Image display device and light guide plate

Abstract

The present technology provides a system including an eye tracking device that generates eyeball information of an eyeball of a user. The system includes an image output device that outputs light to an eyeball of a user, and an image generator that generates and actively adjusts light propagating along an optical path to the image output device based on eyeball information.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority from Japanese Priority Patent Application JP 2022-149904 filed on September 21, 2022, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0003] The present technology relates to an image display device and a light guide plate. Background Art

[0004] In the prior art, in order to realize extended reality (XR) including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), etc., a technology of projecting image light onto the eyeballs of a user so that the user can visually recognize an image has been developed. For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose technologies of projecting image light onto the eyeballs of a user so that the user can visually recognize an image.

[0005] Citation List

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] PTL 1: WO 2021 / 220638 A

[0008] PTL 2: JP H6-308422 A Summary of the invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] There is room for improvement in reducing the size of the display devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2.

[0011] Therefore, it is desirable to provide an image display device and a light guide plate that contribute to reducing the size of the device.

[0012] Solution to the problem

[0013] The present technology provides an image display device, including: an image light generating unit that generates image light; a light guide plate that guides the image light to the eyeball of a user; and a detection unit that detects eyeball information, which is information associated with the eyeball. The image light generating unit is configured to be able to switch a plurality of image lights to be emitted to the light guide plate based on the eyeball information, and the light guide plate includes at least a substrate that totally reflects and guides the incident image light, and a deflection unit that converges the image light at the rotation center of the eyeball.

[0014] The eye information may include line of sight information.

[0015] The eyeball information may include a pupil diameter of the eyeball.

[0016] The eyeball information may further include an eye distance, which is a distance from the deflection portion to a corneal apex of the eyeball, or a distance from the corneal apex of the eyeball to a rotation center of the eyeball, or both.

[0017] When the deflection portion is formed on the eyeball side of the substrate, the following expression (6) can be satisfied, where φ is the incident angle of the image light on the light guide plate, L is the eye distance, which is the distance from the deflection portion to the corneal vertex of the eyeball, r is the distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball, Φ is the pupil diameter of the eyeball, and t is the thickness of the substrate.

[0018]

[0019] When the deflection portion is formed on a side opposite to the eyeball side of the substrate, the following expression (15) can be satisfied, wherein φ is the incident angle of the image light on the light guide plate, L is the interocular distance, which is the distance from the deflection portion to the corneal vertex of the eyeball, r is the distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball, Φ is the pupil diameter of the eyeball, t is the thickness of the substrate, and θ1 is the viewing angle of the image light in the substrate.

[0020]

[0021] The deflection unit may be a diffractive optical element that diffracts the image light toward the rotation center of the eyeball.

[0022] The deflection unit may be a holographic grating.

[0023] The deflection portion may be a surface relief grating.

[0024] The deflection unit may be a reflective optical element that reflects the image light toward the rotation center of the eyeball.

[0025] The image display device may further include a light shielding portion that shields a portion of the image light emitted by the image light generating unit.

[0026] The light shielding portion may have a spatial distribution in the degree of shielding of the image light.

[0027] The light shielding portion may be configured to be capable of shielding the image light and canceling the shielding of the image light in a time series.

[0028] The light shielding portion may be a mask whose light shielding position is variable.

[0029] The light shielding portion may be a liquid crystal element.

[0030] The image display device may further include a driving unit configured to move the light guide plate in an eye distance direction, the eye distance direction being a distance direction from the deflection unit to a corneal vertex of the eyeball.

[0031] The image display device may further include a calibration unit that acquires a deviation from a reference position of a user based on a user operation on a calibration image including the image light.

[0032] The image display device may further include a sensor unit that acquires an interocular distance, which is a distance from the deflection portion to a corneal apex of the eyeball, or a distance from the corneal apex of the eyeball to a rotation center of the eyeball, or both.

[0033] Furthermore, the present technology provides a light guide plate, comprising: a substrate, which totally reflects and guides incident image light; a deflection unit, which converges the image light at the rotation center of an eyeball; and a detection unit, which detects eyeball information, which is information associated with the eyeball, wherein the deflection unit converges the image light switched based on the eyeball information at the rotation center of the eyeball.

[0034] When the deflection portion is formed on the eyeball side of the substrate, the following expression (6) can be satisfied, where φ is the incident angle of the image light on the light guide plate, L is the eye distance, which is the distance from the deflection portion to the corneal vertex of the eyeball, r is the distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball, Φ is the pupil diameter of the eyeball, and t is the thickness of the substrate.

[0035]

[0036] When the deflection portion is formed on a side opposite to the eyeball side of the substrate, the following expression (15) can be satisfied, wherein φ is the incident angle of the image light on the light guide plate, L is the interocular distance, which is the distance from the deflection portion to the corneal vertex of the eyeball, r is the distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball, Φ is the pupil diameter of the eyeball, t is the thickness of the substrate, and θ1 is the viewing angle of the image light in the substrate.

[0037]

[0038] The present technology provides a system including an eye tracking device that generates eye information of an eye of a user of the system. The system includes an image output device that outputs light to the eye of the user, and an image generator that generates and actively adjusts light traveling along an optical path to the image output device based on the eye information.

[0039] The image output device outputs light to a predetermined area of ​​the eyeball. The light output to the predetermined area of ​​the eyeball converges at or near the rotation center of the eyeball. The image output device includes a light guide and an optical component that guides the light traveling in the light guide to the user's eyeball. The image generator includes a movable mirror that actively adjusts the direction of light traveling along the optical path to the image output device. The system includes a light shielding portion that actively adjusts the amount of light traveling along the optical path to the image output device. The system also includes a collimating lens located between the image generator and the image output device. The eyeball information includes line of sight information, pupil information, and eye distance information. The pupil information includes the diameter of the eyeball pupil. The image output device is movable in a direction toward the user's eyeball. The system includes a calibration device that determines the deviation of the user from a reference position. The system includes a sensor for sensing the distance between the image output device and the vertex of the cornea of ​​the eyeball. The light generated by the image generator includes a laser.

[0040] The present technology includes a system including an image generator, and the image generator includes a light source that generates light, a controllable device that adjusts the light output from the light source, and a controller that controls the controllable device based on the output of an eye tracking device, the eye tracking device generating eye information of an eye of a user of the system. Light output to a predetermined area of ​​the eye converges at or near the rotation center of the eye.

[0041] The system also includes an image output device that outputs light received from the image generator to the user's eyeball. The system also includes a collimating lens located between the image generator and the image output device. The controllable device includes a controllable light shielding portion located between the collimating lens and the image output device. The controllable device includes a movable mirror located between the light source and the collimating lens.

[0042] The present technology provides a method for a display system, including receiving eyeball information about an eyeball of a user of the display system, generating light for displaying an image to the user's eyeball through an image output device, and actively adjusting light traveling along an optical path to the image output device based on the eyeball information so that the light output from the image output device converges at the rotation center of the eyeball.

[0043] Actively conditioning light involves controlling optical elements to redirect light or selectively block portions of light.

[0044] According to the present technology, an image display device and a light guide plate that contribute to downsizing of the device can be provided. Note that the effects described herein are not necessarily limited, and the effect may be any effect described in the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 : is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device according to a first embodiment of the present technology.

[0046] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 : is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device according to a first embodiment of the present technology.

[0047] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the image light generating unit according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0048] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the correlation between the light guide plate and the eyeball according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0049] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the correlation between the light guide plate and the eyeball according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0050] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 : is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device according to a second embodiment of the present technology.

[0051] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device according to a second embodiment of the present technology.

[0052] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the image light generating unit according to the second embodiment of the present technology.

[0053] [ Fig. 9 ] Fig. 9 It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device according to a third embodiment of the present technology.

[0054] [ Fig.10 ] Fig.10 It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device according to a third embodiment of the present technology.

[0055] [ Fig.11 ] Fig.11: is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology.

[0056] [ Fig.12 ] Fig.12 It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device according to a fifth embodiment of the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present technology will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments show examples of representative embodiments of the present technology, and the scope of the present technology is not limited thereto. In addition, the present technology can combine any of the following embodiments and their modifications.

[0058] In the description of the following embodiments, "substantially" terms such as substantially parallel and substantially orthogonal may be used to describe the configuration. For example, substantially parallel refers not only to completely parallel, but also to substantially parallel, that is, including a state that is offset from a completely parallel state by about several percentage points. Similar descriptions apply to other "substantially" terms. In addition, each of the drawings is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily strictly illustrated.

[0059] In the drawings, unless otherwise specified, "upper" refers to an upward direction or upper side in the drawings, "lower" refers to a downward direction or lower side in the drawings, "left" refers to a left direction or left side in the drawings, and "right" refers to a right direction or right side in the drawings. In addition, in the drawings, the same or equivalent elements or components are represented by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0060] The description will be given in the following order.

[0061] 1. First Embodiment (Example 1 of Image Display Device)

[0062] (1) Overview

[0063] (2) Image light generation unit

[0064] (3) Light guide plate

[0065] (4) Detection unit

[0066] (5) Design value

[0067] 2. Second Embodiment (Example 2 of Image Display Device)

[0068] 3. Third Embodiment (Example 3 of Image Display Device)

[0069] 4. Fourth Embodiment (Example 4 of Image Display Device)

[0070] 5. Fifth Embodiment (Example 5 of Image Display Device)

[0071] 6. Sixth Embodiment (Example of Light Guide Plate)

[0072] <1. First Embodiment (Example 1 of Image Display Device)>

[0073] <(1) Overview>

[0074] The present technology provides an image display device, including: an image light generating unit that generates image light; a light guide plate that guides the image light to the eyeball of a user; and a detection unit that detects eyeball information, which is information associated with the eyeball. The image light generating unit is configured to be able to switch a plurality of image lights to be emitted to the light guide plate based on the eyeball information, the light guide plate including at least a substrate that totally reflects and guides incident image light and a deflection unit that converges the image light to the rotation center of the eyeball.

[0075] Will refer to Figure 1 An image display device according to a first embodiment of the present technology is described. Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device 10 according to a first embodiment of the present technology. Figure 1 As shown, the image display device 10 includes an image light generating unit 100 and a light guide plate 500. The image light generating unit 100 may also be referred to herein as an image generator 100, and the light guide plate 500 may also be referred to herein as an image output device 500. In general, and as discussed in more detail herein, the image generator 100 generates and actively adjusts light traveling along an optical path to the image output device 500 based on eyeball information.

[0076] The image display device 10 is used to realize XR including AR, VR, MR, etc. For example, the image display device 10 is used as a head-mounted display (HMD) by being installed on the user's head. For example, HMD is also called smart glasses. It should be noted that as an infrastructure, the image display device 10 can be set at a predetermined position.

[0077] <(2) Image Light Generating Unit>

[0078] The image light generating unit 100 generates image light and emits the image light toward the light guide plate 500. The image light generating unit 100 emits image light obtained by converting viewing angle information into space (position) information. For example, the image light generating unit 100 may include laser beam scanning (LBS), liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS), micro organic light emitting diode (M-OLED), micro light emitting diode (M-MED), etc.

[0079] Will refer to Figure 2 A configuration example of the image light generating unit 100 is described. Figure 21 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device 10 according to a first embodiment of the present technology. Figure 2 As shown, the image light generating unit 100 may include a light source 101, a light source driving unit 102, a deflection unit 103, an input unit 105, and a control unit 104. The control unit 104 may be referred to herein as a controller 104 and includes computer processing capabilities.

[0080] For example, the light source 101 may be a laser light source, etc. Examples of the laser light source include semiconductor lasers such as an edge emitting laser (EEL), a surface emitting laser (SEL), etc.

[0081] The light source driving unit 102 drives the light source 101. For example, the light source driving unit 102 may be a laser driver, etc. The light source driving unit 102 drives the light source 101 based on modulation data described later transmitted from the control unit 104. That is, the control unit 104 controls the light source 101 via the light source driving unit 102.

[0082] The deflection unit 103 includes two axes that are orthogonal to each other (for example, perpendicular to Figure 1 The deflection unit 103 may include a movable mirror movable about an axis on the paper surface, and another axis orthogonal to the axis, such as a MEMS mirror, a galvanometer mirror, a polygonal mirror, etc. It should be noted that the deflection unit 103 may include a first movable mirror movable around one axis and a second movable mirror movable around another axis orthogonal to the axis. The deflection unit 103 is controlled by a control unit 104. The control unit 104 controls the deflection unit 103 synchronously with the control of the light source 101. That is, in the image light generating unit 100, the light from the light source 101 driven according to the modulation data is deflected by the deflection unit 103, and image light is generated. In other words, the deflection unit 103 may include a movable mirror that actively adjusts the direction of light traveling along the optical path to the image output device 500.

[0083] Information associated with an image displayed by the image display device 10 is input to the input unit 105. For example, image data, a three-dimensional object, etc. are input to the input unit 105. The input unit 105 may correspond to an electrical input of the image generator 100 that receives an image or video signal.

[0084] The control unit 104 includes a main controller that integrally controls the entire image display device 10. The control unit 104 is implemented by hardware such as a central processing unit (CPU), a chipset, etc. The control unit 104 generates modulation data based on image data input from an external device or input via a network, and transmits the modulation data to the light source driving unit 102.

[0085] Return to Figure 1The lens 500a is disposed on the optical path of the image light L1 and L2 emitted from the image light generating unit 100, and the light of each pixel is incident thereon. The image light L1 and L2 emitted from the image light generating unit 100 are transformed into substantially parallel light by the lens 500a, and are incident on the incident portion 500d included in the light guide plate 500. Therefore, the lens 500a may be referred to as a collimating lens 500a herein.

[0086] Will refer to Figure 3 The process of the image light generating unit 100 according to the first embodiment of the present technology is described. Figure 3 1 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of the image light generating unit 100 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. For example, when the power switch of the image display device 10 is turned on, the image light generating unit 100 starts up.

[0087] In the first step S11, the control unit 104 generates image light. Specifically, the control unit 104 synchronously controls the light source 101 and the deflection unit 103, and the deflection unit 103 deflects and scans the light emitted from the light source 101 to generate image light. As a result, the image light reaches the retina 4 via the user's pupil 2 and lens 3. Therefore, the user can visually recognize the image.

[0088] In the next step S12, the control unit 104 acquires eyeball information. Specifically, the control unit 104 acquires eyeball information from the detection unit 800. The eyeball information includes line of sight information.

[0089] In the next step S13, the control unit 104 switches the image light based on the line of sight information included in the eye information. Specifically, for example, the control unit 104 synchronously controls the light source 101 and the deflection unit 103 to switch the image light L1 to the image light L2, and the deflection unit 103 deflects and scans the light emitted from the light source 101.

[0090] In the next step S14, the control unit 104 determines whether to continue the process. Specifically, as an embodiment, the control unit 104 determines to continue the process when the power switch of the image display device 10 remains on, and determines not to continue the process when the power switch is turned off. When the determination in step S14 is positive, the process proceeds to step S11, and when the determination is negative, the process ends.

[0091] <(3) Light guide plate>

[0092] Return to Figure 1The light guide plate 500 guides the image light L1 and L2 incident from the incident portion 500d to the eyeball 1 of the user. Specifically, the light guide plate 500 includes at least a substrate 500e that totally reflects and guides the incident image light and a deflection portion 500f that emits the image light to the eyeball 1 of the user as an observer. The substrate 500e may also be referred to as a light guide 500e herein, and the deflection portion 500f may also be referred to as an optical component 500f herein.

[0093] For example, the substrate 500e may include transparent or translucent or opaque plastic, glass, resin, etc. The substrate 500e may be a type installed in a spectacle frame used as a support structure (spectacle lens type), or may be a type externally attached to the spectacle frame (combiner type). In the case of providing AR to the user, a transparent or translucent glass plate may be used as the substrate 500e. In the case of providing VR to the user, an opaque glass plate may be used as the substrate 500e.

[0094] As an embodiment, the deflection unit 500f may be a transmissive or reflective diffractive optical element. In the present embodiment, the deflection unit 500f is a reflective diffractive optical element and is provided on the surface of the substrate 500e opposite to the eyeball 1 side. The deflection unit 500f is provided on the optical path of the image lights L1 and L2 from the image light generating unit 100. The deflection unit 500f diffracts the image lights L1 and L2 from the image light generating unit 100 toward the eyeball 1. The image lights L1 and L2 are incident on the pupil 2 of the eyeball 1 and reach the retina 4 via the lens 3.

[0095] At this time, preferably, the deflection unit 500f converges the image lights L1 and L2 in the eyeball 1, for example, converges in a predetermined area of ​​the eyeball, which may correspond to a position at or near the rotation center RC of the eyeball 1 (for example, within 1.7 mm of the rotation center RC). That is, the deflection unit 500f is preferably a diffractive optical element that diffracts the image light to the rotation center of the eyeball 1. Alternatively, the deflection unit 500f may be a reflective optical element that reflects the image light to the rotation center of the eyeball 1. With this element, even if the user's line of sight direction changes (even if the eyeball 1 rotates), the image lights L1 and L2 can be incident on the pupil 2, and the user can visually recognize the image.

[0096] In addition, the peripheral image that the user is not gazing at is vignetted through the pupil and does not reach the retina. As a result, the deterioration of image quality due to stray light can be reduced.

[0097] Note that the deflecting section 500f may be provided on the surface of the substrate 500e on the side of the eyeball 1. In this case, the deflecting section 500f may be a transmission-type diffractive optical element.

[0098] For example, the incident portion 500d and the deflection portion 500f may be a holographic grating (HG), a half mirror, a lens, a surface relief grating (SRG), a volume phase holographic grating (VPHG), etc. In the case of using a VPHG, a plurality of diffraction gratings may be formed on the same plane, or a plurality of diffraction gratings may be stacked.

[0099] The light guide plate 500 is disposed at a position facing the eyeball 1. With such a configuration, the user can visually recognize the image generated by the image light generating unit 100.

[0100] The length of the deflection unit 500f in the left-right direction (the light guiding direction of the image light) in the drawing is proportional to the viewing angle of the image visually recognized by the user. Therefore, in order to increase the viewing angle, the length of the deflection unit 500f is further increased in the left-right direction.

[0101] In the past, when the image light incident from the incident portion 500d travels while being totally reflected within the substrate 500e, a portion of the image light having the same information may hit the deflection portion 500f multiple times. Therefore, a portion of the image light having the same information is deflected multiple times at positions of the deflection portion 500f having different powers. As a result, the image light having the same information is incident on the eyeball at multiple angles. Such image light is observed as stray light.

[0102] To prevent this stray light, in the past, an increase Figure 1 This structure prevents a portion of image light having the same information from hitting the deflection unit 500f multiple times.

[0103] However, when the thickness of the substrate 500e increases, the mass and volume of the image display device 10 increase. As a result, it becomes difficult to wear the image display device 10 for a long time, which may impair the sense of immersion. In addition, since the weight is at a position away from the center of the user's head, the moment load increases. This may cause wearability problems. For example, since the moment load becomes larger when the user operates, the installation deviation of the image display device 10 may occur.

[0104] In addition, when the thickness of the substrate 500e increases, the interocular distance becomes shorter as the distance between the light guide plate 500 and the eyeball 1. As a result, the user's eyelashes may hit the substrate 500e, or it may be difficult to wear the image display device 10 when wearing glasses.

[0105] In addition, when the thickness of the substrate 500e increases, the light transmittance of the substrate 500e may decrease, or optical aberration may occur. As a result, for example, when an image displayed by the image display device 10 is superimposed on an external landscape, the quality of the image may deteriorate.

[0106] Therefore, preferably, without increasing the thickness of the substrate 500e, it is possible to contribute to reducing the size of the image display device 10 by preventing a portion of image light having the same information from hitting the deflecting portion 500f a plurality of times.

[0107] For example, Patent Document 1 (WO 2021 / 220638 A) discloses "a display device comprising: a light emitting system that emits image light including a plurality of light beams having different wavelengths; a light guiding system that guides the image light emitted from the light emitting system; and a light deflection system that deflects the plurality of light beams included in the image light guided by the light guiding system and causes the plurality of light beams to enter an eyeball from different directions". There is room for improvement in reducing the size of display devices.

[0108] For example, Patent Document 2 (JP H6-308422 A) discloses a visual display device that provides a high-resolution image only in a portion where resolution is particularly required near a gaze point, and a peripheral image that is not being gazed at can be observed without vignetting. In a visual display device, light with large aberrations and uneven brightness may be incident on a portion other than a gaze point. In addition, in order to provide a visual display device with a wide viewing angle and high resolution, the size of the optical system can be increased. In addition, since a concave mirror is used, or the eyepiece optical system and the conjugate pupil position need to be set at the same position, the size of the optical system can be increased. In addition, there is room for improvement in free focus.

[0109] The image display device 10 according to the first embodiment of the present technology includes a detection unit 800 that detects eyeball information, which is information associated with an eyeball. The image light generation unit 100 is configured to be able to switch the plurality of image lights L1 and L2 emitted to the light guide plate 500 based on the line of sight information included in the eyeball information detected by the detection unit 800. For example, specifically, the image light generation unit 100 is configured to be able to switch the image light L1 to the image light L2.

[0110] The line of sight information is the direction in which the eyeball faces the object when the user looks at the object. The line of sight information can be defined as an axis representing the direction in which the eye usually points, such as the visual axis, optical axis, eye axis, sight line, etc. The present technology uses this information obtained directly or indirectly. It should be noted that it is well known that the line of sight information can be indirectly calculated from the position information of the eyeball, etc.

[0111] For example, each of the plurality of image lights has a different range of an image visually recognized by the user. By utilizing this difference, even if the viewing angle is reduced by reducing the thickness of the substrate 500e to reduce the size of the device, the user can visually recognize the image. For example, when the eyeball rotates in the left direction, the image visually recognized by the user is also switched to the image in the left direction. Therefore, in the present technology, the user can visually recognize an image with a sufficient field of view. It should be noted that the image light generating unit 100 can switch the image light mechanically or electrically.

[0112] Note that the light guide position can be switched by increasing the area of ​​the incident portion 500d and changing the position where the image light generating unit 100 is provided. Alternatively, by switching the image according to the position deviation of the eyeball 1, robustness against installation deviation can be ensured.

[0113] According to an embodiment of the present technology, the thickness of the substrate 500e can be reduced. Even in the substrate 500e having a relatively low refractive index, the thickness can be reduced. Since the viewing angle can be reduced by switching the image of the image light generating unit 100, the pixel density is improved. In addition, although the details will be described later, since the adjustment range of the eye distance can be increased, the degree of freedom in designing the image display device 10 is improved.

[0114] In addition, the light transmittance of the substrate 500e can be reduced and optical aberrations due to the reduced thickness of the substrate 500e can be prevented. As a result, for example, when the image displayed by the image light generating unit 100 is superimposed on the external scenery or the image is superimposed on an image with a wider viewing angle, the deterioration of the image quality can be reduced.

[0115] These effects also occur in other embodiments described later. Therefore, in other embodiments, repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0116] <(4) Detection unit>

[0117] As an embodiment, the detection unit 800 is provided on the surface of the substrate 500e on the side of the eyeball 1. The detection unit 800 detects eyeball information such as the line of sight as the direction of the user's eyeball 1, and outputs the eyeball information to the control unit 104 (see Figure 2). For example, the detection unit 800 includes a light receiving / emitting unit and a signal processor that processes an output signal of the light receiving / emitting unit. The light receiving / emitting unit includes a light emitting element that illuminates the eyeball 1 with invisible light (e.g., infrared light) and a light receiving element that receives light emitted from the light emitting element and reflected by the eyeball 1. For example, as the light receiving element, a photodiode, a split photodiode having a plurality of light receiving areas, an image sensor, an event-type sensor (a sensor for eye sensing), etc. can be used. The signal processor processes the output signal of the above-mentioned light receiving element and calculates the direction of the line of sight.

[0118] Preferably, the eyeball information detected by the detection unit 800 includes the pupil diameter of the eyeball 1. At this time, the detection unit 800 may include an illumination sensor. The detection unit 800 estimates the pupil diameter of the pupil 2 of the eyeball 1 based on the output of the illumination sensor.

[0119] More specifically, as an embodiment, a table indicating the correspondence between illumination and pupil diameter may be stored in a built-in memory in advance. The detection unit 800 refers to the table as needed and outputs the pupil diameter corresponding to the output of the illumination sensor as an estimation result. When the illumination is changed in stages using, for example, a light source and a camera, the table may be obtained by calculating the average value, median value, etc. of the pupil diameters of multiple people at each illumination.

[0120] The eyeball information may further include an eye distance, which is a distance from the deflection unit 500f to the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1, or a distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball 1, or both. At this time, the eyeball information may be detected by the detection unit 800, or may be recorded in a memory or the like included in the image display device 10.

[0121] As an embodiment, the image light generating unit 100, the light guide plate 500, and the detection unit 800 may be integrally provided in the same supporting structure (e.g., a glasses frame). The detection unit 800 may be integrally provided with the supporting structure or may be provided separately. Hereinafter, a description is given on the premise that the glasses frame used as an embodiment of the supporting structure is installed on the head of the user.

[0122] <(5) Design value>

[0123] Will refer to Figure 4 Preferred design values ​​of the light guide plate 500 are described to reduce the size of the device. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the correlation between the light guide plate 500 and the eyeball 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0124] like Figure 4As shown, the deflection unit 500f is formed on the eyeball 1 side of the substrate 500e. The incident angle of the image light to the light guide plate 500 is φ. The distance from the deflection unit 500f to the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 is L. The distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center RC of the eyeball is r. The pupil diameter of the eyeball 1 is Φ. The thickness of the substrate 500e is t. The direction of guiding the image light in the substrate 500e ( Figure 4 The length of the deflection portion 500f in the vertical direction (in the vertical direction) is w1. Here, the following expressions (1), (2) and (3) are preferably satisfied.

[0125]

[0126] At this time, the following expression (4) can be derived from expressions (1) and (2).

[0127]

[0128] In addition, the following expressions (5) and (6) can be derived from expressions (3) and (4).

[0129]

[0130] Therefore, the size of the image display device 10 can be reduced by setting the light guide plate 500 that satisfies the expression (6). Although there are individual differences, the distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball and the pupil diameter Φ are generally fixed. On the other hand, the interocular distance L, the thickness of the substrate 500e, and the incident angle φ can be controlled.

[0131] On the other hand, referring to Figure 5 Preferred values ​​of the light guide plate 500 when the deflecting portion 500 f is formed on the substrate 500 e on the side opposite to the eyeball 1 are described. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the correlation between the light guide plate 500 and the eyeball 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0132] like Figure 5 As shown, the deflecting portion 500 f is formed on the substrate 500 e on the side opposite to the eyeball 1 side.

[0133] The half viewing angle (half viewing angle) visually recognized by the user is θ0. The viewing angle of the image light in the substrate 500e is θ1. Other symbols are the same as Figure 4 The symbols in are the same.

[0134] At this time, the following expressions (7), (8), and (9) are preferably satisfied.

[0135]

[0136] At this time, the following expression (10) can be derived from expressions (7) and (8).

[0137]

[0138] In addition, the following expressions (11), (12), (13), (14), and (15) can be derived from expressions (9) and (10).

[0139]

[0140] Therefore, the size of the image display device 10 can be reduced by setting the light guide plate 500 that satisfies the expression (15). Although there are individual differences, the distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball and the pupil diameter Φ are generally fixed. On the other hand, the interocular distance L, the thickness of the substrate 500e, the incident angle φ, and the viewing angle of the image light in the substrate 500e can be controlled.

[0141] The effects of the present technology will be described with reference to Tables 1 and 2. Table 1 shows various numerical values ​​in the embodiment and the comparative example when the interocular distance is the same. Note that in Tables 1 and 2, the pupil diameter is defined as 3 mm.

[0142] Table 1

[0143]

[0144] In the comparative example and the embodiment, the incident angle φ of the image light on the light guide plate 500 is 55 degrees.

[0145] In the comparative example, the viewing angle visually recognized by the user is ± 30, while in the embodiment, it is ± 7.1. By reducing the thickness of the substrate 500e, the viewing angle in the embodiment is narrower than that in the comparative example. However, in the present technology, the image light generating unit 100 is configured to be able to switch the plurality of image lights to be emitted to the light guide plate 500 based on the eyeball information detected by the detection unit 800. Therefore, in the present technology, for example, the viewing angle visually recognized can be changed according to the line of sight.

[0146] In the comparative example and the embodiment, the interocular distance was 14 mm.

[0147] The distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball that needs to be considered in the present technology is defined as 9.4 mm.

[0148] In the comparative example, the length w1 of the deflecting portion 500f in the direction in which the image light is guided in the substrate 500e is 16.2 mm, whereas it is 6.0 mm in the embodiment.

[0149] In the comparative example, the thickness t of the substrate 500e is 5.7 mm, while it is 2.1 mm in the embodiment. According to the present technology, the thickness t of the substrate 500e can be reduced to half or less. As a result, the length w1 of the deflection portion 500f in the direction of guiding the image light in the substrate 500e can also be reduced to half or less.

[0150] Next, Table 2 shows various numerical values ​​in the examples and comparative examples when the thickness of the substrate 500e is the same.

[0151] Table 2

[0152]

[0153] In the comparative example and the embodiment, the incident angle φ of the image light on the light guide plate 500 is 55 degrees.

[0154] In the comparative example, the viewing angle visually recognized by the user was ±30, whereas it was ±7.1 in the embodiment.

[0155] The distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball that needs to be considered in the technology is defined as 12 mm.

[0156] In the comparative example and the embodiment, the length w1 of the deflecting portion 500f in the direction in which the image light is guided in the substrate 500e is 16.2 mm.

[0157] In the comparative example and the embodiment, the thickness t of the substrate 500e is 5.7 mm.

[0158] In the comparative example, the interocular distance L is 14 mm, while in the embodiment it is 53 mm. According to the present technology, it is possible to expand the adjustment range of the interocular distance L. With this expansion, it is possible to prevent the user's eyelashes from hitting the substrate 500e, or to install the image display device 10 while wearing glasses.

[0159] Subsequently, a preferred numerical range of each component will be described. According to the following Non-Patent Document 1 and Non-Patent Document 2, although there are individual differences, the distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball is generally 9.4 mm.

[0160] Non-Patent Literature 1: Jim Schwiegerling, “SPIE Field Guide to Visual and Ophthalmic Optics,” Optronics, Inc., December 15, 2010

[0161] Non-patent document 2: Fry G, Hill W, Center of rotation of the eye, Am J Optom Arch Am Acad Optom 1962, 39: 581-95

[0162] In addition, according to the following non-patent document 3, it is stated that the distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball is 10.781±0.56 mm±1 SD (10.22 to 11.34 mm). In this case, considering ±3 SD, the maximum range of the distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball can be assumed to be 9.1 to 12.46 mm.

[0163] Therefore, the range of the distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball is preferably defined as 9.1 to 12.46 mm, and may be more preferably 9.1 to 11.34 mm.

[0164] The pupil diameter Φ of a person is usually 2.0 to 8.0 mm. However, since the brightness of 1 cd / m 2 Or smaller, the pupil diameter of a person is preferably defined as 2.0 to 5.0 mm.

[0165] When the general refractive index of the substrate 500e is 1.4, the incident angle φ of the image light to the light guide plate 500 is preferably 45.6 degrees or more. For example, when the deflection unit 500f is HG, the incident angle φ of the image light on the light guide plate 500 is preferably 55 degrees or more in consideration of exposure.

[0166] According to these conditions, the preferred numerical range of each component can be shown in Table 3 and Table 4. Table 3 shows the preferred numerical range of each component when the deflection unit 500f is formed on the eyeball 1 side of the substrate 500e. Table 4 shows the preferred numerical range of each component when the deflection unit 500f is formed on the substrate 500e on the side opposite to the eyeball 1 side.

[0167] Table 3

[0168]

[0169] As shown in Table 3, the pupil diameter Φ is preferably defined as 2 to 5 mm, and may be more preferably 2.5 mm.

[0170] The incident angle φ of the image light on the light guide plate 500 is preferably 55 degrees.

[0171] The viewing angle recognized by the user may preferably be ±5.7 to ±11.2, and more preferably ±6.3 to ±7.6.

[0172] The interocular distance L is preferably 13 mm.

[0173] The distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball is preferably defined as 9.1 mm to 12.46 mm, and may more preferably be 9.4 mm to 12.46 mm.

[0174] The length w1 of the deflecting portion 500f may preferably be 4.9 to 10.2 mm, and more preferably 5.1 to 6.0 mm.

[0175] At this time, the thickness t of the substrate 500e may be 0.2 to 3.6, and more preferably, the thickness t of the substrate 500e may be 1.8 to 2.1.

[0176] Table 4

[0177]

[0178] As shown in Table 4, the pupil diameter Φ is preferably defined so that the assumed minimum value is 2 to 5 mm, and may be more preferably 2.5 mm.

[0179] The incident angle φ of the image light on the light guide plate 500 is preferably 55 degrees.

[0180] The viewing angle recognized by the user may preferably be ±5.7 to ±11.3, and more preferably ±6.3 to ±7.6.

[0181] The interocular distance L is preferably 13 mm.

[0182] The distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball is preferably defined as 9.1 to 12.46 mm, and may be more preferably 9.4 to 12.46 mm.

[0183] The length w1 of the deflecting portion 500f may preferably be 4.9 to 11.9 mm, and more preferably 5.5 to 6.6 mm.

[0184] At this time, the thickness t of the substrate 500e may be 0.2 to 4.2, and more preferably, the thickness t of the substrate 500e may be 1.9 to 2.3.

[0185] The above-described contents of the image display device according to the first embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology as long as there is no technical contradiction.

[0186] <2. Second Embodiment (Example 2 of Image Display Device)>

[0187] The image display device according to the second embodiment of the present technology may further include a light shielding portion that shields a portion of the image light emitted by the image light generating unit. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Give a description. Figure 6 : is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device 20 according to a second embodiment of the present technology. Figure 7 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device 20 according to a second embodiment of the present technology. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the image display device 20 further includes a light shielding portion 500b (also referred to herein as a light shielding portion 500b controllable to selectively block light). In other words, the light shielding portion 500b is a controllable device that actively adjusts the amount of light traveling along the optical path to the image output device 500.

[0188] The image lights L1 and L2 are incident on the light shielding portion 500b via the lens 500a. The light shielding portion 500b transmits a predetermined image light among the incident image lights and blocks a predetermined image light therein. For example, the light shielding portion 500b transmits the image light L1 and blocks the image light L2.

[0189] As an embodiment, the light shielding portion 500b may include any one of a light shielding mask (e.g., a light shielding shutter), a liquid crystal element (e.g., a liquid crystal panel), and a digital mirror device (DMD) that can shield incident image light for each pixel or each pixel block including a plurality of pixels. The light shielding portion 500b may be controlled by the control unit 104 (see Figure 7 ). More specifically, the light shielding portion 500b is controlled by the control unit 104 so as to transmit the predetermined image light and shield the predetermined image light of the incident image light.

[0190] Preferably, the light shielding portion 500b may have a spatial distribution in the degree of light shielding. For example, with such a distribution, the degree of light shielding of the edge portions of the image lights L1 and L2 to be shielded may be reduced. As a result, the boundary between the image lights L1 and L2 guided to the user's eyeball 1 may be blurred. As a result, the user may visually recognize the image as a more natural image.

[0191] Preferably, the shading portion 500b can block the image light and cancel the blocking of the image light in a time sequence. For example, by performing the blocking of the image light and canceling the blocking of the image light in a time sequence by the shading portion 500b, the user's sight can be guided as needed. The shading portion 500b and the deflection unit 103 may be referred to herein as controllable devices capable of actively adjusting the light traveling along the optical path to the image output device 500. It should be understood that the shading portion 500b can operate with or without the deflection unit 103 to actively adjust the light traveling from the image generator 100 to the image output device 500.

[0192] Will refer to Figure 8The process of the image light generating unit 100 according to the second embodiment of the present technology is described. Figure 8 2 is a flowchart showing a processing example of the image light generating unit 100 according to the second embodiment of the present technology. For example, when the power switch of the image display device 20 is turned on, the image light generating unit 100 is activated.

[0193] In the first step S21, the control unit 104 generates image light. Specifically, the control unit 104 synchronously controls the light source 101 and the deflection unit 103, and the deflection unit 103 deflects and scans the light emitted from the light source 101 to generate image light. As a result, the image light reaches the retina 4 via the user's pupil 2 and lens 3. Therefore, the user can visually recognize the image.

[0194] In the next step S22 , the control unit 104 acquires the eyeball information. Specifically, the control unit 104 acquires the eyeball information from the detection unit 800 .

[0195] In the next step S23, the control unit 104 drives the light shielding portion 500b based on the eyeball information. Specifically, the control unit 104 drives the light shielding portion 500b so as to transmit the predetermined image light and shield the predetermined image light.

[0196] In the next step S24, the control unit 104 determines whether to continue the process. Specifically, as an embodiment, the control unit 104 determines to continue the process when the power switch of the image display device 20 remains on, and determines not to continue the process when the power switch is turned off. When the determination in step S24 is positive, the process proceeds to step S21, and when the determination is negative, the process ends.

[0197] The above-described contents of the image display device according to the second embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology as long as there is no technical contradiction.

[0198] <3. Third Embodiment (Example 3 of Image Display Device)>

[0199] The image display device according to the third embodiment of the present technology may further include a driving unit that moves the light guide plate 500 in the eye distance direction, which is the distance direction from the deflection unit 500f to the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Give a description. Fig. 9 : is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device 30 according to a third embodiment of the present technology. Fig. 9 As shown, the driving unit (not shown) can move the light guide plate 500 in the eye distance direction (vertical arrow direction), which is the distance direction from the deflection part 500f to the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1. Therefore, the light guide plate 500 can be set at an appropriate position.

[0200] Fig.10 : is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device 30 according to a third embodiment of the present technology. Fig.10 As shown, the image display device 30 may include a driving unit 500g. The driving unit 500g may move the light guide plate 500 in the eye distance direction, which is the distance direction from the deflection portion 500f to the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1. In other words, the image output device 500 may move in a direction toward and away from the user's eyeball.

[0201] The above-described contents of the image display device according to the third embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology as long as there is no technical contradiction.

[0202] <4. Fourth Embodiment (Example 4 of Image Display Device)>

[0203] The image display device according to the fourth embodiment of the present technology may further include a calibration unit that acquires a deviation from a reference position of the user based on a user operation on a calibration image including image light. Fig.11 Give a description. Fig.11 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device 40 according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology. Fig.11 As shown, the image display device 40 may include a calibration unit 500h. The calibration unit 500h obtains a deviation from a user's reference position based on a user operation on a calibration image including image light. The calibration unit 500h may be referred to as a calibration device 500h that determines a deviation from a user's reference position.

[0204] The device for acquiring such a deviation is not particularly limited. For example, the image display device 40 displays a calibration image on which a predetermined instruction mark is drawn to the user. The image display device 40 guides the line of sight, which is the direction of the user's eyeball, by moving the instruction mark. The user performs a user operation, such as moving the eyeball, moving the head direction, etc. The calibration unit 500h acquires a deviation from the user's reference position based on the user operation. For example, using this acquisition device, when the image displayed by the image display device 40 is superimposed on the external scenery, the position deviation can be reduced.

[0205] The above-described contents of the image display device according to the fourth embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology as long as there is no technical contradiction.

[0206] <5. Fifth Embodiment (Example 5 of Image Display Device)>

[0207] The image display device according to the fifth embodiment of the present technology may further include a sensor unit for acquiring an interocular distance L, which is a distance from the deflection unit 500f to the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1, or a distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball, or both. Fig.12 Give a description. Fig.12 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image display device 50 according to a fifth embodiment of the present technology. Fig.12 As shown, the image display device 50 may include a sensor unit 500i. The sensor unit 500i acquires an interocular distance L, which is a distance from the deflection unit 500f to the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1, or a distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball, or both. For example, the sensor unit 500i may be an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, etc. The sensor unit 500i may be referred to as a sensor for sensing the distance between the image output device 500 and the corneal vertex of the eyeball.

[0208] The above-described contents of the image display device according to the fifth embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology as long as there is no technical contradiction.

[0209] <6. Sixth Embodiment (Example of Light Guide Plate)>

[0210] The present technology provides a light guide plate, including a substrate that totally reflects and guides incident image light, a deflection unit that converges the image light on the rotation center of an eyeball, and a detection unit that detects eyeball information, which is information associated with the eyeball, wherein the deflection unit converges the switched image light on the rotation center of the eyeball based on the eyeball information.

[0211] Will refer again Figure 1 A light guide plate according to a sixth embodiment of the present technology is described. Figure 1 As shown, the light guide plate 500 includes a substrate 500 e , a deflecting portion 500 f and a detection unit 800 .

[0212] The substrate 500e totally reflects and guides the incident image light. The deflection unit 500f converges the image light on the rotation center of the eyeball 1. The detection unit 800 detects eyeball information, which is information associated with the eyeball 1. The deflection unit 500f converges the switched image light at the rotation center of the eyeball 1 based on the eyeball information.

[0213] Will refer again Figure 4 Described below are preferred values ​​of the light guide plate 500 when the deflecting portion 500f is formed on the eyeball 1 side of the substrate 500e. Figure 4As shown, the deflection portion 500f is formed on the eyeball 1 side of the substrate 500e. The incident angle of the image light to the light guide plate 500 is φ. The interocular distance is L, which is the distance from the deflection portion 500f to the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1. The distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball is r. The pupil diameter of the eyeball 1 is Φ. The thickness of the substrate 500e is t. The length of the deflection portion 500f in the direction of guiding the image light in the substrate 500e is w1.

[0214] At this time, the following expressions (1), (2), and (3) are preferably satisfied.

[0215]

[0216] At this time, the following expression (4) can be derived from expressions (1) and (2).

[0217]

[0218] In addition, the following expressions (5) and (6) can be derived from expressions (3) and (4).

[0219]

[0220] Therefore, the size of the image display device 10 can be reduced by setting the light guide plate 500 that satisfies the expression (6). Although there are individual differences, the distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball and the pupil diameter Φ are generally fixed. On the other hand, the interocular distance L, the thickness t of the substrate 500e, and the incident angle φ can be controlled.

[0221] On the other hand, we will refer again to Figure 5 The preferred values ​​of the light guide plate 500 when the deflection portion 500f is formed on the substrate 500e on the side opposite to the eyeball 1 are described. Figure 5 As shown, the deflecting portion 500 f is formed on the substrate 500 e on the side opposite to the eyeball 1 side.

[0222] The half viewing angle (half viewing angle) visually recognized by the user is θ0. The viewing angle of the image light in the substrate 500e is θ1. Other symbols are the same as Figure 4 The symbols in are the same.

[0223] At this time, the following expressions (7), (8), and (9) are preferably satisfied.

[0224]

[0225] At this time, the following expression (10) can be derived from expressions (7) and (8).

[0226]

[0227] In addition, the following expressions (11), (12), (13), (14), and (15) can be derived from expressions (9) and (10).

[0228]

[0229] Therefore, the size of the image display device 10 can be reduced by setting the light guide plate 500 that satisfies the expression (15). Although there are individual differences, the distance r from the corneal vertex of the eyeball 1 to the rotation center of the eyeball and the pupil diameter Φ are generally fixed. On the other hand, the interocular distance L, the thickness t of the substrate 500e, the incident angle φ, and the viewing angle of the image light in the substrate 500e can be controlled.

[0230] The above-described contents of the image display device according to the sixth embodiment of the present technology can be applied to other embodiments of the present technology as long as there is no technical contradiction.

[0231] Note that the embodiment according to the present technology is not limited to each of the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present technology.

[0232] Additionally, the present technology may also have the following configurations. (1)

[0234] An image display device, comprising:

[0235] an image light generating unit, wherein the image light generating unit generates image light;

[0236] a light guide plate that guides the image light to an eyeball of a user; and

[0237] a detection unit, the detection unit detecting eyeball information, the eyeball information being information associated with the eyeball,

[0238] wherein the image light generating unit is configured to be capable of switching a plurality of image lights to be emitted to the light guide plate based on the eyeball information, and

[0239] The light guide plate at least comprises

[0240] a substrate that totally reflects and guides the incident image light, and

[0241] A deflection unit that converges the image light at a rotation center of the eyeball. (2)

[0243] The image display device according to (1),

[0244] The eye information includes line of sight information. (3)

[0246] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (2),

[0247] The eyeball information includes the pupil diameter of the eyeball. (4)

[0249] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (3),

[0250] The eyeball information further includes an eye distance, which is the distance from the deflection unit to the corneal apex of the eyeball, or the distance from the corneal apex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball, or both. (5)

[0252] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (4),

[0253] When the deflection unit is formed on the eyeball side of the substrate, the following expression (6) is satisfied:

[0254] Where φ is the incident angle of the image light on the light guide plate,

[0255] L is the interocular distance, which is the distance from the deflection unit to the corneal vertex of the eyeball,

[0256] r is the distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball,

[0257] Φ is the pupil diameter of the eyeball, and

[0258] t is the thickness of the substrate.

[0259] (6)

[0261] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (5),

[0262] Wherein when the deflecting portion is formed on the side opposite to the eyeball side of the substrate, the following expression (15) is satisfied:

[0263] Where φ is the incident angle of the image light on the light guide plate,

[0264] L is the interocular distance, which is the distance from the deflection unit to the corneal vertex of the eyeball,

[0265] r is the distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball,

[0266] Φ is the pupil diameter of the eyeball,

[0267] t is the thickness of the substrate, and

[0268] θ1 is the viewing angle of the image light in the substrate.

[0269] (7)

[0271] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (6),

[0272] The deflection unit is a diffractive optical element that diffracts the image light toward the rotation center of the eyeball. (8)

[0274] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (7),

[0275] The deflection unit is a holographic grating. (9)

[0277] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (8),

[0278] The deflection portion is a surface relief grating. (10)

[0280] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (9),

[0281] The deflection unit is a reflective optical element that reflects the image light toward the rotation center of the eyeball. (11)

[0283] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (10),

[0284] A light shielding portion that shields a portion of the image light emitted by the image light generating unit is further included. (12)

[0286] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (11),

[0287] The light shielding portion has a spatial distribution of light shielding degree of the image light. (13)

[0289] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (12),

[0290] The light shielding portion is configured to shield the image light and cancel the shielding of the image light in a time sequence. (14)

[0292] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (13),

[0293] The light shielding portion is a mask whose light shielding position is variable. (15)

[0295] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (14),

[0296] The light shielding portion is a liquid crystal element. (16)

[0298] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (15),

[0299] The invention further includes a driving unit configured to move the light guide plate in an eye distance direction, wherein the eye distance direction is a distance direction from the deflection unit to the corneal vertex of the eyeball. (17)

[0301] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (16),

[0302] A calibration unit is further included that acquires a deviation from a reference position of a user based on a user operation on a calibration image including the image light. (18)

[0304] The image display device according to one or more of (1) to (17),

[0305] It further includes a sensor unit, which acquires the interocular distance, which is the distance from the deflection unit to the corneal apex of the eyeball, or the distance from the corneal apex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball, or both.

[0306] (19) A light guide plate comprising:

[0307] a substrate that totally reflects and guides incident image light;

[0308] a deflection unit that converges the image light at the rotation center of the eyeball; and

[0309] a detection unit, the detection unit detecting eyeball information, the eyeball information being information associated with the eyeball,

[0310] The deflection unit converges the switched image light at the rotation center of the eyeball based on the eyeball information. (20)

[0312] The light guide plate according to (19),

[0313] When the deflection unit is formed on the eyeball side of the substrate, the following expression (6) is satisfied:

[0314] Where φ is the incident angle of the image light on the light guide plate,

[0315] L is the interocular distance, which is the distance from the deflection unit to the corneal vertex of the eyeball,

[0316] r is the distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball,

[0317] Φ is the pupil diameter of the eyeball, and

[0318] t is the thickness of the substrate. (twenty one)

[0320] The image display device according to one or more of (19) to (20),

[0321] Wherein when the deflecting portion is formed on the side opposite to the eyeball side of the substrate, the following expression (15) is satisfied:

[0322]

[0323] Where φ is the incident angle of the image light on the light guide plate,

[0324] L is the interocular distance, which is the distance from the deflection unit to the corneal vertex of the eyeball,

[0325] r is the distance from the corneal vertex of the eyeball to the rotation center of the eyeball,

[0326] Φ is the pupil diameter of the eyeball,

[0327] t is the thickness of the substrate, and

[0328] θ1 is the viewing angle of the image light in the substrate.

[0329] (22) A system comprising:

[0330] an eye tracking device that generates eye information of an eye of a user of the system;

[0331] an image output device that outputs light to the user's eyeballs; and

[0332] An image generator that generates and actively adjusts light traveling along an optical path to an image output device based on eye information. (twenty three)

[0334] A system according to (22), wherein the image output device outputs light to a predetermined area of ​​the eyeball. (twenty four)

[0336] A system according to one or more of (22) to (23), wherein light output to a predetermined area of ​​the eyeball is focused at or near the rotation center of the eyeball. (25)

[0338] The system according to one or more of (22) to (24), wherein the image output device comprises:

[0339] Light guides; and

[0340] Optics that direct light traveling in the light guide to the user's eye. (26)

[0342] The system of one or more of (22) to (25), wherein the image generator comprises a movable mirror that actively adjusts the direction of light traveling along the optical path to the image output device. (27)

[0344] The system according to one or more of (22) to (26), further comprising:

[0345] A light shield actively adjusts the amount of light traveling along the optical path to the image output device. (28)

[0347] The system according to one or more of (22) to (27), further comprising:

[0348] A collimating lens is located between the image generator and the image output device. (29)

[0350] A system according to one or more of (22) to (28), wherein the eye information includes line of sight information, pupil information, and eye distance information. (30)

[0352] A system according to one or more of (22) to (29), wherein the pupil information includes a diameter of a pupil of an eyeball. (31)

[0354] The system of one or more of (22) to (30), wherein the image output device is movable in a direction toward an eyeball of a user. (32)

[0356] The system according to one or more of (22) to (31), further comprising:

[0357] A calibration device that determines the user's deviation from a reference position. (33)

[0359] The system according to one or more of (22) to (32), further comprising:

[0360] The sensor is used to sense the distance between the image output device and the vertex of the cornea of ​​the eye. (34)

[0362] The system of one or more of (22) to (33), wherein the light generated by the image generator comprises laser light. (35)

[0364] A system comprising:

[0365] Image generator, including:

[0366] A light source that produces light;

[0367] a controllable device that adjusts light output from the light source; and

[0368] A controller controls the controllable device based on the output of an eye tracking device, the eye tracking device generating eye information of an eye of a user of the system, wherein light output to a predetermined area of ​​the eye converges at or near the rotation center of the eye. (36)

[0370] The system according to (35) further comprises:

[0371] An image output device that outputs the light received from the image generator to the user's eyeball. (37)

[0373] The system according to one or more of (35) to (36), further comprising:

[0374] A collimating lens is located between the image generator and the image output device. (38)

[0376] The system of one or more of (35) to (37), wherein the controllable device comprises a controllable light shield located between the collimating lens and the image output device. (39)

[0378] A system according to one or more of (35) to (38), wherein the controllable device comprises a movable mirror located between the light source and the collimating lens. (40)

[0380] A method for a display system, comprising:

[0381] receiving eye information about an eye of a user of the display system;

[0382] generating light for displaying an image to an eyeball of a user through an image output device; and

[0383] The light traveling along the optical path to the image output device is actively adjusted based on the eyeball information so that the light output from the image output device converges at the rotation center of the eyeball. (41)

[0385] An image generator according to (40), wherein actively adjusting the light includes controlling an optical element to redirect the light or selectively block portions of the light.

[0386] It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations and alterations may occur depending on design requirements and other factors insofar as they are within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

[0387] Reference numerals list

[0388] 10 to 50 Image display device

[0389] 100 Image light generation unit

[0390] 101 Light Source

[0391] 102 Light source drive unit

[0392] 103 Deflection unit

[0393] 104 Control Unit

[0394] 500 Light Guide Plate

[0395] 500a lens

[0396] 500b Light shielding part

[0397] 500d Incident part

[0398] 500e base plate

[0399] 500f Deflection unit

[0400] 500g drive unit

[0401] 500h calibration unit

[0402] 500i Sensor Unit

[0403] 800 Detection Unit

[0404] 1 Eyeball

[0405] 2 Pupil

[0406] 3 Lenses

[0407] 4. Retina

[0408] RC Rotation Center

Claims

1. A system comprising: an eye tracking device that generates eye information of an eye of a user of the system; an image output device, the image output device outputting light to the eyeball of the user; and An image generator generates and actively adjusts light traveling along an optical path to the image output device based on the eye information.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the image output device outputs light to a predetermined area of ​​the eyeball.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The light output to the predetermined area of ​​the eyeball is concentrated at or near the rotation center of the eyeball.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the image output device comprises: Light guide; and An optical component directs light traveling in the light guide to the eye of the user.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the image generator comprises a movable mirror that actively adjusts the direction of light traveling along the optical path to the image output device.

6. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: A light shielding portion actively adjusts the amount of light traveling along the optical path to the image output device.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising: A collimating lens is located between the image generator and the image output device. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the eye information includes line of sight information, pupil information and eye distance information.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the pupil information comprises a diameter of a pupil of the eyeball.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the image output device is movable in a direction toward the eyeball of the user.

11. The system of claim 1 , further comprising: A calibration device is provided for determining the deviation of the user from a reference position.

12. The system of claim 1, further comprising: A sensor is used to sense the distance between the image output device and the corneal vertex of the eyeball.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the light generated by the image generator comprises laser light.

14. A system comprising: Image generator, including: A light source that produces light; a controllable device that adjusts light output from the light source; and A controller that controls the controllable device based on the output of an eye tracking device that generates eye information of an eye of a user of the system, wherein light output to a predetermined area of ​​the eye converges at or near a rotation center of the eye.

15. The system of claim 14, further comprising: An image output device outputs the light received from the image generator to the eyeball of the user.

16. The system of claim 15, further comprising: A collimating lens is located between the image generator and the image output device.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the controllable device comprises a controllable light shield located between the collimating lens and the image output device.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein the controllable device comprises a movable mirror located between the light source and the collimating lens.

19. A method for a display system, comprising: receiving eye information about an eye of a user of the display system; generating, by an image output device, light for displaying an image to the eyeball of the user; and The light traveling along the optical path to the image output device is actively adjusted based on the eyeball information so that the light output from the image output device converges at the rotation center of the eyeball.

20. The image generator of claim 19, wherein actively adjusting the light comprises controlling an optical element to redirect the light or selectively block a portion of the light.

Images