends partially across the extraction waveguide 1 at continuously shifted positions.

[0334] consider Figure 4A , a single extraction reflector 170 is arranged to output a light cone 495 towards the pupil 44 T However, the limited size of pupil 44 determines that only part of the light cone 496 T Only those rays within the extraction waveguide 1 are received by the eye 45, and the field of view of the image observed on the retina in the lateral direction 197 (44) is smaller than the field of view input into the extraction waveguide 1. It would be desirable to increase the observed field of view.

[0335] consider Figure 4B , a plurality of extraction reflectors 170A to 170M are provided sufficient to provide extraction from the entire cone 495 T The pupil 44 has a height greater than the pitch of the extraction reflectors 170. For example, the pitch of the extraction reflectors 170 may be 1 mm, and the nominal diameter of the pupil 44 may be 3 mm to 6 mm. The pupil receives light from the plurality of extraction reflectors 170A to 170M, and the observed field of view T The same field of view is input into the extraction waveguide 1 at the input. In this restricted case, the exit pupil 40 has a size e T , e T The same height as the pupil 44 .

[0336] consider Figure 4C Further, extraction waveguides 170A to 170M are provided sufficient to provide movement of pupil 44 between pupil 44A and pupil 44B. T is increased, and the pupil expansion in the lateral direction is achieved. T Providing it at the site of the extended pupil 44 advantageously achieves increased comfort of use and full image visibility.

[0337] As in the following FIG. 5A to FIG. 5E As will be described in the following, the lateral deformation component 110 further provides for the expansion of the exit pupil 40 in the lateral direction 195, that is, increasing the size of the eye box 40 in the lateral direction 195. L .

[0338] The imaging properties of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in the lateral direction 195 will now be further considered.

[0339] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C It is a diagram illustrating Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a front view of the light output of a deformed near-eye display device. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0340] Figure 5A The illustration shows that the non-extraction light guiding region 178A is arranged between the tapered surface 18 and the first extraction reflector 170 of the array of extraction reflectors 170A to 170N; and the non-extraction light guiding region 178B is arranged between the array of extraction reflectors 170A to 170N and the laterally deformable component 110. The non-extraction guiding sections 178A, 178B can provide an increased height of the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 without the extraction reflector 170. The extraction efficiency is advantageously increased, and the aberration performance of the laterally deformable component 110 is further improved.

[0341] exist Figure 5A In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the eye 45 is aligned in a plan view and out-of-plane rays are not shown, however, such a description provides insight into the operation of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in the lateral direction 195. More than one extraction reflector 170 covers the pupil 44 of the eye 45. For example, the extraction reflectors 170 are spaced 1 mm apart and three to six extraction reflectors 170 are provided across the pupil 44 of the eye 45, depending on the dilation of the pupil 44 of the eye 45. Advantageously, brightness can be reduced as the eye position 45 changes.

[0342] Pupil 44 sees off-axis light from pixel 222L at the edge of spatial light modulator 48 after reflection from region 478L of anamorphic component 110, which is reflective end 4 of extraction waveguide 1. Although anamorphic component 110 as a whole is a relatively fast optical element, and is therefore susceptible to aberrations, particularly from its edges, the region 478 of anamorphic component 110 that directs light into pupil 44 for any one eye 45 location is small, so aberrations from anamorphic component 110 are correspondingly reduced. Consider Figure 1F, a desirably small width 455 of the blur ellipse 452 can be achieved.

[0343] exist Figure 5B In an embodiment, the eye 45 is aligned with the out-of-plane light rays to illustrate the expansion of the exit pupil 40 in the lateral direction 195.

[0344] Light rays 470, 471 are directed from the central pixel 222M of the spatial light modulator 48 across the lateral direction 195 and are transmitted through the lateral anamorphic component 60 formed by a lateral lens 61 having no optical power in the lateral direction 195 and into the extraction waveguide 1. The light rays 470, 471 propagate in the first direction 191 of the extraction waveguide 1 to the light retro-reflector 140, which provides positive optical power in the lateral direction 195 by means of the reflective end 4, which provides the lateral anamorphic component 110.

[0345] Such light rays 470, 471 are reflected from region 478MA of the lateral deformation component 110 into the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 and are reflected at the extraction reflector 170A away from the plane of the extraction waveguide 1 to the viewing distance e R The pupil 44 of the eye 45A is at . The eye 45 collects the light rays 470, 471 and directs them to the same point on the retina 46 to provide a virtual pixel site as described elsewhere herein.

[0346] Similarly for an off-axis pixel 222L offset in the lateral direction 195 (48), light rays 472, 473 are provided at the edge of the spatial light modulator 48 which are directed into the extraction waveguide 1, reflected at region 478LA of the lateral deformation component 110, and reflected by the extraction reflector 170A toward the eye 45A to provide an off-axis image point on the retina 46 in the lateral direction 195 (44).

[0347] The lateral anamorphic component 110 has positive optical power in the lateral direction 195, which provides collimated light from each image point 222L, 222M. In this way, a lateral distribution of field points is provided across the retina 46 by means of the optical power of the lateral anamorphic component 110, while the transverse anamorphic component 60 has optical power to provide a lateral distribution of field points across the retina 46. Figure 1E At the diagonal field angles illustrated in the imaging diagram for pixel 227, the field point is provided by a combination of the lateral and lateral optical powers of the lateral and lateral deformation components 110 and 60, respectively.

[0348] Figure 5CThe diagram illustrates the expansion of the exit pupil in the lateral direction 195 and in the transverse direction 197. Light rays 474, 475 for pixels 222R, 222L are directed to pupil 44B by reflecting from regions 478RB, 478LB, respectively, of lateral deformation component 110. Pupil 44B is offset from pupil 44A in the lateral direction 195, wherein light rays 474, 475 are reflected by at least extraction reflector 170A. The width e of exit pupil 40 is L Therefore, the relatively large width of the lateral deformation component 110 is increased so that the area 478 can be arranged at the desired width. The viewing freedom of the eye 45 in the exit pupil 40 is improved, which advantageously improves the viewing comfort for the eye 45 while achieving the entire field of view in the lateral direction.

[0349] Figure 5C Further illustration of pupil expansion in the lateral direction 197. Figure 4C As discussed, light reflected from extraction reflector 170D is directed to pupil 44C, which has a different height than pupil 44A.

[0350] Exit pupil 40 expansion will now be described further.

[0351] Figure 5D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a deployed imaging system arranged for imaging in a lateral direction 197, wherein a reflective extraction feature 169 (e.g., an extraction reflector 170) is provided; Figure 5E is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic top view of a deployed imaging system arranged to image in a lateral direction; Fig. 5F is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an deployed imaging system arranged for imaging in a lateral direction, in which an array of extraction reflectors 170 is provided, but the description applies similarly to other reflective extraction features. FIG. 5D to FIG. 5F Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0352] FIG. 5D to FIG. 5F yes Figure 1A 1 is an expanded representation of a deformed near-eye display device 100 and is provided for illustration purposes only.

[0353] consider Figure 5D, light from the spatial light modulator 40 illuminates the lateral anamorphic component 60 and inputs the light into the expanded waveguide member 111A in direction 191. The light passes through the lateral anamorphic component 110 without modification and is transmitted to the expanded waveguide member 111B in direction 193. Light beams 420T, 420C, 420B are provided across the lateral direction for pixels 222T, 222C, 222B, respectively, on the spatial light modulator 48. The pupil 44 of the eye 45 observes the entire cone of light if located in the cone 422, which is close to the lens and is therefore invisible to the eye 45. This is similar to Figure 4A Illustrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0354] consider Figure 5E , light from the spatial light modulator 40 illuminates the lateral morphing component 110 and inputs the light into the expanded waveguide member 111A in the direction 191. The light cones in the lateral direction from the pixels 222L, 222M, 222R are collimated by the lateral morphing component 110 and transmitted to the expanded waveguide member 111B in the direction 193. Light beams 420L, 420M, 420R are provided across the lateral direction. The pupil 44 of the eye 45 observes the entire light cone if located in the cone 424, which is visible to the eye outside the expanded waveguide member 111B because the width of the lateral morphing component 110 is much larger than the width of the lateral morphing component 60. This is similar to Figure 5B Illustrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0355] The effect of the extraction reflector 170 on pupil dilation in the lateral direction 197 will now be further illustrated.

[0356] and Figure 5D compared to, Fig. 5F The diagram illustrates an array of extraction reflectors 170 distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 to provide an expansion of the exit pupil 40. Each of the extraction reflectors 170A to 170N effectively provides a replicated image 48R, 60R of the spatial light modulator 48 and the lateral deformation component 60, respectively. Such replicated images 48R, 60R further provide Figure 5D The replicated light cone 420 expands the effective width of the final light cone 420TR, 420BR. Such replication provides a replicated cone 426, and the pupil 44 receives light from within the cone 426 for the full field angle.

[0357] Cones 422, 424, 426 schematically represent the exit pupil 40 of the anamorphic near-eye display device in the lateral direction 195 or transverse direction 197. Thus, compared to the exit pupil 40 represented by cone 422 (which, by comparison, would be provided to a conventional microprojector without pupil expansion), the exit pupil 40 expansion is achieved by the lateral anamorphic component 110 and the array of extraction reflectors 170A to 170N forming the reflective extraction feature 169.

[0358] We will now describe Figure 1A Polarized light propagation in an illustrative embodiment of.

[0359] Fig. 6A It is a graphic illustration Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a side view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device 100; Figure 6B It is a graphic illustration Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a front view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device 100; and Figure 6C is a diagram illustrating the propagation through FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Schematic diagram of the unfolded polarization control assembly showing the optical axis alignment direction and polarization state of light. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0360] As mentioned above Figure 1A As depicted, the optical system includes an input linear polarizer 70 disposed between the spatial light modulator 48 and the array of extraction reflectors 170. A polarization conversion retarder 72 is disposed between the light retro-reflector 140 and the array of extraction reflectors 170.

[0361] exist FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C In an alternative embodiment, the optical system 250 includes an input linear deflector 70 disposed between the spatial light modulator 48 and the array of extraction reflectors 170 and a polarization conversion retarder 72 disposed between the light retro-reflector 140 and the array of extraction reflectors 170, the polarization conversion retarder 72 being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder 72 between linear polarization states 902, 904 and circular polarization states 922, 924, respectively. The polarization conversion retarder 72 has a quarter-wavelength retardation at a visible wavelength (e.g., 550 nm); that is, the polarization conversion retarder 72 can be a quarter-wave retardation at a visible wavelength (e.g., 550 nm) and can include a stack of composite retarders arranged to achieve operation of a quarter-wave retarder over an increased spectral band, for example, including a Pancharatnam stack.

[0362] Figure 6C Further illustrated is the arrangement of the optical axis direction 872 of the polarization conversion retarder 72; and the linear polarization state electric vector transmission axis 870 of the input linear polarizer 70. For illustrative purposes, the geometric configuration is unfolded after reflection at the optical retroreflector 140. Further, in the optical axis alignment diagram of the present description, the aspect ratio of the elements 70, 72, 140 is reduced for illustrative purposes; in an illustrative embodiment, the elements may have a transverse direction 197 length of 5 mm and a lateral direction 195 length of 40 mm.

[0363] Figure 6C The diagram illustrates the propagation of polarization states and the alignment of various optical components. Polarizer 70 has an electric vector transmission direction 870 at 90 degrees so that linear polarization state 902 is transmitted and passed through reflector 170 in optical axis direction 872 to polarization conversion retarder 72 to output circular polarization state 922. Circular polarization state 924 is reflected from a mirror that provides a π phase shift (as shown in the illustrative unfolded geometry) and then linear polarization state 904 is output onto reflector 170. Linear polarizer 70 is arranged to absorb back-reflected light having polarization state 904.

[0364] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C The diagram illustrates that the input linear polarizer 70 is arranged to pass light in a p-polarization state in the extraction waveguide; that is, the polarization state 902 has an electric vector transmission direction 900 that provides a p-polarized linear polarization state 902, the p-polarized linear polarization state 902 is in the plane of the cross-section of the extraction waveguide 1 and out of the plane of the rear guiding surface 6 and the front guiding surface 8, that is, in the plane in which the output light 37 is distributed in the transverse direction 197.

[0365] The output light 37 is directed in a first direction 191 by total internal reflection at the opposite rear and front guide surfaces 6 and 8 toward the side deformation assembly 110, which includes a light retro-reflector 140. Figure 1A and Fig. 6A In an embodiment, the light retroreflector 140 comprises the end 4 of the extraction waveguide 1 and a reflective coating.

[0366] As will be further described below, the p-polarization state 902 is at least partially and preferably preferentially transmitted through the extraction reflector 170 and the intermediate surface 172 .

[0367] A polarization conversion retarder 72 is provided between the extraction reflectors 170A to 170E and the light retro-reflector 140. The polarized light 37 is converted to a left-handed circular polarization state 922, and a π phase shift that occurs upon reflection at the light retro-reflector 140 provides a reflected right-handed circular polarization state 924. The polarization conversion retarder 72 outputs an s-polarized polarization state 904 that propagates back along the light 37 in the second direction 193 to the extraction waveguide 1.

[0368] Polarization conversion retarder 72 is most commonly used to provide polarization modification to provide conversion from polarization state 902 to polarization state 904 for light 37. Polarization conversion retarder 72 can have a quarter wavelength delay at a wavelength of 550nm, or can be tuned for another visible wavelength, for example to match the peak brightness of a monochrome display. The delay of polarization conversion retarder 72 can be different from a quarter wavelength, but is selected to provide the same effect. For example, polarization conversion retarder 72 can have a delay of, for example, three quarters of a wavelength or five quarters of a wavelength. Polarization conversion retarder 72 can include a stack of retarders to provide a desired phase modification over an increased spectral range, such as using a Pancharatnam retarder stack (which is different from the Pancharatnam-Berry lens described below). Advantageously, color uniformity can be improved. Polarization conversion retarder 72 can be provided with an additional retarder layer to increase the field of view of the quarter wave retarder function to achieve improved uniformity across the observation field of view.

[0369] exist Figure 1A In the embodiment, the polarization conversion retarder 72 is arranged between the extraction waveguide 1 and the lateral deformation component 110, which is the light retro-reflector 140. The polarization conversion retarder 72 can be attached to the curved reflective end 4 of the waveguide. Advantageously, the cost and complexity of assembly can be reduced. Figure 6B In an alternative embodiment, the polarization conversion retarder 72 is arranged across the chord of the lateral deformation component 110. Such an arrangement may be suitable for an extraction waveguide 1, where the light retro-reflector is assembled as a separate component to the extraction region of the waveguide including the extraction reflector 170.

[0370] As will be further described below, s-polarization state 904 is preferentially reflected by extraction reflector 170 and intermediate surface 172 and output toward pupil 44 of eye 45 .

[0371] Unpolarized light from a real world object 30 is directed through the extraction waveguide 1. An optional polarizer 90 having a p-polarized electric vector transmission direction 90 may be provided, the optional polarizer 90 transmitting a linear polarization state 920, and may be arranged such that the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged between the object 30 and the eye 45. The polarizer 90 may provide a sunglass function and reduce the brightness of background objects compared to the brightness of the deformable near-eye display device 100. Further, the light 32 may be preferentially transmitted through the extraction reflector 170 rather than being reflected at the extraction reflector 170. Advantageously, the image contrast of the superimposed virtual image may be improved and ghosting may be reduced.

[0372] like Figure 3C As illustrated in , some light may return to the input side 2. It would be desirable to minimize crosstalk and improve the contrast of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100.

[0373] Fig.6D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of optical isolation near input 2 of a deformed near-eye display device 100 including an emissive spatial light modulator 48; and Fig. 6E It is a diagram showing the Fig.6D Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction and polarization state of the unfolded polarization control assembly. FIG. 6D to FIG. 6E Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0374] exist FIG. 6D to FIG. 6E In an alternative embodiment, the optical system 250 further comprises: an input linear polarizer 70, the input linear polarizer 70 being disposed between the lateral deformation component 60 and the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1; and a polarization conversion retarder 71 having an optical axis 871 orientation, the polarization conversion retarder 71 being disposed between the lateral deformation component 60 and the input linear polarizer 70, the polarization conversion retarder 71 being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder 71 between linear polarization states 934, 939 and circular polarization states 936, 938, respectively. The polarization conversion retarder 71 has a retardation of a quarter wavelength at a visible wavelength (e.g., 550 nm) and can be, for example, a Pancharatnam stack of retarders. The retardation of the polarization conversion retarder 71 can be different from a quarter wavelength, but is selected to provide the same effect. For example, the polarization conversion retarder 71 can have a retardation of, for example, three quarter wavelengths or five quarter wavelengths.

[0375] In operation, light 37 from spatial light modulator 48 is output in an unpolarized light state 930 and then polarized by input linear polarizer 70 to provide linear polarization state 902 in extraction waveguide 1. Some light 35 may return toward input end 2 and be transmitted through input linear polarizer 70 as described elsewhere herein.

[0376] The light 35 returning toward the input end 2 along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 may have been partially depolarized within the extraction waveguide 1 and has an incident polarization state 932, which can be considered as a superposition of the polarization state of p-polarization and the polarization state of s-polarization. The linear polarization state 934 (which is p-polarized) is transmitted by the input linear polarizer 70, while the orthogonal (s-polarized) polarization state is absorbed. The light 35 with the p-polarization state 934 is converted to a circular polarization state 936 by the polarization conversion retarder 71 and is incident on the surface of the transverse lens 61 and the spatial light modulator 48. The Fresnel reflection of the light 35F at the surface is reflected back toward the additional polarization conversion retarder 71 with a π phase shift so that the orthogonal polarization state 938 is reflected. The polarization conversion retarder 71 provides a polarization state 939 of s-polarization that is absorbed by the input linear polarizer 70. Back reflections from the spatial light modulator 48 and the transverse lens 61 are advantageously reduced. The additional polarization converting retarder 71 thus provides optical isolation of such return light rays 35, so that light rays 35F reflected back from the surface of the transverse lens 61 into the extraction waveguide 1 are reduced. Advantageously, image contrast is improved.

[0377] An input linear polariser 70 and an additional polarisation converting retarder 71 may be incorporated into the input 2. Advantageously, an improved reduction of reflections from the input may be achieved.

[0378] Fig. 6F is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of optical isolation for a deformed near-eye display device 100 including a transmissive or reflective spatial light modulator 48; and Figure 6G It is a diagram showing the Fig. 6F Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control assembly. FIG. 6F to FIG. 6G Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0379] and Fig.6D In comparison, Fig. 6F In an alternative embodiment of the spatial light modulator 48, the output linear polarizer 70S and a further polarization conversion retarder 71S having an optical axis direction 871S are provided. In operation, the input linear polarizer 70 and the polarization conversion retarder 71S are provided as for Fig.6DThe output linear polarizer 70S provides a linear polarization state 941 which is transmitted through a further polarization conversion retarder 71S to provide a circular polarization state 943. The polarization state 943 is converted back to a linear polarization state 902 by the polarization conversion retarder 71S and transmitted through the input linear polarizer 70. Advantageously, brightness and contrast can be improved in a spatial light modulator 48 that includes a polarized output, such as an LCD and LCOS.

[0380] The operation of the extraction reflector 170 will now be further described.

[0381] Fig. 7A is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of propagation of a polarized input light ray 460C around the extraction reflector 170 in a first direction 191; Figure 7B is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of propagation of polarized light around an extraction reflector 170 after reflection from an optical retroreflector 140, the extraction reflector 170 comprising a single dielectric partially reflective layer 184; and Figure 7C is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of propagation of polarized light around a light reflecting feature after reflection from a light retroreflector 140, the light reflecting feature comprising a stack of dielectric layers. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0382] exist Fig. 7A In an alternative embodiment, the extraction waveguide 1 includes a plurality of component parts 11A, 11B having facing stepped surfaces 7A, 7B attached together, the stepped surfaces of the component parts 11A, 11B being formed with alternating extraction surfaces 170 and intermediate surfaces 172, the extraction surfaces 170 extending in the lateral direction 197 (60), the intermediate surfaces 172 extending along the extraction waveguide 1, wherein the extraction reflector 170 includes facing extraction surfaces 7A, 7B.

[0383] In the illustrative manufacturing method, the extraction waveguide 1 may include a first plurality of component parts 11A including a light guiding surface 8 and a stepped surface 7A, and have a dielectric coating 184A formed on the stepped surface 7A. A second plurality of component parts 11B including a light guiding surface 6 and a stepped surface 7B are aligned with the first plurality of component parts 11A, and an adhesive layer 184B is provided to attach the two stepped waveguides so that the extraction reflector 170 is disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1.

[0384] exist 7A to 7CIn the embodiment of the present invention, the extraction reflector 170 includes extraction surfaces 167A, 167B separated by a partially reflective coating 184. Further, the intermediate reflector 172 includes intermediate surfaces 182A, 182B separated by a partially reflective coating 184.

[0385] The partially reflective coating 184 includes at least one dielectric layer 186 and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B In the embodiment of , a main dielectric layer 186 and an adhesive layer 187 are included. 7A to 7C In the illustrative embodiment of , the bonding layer 187 is a refractive index matching layer that matches the refractive index of the stepped waveguides 1A, 1B and does not contribute to the reflectivity of the partially reflective coating 184.

[0386] In the present embodiment, the extraction reflector 170 comprises a partially reflective coating 184 comprising the set of layers including items 11A, 186, 187, 11B.

[0387] In an alternative embodiment, the bonding layer 187 may include a dielectric material having a different refractive index than the plurality of components 11A, 11B to modify the reflectivity of the partially reflective coating 184. The set of layers may therefore alternatively include a bonding layer 187 disposed between the components 11A, 11B, wherein the refractive index of the bonding layer 187 is different from the refractive index of the components 11A, 11B, and further, the dielectric layer is omitted. In other words, the dielectric layer 186 may include the bonding layer 187.

[0388] exist Fig. 7A and as referred to above Figure 3A , light 460C propagating along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 has an incident angle δ at the opposite rear guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8. Light 460C then impinges on the extraction reflector 170 at an incident angle θ1, which is 90 degrees for the embodiment of Table 1. Some of the light is reflected back toward the input end 2 along light ray 35 by the Fresnel reflectivity at the extraction surfaces 167A, 167B. Light 460C is also transmitted to continue to be guided along the extraction waveguide 1.

[0389] For the case where θ1 is perpendicular to surfaces 167A, 167B, the transmission of p polarization state 902 is the same as the transmission of s polarization state. As will be further described below, light ray 461C illustrates reflection from intermediate surface 172, which is tilted at angle δ and therefore has a lower reflectivity for p polarization light state 192 than s polarization light. Light ray 460C having p polarization state 192 is therefore preferentially transmitted through the intermediate surface. Advantageously, light is not trapped in the plurality of component parts 11B or in the plurality of component parts 11A, and efficiency is improved.

[0390] In other words, the extraction waveguide 1 includes at least two components 11A, 11B, and the components 11A, 11B have corresponding stepped surfaces 7A, 7B shaped as alternating risers and treads, and the stepped surfaces 7A, 7B are optically coupled together so that the risers are optically coupled and the treads are optically coupled, wherein the extraction reflector 170 is formed between the optically coupled risers 167 of the stepped surfaces 7A, 7B of the components 11A, 11B.

[0391] exist Figure 7B , a certain proportion of light 460C is extracted as light rays 37A to 37D. Light 37A propagating along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 has an incident angle δ at the intermediate surface 172 and is reflected by the Fresnel reflectivity of the interface between the dielectric layer 186 and the plurality of component 11A materials. The light is then reflected from the extraction surface 167A of the extraction reflector 170 to be output through the second light guiding surface 8. In the embodiment of Table 2, the angle θ2 is the same as the angle α, and the light 37A is output along the normal to the surface 8. As will be described below with respect to Fig. 8A Illustrated, with Fig. 7A The S polarization state 904 is preferentially reflected at the extraction reflector 170 compared to the p polarization state 902. Further, reflected output lights 37B-37D are provided from respective reflections at the back surface 167B.

[0392] The extraction waveguide 1 thus preferentially outputs light after reflection from the light retro-reflector 140. Advantageously, efficiency is improved and glare of light output from the waveguide away from the eye 45 is reduced.

[0393] As will now be described, the partially reflecting extraction reflector 170 achieves improved uniformity by reducing or eliminating dark bands across the lateral direction 197. By comparison with the present application embodiment, if, for example, the extraction reflectors 170 were arranged to be completely opaque to light propagating in the direction 191 from the input end 2, they could block some angles of the input light cone measured by a detector placed at the lateral deformation assembly 110, thereby creating "holes" in the angular distribution of light across the lateral direction 197. The reflected light distribution from the light retroreflector 140 also contains holes and is directed toward the pupil 44 location within the exit pupil 40. If such holes exist, they will be visible as dark bands in the image across the lateral direction 197. Such partially reflecting extraction reflectors 170 provide light to the lateral deformation assembly 110, which provides some luminous intensity across the entire cone of input angles directed from the lateral lens 61 through the input end. Thus, reduced visibility of holes in the output distribution of light to the pupil 44 and improved image uniformity for angles across the lateral direction 197 is achieved.

[0394] It may be desirable to further improve the efficiency of the reflections from the extraction reflector 170 .

[0395] In an alternative embodiment, the partially reflective coating 184 can be metallic. The thickness of the metal layer can be adjusted during fabrication to optimize the reflectivity of the extraction reflector 170 and the intermediate surface 172.

[0396] exist Figure 7C In an alternative embodiment of the partially reflective coating 184, the partially reflective coating 184 includes a stack 185 of dielectric layers 186A to 186E having alternating high and low refractive indices. Illustrative embodiments are provided in Table 2. The stack 185 of dielectric layers 186A to 186E may be formed on one or both of the plurality of component parts 11A, 11B by, for example, evaporation or sputtering, and the extraction waveguide 1 may be assembled by alignment of the plurality of component parts 11A, 11B.

[0397] item Illustrative Materials Refractive Index Thickness(nm) Multiple components 11A PMMA 1.50 - Dielectric layer 186A <![CDATA[TiO2]]> 2.6 7 Dielectric layer 186B <![CDATA[SiO2]]> 1.5 79 Dielectric layer 186C <![CDATA[TiO2]]> 2.6 21 Dielectric layer 186D <![CDATA[SiO2]]> 1.5 30 Dielectric layer 186E <![CDATA[TiO2]]> 2.6 45 Adhesive layer 187 Acrylate 1.56 - Multiple components 11B PMMA 1.49 -

[0398] Table 2

[0399] Such a stack advantageously improves reflectivity at each extraction surface 183 by increasing the number of Fresnel reflections, and further, the reflections can be arranged to interfere at a desired angle for the extracted light rays 37 .

[0400] Considering the materials of the plurality of components 11A, 11B, materials with a high refractive index (such as polycarbonate or high refractive index glass) can be used. Advantageously, the increased field of view T May be provided in landscape orientation.

[0401] The polarization selectivity of the reflection at the extraction surface 180 will now be further considered.

[0402] Fig. 8A is a schematic graph illustrating the variation of reflectivity versus wavelength for the illustrative embodiments of Table 2.

[0403] Contour 810 illustrates the total p-polarization state 902 reflectivity for a single reflection from the dielectric stack 185, while contour 812 illustrates the total s-polarization state 904 reflectivity for a single reflection from the dielectric stack 185, where the thicknesses of Table 2 are arranged to provide approximately 25% reflectivity for each reflection. Adjustment of thickness and / or increasing the number of layers can be used to adjust the reflectivity to achieve a desired reflectivity of s-polarization state 904 light 37.

[0404] Reference Figure 3A , there may be reflectivity along with the cone 491 TIt would be desirable to provide pupil 44 with uniform brightness over viewing angle.

[0405] Figure 8B FIG. 1 is a flow chart illustrating compensation of pixel data for pixel locations in the lateral direction. For each lateral pixel angle (e.g., Figure 2A For each row 221T of the dielectric stack 185, the incident angle θ2 onto the surface dielectric stack 185 changes, and subsequently the reflectivity changes. The total output reflectivity for each row 221T can be adjusted to compensate for the change in reflectivity.

[0406] Alternative arrangements of the extraction waveguide 1 will now be further described.

[0407] 9A to 9E is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative arrangement of the extraction waveguide 1 . 9A to 9E Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0408] exist Fig. 6A and Fig.9A In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflector 170 does not extend to the opposing rear and front guiding surfaces 6, 8 of the extraction waveguide 1.

[0409] and Fig. 6A Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig.9A The extraction waveguide 1 has opposing rear and front guiding surfaces 6, 8, with an anti-reflection coating 189. Such an anti-reflection coating 189 does not modify the total internal reflection of the guided light within the waveguide. However, the light 37 and other light extracted from the extraction waveguide 1 can provide double imaging from Fresnel reflections at the surfaces 6, 8. The anti-reflection coating 189 advantageously achieves reduced double imaging and improved image contrast.

[0410] Further, Fig.9A 187. The plurality of components 11A, 11B may be fabricated separately, for example by molding. A partially reflective coating 184 may be provided over at least a portion 320 of at least one of the plurality of components 11A, 11B. After coating, the stepped waveguide may be attached in alignment with the adhesive layer 187. The rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8 may be formed during molding of the plurality of components 11A, 11B, advantageously achieving high optical quality for light guiding.

[0411] and Fig. 6A Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig. 9BIn an alternative embodiment of the invention, the extraction reflector 170 extends to the opposite rear guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1. During the assembly step, the coated plurality of component parts 11A, 11B can be aligned with the bonding layer. After bonding, the rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8 can be further polished to provide the desired optical quality for light guidance. The efficiency of light extraction can be advantageously improved, and stray light guided back toward the input end can be advantageously reduced.

[0412] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), one of the rear guiding surface 6 and the front guiding surface 8 can be formed during the molding of one of the multiple component parts 11A, 11B, and the other of the rear guiding surface 6 and the front guiding surface 8 can be formed by polishing the respective other light guiding surface 6, 8 after assembly.

[0413] It may be desirable to increase the size of the extraction reflector 170 and the exit pupil e T The size in the horizontal direction.

[0414] and Fig. 6A Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig. 9C In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflector 170 includes a plurality of groups 177A, 177B of extraction reflectors 170, wherein, within each group 177A, 177B of extraction reflectors 170, the extraction reflectors 170 partially extend across the extraction waveguide 1 at continuously shifted positions in the lateral direction 197 (60), and extraction reflectors 170 of different groups 177A, 177B overlap in range in the lateral direction 197.

[0415] and Fig. 6A Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig.9D In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflector 170 includes a plurality of groups 177A, 177B of extraction reflectors 170, wherein, within each group 177A, 177B of extraction reflectors 170, in the lateral direction 197 (60), the extraction reflectors 170 extend across the extraction waveguide 1 to relative rear guide surfaces and front guide surfaces at continuously shifted positions, and extraction reflectors 170 of different groups 177A, 177B overlap in range in the lateral direction 197.

[0416] During production, FIG. 9C to FIG. 9D Arrangements may be provided which are designed to FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B The method similar to that described includes a plurality of components 11A, 11B, 11C.

[0417] FIG. 9C to FIG. 9D Embodiments of the invention achieve an enlarged area over which light is extracted into the eye. TThe size in the lateral direction is advantageously increased. Further, the size of the extraction reflector 170 resolved into the direction 191 is increased for a given pitch of the extraction reflector 170 and the extraction waveguide 1 thickness t. Considering Figure 1F , the height 454 of the pixel blur ellipse 452 caused by diffraction of light reflected from the extraction reflector 170 in the lateral direction is advantageously reduced.

[0418] exist Fig.9E In an alternative embodiment, the intermediate surfaces 172 are optically coupled together. An adhesive layer 187 can be arranged between the extraction reflectors 170, which can be a layer having a refractive index similar to the plurality of component parts 11A, 11B. During production, the intermediate region between the extraction reflectors can be shielded so that part of the emitter 184 is not provided. During alignment of the plurality of component parts 11A, 11B, the intermediate region is optically removed. Advantageously, the capture of light can be reduced and the extraction efficiency can be improved.

[0419] 9A to 9E The arrangements of can be used in alternative combinations with those illustrated. For example, Fig.9E The optically coupled intermediate surface 172 can be used to 9A to 9D In the arrangement.

[0420] It may be desirable to reduce 9A to 9E The production cost of optical coatings.

[0421] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an extraction waveguide 1 including a gap 175 . Fig.10 Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0422] exist Fig.10 In an alternative embodiment, the extraction waveguide 1 includes a plurality of components 11A, 11B having facing stepped surfaces 7A, 7B separated by gaps 175, the stepped surface 11 being formed with alternating extraction surfaces 170 and intermediate surfaces 172, the extraction surfaces 170 extending in a lateral direction 197 (60), the intermediate surfaces 172 extending along the extraction waveguide 1, wherein the extraction reflector 170 includes facing extraction surfaces 7A, 7B.

[0423] In other words, the extraction reflector 170 therefore includes extraction surfaces 170AA and 170BA, 170AB and 170BB, and 170AC and 170BC separated by gap 175, and the intermediate reflector 172 includes intermediate surfaces 172AA and 172BA, 172AB and 172BB, and 172AC and 172BC separated by gap 181.

[0424] The gap may generally include air, or may include another material, such as an inert gas. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11E As further described, the gap achieves total internal reflection for most or all of the input light from the input end 2 .

[0425] and Fig. 9B Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig.10 The embodiment has advantageously reduced complexity. Further, the reflection from the extraction reflector 170 and the intermediate surface 172 is provided by total internal reflection, rather than Fresnel reflection, and so has a variation or reflectivity that decreases with wavelength and with field angle. Image uniformity to the eye 45 is improved.

[0426] The extraction surface 170, the intermediate surface 172 and the opposing rear 6 and front 8 guiding surfaces further comprise an optional anti-reflection coating 189. Advantageously, stray light and ghost images from light not guided within the extraction waveguide 1 may be reduced.

[0427] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11E is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative arrangement of an extraction waveguide 1 comprising a gap. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11E Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0428] Now will be FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B Illustration Fig.10 Operation of an alternative embodiment.

[0429] Fig.11A The diagram illustrates light input into the extraction waveguide 1 from the input end 2. Light ray 462 is transmitted through the extraction surfaces 170AA, 170BA and then guided by total internal reflection by surfaces 172BA, 8; and light ray 463 is guided by total internal reflection by surfaces 172AA, 6 and transmitted through the extraction surfaces 170AC, 170BC. By comparison, light ray 464 is guided in the waveguide component 11A until it undergoes total internal reflection at surface 172A and then surface 170A, where it is output away from the eye 45.

[0430] and Figure 1ACompared to the embodiment of FIG. 1 , input linear polarizer 70 and polarization conversion retarder 72 are omitted because the selectivity of extraction reflector 170 is primarily determined by whether total internal reflection exists at gap 175 and, as such, is independent of the polarization state of the incident light. Advantageously, costs are reduced.

[0431] Fig. 11B The diagram illustrates the path of light after reflection from light retro-reflector 140. For extracted light ray 37, the light is guided between surfaces 6, 8 and 172AB and then output by total internal reflection at surface 170BB. By comparison, some light ray 465 is guided back toward input end 2 and lost.

[0432] and Fig.10 Compared with the implementation scheme of A, Fig. 11C In an embodiment of the invention, the waveguide component 11A comprises a first input end 2A, and the waveguide component 11B comprises an input end 2B coplanar with the input end 2A, a tapered surface 18 and a non-extraction light guiding area 178BA. Such an arrangement provides a planar light guiding surface 8. The mechanical robustness of the alignment of the extraction waveguide 1 can be improved, achieving increased image contrast and reduced double imaging.

[0433] and Fig. 11C Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig.11D In an embodiment, the waveguide component 11A comprises a further non-extraction light guiding region 178AB input guiding section. Such an arrangement provides a planar rear guiding surface 6 and front guiding surface 8. The mechanical robustness of the alignment of the extraction waveguide 1 can be further improved, achieving increased image contrast and reduced double imaging.

[0434] and Fig.11D Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig.11E In the embodiment of the present invention, the waveguide component 11A is attached to the waveguide component 11B by means of the bonding areas 326, 328 in the non-extracted light guiding areas 178BA, 178AB, respectively. In manufacturing, Fig.11D An arrangement may be provided in alignment, and an adhesive material (such as an optically clear adhesive, a pressure sensitive adhesive, or a UV curing adhesive) may be provided in regions 178AB, 178BA. After curing, the bonding regions 326, 328 may have a refractive index similar to the material of the waveguide component parts 11A, 11B. Such an arrangement maintains light guidance between the components 11A, 11B and improves the mechanical robustness of the alignment of the extraction waveguide 1, achieving improved image contrast and reduced double imaging. Further, a single input port 2 is provided, improving efficiency and reducing stray light that may reduce image contrast.

[0435] Alternative arrangements for the extraction reflector 170 and the intermediate surface will now be described.

[0436] Fig.12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of the vicinity of an extraction reflector 170 including a partially reflective material 171 and an adjacent intermediate surface 172 including an intermediate surface material 173 . Fig.12 Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0437] As described above, the surface reflectivity from the extraction reflector 170 can be provided by the following materials: (i) a single dielectric layer, (ii) a dielectric stack, (iii) a metallic material, (iv) a gap, such as an air gap; and the surface reflectivity from the intermediate reflector 172 can be provided by the following materials: (i) a single dielectric layer, (ii) a dielectric stack, (iii) a metallic material, (iv) a gap, such as an air gap, (v) an optical coupling. As discussed above and as illustrated in Table 3, the extraction reflector 170 and the intermediate surface 172 can be provided with various combinations of surface reflectivities to achieve different desired properties optically and mechanically.

[0438]

[0439] Table 3

[0440] Regarding Table 3, as will be described below for example Fig.18C As further described, the material and material composition at each extraction reflector 170 and each intermediate surface 172 may vary along the direction 191 of the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0441] Fig.12 The extraction reflector 170 is further illustrated, and has a tilt angle α and a height h across the extraction waveguide 1 in direction 199 ( 44 ); an extent w along the extraction waveguide 1 in direction 191 ; and a spacing s along the extraction waveguide 1 in direction 191 .

[0442] An illustrative arrangement of stepped surface 7 including extraction reflector 170 and intermediate surface 172 will now be described.

[0443] Fig.13A is a schematic graph of the profile of the stepped surface 7 as a function of position along the waveguide 1 in the direction 191 for various illustrative arrangements of the stepped extraction waveguide surface 7; Fig. 13B is a schematic graph 371 , 373 of the variation of the facet width w with position along the extraction waveguide 1A in the first direction 191 ; and Fig. 13Cis a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, an arrangement of a chirp extraction reflector for a monocular near-eye anamorphic display device. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0444] Fig.13A The profile 370 illustrates the stepped surface 7, as Fig. 13B As illustrated by the profile 371 in FIG. 1 , the stepped surface 7 includes 60 degree tilted extraction reflectors 170 arranged at a uniform 1 mm pitch, wherein the step height h is approximately 0.49 mm and the uniform step extent w is 0.28 mm. The step extent w provides a diffraction aperture for the light rays 37 directed toward the pupil 44 of the eye, so diffraction blur is added to the image data in the lateral direction 197. It would be desirable to increase the extent w, and thus reduce the diffraction blur in the lateral direction, so that Figure 1F The blur ellipse height 454 in the lateral direction 197 is minimized.

[0445] Fig.13A The outline of 372 Fig. 13B and Fig. 13C The profile 373 illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the extraction reflectors 170 have a varying spacing s along the extraction waveguide 1 in the direction 191. Further, the extraction reflectors 170 have a varying range w along the extraction waveguide 1 in the direction 191. Thus, considering the center extraction reflector 170C, the range w is 0.5 mm, while the top extraction reflector 170T has a range of 0.15 mm. Diffraction blur is reduced for light from the center of the extraction waveguide 1, which can be the preferred viewing location for the pupil 44. Thus, high image quality can be achieved for the preferred viewing location, while off-axis images from the top extraction reflector 170T and the bottom extraction reflector 170B are degraded. Optimal image quality is provided in the preferred viewing direction, advantageously achieving high image performance for the most commonly used image data.

[0446] Fig.13A The profile 374 illustrates an alternative embodiment in which two sets of extraction reflectors 170 are provided, for example as in Fig.9D The range w is increased for each step while maintaining a constant 1 mm spacing. Advantageously, diffraction blur is reduced compared to the embodiment of profile 370. Further, for a given range w, the overall thickness t of the extraction waveguide 1 can be advantageously reduced while achieving a desired spacing p such that multiple extraction reflectors 170 overlap the pupil 44.

[0447] It would be desirable to further reduce the occurrence of image blur due to diffraction in the lateral direction 197 from the range w of the extraction reflector 170 .

[0448] Fig.13D is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement of a chirp extraction reflector 170 for a binocular near-eye anamorphic display device 1 in a front view. Fig.13D Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0449] exist Fig.13D In an alternative embodiment, extraction reflectors 170RA to 170RN for pupil 44R of right eye 45R have a first profile of spacing s and extent w along extraction waveguide 1 in direction 191. Further, extraction reflectors 170LA to 170LN have a second profile of spacing s and extent w different from the first profile.

[0450] exist Fig.13D In an illustrative embodiment, the top extraction reflector 170RT for directing light toward the right pupil 44R has a large spacing, so the diffraction blur is low, while the bottom extraction reflector 170RB for directing light toward the right pupil 44R has a small spacing, so the diffraction blur is increased. Further, the top extraction reflector 170LT for directing light toward the left pupil 44L has a small spacing, so the diffraction blur is higher, while the bottom extraction reflector 170LB for directing light toward the left pupil 44L has a larger spacing, so the diffraction blur is reduced. In operation, the human visual system can combine two different blurs for the left eye image and the right eye image. Such a combination can achieve an improved perceived blur compared to an arrangement in which the first profile and the second profile have the same spacing s and range w. Advantageously, improved image quality can be perceived.

[0451] A headgear 600 including the deformed near-eye display device 100 will now be described.

[0452] Fig.14A is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head mounted display device 600 in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head mounted display device 600 comprising a monocular anamorphic display device having a spatial light modulator 48 and a lateral anamorphic component 60 arranged at an eyebrow position, the lateral anamorphic component 60 being formed by a lateral lens 61; and Fig. 14B is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head mounted display device 600 in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head mounted display device 600 comprising binocular deformable display devices 100L, 100R having spatial light modulators 48R, 48L and lateral deformable components 60R, 60L arranged at eyebrow locations. FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0453] The head mounted display device 600 may include a pair of glasses 600 including a deformed near eye display device 100 described elsewhere herein, the deformed near eye display device 100 being arranged to extend across at least one eye 45 of a viewer 47 when the head mounted display device 600 is worn. The head mounted display device 600 may include a pair of glasses including a glasses frame 602 having a frame 603 and an arm 604, the glasses frame 602 serving as a head fixing arrangement, the head fixing arrangement being arranged to mount the deformed near eye display device 100 on the wearer's head, wherein the deformed near eye display device 100 extends across at least one eye of the wearer. In general, any other head fixing arrangement may be provided alternatively. The frame 603 and / or the arm 604 may include an electrical system for power supply, sensing and control of at least the lighting system 240. The deformed near eye display device 100 of the embodiment of the present application may be provided with a light weight and may be transparent. The head mounted display device 600 may be tethered to a remote control system via a wire, or may be untethered for wireless control. Advantageously, comfortable viewing of augmented reality content may be provided.

[0454] It may be desirable to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance for the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 .

[0455] Fig. 14C is a schematic diagram illustrating an eyepiece arrangement 102 for an augmented reality head mounted display device 600 including an embedded display device 100 in a perspective front view. Fig. 14C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0456] The eyepiece arrangement 102 may be arranged within the head mounted display device 600 and may include a deformable near eye display device 100. The extraction waveguide 1 may be embedded with a substrate 103 that extends around the components 170, 110 of the deformable near eye display device 100. The shape of the substrate 103 may be contoured to fit various shaped head mounted display devices, such as glasses. Advantageously, the aesthetic appearance may be improved.

[0457] The edge 105 of the substrate 103 may be provided with a light absorbing surface that absorbs incident light from the deformable near-eye display device 100. The light absorbing surface may be a structured anti-reflective surface coated with an absorbing material. Advantageously, image contrast may be improved.

[0458] It may be desirable to change the positioning of lighting system 240 in head mounted display device 600 .

[0459] The eyepiece arrangement 102 including the substrate 103 may further be provided to other embodiments among the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0460] Fig.15A is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformed near-eye display device 100 having a spatial light modulator 48 at the temple position in a perspective front view; Fig. 15B is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head mounted display device 600 in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head mounted display device 600 including a left eye anamorphic display device having a spatial light modulator disposed at a temple position; and Fig. 15C is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head mounted display device 600 in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head mounted display device 600 including a left eye anamorphic display device and a right eye anamorphic display device with spatial light modulators arranged at the temple positions. FIG. 15A to FIG. 15C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0461] and Figure 1A Compared to the arrangement of , the illumination system 240 is arranged to the side of the extraction waveguide 1 and in the direction 191, in which the extraction waveguide 1 extends in a horizontal direction to the user's eye 45. Therefore, the lateral direction 195 to the pupil 44 is vertical, and the lateral direction 197 is horizontal. The deformable near-eye display device 100 can be arranged in the arm of the head mounted member 600, reducing the volume of the frame 603 of the head mounted display device 600. Advantageously, the aesthetic appearance of the head mounted display device 600 can be improved. Further, the connection between the illumination system 240 and the control electronics arranged in the arm 604 can be provided with reduced complexity, thereby reducing costs.

[0462] It would be desirable to provide a virtual reality head mounted display device 600 in which the head mounted display device is not transparent to external images.

[0463] Fig.16A is a schematic diagram illustrating a virtual reality head mounted display device 600 including a left eye deformable display device 100R and a right eye deformable display device 100L in a front view; and Fig. 16Bis a schematic diagram illustrating a virtual reality head mounted display device 600 including a deformable near-eye display device 100 in a side view. FIG. 16A to FIG. 16B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0464] Fig.16A An alternative embodiment of the head mounted display device 600 may include display devices 100R, 100L mounted in a head gear 601, the size of the head gear 601 being larger than Fig. 14B The desired size of the glasses head mounted display device 600. Figure 1F , aberrations can be reduced for a given field angle, and the field of view can be increased for a given elliptical blur 452 limit. Further, image brightness can be improved.

[0465] Fig. 16B The diagram illustrates an alternative arrangement in which a light trap layer 609 is provided between the head mounted display device 600 housing 606 and the extraction waveguide 1 to receive stray light 607 output from the extraction waveguide 1. Advantageously, image contrast is improved.

[0466] It may be desirable to reduce the number of illumination systems in a binocular near-eye display.

[0467] Fig. 16C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, a deformed near-eye display device 100 comprising a single waveguide 1 suitable for use with both eyes of a display user. Fig. 16C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0468] The array of extraction reflectors 170 comprises two separate regions 177L, 177R, each region 177L, 177R being arranged to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 towards a respective eye 45L, 45R of a viewer 47. Non-extraction regions 178A to 178C are arranged in the extraction waveguide 1 outside the separate regions 177L, 177R.

[0469] Thus, a single illumination system 240 including a spatial light modulator 48 may be arranged to provide illumination to both eyes 45R, 45L. Advantageously, cost and complexity are reduced.

[0470] It may be desirable to improve the performance and functionality of head mounted display device 600.

[0471] Fig.16Dis a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a deformed near-eye display device comprising two deformed display devices; and Fig.16E It is illustrated by Fig.16D Schematic diagram of a composite image provided to eye 45 by head-mounted display device 600. FIG. 16D to FIG. 16E Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0472] exist Fig.16D In an alternative embodiment, the deformed near-eye display device 100A is a first near-eye display device, and the head-mounted display device 600 further includes a second near-eye display device 100B, wherein the second near-eye display device 100B is arranged in series with the first near-eye display device 100A and is arranged to receive light from the first near-eye display device 100A.

[0473] The near-eye anamorphic display device 100A includes a spatial light modulator 48A having a first size and density of pixels 222; a laterally anamorphic component 60A having a first lateral optical power; and an extraction waveguide 1A, which includes a laterally anamorphic component 110A having a first lateral optical power. The near-eye anamorphic display device 100B includes a spatial light modulator 48B, which may have the same or different size and density of pixels 222 as the spatial light modulator 48A; a laterally anamorphic component 60B having a second lateral optical power, which may be the same or different from the first lateral optical power; and an extraction waveguide 1A, which includes a laterally anamorphic component 110A having a second lateral optical power, which may be the same or different from the first lateral optical power.

[0474] The spatial light modulators 48A, 48B, the lateral anamorphic components 60A, 60B, the side anamorphic components 110A, 110B, and the extraction reflector 170 can be arranged to provide desired improved optical performance, including at least one of the following: (i) improved image resolution; (ii) improved brightness; (iii) increased exit pupil 40 size; (iv) reduced image diffraction; (v) increased field of view; and (vi) multiple focal planes.

[0475] exist Fig.16D In the illustrative embodiment of , the spatial light modulators 48A, 48B are identical, but the lateral anamorphic components 60A, 60B and the side anamorphic components 110A, 110B are different so that the magnification provided by the respective anamorphic display devices 100A, 100B is different. Fig.16EThe diagram illustrates that an outer image region 448A having a boundary 449A is provided by the anamorphic near-eye display device 100A, and a central image region 448B having a boundary 449B is provided by the anamorphic near-eye display device 100B. Advantageously, a high-resolution image can be provided in the central region 448A, overlaid on a lower-resolution image in the outer region 448B. Such an arrangement can advantageously achieve improved image fidelity for the most common viewing directions while providing a large field of view.

[0476] Fig.16D It is also illustrated that the extraction reflector 170 may be provided with different alignments to achieve increased exit pupil 40 size and reduce diffraction blur.

[0477] It may be desirable to improve the performance of virtual reality display systems.

[0478] Fig.16F is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view a virtual reality head mounted display device 600 including a deformed near eye display device 100 arranged to receive light from a magnifying lens 610; and Figure 16G is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a virtual reality head mounted display device including an anamorphic near eye display device disposed between an anamorphic spatial light modulator and a magnifying lens of a non-anamorphic display device. FIG. 16F to FIG. 16G Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0479] exist Fig.16F In an alternative embodiment, the deformable near-eye display device 100 is a first near-eye display device, and the head-mounted display device 600 further includes a non-deformed near-eye display device 610, wherein the non-deformed near-eye display device 610 includes a non-deformed spatial light modulator 648 and a non-deformed magnifying optical system 660; and wherein at least one near-eye display device 100 is arranged in series with the non-deformed near-eye display device 610 and is arranged to receive light from the non-deformed near-eye display device 610.

[0480] exist Figure 16GIn an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the deformable near eye display device 100 can be arranged in series with the non-deformed spatial light modulator 648, arranged between the non-deformed spatial light modulator 648 and the non-deformed near eye display device 610. The deformable near eye display device can be arranged substantially at the pupil of the magnification optical system 660 to provide no optical power to the light from the non-deformed near eye display device 100. Alternatively, some small optical power for the light from the deformable near eye display device 100 can be provided to modify the virtual image distance. The overall thickness of the optical system can be reduced, advantageously achieving a reduced volume.

[0481] exist FIG. 16F to FIG. 16G In an embodiment of the present invention, non-anamorphic magnification optical system 660 may include a lens, such as a Fresnel lens, a pancake lens, or other known non-anamorphic magnification lens, and is arranged to provide a virtual image of the spatial light modulator 648 to the eye 45. Compared to the anamorphic near-eye display device 100, the non-anamorphic near-eye display device 610 provides equal magnification of the pixels 622 on the non-anamorphic spatial light modulator 648 in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197. The non-anamorphic magnification optical system 660 is generally circularly symmetric.

[0482] In operation, the top pixel 620T of the non-deformed spatial light modulator 648 provides light 662T, the center pixel 620C provides light 662C, and the bottom pixel 620B provides light 662B. The observer's eye 45 collects the light 460T, 460C, 460B and generates an image on the retina of the eye so that the image is perceived at an angular size that is magnified compared to the angular size of the spatial light modulator 48.

[0483] The spatial light modulator 48, 648, the non-anamorphic magnifying optical system 660, the lateral anamorphic assembly 60; the lateral anamorphic assembly 110 and the extraction reflector 170 can be arranged to provide desired improved optical performance, including at least one of the following: (i) improved image resolution; (ii) improved brightness; (iii) increased exit pupil 40 size; (iv) reduced image diffraction; (v) increased field of view; and (vi) multiple focal planes.

[0484] Fig.16H is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, an arrangement of a virtual image distance for a virtual reality display device. Fig.16H Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0485] consider Fig.16HIn an embodiment, the virtual image distance 61 from the eye 44 to the virtual image 34 provided by the deformable near-eye display device 100 can be at a distance 663 from the infinite conjugate plane 33, and by controlling the back working distance F of the spatial light modulator 648 to the non-deformation magnification system 660, the virtual image 634 provided by the non-deformation near-eye display device 610 can be at a distance 661 from the infinite conjugate plane 633.

[0486] More generally, the virtual image distance for light from the first near eye display device 100A, 100 may be different than the virtual image distance for light from the second near eye display device 100B or the non-deformed near eye display device 610, respectively.

[0487] Advantageously, the comfort of using the display can be improved.

[0488] FIG. 16I to FIG. 16J This diagram is for Fig.16H Schematic diagram of an arrangement of displayed virtual images. FIG. 16I to FIG. 16J Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0489] Fig.16I The diagram illustrates an image 448A having a boundary 449A provided by the deformed near-eye display device 100. Fig.16J The diagram illustrates an image 448B provided by a non-deformed near-eye display device 610 having a boundary 449B.

[0490] Background image 448A and foreground image 448B are provided such that image 448A may further include an occlusion image 77 which, in operation, is aligned with foreground image 448B, which overlays the background image.An opaque foreground image may advantageously be implemented.

[0491]

[0066] An alternative embodiment incorporating the reflection extraction feature 169 will now be described.

[0492] Fig.17A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a perspective front view, wherein the reflective extraction features include extraction reflectors 174A-174D including a plurality of constituent plates 180A-180E. Fig.17A Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0493] and Figure 1A In comparison, Fig.17A In an alternative embodiment, the extraction waveguide 1 includes a plurality of component plates 180A to 180E optically coupled together, wherein extraction reflectors 174A to 174D are formed between the component plates 180A to 180E. The extraction reflectors 174A to 174D extend between the opposite rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1. In other words, the extraction reflectors 174A to 174E extend across the entire extraction waveguide 1, between the opposite rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8, however, typically, as discussed above, some regions 178A, 178B along the extraction waveguide 1 may be provided without extraction reflectors 174.

[0494] exist Fig.17A In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflectors 174 have the same reflective area. Advantageously, brightness can be reduced as a function of viewing angle.

[0495] Fig. 17B Is a graphic description input to Fig.17A A schematic diagram of a side view of light in a deformed near-eye display device; and Fig. 17C It is a graphic illustration Fig.17A Schematic diagram of a front view of a deformed near-eye display device 100. FIG. 17B to FIG. 17C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0496] In manufacturing, a plurality of constituent plates 180 are coated and combined into a stack of plates 180A to 180N. The stack of plates 180A to 180N may then be diced and polished at an angle α to provide inclined plates 180A to 180N.

[0497] exist Fig. 17B The outer interface shown as extraction reflectors 174A, 174D in the figure may alternatively be provided by bonding to non-extraction waveguide regions 178A, 178B so that extraction is not provided. Advantageously, the complexity of the non-extraction waveguide components 178A, 178B is reduced and the cost is reduced.

[0498] and Fig. 6A compared to, FIG. 17B to FIG. 17C The plurality of constituent plates 180 provide extraction reflectors 174A to 174D, each extending between the opposing rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8. The extraction reflectors 174A to 174D may be arranged at an inclination angle α and have a width w determined by the waveguide thickness t and the angle α. The extent w along the extraction waveguide 1 in the direction 191 is increased, and advantageously, diffraction blur in the lateral direction is reduced.

[0499] In operation, extracted light rays 37 are incident on light directing surface 6 before being incident at partial extraction reflectors 174A to 174D to provide corresponding output light rays 37A to 37D. Advantageously, the size of the moving head frame is increased.

[0500] Fig.17D is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic perspective view of the optical design for the near-eye anamorphic display device 100 . Fig.17D Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0501] exist Fig.17D In an alternative embodiment, the tapered surface 18 is provided by two surfaces 18A, 18B. Such surfaces 18A, 18B can be arranged to transmit or absorb light incident thereon. Advantageously, the visibility of stray light incident on the surfaces 18A, 18B can be reduced. Image contrast can be improved. Fig.17D Further illustrating the composite lens 61, the composite lens 61 includes component lenses 61A to 61D and has a structure for representing the following description. Fig.12 A to Fig.12 Surface profile of the optical design of E.

[0502] The propagation of polarized light is similar to 7A to 7C The propagation of polarized light is discussed above, but intermediate surface 172 is not provided and will now be described further.

[0503] Fig.18A It is a graphic illustration Fig.17A A schematic diagram of a side view of polarized input light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device 100; and Fig.18B It is a graphic illustration Fig.17A Schematic diagram of a side view of propagation of polarized light after reflection from reflective end 4 in a deformed near-eye display device 100 . FIG. 18A to FIG. 18B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0504] Extraction reflector 174A includes a dielectric stack including dielectric layers 186AA to 186AC, and extraction reflector 174B includes a dielectric stack including dielectric layers 186BA to 186AE, which may, for example, include a different dielectric stack than extraction reflector 174A and may provide a different reflectivity.

[0505] The dielectric stacks 186A-186N may be formed on one or both surfaces of adjacent plates 180. In other embodiments, the dielectric stack may be replaced with a single dielectric layer, metal, or gap.

[0506] In operation, some p-polarized light 464 is reflected for light 460C propagating in the first direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1; however, Fig. 8A As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the p-polarization reflectivity can be minimized by proper design of the respective dielectric stacks 186A to 186N.

[0507] In the present embodiment, light ray 464 is output through the light guiding surface while propagating along the extraction waveguide 1 in direction 191 before reflecting from the light retro-reflector. Such light ray has not been imaged by the lateral deformation component 110, so does not include angular pixel data in the lateral direction 195. Therefore, an external viewer cannot perceive image data from light ray 464, and advantageously, the information privacy of user 45 is improved.

[0508] After reflection at the light retro-reflector 140 , the polarization-converting retarder 72 provides an s-polarization state 908 , which is reflected toward the pupil 44 by the dielectric stacks 186AA to 186AC and 186BA to 186BE.

[0509] Fig.18C is a diagram illustrating the reflectivity of the extraction reflector 174 along the path when the extraction waveguide includes four extraction reflectors 174A to 174D. Fig.17A Schematic diagram of the extraction waveguide 1 in direction 191 and with variations of the illustrative embodiment of Table 4. Fig.18C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0510]

[0511] Table 4

[0512] exist Fig.18C In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflectors 174 extend across the extraction waveguide 1 and have the same reflective area. The reflectivity of the extraction reflectors 174 is defined across their entire area and increases with increasing distance along the optical axis 199 (60) for light reflected from the light reflector 140. In other words, the reflectivity of the extraction reflectors 174 is defined across their entire area and increases with increasing distance along the extraction waveguide 1 in the direction 193 from the light reflector 140.

[0513] The stack reflectivity profile of Table 4 achieves uniform output power δ for light rays 37A to 37D so that, advantageously, uniform image brightness is seen for different pupil 44 locations across the exit pupil 40. Such reflectivity profiles can be achieved by adjusting the dielectric stack 186A to 186N to be different at each extraction reflector 174A to 174N. Such differences can be achieved by adjusting the number, thickness, and material of the dielectric layer 186.

[0514] An illustrative embodiment of Table 4 is FIG. 18A to FIG. 18B The polarized illumination of s-polarization state 904 provides the desired output properties because the extraction reflector 174 is substantially transparent to light 460C having the p-polarization state 902. Thus, the reflector 174 is substantially blocking to the transmitted s-polarization state 904, but is transmissive to the p-polarization state 902, and is therefore partially transmissive in a general sense.

[0515] Alternative arrangements for the extraction reflector 174 will now be described.

[0516] Fig.19A is illustrated in a perspective front view Fig.17A Schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a deformed near-eye display device 100 in which some of the polarizing beam splitters 200 do not extend the entire thickness of the extraction waveguide 1; and Fig.19B is illustrated in side view Fig.19A Schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device 100. FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0517] exist FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflectors 174 extend across a portion of the extraction waveguide 1, and the array of extraction reflectors 174 have a reflectivity defined across their entire area that increases with increasing distance along the waveguide along the optical axis 199 in the direction 193. In other words, the extraction reflectors 174 are patterned to have different reflective regions that provide a reflectivity across their entire area that increases with increasing distance along the optical axis 199 (60).

[0518] Such an extraction reflector 174 can be fabricated by masking the plate 180 during the formation of the dielectric layers 186A to 186N (e.g., by deposition). Some areas 181 of the plate's surface may therefore be free of dielectric stacks. As illustrated in Table 4, the total focal power δ extracted at each facet may be constant across the array of extraction reflectors 174A to 174D. Fig.18BIn contrast, the dielectric stack composition may be the same for each of the extraction reflectors 174A to 174D. Advantageously, the deposition cost and complexity of deposition onto the plate 180 may be reduced.

[0519] Fig. 20A is illustrated in a perspective front view Fig.17A A schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a deformed near-eye display device 100 in which the polarizing beam splitter 200 includes a patterned reflector; and Fig. 20B is illustrated in side view Fig. 20A Schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device 100. FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0520] exist FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflector 174 has a density per patterned area that increases with distance along the extraction waveguide 1 in direction 193 away from the light retroreflector 140 to achieve a desired reflectivity profile, for example as illustrated in Table 4.

[0521] Patterning of the extraction reflector 174 may enable reduced manufacturing complexity of the plate 180 .

[0522] Further, the extraction reflector 174 may comprise a high reflectivity metal compared to the dielectric stacks discussed elsewhere herein. In such a case, the input linear polarizer 70 and polarization conversion retarder 72 may be omitted. Advantageously, costs may be reduced.

[0523] Fig.21A is a diagram illustrating a perspective front view of a plurality of partially reflective metal extraction reflectors 174. Fig.17A A schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a deformed near-eye display device; and Fig. 21B is illustrated in side view Fig.21A Schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device 100. FIG. 21A to FIG. 21B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0524] exist FIG. 21A to FIG. 21BIn an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflectors 174A to 174D are partial reflectors that may include a metal coating disposed on the plate 180. The metal coating is adjusted during manufacturing to have different reflectivities to achieve the desired reflectivity. Compared to Table 4, the maximum reflectivity for the extraction reflector 174D may be 50% or less so that the input light 460C is transmitted along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 to the light retro-reflector 140.

[0525] The input linear polarizer 70 and polarization conversion retarder 72 are omitted and, advantageously, cost and complexity are reduced.

[0526] Fig.22A is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a deformed near-eye display device 100 including a plurality of stepped component panels 188 . Fig.22A Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0527] exist Fig.22A In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the extraction region 177 includes a plurality of component plates 188, wherein the extraction reflector 169 is formed between the component plates 188. The stepped component plates 188 further include support members 189A, 189B extending in the first direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1. Outer support members 167A, 167B are provided to form the rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8.

[0528] and Fig. 17B Compared to the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the extraction reflector partially extends between the rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8, and the steps overlap in the direction 199 (44) and in the transverse direction 197 (60). The extent w of the extraction reflector 169 is greater than for example Fig.13A Advantageously, blur in the lateral direction 197 is reduced.

[0529] Fig. 22B Is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing Fig.22A Schematic diagram of a method of extracting the extraction region 177 of the waveguide. Fig. 22B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0530] In the first step S1 , the stepped component plate 188 including the support members 189A, 189B is produced by, for example, injection molding.

[0531] In step S2, the surface of the stepped component plate 188 is coated with a coating 168, such as a dielectric layer described elsewhere herein.

[0532] In step S3 , the stack of stepped component plates 188A to 188C are attached in alignment such that the extraction reflectors formed therebetween have a common inclination angle α with respect to the direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0533] In step S4, outer support members 167A, 167B are added to provide a waveguide 1 extraction region 177 portion. In a final step (not shown), a non-extraction waveguide portion 178 is added. The outer surfaces 6, 8 may be polished to achieve the desired flatness and parallelism.

[0534] Fig. 22B The method does not use expensive plate construction methods and can be used for example Fig.17A Advantageously, costs can be reduced.

[0535] It may be desirable to provide further expansion of exit pupil 40 while reducing diffraction blur and lowering manufacturing costs.

[0536] FIG. 22C to FIG. 22D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative arrangement of an extraction waveguide 1 comprising two types of partially reflecting extraction reflectors 170 , 174 . FIG. 22C to FIG. 22D Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0537] FIG. 22C to FIG. 22D The extraction waveguide 1 includes a first extraction portion 13A and a second extraction portion 13B. The extraction portions 13A and 13B include Fig. 9C The same type of extraction reflector 170 and intermediate surface 172. The extraction reflector 170 and intermediate surface 172 may alternatively be those disclosed in Table 3 or at least above. 9A to 11E The type illustrated in the figure.

[0538] exist Fig. 22C In an alternative embodiment, a further extraction reflector 174 is arranged between the extraction portion 13A including the component plate 180A and the extraction portion including the component plate 180B. The extraction reflector 174 may be at least one of the above disclosed FIG. 17A to FIG. 22A The type illustrated in any one of the embodiments.

[0539] In operation, the extraction reflector 170 having a stepped shape provides extraction for the area toward the edge of the exit pupil 40, while the extraction reflector 174 provides extraction for the central area of ​​the exit pupil 40. Advantageously, the diffraction blur in the central area is reduced and the image quality for the most common viewing directions is improved. Further, the manufacturing cost of the plurality of component panels 180A, 180B is reduced.

[0540] exist Fig.22D In an alternative embodiment, further extraction reflectors 174A, 174B and further component plates 180C are arranged between the extraction section 13A including component plates 180A and the extraction section including component plates 180B. Fig.22D In contrast, the region of the exit pupil 40 above which the diffraction blur is reduced is advantageously enlarged.

[0541] In an exemplary manufacturing method, FIG. 22C to FIG. 22D Embodiments of can be formed by making extraction portions 13A, 13B as described elsewhere herein, coating the ends 163A, 163B of the extraction portions 13A, 13B, and attaching the ends 163A, 163B (e.g., with the aid of an adhesive). Optionally, the surfaces 6, 8 can then be polished to provide the desired light guiding properties.

[0542] It may be desirable to reduce the cost and complexity of the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0543] Fig.23A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a perspective front view, wherein the extraction waveguide 1 comprises a diffractive optical element 1B; Fig. 23B is illustrated in side view Fig.23A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device 100; and Fig.23C is illustrated in front view Fig.23A Schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device 100. FIG. 23A to FIG. 23C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0544] consider Fig.23A In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the extraction waveguide 1 comprises a transmissive element 1A and a diffractive optical element 1B, which is optically coupled to the transmissive element 1A. The operation of the transverse deformation assembly 60 and the lateral deformation assembly 110 is as described elsewhere herein.

[0545] consider FIG. 23B to FIG. 23C, the diffractive optical element 1B is arranged to provide extraction of some of the light guided between the opposing rear guiding surface 6 and the front guiding surface 8 in the extraction waveguide 1, wherein the diffractive optical element 1B is arranged between the opposing rear guiding surface 6 and the front guiding surface 8. A central light ray 460C on the optical axis 199 (60) along the first direction 191 of the extraction waveguide 1 is partially reflected by the diffractive optical element 1B to output light 464 away from the eye 45. After reflection at the light retro-reflector, the light is further reflected.

[0546] Fig.23D is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a waveguide including a diffractive output beam deflector element 216 in side view. Fig.23D Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0547] The extraction waveguide 1 comprises a transmissive element 1 and a diffractive optical element 1B optically coupled together, wherein the reflective extraction feature 169 comprises a portion 218 of the diffractive optical element 1B. The diffractive optical element 1B is an example of an extraction reflective feature and comprises a combination of iso-index layers 217, 219 provided in a material continuum 223, the iso-index layers 217, 219 being features that extract light.

[0548] In other words, the extraction waveguide 1 comprises an array of portions 218 disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1, the portions 218 being arranged to transmit light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a first direction 191 and to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 towards the viewer's eye 45. The array of portions 218 is distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 so as to provide an exit pupil expansion.

[0549] Fig.23D The illustration shows an extraction waveguide 1 comprising a transmission element 1A and a diffractive optical element 1B, which is optically coupled to the transmission element 1A by means of a bonding layer 214, wherein the diffractive optical element 1B comprises an array of portions 218. Light rays 460C are guided in the extraction waveguide 1 by means of total internal reflection at the opposite rear guiding surfaces 6 and front guiding surfaces 8 of the extraction waveguide 1. Therefore, at least some of the light rays 460C are transmitted through the portions 218 of the diffractive optical element 1B. The proportion of light reflected by the portions 218 can be controlled by means of control of the modulation depth of the portions 218 along the extraction waveguide 1 in the direction 193.

[0550] Diffractive optical element 216 is a volume hologram in which portion 218 includes equal-refractive index planes 217 with an increased refractive index and equal-refractive index planes 217 with a reduced refractive index. The refractive index modulation between equal-refractive index planes 217, 219, the tilt angle β and the spacing ω of the equal-refractive index planes 217, 219 provide portion 218 with the desired extraction of light 37 from diffractive optical element 1B.

[0551] It may be desirable to provide a more compact optical input arrangement.

[0552] Fig.24A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 further comprising a diffractive deflector element 215 in a perspective front view. Fig.24A Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0553] The extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light from the illumination system 240 through an input region 229 of a light guiding surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1. The extraction waveguide 1 further comprises a diffractive deflector element 215 opposite to the input region 239 on the opposite rear guiding surface 6 and front guiding surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1. The diffractive deflector element 215 is arranged to deflect light received through the input region 219 to along the extraction waveguide 1.

[0554] exist Fig.24A In an embodiment, the lateral deformation component 60 formed by the lateral lens 61 is arranged to guide light from the illumination system 240 into the extraction waveguide 1.

[0555] The tilting of the input end 2 and the tapered surface 18 may be omitted and, advantageously, cost and complexity may be reduced.

[0556] Fig. 24B is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of a deformable near-eye display device 100 further comprising a diffractive deflector element 217 in a perspective front view, wherein the diffractive deflector element has optical power in a lateral direction 197 . Fig. 24B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0557] Fig. 24B The illustration shows that the lateral lens 61 is omitted and the optical function of the lateral anamorphic assembly 60 is provided together with the optical function of the deflector 215 in the iso-index profile of the diffractive deflector element 215. Advantageously, the size of the input optics may be reduced.

[0558] The diffractive optical elements 1B, 215, 217 described above exhibit limited bandwidth and efficiency and are therefore very suitable for monochrome displays.

[0559] It may further be desirable to provide a full color display device comprising a diffractive optical element.

[0560] Fig.24C is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view a full-color anamorphic display device 100 comprising three waveguides 1R, 1G, 1B comprising respective diffractive optical elements; and Fig.24D is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view a full-color anamorphic display device 100 comprising two waveguides 1RB, 1G comprising respective diffractive optical elements. Fig.24C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0561] The deformable near-eye display device 100 includes separate red display devices 100R, green display devices 100G and blue display devices 100B, each including a red illumination system 240R, a green illumination system 240G and a blue illumination system 240B, a lateral deformable component 60R, 60B, 60G, and a diffractive optical element 1BR, 1BG, 1BB arranged on a transmission element 1AR, 1AG, 1AB. The output light rays 37B, 37C are transmitted through the extraction waveguide 1R. A color image can be advantageously provided.

[0562] exist Fig.24D In an alternative embodiment, a first extraction waveguide may be provided with a green diffractive optical element 1AG and a transmission element 1AA, and a second extraction waveguide may be provided with a red diffractive optical element 1BR and a blue diffractive optical element 1BB and a transmission element 1BA. The second waveguide is used for red and blue light illumination from an illumination system 240RB, while the illumination system 240G provides green illumination to the first extraction waveguide. The thickness is reduced compared to a stack (not shown) comprising a red diffractive optical element, a green diffractive optical element and a blue diffractive optical element, and crosstalk between the red diffractive optical element and the blue diffractive optical element may be reduced. Color reproduction may be improved.

[0563] It may be desirable to provide further expansion of exit pupil 40 while reducing diffraction blur and lowering manufacturing costs.

[0564] FIG. 24E to FIG. 24G is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative arrangement of extraction waveguides including a combination of different forms of reflective extraction features 169. FIG. 24E to FIG. 24G Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0565] FIG. 24E to FIG. 24G The extraction waveguide 1 comprises a transmissive element 1A comprising a reflective extraction feature 169 which is an extraction reflector for a diffractive optical element 1B.

[0566] Fig.24E An alternative embodiment is illustrated in which the extraction reflector comprises a plurality of component panels 180A to 180D as described above and an extraction reflector 174. A central region of the exit pupil 40 in the transverse direction 197 can be provided with advantageously low diffraction blur by the extraction reflector 174. The number of component panels 180 can be tailored to the desired exit pupil size e in the transverse direction 197. T is reduced, and costs are advantageously reduced.

[0567] The outer region of the exit pupil 40 in the transverse direction 197 may be provided by the diffractive optical element 1 B. The exit pupil 40 may advantageously have an enlarged size.

[0568] exist Fig.24F In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the extraction reflector 170 having a stepped shape provides extraction for the area towards the center of the exit pupil 40, while the diffractive optical element 1B provides extraction for the outer area of ​​the exit pupil 40. Advantageously, high efficiency is provided in the central area. The size w of the extraction reflector 170 can be increased, and the diffraction blur can be advantageously reduced. Further, the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0569] exist Figure 24G In an alternative embodiment, with Fig.22D Compared to the arrangement of , a further reflective extraction feature 169 comprising part of the diffractive optical element 1B is provided. The size of the exit pupil 40 is advantageously increased and manufacturing costs are reduced.

[0570] FIG. 24E to FIG. 24G The alternative embodiment illustrations include non-limiting arrangements of different types of reflective extraction features 169. The various embodiments described elsewhere herein for the reflective extraction features 169 can be arranged together in further arrangements to achieve optimization of manufacturing costs, exit pupil 40 size, image blur, stray light, and other desired display characteristics of the near-eye deformable display 100 of the present disclosure.

[0571] It may be desirable to provide reduced aberrations from the lateral deformation component 110. Some methods for reducing aberrations are implemented in the following examples. In the following examples, specific examples of refractive extraction features 169 are shown (e.g., Fig.25A The extraction reflector 170 and FIG. 25B to FIG. 25D ), but this is not limiting, and in general, any one of the refractive extraction features 169 disclosed herein can be alternatively applied to the following examples. Similarly, the various features of the following examples can be combined together in any combination.

[0572] Fig.25A is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformable near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein a lateral deformable component 110 includes a curved reflective end 4 and a further refractive component (specifically surfaces 91, 92 and intermediate materials 93, 94) forming a portion of the extraction waveguide 1 and being arranged between the reflective end 4 and the reflective extraction feature 169. Fig.25A Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0573] Fig.25A The illustrated lateral deformation assembly 110 may further comprise a lens 95 which in this example comprises surfaces 91, 92 and intermediate materials 93, 94. The lens 95 may be arranged with a rear guiding surface 6 and a front guiding surface 8 coplanar with the opposing light guiding surfaces 6, 8 of the extraction waveguide 1. Advantageously, high efficiency may be achieved.

[0574] In operation, lens 95 may be arranged to provide a wider exit aperture e L Thus, if Figure 1F The image blur 455 illustrated in FIG. 4 can advantageously be reduced.

[0575] exist Fig.25A In an alternative embodiment, the extraction waveguide 1 is shown with a stepped extraction reflector 170, but FIG. 25A to FIG. 25B The embodiments are not limited to the stepped extraction reflector 170, and any other reflective extraction features 169 described above may be provided as an alternative.

[0576] It may be desirable to reduce the size of the reflective end.

[0577] Fig.25B is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in front view, wherein a laterally anamorphic component 110 comprises a reflective end 4 of a waveguide, which is formed as a Fresnel reflector 97 in this example. Fig.25B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0578] The Fresnel reflector 84 is arranged to advantageously remove Fig.25A The droop of the dome-shaped reflective end 4 is illustrated in FIG.

[0579] exist Fig.25B In an alternative embodiment, the extraction waveguide 1 is shown having an extraction reflector 174 arranged between a plurality of plates 180, but other extraction reflectors described hereinbefore may be provided as an alternative.

[0580] Fig.25C is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein a lateral anamorphic component 110 includes a refractive component 95 including an air gap and an air gap mirror 96; and Fig.25D is illustrated in side view Fig.25C Schematic diagram of a deformed near-eye display device 100. FIG. 25C to FIG. 25D Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0581] Through Fig.25A For comparison, Fig.25C In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the intermediate material 93 is replaced with an air gap 97 having surfaces 91, 92 that face the air gap 97. The refractive power of the surfaces 91, 92 can be modified, advantageously providing enhanced control of aberrations in the lateral direction 195. The surfaces 91, 92 can have a circular, elliptical, or other aspherical top view profile to advantageously maximize the performance of the image directed to the eye 45.

[0582] Air gap 97 has an edge 83, and the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 further includes a reflector, which is an air gap mirror 96 extending across edge 83 of air gap 97. Air gap mirror 96 provides capture of guided light in the region of air gap 97. Advantageously, efficiency is improved and spatial uniformity is improved.

[0583] It may be desirable to reduce image blur at higher side field angles.

[0584] Fig.26A is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformed near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 has a curvature in a lateral direction 195 . Fig.26AFeatures of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0585] exist Figure 1A In the illustrative embodiment of , the input end 2 has no curvature in the lateral direction. In practice, aberrations (including those of the lateral deformation component 110) can provide Petzval field curvature, which provides a curvature of the image field as in Fig.26A 4. An illustrative curved field surface 98A is labeled in FIG. Image pixels on field surface 98A provide a maximum modulation transfer function (MTF) when viewed by eye 45. Image pixels separated from field surface 98A in direction 191 have a reduced MTF and appear more blurry. It would be desirable to provide pixels 22 of spatial light modulator 48 on field surface 98 of the optical system.

[0586] exist Fig.26A In an alternative embodiment, the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 has a curvature in the lateral direction 195 which compensates for the Petzval field curvature of the lateral deformation component 110. Thus, Fig.26B The desired field surface 98B is provided to be more closely aligned with the plane of the spatial light modulator 48. The MTF for off-axis field points is increased and advantageously image blur is reduced.

[0587] Alternative embodiments for reducing curvature of field will now be described.

[0588] Fig.26B is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformable near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 has a curvature in a lateral direction 195, and the lateral deformable component 60 has a curvature in the lateral direction 195; Fig.26C is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 has a curvature in a lateral direction 195, the lateral anamorphic component 60 has a curvature in the lateral direction 195, and the spatial light modulator 48 has a curvature in the lateral direction 195; Fig.26D is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 has a curvature in a lateral direction 195, the lateral anamorphic component 60 has a curvature in the lateral direction 195, and the spatial light modulator 48 has a curvature in the lateral direction 195, wherein the direction of the curvature of each of the input end 2, the lateral anamorphic component and the spatial light modulator 48 is in accordance with Fig.26C in the opposite direction; and Fig.26Eis a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 has a curvature in a lateral direction 195, the lateral anamorphic component 60 has a curvature in the lateral direction 195, and the spatial light modulator 48 has a curvature in the lateral direction 195, wherein the direction of the curvature of each of the input end 2 and the lateral anamorphic component is Fig.26C The direction of curvature of the spatial light modulator 48 is opposite to Fig.26C The same direction. FIG. 26B to FIG. 26E Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0589] FIG. 26B to FIG. 26E An alternative embodiment of is an example illustrating that at least one of the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1, the lateral anamorphic component 60 and the spatial light modulator 48 has a curvature in the lateral direction 195 in a manner that compensates for the Petzval field curvature of the lateral anamorphic component 10. The direction of the curvature of the respective elements 2, 60, 48 can be modified to achieve optimized image performance so that the MTF for off-axis field points is further increased and advantageously image blur is reduced.

[0590] Compared to a non-deformed component, the curvature can be arranged only about one axis. Specifically, the spatial light modulator 48 can include a silicon or glass backplane. Such a backplane is generally not suitable for curvature about two axes. However, in an embodiment of the present application, a single axis curvature can achieve the desired correction for field curvature. Advantageously, the cost of implementing a properly curved spatial light modulator 48 can be reduced.

[0591] It would be desirable to provide further improvements in aberrations from the lateral anamorphic component 110 .

[0592] Fig.27A is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the side-deformable assembly 110 further includes a planar reflective linear polarizer 99 and a polarization conversion retarder 89, the polarization conversion retarder 89 being disposed between an optical retroreflector 140 and the reflective linear polarizer 99, the optical retroreflector 140 being a reflective end 4; and Fig.27B It is illustrated by Fig.27A Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control assembly. FIG. 27A to FIG. 27B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0593] exist Fig.27AIn an alternative embodiment, the lateral deformation component 110 includes: a reflective linear polarizer 99, which is disposed between a light reverse reflector 140 (wherein the light reverse reflector 140 is curved in the lateral direction 195) and an array of extraction reflectors 174A to 174C; and a polarization conversion delay 89, which is disposed between the reflective linear polarizer 99 and the light reverse reflector 140, and the polarization conversion delay 89 is arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion delay 89 between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state.

[0594] A reflective linear polarizer 99 is disposed between the waveguide portions 911A, 911B, and a polarization conversion retarder 89 is disposed between the waveguide portions 911B, 911C. Fig.27F In an alternative embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8 , the polarization conversion retarder 89 may be disposed on the reflective linear polarizer 99 or on the optical retroreflector 140A such that the waveguide portion 911C is omitted.

[0595] exist Fig.27B , illustrative arrangements of optical axis directions 889 of polarization conversion retarder 89 are illustrated; and linear polarization state transmission axes 870, 899 of polarizers 70, 99, respectively. The geometric configurations are unfolded after reflection at optical retroreflector 140 for purposes of illustration.

[0596] Considering light 489, input linear polarizer 70 provides p-polarization state 902 in waveguide 1. Light 489 is transmitted by reflective linear polarizer 99. Polarization conversion retarder 89 has a retardation of one quarter wavelength at visible wavelengths; that is, polarization conversion retarder 89 can be a quarter wave retardation at visible wavelengths (such as 550nm), and can include a stack of composite retarders (e.g., including a Pancharatnam stack) arranged to achieve operation of a quarter wave retarder over an increased spectral band. The retardation of polarization conversion retarder 89 can be different than one quarter wavelength, but is selected to provide the same effect. For example, polarization conversion retarder 89 can have a retardation of, for example, three quarter wavelengths or five quarter wavelengths.

[0597] The optical system 250 further includes an input linear polarizer 70 disposed between the spatial light modulator 48 and the array of extraction reflectors 174A to 174C, wherein the input linear polarizer 70 and the reflective linear polarizer 99 of the lateral deformation component 110 are arranged to transmit a common polarization state.

[0598] The reflective linear polarizer 99 may be a wire grid polarizer or a multilayer polarizer film (such as a 3M APF reflective polarizer) and may be incorporated between portions 911A, 911B of the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0599] Fig.27A The polarization conversion retarder 89 outputs a circular polarization state 980. After reflection at the light retro-reflector 140A, a circular polarization state 982 is provided due to the phase shift upon reflection and is converted to an s-polarization state 984, which is reflected by the reflective linear polarizer 99. The light 489 is then reflected a second time by the light retro-reflector 140A to provide a polarization state 902, which is transmitted through the reflective linear polarizer 99 and reflected by the extraction reflectors 174A to 174C. Thus, the polarization conversion retarder 89 has a similar structure to, for example, Fig. 6A The polarization conversion retarder 72 has different functions.

[0600] Light 489 is thus twice incident on light retroreflector 140A. Such an arrangement can reduce the droop of light retroreflector 140A compared to light retroreflector 140B, which would be used if reflective linear polarizer 99 and polarization conversion retarder 89 were omitted. Aberrations of the optical system can be reduced and the MTF can be increased. Further, the optical power is achromatic, thereby minimizing color blur. Advantageously, eye 45 can see reduced image blur for off-axis viewing directions. The field of view can be increased for high image quality.

[0601] In alternative embodiments to those described elsewhere herein, polarization state 902 may be provided by another polarization state such as, for example, an s-polarization state of linear polarization or a circular polarization state. Corresponding polarization states propagating through the system may be provided to achieve similar operation. Polarization state 902 may be provided to achieve desirably low glare for light exiting from waveguide 1 away from eye 45 of viewer 47 and efficient reflection from reflection extraction feature 169 after reflection from light retro reflector 140. Further improvements in aberrations as described below may be achieved.

[0602] Fig.27C is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformable near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the lateral deformable component 110 further includes a curved reflective linear polarizer 99 and a polarization conversion retarder 89, and the polarization conversion retarder 89 is arranged between a light reverse reflector 140 and the reflective linear polarizer 99, and the light reverse reflector 140 is a reflective end 4. Fig.27C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0603] and Fig.27A Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig.27CIn an alternative embodiment of the invention, the reflective polarizer 99 is curved in the lateral direction 195. Reflection occurs continuously from surface 140C, then surface 99, and then surface 140C again. The optical power is provided at each reflection so that the curvature of each surface can be reduced to achieve the desired optical power of the lateral deformation component 110. The aberrations of the optical system can be further reduced, and the MTF can be increased. Further, the optical power is achromatic, thereby minimizing color blur. Advantageously, the eye 45 can see reduced image blur for off-axis viewing directions. The optical retroreflector 140 of the embodiment of the present application can be aspherical. The field of view can be further increased for high image quality.

[0604] Further, the reflective linear polarizer 99 may be provided by means of curving the surface of the reflective linear polarizer 99 about a single axis during manufacture. Distortion of the reflective linear polarizer 99 may advantageously be reduced.

[0605] Fig.27D is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformable near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the side-deformable assembly 110 further includes a planar light retroreflector 140, a curved reflective linear polarizer 99, and a polarization conversion retarder 89, the planar light retroreflector 140 being the reflective end 4, the polarization conversion retarder 89 being disposed between the planar light retroreflector 140 and the reflective linear polarizer 99, the planar light retroreflector 140 being the reflective end 4; and Fig.27E is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformable near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein a lateral deformable component 110 includes a curved light reverse reflector 140, a curved reflective linear polarizer 99, a polarization conversion delay 89 and a refractive lens, the curved light reverse reflector 140 is a reflective end 4, the polarization conversion delay 89 is arranged between the plane light reverse reflector 140 and the reflective linear polarizer 99, the plane light reverse reflector 140 is a reflective end 4, and the refractive lens is arranged between the input end 2 and the reflective linear polarizer 99. FIG. 27D to FIG. 27E Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0606] exist Fig.27D In an alternative embodiment, the light retroreflector 140 is not curved in the lateral direction 195 and is planar; and the reflective linear polarizer 99 is arranged to provide the optical power of the laterally deformable component 110. Advantageously, the length L of the extraction waveguide 1 can be shortened for the desired focal length of the light retroreflector. Aberrations can be advantageously improved in a smaller package.

[0607] Further, reflective linear polarizer 99 may have a profile having an aspherical shape to advantageously achieve improved aberrations.

[0608] exist Fig.27E In an alternative embodiment, the polarization conversion retarder 89 is curved in the lateral direction and is arranged between waveguide portions 911C, 911D having different refractive indices and / or different distributions of the refractive index with wavelength. Advantageously, further correction of aberrations can be achieved.

[0609] Fig.27E The alternative embodiment of is further shown as a refractive lens 95, which includes a surface 91 between waveguide portions 911A, 911B, a surface 92 of a reflective linear polarizer 99, and a material 93 having a different refractive index than the material of waveguide portion 911A. Such an arrangement can further provide enhanced control of aberrations. The off-axis field of view for a desired image blur can be further increased.

[0610] FIG. 27A to FIG. 27G The embodiment of shows the same polarization state 902 propagating in the waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 and the second direction 193. It may be desirable to reduce stray light.

[0611] Fig.27F is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformable near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the side-deformable component 110 further includes an absorbing polarizer 85; a reflective linear polarizer 99; a polarization conversion retarder 89; a polarization control retarder 87, the polarization conversion retarder 89 is arranged between an optical retroreflector 140 and the reflective linear polarizer 99, the optical retroreflector 140 is a reflective end 4, the polarization control retarder 87 is arranged between an input end 2 and the reflective linear polarizer 99; and Figure 27G is a diagram illustrating illustrative polarization states propagating through Fig.27F Schematic diagram of the polarization control components. FIG. 27F to FIG. 27G Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0612] exist Fig.27FIn an alternative embodiment, the optical system 250 includes an input linear polarizer 70 disposed between the spatial light modulator 48 and the array of extraction reflectors 170, and the lateral deformation component 110 further includes: a polarization control retarder 87, which is disposed between a reflective linear polarizer 99 and the array of extraction reflectors 170; a polarization control retarder 87, which is arranged to change the polarization state of light passing through the polarization control retarder 87; and an absorptive linear polarizer 85, which is disposed between the polarization control retarder 87 and the reflective linear polarizer 99, wherein the absorptive linear polarizer 85 and the reflective linear polarizer 99 are arranged to transmit a common linear polarization state, which is a component of the polarization state output from the polarization control retarder 87 in a direction along the waveguide 1.

[0613] exist Fig.27F , the polarization control retarder 87 has a retardation of a quarter-wave retarder at a visible wavelength (e.g., 550 nm) and may be a Pancharatnam retarder. The polarization control retarder 87 is arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization control retarder 87 between linear polarization states 902, 997 and circular polarization states 990, 998. The polarization control retarder 87 has a retardation and an optical axis direction 887 arranged to provide the conversion.

[0614] The optical system 250 includes an input linear polarizer 70 disposed between the spatial light modulator 48 and the array of extraction reflectors 170 , and the polarization conversion retarder 89 is curved in the lateral direction 195 .

[0615] exist Figure 27G , an illustrative arrangement of optical axis directions 871, 887, 889 of quarter wave retarders 71, 87, 89, respectively, is illustrated; and linear polarization state transmission axes 870, 885, 899 of polarizers 70, 85, 99, respectively. For illustrative purposes, the geometric configuration is unfolded after reflection at the optical retroreflector 140. At least some of the quarter wave retarders 71, 87, 89 may have a quarter wave retardation at a visible wavelength (e.g., 550 nm), and may include a stack of composite retarders arranged to achieve operation of the quarter wave retarders over an increased spectral band, for example including a Pancharatnam stack.

[0616] consider Fig.27F The polarization state in the light 489 propagates along the linear polarization state, then the linear polarization state is converted into a circular polarization state 990 in front of the absorption polarizer 85, and the absorption polarizer 85 has an electric vector transmission direction parallel to the electric vector transmission direction of the reflective linear polarizer 99.

[0617] Half of the light is transmitted through the reflective linear polarizer 99, and polarization states 991, 992, 993, 994, 995, 996, 997 are provided by various reflections and by Fig.27A Polarization conversion retarder 89 is depicted. Polarization control retarder 87 provides circular polarization state 998, wherein some light having polarization state 999S is reflected by polarization selective extraction reflectors 174A to 174C, while light having polarization state 999P is transmitted to input end 2.

[0618] As described elsewhere herein, the polarization converting retarder 71 may be arranged to reflect the remaining transmitted light to be absorbed at the input linear polarizer 70. Advantageously, the visibility of the unextracted light is reduced.

[0619] Fig.27F Alternative arrangements of polarizer and retarder sites are further illustrated.Such alternative illustrative arrangements of polarizer and retarder sites may be provided together or separately in other embodiments as described elsewhere herein.

[0620] exist Fig.27F In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the input linear polarizer 70 is not arranged at the input end 2, and a region 178 of the extraction waveguide 1 is provided between the input end 2 and the input linear polarizer 70. In operation, the linear polarizer 70 is arranged near the extraction reflector 174C and provides improved polarization state uniformity for the input light ray 489 before it is incident on the extraction reflector 174C. A further polarizer 85 is arranged close to the extraction reflector 174A.

[0621] In regions 178A, 178B there may be, for example, some residual birefringence in the bulk material of the extraction waveguide 1 which may cause some polarization state modification of the input linear polarization state. Fig.27F The arrangement achieves a more uniform polarization state 902 for light rays 489 incident on the extraction reflectors 174A-174C. Advantageously, uniformity can be improved and light lost as glare to the external environment is reduced.

[0622] Further, the polarization conversion retarder 89 is curved and is arranged on the light retro-reflector 140. Advantageously, the manufacturing complexity is reduced.

[0623] Fig.27His a schematic diagram illustrating a deformable near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the lateral deformable component 110 further includes an absorbing polarizer 85; a planar reflective linear polarizer 99; a polarization conversion retarder 89 and a further half-wave retarder 88, the polarization conversion retarder 89 being arranged between an optical retro-reflector 140 and the reflective linear polarizer 99, the optical retro-reflector 140 being a reflective end 4, the half-wave retarder 88 being arranged between an input end 2 and the reflective linear polarizer 99; and Fig.27I is a diagram illustrating illustrative polarization states through Fig.27H Schematic diagram of the propagation of polarization-controlled components. FIG. 27H to FIG. 27I Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0624] Through FIG. 27F to FIG. 27G For comparison, FIG. 27H to FIG. 27I In an alternative embodiment, the polarization control retarder 87 has a half-wavelength delay at visible light wavelengths and is arranged to rotate the linear polarization state, for example between linear polarization state 902 and linear polarization state 971 and between linear polarization state 998 and linear polarization state 979.

[0625] Polarization control retarder 87 has a retardation and optical axis direction 887 arranged to provide a linear polarization state 971 that is inclined 45 degrees to the electric vector transmission direction of reflective linear polarizer 99 and absorptive polarizer 85. Half of the light is transmitted as polarization state 992, as in Fig.27F As described in FIG. 1 , polarization state 992 provides a linear polarization state 998 that is transmitted through reflective linear polarizer 99 and absorptive polarizer 85. Polarization control retarder 87 converts the polarization state to a 45 degree linear state 979. Some light having polarization state 999S is reflected by polarization selective extraction reflectors 174A to 174C, while light having polarization state 999P is transmitted to input port 2.

[0626] The polarization controlled retarder 87 may have a half-wave retardation at a visible wavelength (eg, 550 nm) and may include a stack of composite retarders arranged to achieve operation of a half-wave retarder over an increased spectral band, for example including a Pancharatnam stack.

[0627] FIG. 27A to FIG. 27F Embodiments of achieve reduced losses of light propagating through the waveguide along direction 191. Advantageously, glow from the waveguide is reduced.

[0628] An alternative arrangement of the laterally anamorphic assembly 110 including a Pancharatnam-Berry lens will now be described.

[0629] Fig.28A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, a deformed near-eye display device 100 including a reflective end 4 including a Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 . Fig.28A Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0630] exist Fig.28A In an alternative embodiment of the deformable near-eye display device 100, the lens 95 of the lateral deformable component 110 is a Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350, and the light retro-reflector 140 is a plane mirror. Therefore, the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 is arranged between the extraction waveguide 1 and the reflective end 4.

[0631] exist Fig.28A In an alternative embodiment, the extraction waveguide 1 is shown having an extraction reflector 174 arranged between a plurality of plates 180, but other extraction reflectors described hereinbefore may be provided as an alternative.

[0632] In operation, the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 provides optical power in the lateral direction 195 (350) and provides no optical power in the transverse direction 197 (350). The Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 thus provides similar operation to the curved reflective end 4 and the curved reflective end 4 with lens 95 described above. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the reflective end 4 may include a curved mirror, and the optical power of the laterally anamorphic assembly 110 may be shared between the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 and the curved reflective end 4. Advantageously, aberrations may be improved.

[0633] Fig.28B is a schematic diagram illustrating the optical structure of the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 in an end view; Fig.28C is illustrated in front view Fig.28B Schematic diagram of the optical structure of the Pancharatnam–Berry lens. FIG. 28B to FIG. 28C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0634] Fig.28B and Fig.28CAn alternative embodiment of the invention illustrates a Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 that includes liquid crystal molecules 354 disposed on an orientation layer 352 and a supporting substrate 355. The orientation layer 352 provides a component 357 of the director direction (generally the direction of the extraordinary refractive index) of the liquid crystal molecules 354 that varies across the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 in the lateral direction 195. In the lateral direction 197 (350), there is no variation in the component 357 of the director direction, so the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 does not provide phase shift modulation.

[0635] During fabrication, the orientation layer 352 may be formed, for example, by exposing and curing the photo-orientation layer with circularly polarized light having a desired phase profile to achieve a change in the optical axis direction 357. More specifically, an interference pattern is created between two oppositely circularly polarized wavefronts that creates localized linearly polarized light whose orientation varies in the plane of the orientation layer to provide the desired orientation profile through the orientation layer 352. The orientation layer is thus oriented with linearly polarized light to provide the optical axis direction 357 in the layer of liquid crystal material 354, which provides the desired optical power profile.

[0636] The layer of liquid crystal material 354 may have a thickness g, which has a half-wave thickness at a desired wavelength of light (e.g., 550 nm). Liquid crystal material 354 may be a solidified liquid crystal material such as a liquid crystal polymer, or may be a nematic liquid crystal material disposed between opposing alignment layers.

[0637] Fig.29 This diagram is for Fig.28B Schematic plot of the phase difference of an illustrative Pancharatnam-Berry lens as a function of lateral position. Fig.29 The figure illustrates a profile 358A of phase delay across the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 across the end 4 in the lateral direction 195 for a monochromatic circularly polarized plane wave incident on the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350. The spacing Λ of the profile of the phase across the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 varies across the lateral direction 195 to achieve the profile 358A, with a large spacing at location 161, which may be the center of the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350, and a decreasing spacing Λ on both sides. Fig.28B As illustrated in , the liquid crystal material director rotates across the spacing Λ, which provides a phase difference to circularly polarized incident light and therefore provides a deflection of the incident wavefront.

[0638] At one site 161 of the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 (typically the center of the end 4 of the extraction waveguide 1), the liquid crystal molecules 354 are oriented so that there is no relative phase difference. Contour 358A illustrates phase modulation for a first circular polarization state (which may be a right-handed circular polarization state), and contour 358B illustrates phase modulation for a second circular polarization state (which may be a left-handed circular polarization state) orthogonal to the first polarization state.

[0639] Fig.30 A schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the lateral deformation assembly 110 is illustrated in a front view with a portion of the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 providing a lateral deformation assembly 110 across the end 4 of the extraction waveguide 1 in the lateral direction 195 . Fig.30 Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0640] Light rays 440 , 442 incident on the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 and propagating along the direction 191 of the extraction waveguide 1 are polarized in a linear polarization state 902 .

[0641] For light ray 440 at location 161, incident polarization state 902 is transmitted with a phase difference by polarization control retarder 72 to provide circular polarization state 922. The Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 uses polarization control retarder 72 (which is the same retarder used to optimize transmission and reflectivity) for polarized light that extracts the dielectric layer of reflectors 170, 174, thereby advantageously achieving improved efficiency.

[0642] The Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 does not provide relative phase modulation at position 161 so that reflection of the light 440 from the optical retroreflector 140 provides an orthogonal circular polarization state 924, which is transmitted as polarization state 924 along direction 193 back toward the extraction reflector 169, which can be a reflector such as the extraction reflectors 170, 174, 218 described above.

[0643] For the offset distance X from the site 161 in the lateral direction 195 L902 is transmitted again by the polarization control retarder 72 with a phase difference to provide a circular polarization state 922. The Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 provides a phase difference gradient so that the light ray 442 representing the plane phase front is deflected compared to the illustrative undeflected light ray 444. After reflection from the light retro-reflector 140, a further phase shift is provided by the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 so that the light ray 442 undergoes further deflection. The reflected light ray 442 propagating in the direction 193 along the extraction waveguide 1 is parallel to the returning light ray 440. Thus, the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350, the light retro-reflector 140 and the polarization control retarder 72 achieve the desired optical function of the lateral deformation component 110.

[0644] Advantageously, the physical size of the lateral morphing component 110 is reduced and a more compact arrangement is achieved. The phase profile may further provide correction for aberrations of the lateral morphing component 110 .

[0645] In other embodiments, a plurality of Pancharatnam-Berry lenses 350 or a plurality of Pancharatnam-Berry lenses 350 may be used in conjunction with, for example, Fig.25A A Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 in combination with the refractive lens 95 and the curved reflective end 4 illustrated in FIG. 1 may be provided, the refractive lens 95 and the curved reflective end 4 may be separated in the direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1. Improved aberration control may be achieved, and the exit pupil 40 may be expanded in the lateral direction 195. Advantageously, Figure 1F The blurred ellipse may have a reduced width of 455.

[0646]

[0046] Lenses for use with anamorphic near-eye display device 100 will now be described.

[0647] Fig.31A is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 further including a lens 290 in a side view. Fig.31A Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0648] The anamorphic near-eye display device 100 described above provides a virtual image 36 located in the far field so that the nominal viewing distance Z v It may be desirable to provide a distance Z to the virtual image plane 33 of the virtual image 36 provided by the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 v Modifications.

[0649] The head mounted display device 600 further includes at least one lens 290, which may be a corrective lens having an optical power for correcting vision. The correction of vision may, for example, correct vision, such as presbyopia, astigmatism, myopia, or hyperopia of the display user 45.

[0650] Lens 290 may further or alternatively be used to provide virtual image 33 so that distance Z v is a focal plane modifying lens at infinite distance. Such an arrangement can provide focus cues suitable for the display user 47 so that the virtual image desired to be close to the user 47 is provided at the desired focus distance. In stereoscopic display applications, the focus correction of the lens 290 can be arranged to approximate the convergence distance of the image. Focus-convergence mismatch can be reduced, and advantageously, visual stress is reduced, thereby improving comfort of use.

[0651] Such a lens 290 can be used, for example, FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B Glasses head mounted display device 600 or Fig.16A In a virtual reality head mounted display device 600.

[0652] It may be desirable to adjust the focus distance Z of the virtual image v .

[0653] Fig.31B is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 of FIG. 1 further including a Pancharatnam-Berry lens 386 in side view. Fig.31B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0654] exist Fig.31B In an alternative embodiment, the deformable near-eye display device 100 is arranged to direct the output light 37 into a lens 290, which includes a switchable optical stack.

[0655] The switchable optical stack comprises an input polarizer 380, transparent substrates 381A, 381B having an electrically switchable liquid crystal layer 384 provided therebetween, and a quarter wave retarder 382. In a first state, the liquid crystal layer 384 is arranged to provide no polarization rotation of polarized light from the polarizer 380, and the switchable optical stack provides a first circularly polarized output polarization state 383A. In a second state, the liquid crystal layer 384 is arranged to provide polarization rotation of polarized light from the polarizer 380, and the switchable optical stack provides a second circularly polarized output polarization state 383B orthogonal to the polarization state 383A.

[0656] The Pancharatnam-Berry lens 386 includes the Fig.28B The circularly symmetric orientation of the liquid crystal molecules is similar to the orientation of the lateral direction 195, but different across the circularly symmetric orientation of each radius. The Pancharatnam-Berry lens 386 thus provides a circularly symmetric first phase radius profile and a circularly symmetric second phase radius profile, the circularly symmetric first phase radius profile being similar to Fig.29 For the light with polarization state 383A, the circularly symmetric second phase radius profile is similar to Fig.29 Profile 358B for light having polarization state 383B. The output polarization state from Pancharatnam-Berry lens 386 is analyzed by quarter wave retarder 387 and linear polarizer 388.

[0657] The output light from lens 290A (having either positive or negative power modification of the wavefront from the anamorphic near-eye display device 100) is then incident on fixed lens 290B so that eye 45 observes one of two power corrections.

[0658] Considering the virtual image 34, the absence of lens 290A will be at distance Z v In the first state of the liquid crystal layer 384, a virtual image 334A is provided at a distance Z. v With interval ΔZ A ; and in the second state of the liquid crystal layer 384, the virtual image 334B is provided with a distance Z v With interval ΔZ B .

[0659] In an alternative embodiment, lens 290B may be provided by a Pancharatnam-Berry lens. Advantageously, the thickness may be reduced.

[0660] The lenses 290A, 290B thus achieve an adjustable focus distance for the virtual images 334A, 334B. A stack of lenses 290A with, for example, a geometric sequence of power adjustments can be provided to achieve improved fidelity at the location of the virtual image 334. Focus conflicts with the provided image can be advantageously reduced, and image comfort can be improved. Comfortable use time for the head mounted display device 600 can be extended.

[0661] It may be desirable to provide a virtual image 34 that does not have infinite conjugation while not modifying the real image 30 magnification or distance Z. R .

[0662] Fig.32A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device 600 including a first focal plane modifying lens 290A and a second focal plane modifying lens 290B. Fig.32AFeatures of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0663] exist Fig.32A In an alternative embodiment, the deformable near-eye display device 100 is arranged between focal plane modification lenses 290A, 290B. Lens 290A is arranged to modify the distance Z to the virtual image 34 by deflecting light 482 from the deformable near-eye display device 100. v The focal plane of the lens is modified.

[0664] Lens 290B is a correction lens arranged to correct the optical power of lens 290A so that light rays 484 from real image 30 are not deflected by head mounted display device 600. Advantageously, virtual image 34 can be provided in the vicinity of the eye, for example to provide a user interface superimposed with the real world image, thereby advantageously reducing degradation of real world image 30.

[0665] Lenses 290A, 290B may be Pancharatnam-Berry lenses as described above, such that the distance Z V can be modified corresponding to the desired image data. Lenses 290A, 290B can have the same optical design, and lens 290B can be driven in an opposite output to lens 290A to achieve a resulting zero focus of lenses 290A, 290B. Advantageously, cost and complexity can be reduced.

[0666] Fig.32B is a schematic diagram illustrating a head mounted display device 600 in side view, the head mounted display device 600 including a plurality of extraction waveguides and further including a first focal plane modifying lens and a second focal plane modifying lens. Fig.32B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0667] exist Fig.32B In an alternative embodiment, two deformable near-eye display devices 100A, 100B are provided to realize multiple virtual images 34A, 34B. The performance of the head-mounted display device can be improved, for example, as described above for Fig.16D Further, the focal plane modifying lenses 290A, 290B are provided with Fig.32A Advantageously, the real world image 30 may be provided with reduced degradation.

[0668] It may be desirable to provide a plurality of focal lengths Z v A. Z vVirtual images 34A and 34B of B.

[0669] Fig.32C is a schematic diagram illustrating a head mounted display device 600 in side view, the head mounted display device 600 including a plurality of extraction waveguides and three focal plane modifying lenses 290A, 290B, 290C. Fig.32C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0670] and Fig.32B Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig.32C In an alternative embodiment of , a further focal plane modifying lens 290C is provided to receive light from the anamorphic near eye display device 100A and pass the light to the further anamorphic near eye display device 100B. Virtual image distance Z for light from one of the anamorphic near eye display devices 100A v A is different from the virtual image distance Z for light from at least one other near-eye display device 100B v B. Multiple focal planes 33A, 33B may advantageously enable increased image comfort.

[0671] Lens 290C cooperates with lens 290A to provide second virtual image 34B, and lens 290B cooperates with lenses 290A, 290C to provide zero total optical power. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), lens 290B can be omitted, for example for virtual reality applications. Advantageously, cost and complexity can be reduced.

[0672] It may be desirable to improve the performance of a virtual reality head mounted display device by providing enhanced control of the focal plane 33 , 633 .

[0673] Fig.32D is a schematic diagram illustrating a head mounted display device 600 in side view, the head mounted display device 600 including a non-deformed near eye display device 610 and a deformed near eye display device 100 . Fig.32D Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0674] and Fig.16F Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig.32DIn an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the non-anamorphic near eye display device 610 includes an actuator 612 arranged to move the further spatial light modulator 648 in relation to the non-anamorphic magnification optical system 660 to adjust the magnification of the non-anamorphic near eye display device 100. The virtual image distance 663 provided by the light rays 482 for light from the anamorphic near eye display device 100 is different from the virtual image distance 661 provided by the light rays 482 for light from the non-anamorphic near eye display device 610. The distance F may be adjusted corresponding to the desired image data that may be responsive to the measured viewing direction of the eye 45.

[0675] Advantageously, user comfort may be improved.

[0676] Fig.32E is a schematic diagram illustrating a head mounted display device 600 in side view, the head mounted display device 600 including a non-deformed near eye display device 610 , a deformed near eye display device 100 , and a focal plane modifying lens 290 . Fig.32E Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0677] exist Fig.32D In an alternative embodiment, an additional focal plane modifying lens 290 is provided between the non-deformed near eye display device 610 and the deformed near eye display device 100. The lens 290 may include a controllable Pancharatnam-Berry lens. The actuator 612 may optionally be omitted. The range of focal lengths ΔZ v A can be increased and the control speed can be improved. User comfort can advantageously be improved.

[0678] Fig.32F is a schematic diagram illustrating a head-mounted display device in a side view, the head-mounted display device including a non-deformed near-eye display device 610, a deformed near-eye display device 100, and a focal plane modifying lens 290, wherein the focal plane modifying lens 290 is arranged to receive light from the non-deformed near-eye display device and the deformed near-eye display device. Fig.32F Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0679] exist Fig.32F In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the focal plane modification lens 290 is arranged to provide a finite virtual image distance 33, 633. Further, the focal plane modification lens 290 may be controllable to achieve a variable focal plane distance ΔZ from the display 610, 100, respectively. v A. ΔZ vB. User comfort can advantageously be improved.

[0680] Figure 32G is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device 600 including a non-deformed near eye display device 610, a deformed near eye display device 100, and two focal plane modifying lenses 290A, 290B. Figure 32G Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0681] and FIG. 32E to FIG. 32F Compared with the implementation scheme, Figure 32G In an alternative embodiment, the focal plane modifying lenses 290A, 290B are arranged with an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 provided therebetween. A focal plane control of the two virtual images 33, 633 may be provided. Advantageously, user comfort may be further improved.

[0682] Fig.32H is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a head mounted display device 600 including a non-deformed near-eye display device 610, two deformed extraction waveguides 1100A, 110B, and focal plane modifying lenses 290A, 290B. Fig.32H Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0683] exist Fig.32H In an alternative embodiment, multiple images 33A, 33B, 634 may be provided with multiple focus ranges ΔZ that may overlap. v A. ΔZ v B. ΔZ v C. A focal plane control of the virtual image 33A, 33B, 633 may be provided. Advantageously, user comfort may be further improved.

[0684] Alternative arrangements of the lighting system and the lateral deformation assembly 60 will now be described.

[0685] Fig.33A is a schematic diagram illustrating details of the arrangement of a transverse lens 61 in side view, the transverse lens 61 forming the transverse deformation assembly 60; and Fig.33B is illustrated in front view Fig.33A Schematic diagram of a detail of the arrangement of the lateral lens 61. FIG. 33A to FIG. 33B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0686] exist Fig.33A In an alternative embodiment, the lateral lens 61 forming the lateral deformation assembly 60 comprises composite lenses 61A to 61C. Further, the composite lens may comprise a lens 61D, which comprises the curved input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 . Fig.33B The illustration shows that the illumination system 240 and the lateral deformation assembly 60 do not provide optical focal length in the lateral direction 195, that is, the composite lenses 61A to 61D are cylindrical or elongated with an aspheric surface profile (e.g., an aspheric surface as illustrated by the shape of lenses 61A to 61B) to achieve improved field aberrations and advantageously increase the MTF at higher field angles.

[0687] Advantageously, aberrations in the lateral direction 197 ( 60 ) may be improved.

[0688] Further, the illumination system may include a reflective spatial light modulator 48, an illumination array 302 including light sources 304, and a beam combiner cube arranged to illuminate the spatial light modulator 48. The illumination array 302 may include light sources of different colors so that the spatial light modulator 48 may provide time-sequential colored illumination.

[0689] Fig.33A Further illustrating that the lateral anamorphic component 60 may include a lateral diffractive component 67 provided with optical power in a lateral direction 197. Component 67 may have an angle-dependent chromatic aberration to correct for chromatic aberration from refractive components 60A to 60D in the lateral direction 197. Color blur in the lateral direction 197 may advantageously be reduced.

[0690] Fig.34A is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view a spatial light modulator arrangement 50 for use in the deformed near-eye display device 100 of FIG. 1 including separate red, green, and blue spatial light modulators 48R, 48G, 48B and a beam combining element 82 . Fig.34A Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0691] Fig.34AAn alternative embodiment of the illustrated illumination system 240 may include a red spatial light modulator 48R, a green spatial light modulator 48G, and a blue spatial light modulator 48B and a color combining prism arranged to direct light rays 412R, 412G, 412B toward the lateral anamorphic assembly 60. Such an arrangement may be used to provide a high resolution color image from, for example, an emissive spatial light modulator 48. The emissive display may be, for example, an OLED on silicon or a micro-LED on silicon spatial light modulator 48. Advantageously, a high resolution color virtual image may be provided.

[0692] Fig.34B is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, an illumination system 240 and a lateral morphing assembly 60 for use in the morphing near-eye display device 100 of FIG. 1 including a birdbath fold arrangement. Fig.34B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0693] exist Fig.34B In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the spatial light modulator 48 illuminates a catadioptric illumination system 240 comprising an input lens 79, a curved mirror 86A and a partial reflector 81 so that the light 412 is directed into the input side 2 of the extraction waveguide 1. Advantageously, chromatic aberrations in the lateral direction 197 can be reduced. The partial reflector 81 can be a polarizing beam splitter or can be, for example, a thin metallized layer.

[0694] Additionally or alternatively, a curved mirror 86B may be provided to improve operating efficiency.

[0695] An alternative arrangement of the lateral deformation assembly 60 including the input reflector 62 will now be described.

[0696] Fig.35A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformed near-eye display device 100 including an input reflector 62; Fig.35B It is a graphic illustration Fig.35A A schematic diagram of a side view of a deformed near-eye display device 100; and Fig.35C It is a graphic illustration Fig.35A Schematic diagram of a front view of a deformed near-eye display device 100. FIG. 35A to FIG. 35C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0697] Compared with Figure 1, FIG. 35A to FIG. 35CIn an alternative embodiment of the optical system 250, the input section 12 includes an input reflector 62, which is a transverse deformation component 60 and is arranged to reflect light from the illumination system 240 and guide it along the waveguide 1. The input section 12 further includes an input face 122, which is arranged on the front side 8 or the rear side 6 of the waveguide 1 and faces the input reflector 62, and the input section 12 is arranged to receive light from the illumination system 240 through the input face 122, wherein the input face 122 is arranged outside one of the front guide surface 8 or the rear guide surface 6, and the input section 12 is integral with the waveguide 1. The input section 12 further includes a separation face 28, which extends outwardly from one of the front guide surface 8 or the rear guide surface 6 to the input face 122. The extraction features in the extraction region 284 can be of the type illustrated elsewhere herein.

[0698] FIG. 35A to FIG. 35G Embodiments of the present invention can be made using a molding process, and the reflective material 66 is formed on the curved surface 65 to provide an input reflector, such as by sputtering, evaporation or other known coating methods. Alternatively, the reflective material 66 may include a reflective film, such as ESR from 3M Company. TM Advantageously, the cost and complexity of production can be reduced.

[0699] It may be desirable to provide further control of optical aberrations in the lateral direction 197 .

[0700] Fig.35D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of an alternative deformable near-eye display device 100 including an alternative input reflector 62 and lens 61 . Fig.35D Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0701] exist Fig.35D In an alternative embodiment, the waveguide 1 has an end 2, which is an input face, the waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light from the illumination system 240 through the input face, and the input section 12 is an element separated from the waveguide 1, which further includes an output face 23 and is arranged to guide the light reflected by the input reflector 62 through the output face 23 and into the waveguide 1 through the input face 2 of the waveguide 1.

[0702] The lateral deformation assembly 60 further includes a lens 61, wherein the lens 61 of the lateral deformation assembly 60 is a composite lens 61. The lens 61 may include a refractive element 61A. Further, the lens 61 may include a lens 61B, and the lens 61B includes the curved input surface 2 of the waveguide 1. Further, the lens 61 may include a curved surface 61C and a material 61D, and the material 61D may be air or a material having a refractive index different from the refractive index of the waveguide 1 material. The lenses 61A to 61D may be arranged to reduce Figures 1A to 1D The aberration of the input reflector 62 of the lateral deformation component 60 is thus a catadioptric optical element including a refractive optical function and a reflective optical function. Advantageously, the fidelity of the image can be improved in the lateral direction.

[0703] Fig.35D An alternative embodiment is further illustrated in which the input reflector 62 is disposed on a surface of member 68 A. The surface of the input reflector 62 may advantageously be further protected. Fig.35D An alternative embodiment is further illustrated in which the lateral deformation component 110 is a reflector disposed on a surface of the member 68B. The surface of the extraction reflector 140 can advantageously be further protected. Coatings 66, 67 can be formed on the members 68A, 68B, respectively. Higher temperature processing conditions can be achieved compared to coatings for the polymer waveguide 1. Advantageously, costs can be reduced and operating efficiency can be improved. A gap 69D can be provided between the waveguide 1 end 4 and the member 68B, wherein the gap 69D can include air or a bonding material (such as an adhesive).

[0704] exist Fig.35D In an alternative embodiment, the input section 12 is not integral with the waveguide 1. The waveguide 1 has an end, the end being the input face 2, the waveguide 1 being arranged to receive light from the illumination system 240 through the input face 2, and the input section 12 is an element separate from the waveguide 1, the element further comprising an output face 23, and being arranged to guide light reflected by the input reflector 62 through the output face 23 and into the waveguide 1 through the input face 2 of the waveguide 1. Further, the lateral deformation component 60 is disposed outside the waveguide 1, and the waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light 400 from the lateral deformation component 60 through the input face 2. In other words, Fig.35D Further illustrating an alternative embodiment, in which the input section 12 and the guide section 10 of the waveguide 1 are formed of separate components 69A, 69B, respectively, and aligned across a gap 69C, which may include air or a bonding material (such as an adhesive). The components 69A, 69B can be formed separately during manufacturing, thereby reducing the processing complexity of the surface of the waveguide 1 and advantageously improving production yields.

[0705] It may be desirable to increase the size of spatial light modulator 48 in the lateral direction.

[0706] FIG. 35E to FIG. 35G is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of a deformed near-eye display device 100 including an input reflector 62 in side view. FIG. 35E to FIG. 35G Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0707] exist FIG. 35E to FIG. 35F In an alternative embodiment, the input face 122 extends parallel to the front guide surface 8 when the input face 122 is on the front side of the waveguide 1, or extends parallel to the rear guide surface 6 when the input face 122 is on the rear side of the waveguide 1. Fig.35E The input face 122 is comprised, which is coplanar with the front guide surface 8 in the case where the input face 122 is on the front side of the waveguide 1, or coplanar with the rear guide surface 6 in the case where the input face 122 is on the rear side of the waveguide 1. Advantageously, the spatial light modulator 48 can be provided on a driver board of larger size.

[0708] exist Fig.35F In an alternative embodiment, the input face 122 is offset and parallel to the front guide surface 8 in the case where the input face 122 is on the front side of the waveguide 1, or is offset and parallel to the rear guide surface 6 in the case where the input face 122 is on the rear side of the waveguide 1. Advantageously, the spatial light modulator 48 can be provided in or near the arm 604 of the headgear 600.

[0709] exist Figure 35G In an alternative embodiment, the input face 122 extends at an acute angle θ to the front guide surface 8 in case the input face 122 is on the front side of the waveguide 1, or extends at an acute angle θ to the rear guide surface 6 in case the input face 122 is on the rear side of the waveguide 1. Advantageously, a more convenient mechanical arrangement may be provided.

[0710] exist FIG. 35E to FIG. 35G In an alternative embodiment, the extracted features can be of the type illustrated elsewhere herein.

[0711] Fig.36A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of the input focusing lens 61 in a perspective front view. Fig.36A Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0712] Spatial light modulator 48 includes active region 49A and boundary 49B, and is aligned with the lenses of lateral anamorphic assembly 60, which is a composite lens including lenses 60A to 60F. Some of lenses 60A to 60F may include surfaces with constant radius, and some may include variable radius surfaces so that aberration correction is advantageously improved in combination.

[0713] Alternative arrangements of spatial light modulator 48, illumination system 240, and optical system 250 will now be described.

[0714] Fig.36B is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view a spatial light modulator arrangement for use in the deformed near-eye display device of FIG. 1 , the spatial light modulator arrangement comprising a spatial light modulator 48 including a laser 50 , a scanning arrangement 51 and a light diffusing screen 52 . Fig.36B Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0715] exist Fig.36B In an alternative embodiment, the spatial light modulator 48 comprises a laser 50 arranged to direct a light beam 490 towards a scanning arrangement 51 which may be, for example, a rotating mirror having an oscillation 53 which is synchronized with the image data.

[0716] The light beam 490 is arranged to illuminate the screen 52 to provide a diffuse light source 55 at the screen. The screen 52 may include a diffusing arrangement so that the transmitted light is diffused into a light cone 491 arranged to provide input light rays 492 into the lateral deformation component 60 and the extraction waveguide 1.

[0717] The screen 52 may alternatively comprise a light emitting layer, such as a phosphor laser, with the laser beam 490 being arranged to produce emission from the light emitting layer at the phosphor laser. The output color may advantageously be independent of the emission wavelength of the laser 50. Further, laser speckle may be reduced.

[0718] Laser 50 may include a one-dimensional array of lasing pixels 222 across rows 221T, and scanning arrangement 51 may provide a one-dimensional array of light sources 55 for each addressable row of spatial light modulator 48 at screen 52. The scanning speed of scanning arrangement 51 is reduced, thereby advantageously achieving reduced cost and complexity.

[0719] Alternatively, the laser 50 may comprise a single laser emitter, and the scanning arrangement 51 may provide two-dimensional scanning of the light beam 490 to achieve a two-dimensional array of pixels of the emitter 55 at the screen 52. Advantageously, the laser 50 cost may be reduced.

[0720] A further arrangement comprising a laser source will now be described.

[0721] Fig.37A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, the input of an extraction waveguide 1 comprising a spatial light modulator 48 comprising a laser source and a scanning arrangement 51; Fig.37B is a schematic diagram illustrating a spatial light modulator 48 in front view, the spatial light modulator 48 comprising Fig.37A A row of laser light sources 172 used in an arrangement of; and Fig.37C is a schematic diagram illustrating alternative lighting arrangements. FIG. 37A to FIG. 37C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0722] Fig.37A An alternative embodiment comprises a lateral deformation assembly 60 formed by a deflector element 50 comprising a scanning mirror 51 .

[0723] Fig.37B The diagram illustrates a spatial light modulator 48 comprising a one-dimensional array of pixels 222A to 222N suitable for use in the arrangement of Figure 37, wherein the pixels 222A to 222N each comprise a laser source. The control system 500 is arranged to supply image data one row at a time to the spatial light modulator 48 controller 505, which outputs the pixel data to the laser pixels 222A to 222N by means of a driver 509, and outputs the position data to the scanning arrangement 51 by means of a scanner driver 511. The laser pixels 222A to 222N are arranged to have a pitch P in the lateral direction 195. L A row, with a spacing P in the lateral direction 195 L With e.g. Figure 2D The spacing is the same as shown in the figure.

[0724] Return to Fig.37A1 , in operation, image data for a first addressed row of image data is applied to laser pixels 222A to 222N, and scanning arrangement 51 is adjusted so that laser light from spatial light modulator 48 is directed as light ray 490A in a first direction across transverse direction 197. At different times, image data for different addressed rows of image data are applied to laser pixels 222A to 222N, and scanning arrangement 51 is adjusted so that laser light from spatial light modulator 48 is directed as light ray 490B in different directions across transverse direction 197. Laterally morphing assembly 60 is thus arranged to receive light from spatial light modulator 48, and illumination system 240 is arranged so that light output from laterally morphing assembly 60 is directed in a cone 491 in directions as illustrated by light rays 490A, 490B distributed in the transverse direction.

[0725] In other words, the scanning arrangement 51 scans about the lateral direction 197 (60) and is used to sequentially provide the illustrative light rays 490A, 490B. By means of sequential scanning, the scanning arrangement 51 effectively has positive optical power in the lateral direction 197 (60) for the light from the spatial light modulator 48, thereby realizing the output cone 491 in a sequential manner. In this way, the scanning arrangement 51 guides the light into directions distributed in the lateral direction so that it can be used as a lateral deformation component 60. The scanning of the scanning arrangement 51 can be arranged not to guide the light near or parallel to the direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1. Advantageously, double imaging is reduced.

[0726] Advantageously, the cost and complexity of the lighting system 240 and the lateral deformation assembly 60 may be reduced.

[0727] Fig.37C An alternative embodiment provides a beam expander 61A, 61B that increases the width 63 of the output beam from the illumination system 240. Fig.37C , the illumination system 240 further comprises a deflector element 50 arranged to deflect light output from the lateral morphing assembly 60 by a selectable amount, the deflector element 50 being selectively operable to direct light output from the lateral morphing assembly 60 into directions distributed in the lateral direction 197. Advantageously, uniformity of the output image from across the exit pupil 40 is provided.

[0728] It may be desirable to provide tracking sensors to determine the location of the viewer's pupils.

[0729] Fig.38A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in a perspective front view, an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 including an eye tracking arrangement 700; Fig.38Bis a schematic diagram illustrating in side view an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 including an eye-tracking arrangement 700 having a transmissive aperture 702 arranged at a reflective end; and Fig.38C is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in side view including an eye tracking arrangement 700 having a partially transflective reflector arranged with a light retroreflector 140 . FIG. 38A to FIG. 38C Features of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0730] exist FIG. 38A to FIG. 38C In an alternative embodiment, the extraction waveguide 1 is shown having a stepped extraction reflector 170, but other extraction reflectors (such as those described above) may be provided as an alternative.

[0731] exist FIG. 38A to FIG. 38B In an alternative embodiment of the invention, an aperture is provided in the light retro-reflector 140. In operation, some light from the eye 45 may be reflected into the extraction waveguide 1 and directed toward the light retro-reflector 140. Some light rays 710 incident on the aperture 702 are directed onto an optional lens 706 and an optical sensor 704, which is arranged to collect received image data for locations 745 at the sensor of the image of the eye 45. The image of the eye 45 may be directed to the plurality of locations 745 from the respective extraction reflectors 170 and from the guidance of light in the extraction waveguide 1. A machine learning algorithm may be executed in the position location estimation unit 545 to determine the most likely eye 45 location based on the image with the location 745 from the sensor 704. The eye location data is returned to the control system 500. The control system may be adjusted to optimize the image quality for the measured eye 45 location, thereby advantageously improving the image quality.

[0732] exist Fig.38C In an alternative embodiment, the light retroreflector 140 may be partially transmissive, for example for infrared illumination of the eye 45 by light ray 707 provided by a light source 706 arranged at the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1. Advantageously, improved uniformity of image data output to the eye 45 may be achieved.

[0733] The lighting system 240 and the optical system 250 of the above embodiment may be provided for a modified directional lighting device for illumination of an external scene 479 .

[0734] Fig.39A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformed directional lighting device 1000. Fig.39AFeatures of the embodiments that are not discussed in further detail may be assumed to correspond to features as discussed above with equivalent reference numerals, including any possible variations in features.

[0735] Fig.29 A alternative embodiment of the invention illustrates a modified directional lighting device 1000, which includes a lighting system 240, which includes a light source array 948, and the lighting system is arranged to output light. The light source array 948 can, for example, include an array of light emitting diodes, or can be provided by a spatial light modulator 48 as described elsewhere herein.

[0736] The optical system 250 is arranged to direct light from the illumination system 240. Light in the light cone 499 may be directed toward an external illuminated scene 479. The illuminated scene 479 may include, but is not limited to, a road, a room, an exterior space, processing equipment, a metrology environment, a theatrical stage, a human body (e.g., for facial lighting for facial detection and measurement purposes).

[0737] The optical system 250 has an optical axis 199 and has deformation properties in a lateral direction 195 and a transverse direction 197 that are perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis 199, wherein the light source array 948 includes light sources 949a to 949n distributed in the lateral direction 195, and as described elsewhere in this document, the light sources 949a to 949n can be further distributed in the transverse direction 197.

[0738] The optical system 250 further includes a lateral deformation component 60 having positive optical power in the lateral direction 197, wherein the lateral deformation component 60 is arranged to receive light from the light source array 948, and the illumination system 250 is arranged so that the light output from the lateral deformation component 60 is guided in a direction distributed in the lateral direction 197.

[0739] The optical system 250 further includes an extraction waveguide 1 and a lateral deformation component 110, wherein the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light from the lateral deformation component 60, the lateral deformation component 110 has positive optical power in the lateral direction 195, and the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to guide the light in the light cone 491 along the extraction waveguide 1 to the lateral deformation component 110 in the first direction 191.

[0740] The light retro-reflector 140 is arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a first direction 191 such that reflected light in the light cone 493 is guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 opposite to the first direction 191 .

[0741] The extraction waveguide 1 includes at least one reflective extraction feature 970 arranged inside the extraction waveguide 1, and the at least one reflective extraction feature 970 is arranged to transmit light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a first direction 191 and extract light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 to provide an output light cone 499 guided toward the illuminated scene 479.

[0742] Fig.39A Variations of directional lighting device 1000 may include various embodiments arranged to improve efficiency and image quality as described elsewhere herein.

[0743] By comparison with the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 described above, the output light from the anamorphic directional lighting device 1000 is provided as an illumination cone 951a-951n for illuminating the scene 479, as compared to angular pixel information for illuminating the pupil 44 and the retina 46. High resolution imaging of the illuminated scene 479 can be achieved in a compact package with high efficiency and low cost.

[0744] Light source 949 may output light that is visible or infrared. Advantageously, directional illumination of scene 479 may be provided for visible illumination or scene illumination of other detectors such as a LIDAR detector. Light source 949 may have different spectral outputs. The different spectral outputs include: a white light spectrum, a plurality of different white light spectra, red light, orange light, and / or infrared light. Visible illumination may be provided, and further illumination for detection purposes may also be provided, which may have different illumination structures to achieve an improved signal-to-noise ratio for detection.

[0745] In an alternative embodiment, scene 479 may include a projection screen, and deformable directional lighting device 1000 may provide projection of the image onto the projection screen. Advantageously, a lightweight portable image projector with high efficiency may be provided in a thin package.

[0746] Fig.39A The reflective extraction feature 970 may alternatively be provided by an array of light extraction features 970a to 970n. Advantageously, the aesthetic appearance of the directional lighting appearance may be modified. Alternatively, the reflective extraction feature 970 may be provided by at least one of the reflective extraction features 169 as described elsewhere hereinabove, and may include at least one feature such as, but not limited to, extraction reflectors 170, 172, 174 and diffractive extraction feature 112B. Alternative embodiments of the light source array 948 may be provided by an array of light extraction features 970a to 970n as described hereinabove (e.g., in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D , Fig.36B and FIG. 37A to FIG. 37CThe lateral deformation ...

Claims

1. A deformable near-eye display device, the deformable near-eye display device comprising: an illumination system, the illumination system comprising a spatial light modulator, the illumination system being arranged to output light; as well as An optical system arranged to direct light from the illumination system to an eye of a viewer, wherein the optical system has an optical axis and has an anamorphic property in a lateral direction and a transverse direction perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein the spatial light modulator comprises pixels distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse anamorphic component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse anamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator, and the illumination system is arranged such that light output from the transverse anamorphic component is directed in directions distributed in the transverse direction; an extraction waveguide arranged to receive light from the lateral deformation component; a lateral anamorphic component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the extraction waveguide being arranged to guide light from the lateral anamorphic component along the extraction waveguide to the lateral anamorphic component in a first direction; and a light retro-reflector arranged to reflect light that has been directed along the extraction waveguide in the first direction so that the reflected light is directed along the extraction waveguide in a second direction opposite to the first direction, The extraction waveguide comprises an array of reflective extraction features disposed inside the extraction waveguide, the reflective extraction features being arranged to transmit light guided along the extraction waveguide in the first direction and to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide in the second direction toward an eye of a viewer, the array of reflective extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion.

2. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 1, wherein the reflective extraction feature includes an extraction reflector that extends across at least a portion of the extraction waveguide and between a front guide surface and a rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

3. A morphing near-eye display device according to claim 2, wherein the array of reflective extraction reflectors has a reflectivity defined across their entire area that increases with increasing distance along the second direction.

4. A morphing near-eye display device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the extraction reflector comprises extraction surfaces separated by a partially reflective coating.

5. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 4, wherein the partially reflective coating comprises at least one dielectric layer.

6. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 5, wherein the at least one dielectric layer comprises a stack of dielectric layers.

7. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 4, wherein the partially reflective coating is metallic.

8. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 2, wherein the extraction reflector comprises extraction surfaces separated by gaps.

9. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 8, wherein the extraction surface has an anti-reflective coating.

10. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the extraction reflector extends partially across the extraction waveguide, between the front guide surface and the rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide at a continuously shifted position.

11. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 10, wherein the extraction reflector extends to the front guide surface and the rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

12. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 11, wherein the extraction reflector does not extend to the front guide surface and the rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

13. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising an intermediate reflector extending along the extraction waveguide between adjacent pairs of extraction reflectors.

14. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 13, wherein the intermediate reflector comprises intermediate surfaces separated by a partially reflective coating.

15. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 14, wherein the partially reflective coating comprises at least one dielectric layer.

16. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 15, wherein the at least one dielectric layer comprises a stack of dielectric layers.

17. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 14, wherein the partially reflective coating is metallic.

18. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 13, wherein the intermediate reflector comprises intermediate surfaces separated by gaps.

19. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 18, wherein the intermediate surface has an anti-reflective coating.

20. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 10 to 19, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises a plurality of components having facing stepped surfaces attached together, the stepped surfaces being formed having alternating extraction surfaces extending in the lateral direction and intermediate surfaces extending along the extraction waveguide, wherein the extraction reflector comprises the facing extraction surfaces.

21. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 20, wherein the intermediate surfaces are optically coupled together.

22. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 10 to 21, wherein the extraction reflector comprises a plurality of sets of extraction reflectors, wherein: Within each group of extraction reflectors, the extraction reflectors extend partially across the extraction waveguide at successively displaced positions in the lateral direction, with different groups of extraction reflectors overlapping in extent in the lateral direction.

23. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein at least a portion of the extraction waveguide comprises a plurality of component plates optically coupled together, wherein the extraction reflector is formed between the component plates.

24. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 2 to 9 or 23, wherein the extraction reflector extends between the front guide surface and the rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

25. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, 23 or 24, wherein the extraction reflectors have the same reflective area.

26. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, 23 or 24, wherein the extraction reflector is patterned to have different reflective zones, and the different reflective zones have a reflectivity defined across their entire area that increases with increasing distance along the optical axis.

27. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 2 to 26, wherein the extraction reflector has a surface normal direction, which is inclined at an angle in the range of 20 degrees to 40 degrees relative to the direction along the extraction waveguide, preferably at an angle in the range of 25 degrees to 35 degrees, and most preferably at an angle in the range of 27.5 degrees to 32.5 degrees.

28. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 1, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises a transmissive element and a diffractive optical element optically coupled together, wherein the reflective extraction feature comprises a portion of the diffractive optical element.

29. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 28, wherein the diffractive optical element is a volume hologram.

30. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the front and rear guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide have an anti-reflective coating.

31. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any preceding claim, wherein the optical system further comprises: an input linear polarizer disposed between the transverse deformation assembly and an input end of the extraction waveguide; as well as A polarization conversion retarder is disposed between the transverse deformation component and the input linear polarizer, the polarization conversion retarder being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state.

32. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 31 , wherein the polarization-converting retarder has a quarter-wavelength retardation at visible wavelengths.

33. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light retro-reflector is a reflective end of the extraction waveguide.

34. A morphing near-eye display device according to any preceding claim, wherein the laterally morphing component comprises the light retro-reflector.

35. A deformable near-eye display device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the optical system includes an input linear polarizer and a polarization conversion retarder, wherein the input linear polarizer is arranged between the spatial light modulator and the array of extraction reflectors, and the polarization conversion retarder is arranged between the light reverse reflector and the array of reflective extraction features, and the polarization conversion retarder is arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state.

36. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 35, wherein the polarization-converting retarder has a quarter-wavelength retardation at visible wavelengths.

37. A morphing near-eye display device according to claim 35 or 36, wherein the input linear polariser is arranged to pass light in the extraction waveguide in a p-polarisation state.

38. A morphing near-eye display device according to any preceding claim, wherein the laterally morphing component comprises a lens.

39. A deformable near-eye display device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the optical system includes an input section, the input section includes an input reflector, the input reflector is the lateral deformable component and is arranged to reflect light from the illumination system and guide light from the illumination system along the extraction waveguide.

40. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 39, wherein the laterally anamorphic component further comprises a lens.

41. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 39 or 40, wherein the input segment further includes an input surface, which is arranged on the front side or the rear side of the extraction waveguide and faces the input reflector, and the input segment is arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input surface.

42. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 41, wherein when the input surface is on the front side of the extraction waveguide, the input surface extends at an acute angle to the front guide surface, or when the input surface is on the rear side of the extraction waveguide, the input surface extends at an acute angle to the rear guide surface.

43. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 41, wherein when the input surface is on the front side of the extraction waveguide, the input surface extends parallel to the front guide surface, or when the input surface is on the rear side of the waveguide, the input surface extends parallel to the rear guide surface.

44. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 43, wherein when the input surface is on the front side of the extraction waveguide, the input surface is coplanar with the front guide surface, or when the input surface is on the rear side of the waveguide, the input surface is coplanar with the rear guide surface.

45. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 41 to 43, wherein the input surface is disposed outside of one of the front guide surface or the rear guide surface.

46. ​​The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 45, wherein the input section further comprises a separation surface extending outwardly from one of the front guide surface or the rear guide surface to the input surface.

47. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 39 to 46, wherein the input section is integral with the extraction waveguide.

48. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 39 to 46, wherein The extraction waveguide has an end that is an input face, the extraction waveguide being arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input face, and The input section is a separate element from the extraction waveguide, the separate element further comprising an output face and arranged to guide light reflected by the input reflector through the output face and into the extraction waveguide through the input face of the extraction waveguide.

49. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein the extraction waveguide is arranged to receive light from the illumination system through an input zone on one of the opposite surfaces of the extraction waveguide, and the extraction waveguide further includes a diffraction deflector element, which is opposite to the input zone on another of the opposite surfaces of the extraction waveguide, and the diffraction deflector element is arranged to deflect light received through the input zone along the extraction waveguide.

50. The deformable near-eye display device of claim 49, wherein the lateral deformable component comprises the diffractive deflector element.

51. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein the lateral morphing component comprises a lens, optionally a composite lens.

52. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 38 or 51, wherein the extraction waveguide has an end which is an input surface, and the extraction waveguide is arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input surface.

53. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 52, wherein the lateral deformable component is disposed outside the extraction waveguide, and the extraction waveguide is arranged to receive light from the lateral deformable component through the input surface.

54. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 52 or claim 53, wherein the direction of the optical axis passing through the lateral deformable component is inclined relative to the front guide surface and the rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

55. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 52 to 54, wherein the input end is inclined relative to the front guide surface and the rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

56. A deformable near-eye display device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pixels of the spatial light modulator are also distributed in the lateral direction so that light output from the lateral deformable component is guided in a direction distributed in the lateral direction.

57. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 56, wherein the spatial light modulator includes pixels having spacing in the lateral direction and the transverse direction, and the ratio of the spacing is the same as the inverse of the ratio of the optical focal lengths of the lateral deformable optical element and the transverse deformable optical element.

58. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 55, wherein the illumination system further comprises a deflector element arranged to deflect light output from the lateral deformable component by a selectable amount, the deflector element being selectively operable to direct light output from the lateral deformable component into a direction distributed in the lateral direction.

59. A deformable near-eye display device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the front guide surface and the rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide are planar and parallel.

60. A morphing near-eye display device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reflection extraction features are tilted along the optical axis relative to the first direction and the second direction.

61. A morphing near-eye display device according to claim 60, wherein the reflection extraction features are inclined at the same angle.

62. A deformable near-eye display device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective extraction features have a varying pitch along the extraction waveguide.

63. A deformable near-eye display device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective extraction feature has a range that varies between the front guide surface and the rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

64. A deformable near eye display device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a control system arranged to operate the illumination system to provide light input in accordance with image data representing an image.

65. A deformable near-eye display device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective extraction arrangement comprises two separate regions, each region being arranged to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide towards a respective eye of the viewer.

66. A head-mounted display device, comprising a deformable near-eye display device according to any one of the preceding claims and a head fixing arrangement, wherein the head fixing arrangement is arranged to fix the deformable near-eye display device on the head of a wearer, wherein the deformable near-eye display device extends across at least one eye of the wearer.

67. A head mounted display device according to claim 66, the head mounted display device further comprising a lens having optical power, the deformable near eye display device overlying one or each lens.

68. A head mounted display device according to claim 66 or 67, wherein the head mounted display device comprises a pair of glasses.

69. A head-mounted display device according to any one of claims 66 to 68, wherein the deformed near-eye display device is a first deformed near-eye display device, and the head-mounted display device further comprises a second near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 53, wherein the deformed second near-eye display device is arranged in series with the first deformed near-eye display device.

70. The head mounted display device of claim 69, wherein a virtual image distance for light from the second deformed near eye display device is different than a virtual image distance for light from the first deformed near eye display device.

71. A head mounted display device according to any one of claims 66 to 70, the head mounted display device further comprising a non-deformed near eye display device, wherein The non-anamorphic near-eye display device comprises a non-anamorphic spatial light modulator and a non-anamorphic magnification optical system; and wherein the non-anamorphic near-eye display device is arranged in series with the anamorphic near-eye display device.

72. A head mounted display device according to any one of claims 69 to 71, wherein a virtual image distance for light from the non-deformed near eye display device is different from a virtual image distance for light from the deformed near eye display device.

73. A deformable directional lighting device, the deformable directional lighting device comprising: a lighting system comprising an array of light sources, the lighting system being arranged to output light; as well as An optical system arranged to guide light from the illumination system, wherein the optical system has an optical axis and has an anamorphic property in a lateral direction and a transverse direction perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein the light source array comprises light sources distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse anamorphic component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse anamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, and the illumination system is arranged so that light output from the transverse anamorphic component is directed in directions distributed in the transverse direction; an extraction waveguide arranged to receive light from the lateral deformation component; a lateral anamorphic component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the extraction waveguide being arranged to guide light from the lateral anamorphic component along the extraction waveguide to the lateral anamorphic component in a first direction; and a light retro-reflector arranged to reflect light that has been directed along the extraction waveguide in the first direction so that the reflected light is directed along the extraction waveguide in a second direction opposite to the first direction, The extraction waveguide comprises at least one reflective extraction feature disposed inside the extraction waveguide, and the at least one reflective extraction feature is arranged to transmit light guided along the extraction waveguide in the first direction and extract light guided along the extraction waveguide in the second direction.

74. A vehicle exterior lamp device, comprising the deformed directional lighting device according to claim 73.

75. A vehicle exterior light device, the vehicle exterior light device comprising: a housing for mounting on a vehicle; According to the vehicle exterior light device according to claim 74, the vehicle exterior light device is mounted on the housing.

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