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. The lateral deformation component and the lateral deformation component are arranged to achieve a desired aberration of the light cone output from the spatial light modulator. An extraction element is arranged along the waveguide to extract the reflected light toward the pupil of the observer to maintain the directionality of the sector of the light 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 sites are propagated through the waveguide and output to the user's eyes. The optical system of the eye collects the angular sites 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 lateral deformable component, the lateral deformable component having a positive optical power in the lateral direction, wherein the lateral 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 lateral deformable component is guided to a direction distributed in the lateral direction; an extraction waveguide, the extraction waveguide being arranged to receive light from the lateral deformable component; a lateral deformable component, the lateral deformable component having a positive optical power in the lateral direction, the extraction waveguide being arranged to output light from the lateral deformable component; and a lateral deformable component. Light of the lateral deformation component is guided along the extraction waveguide in a first direction to the lateral deformation component; and a light retroreflector, which is 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 extraction features, the extraction features are 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 toward the viewer's eyes, the array of extraction features is distributed along the extraction waveguide to provide exit pupil expansion, and the lateral deformation component includes: a reflective linear polarizer, the reflective linear polarizer is arranged between the light retroreflector and the array of extraction features; and a polarization conversion retarder, the polarization conversion retarder is arranged between the reflective linear polarizer and the light retroreflector, 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.

[0006] Aberrations of the optical system in at least the lateral direction may advantageously be reduced. Image blur of pixels seen by a viewer may be reduced and image contrast advantageously improved. A compact and thin optical system may be provided which may be partially transparent for augmented reality operations. An increased field of view in the lateral direction for a desired maximum image blur may be achieved.

[0007] The reflective linear polarizer may be curved in the lateral direction. The reflective linear polarizer may be curved in only one plane and may conveniently be formed from a flexible layer without distortion. Advantageously, image fidelity may be improved.

[0008] The light retro reflector may not be curved in the lateral direction.A morphing near-eye display device may be provided with end shapes other than those provided by a curved light retro reflector and with a desired profile.

[0009] The light retro-reflector may be curved in the lateral direction. Advantageously, aberrations may be reduced.

[0010] The polarization-converting retarder may be curved in the lateral direction.The polarization-converting retarder may be formed in the vicinity of the light retro-reflector, thereby reducing the complexity of assembly.

[0011] The polarization converting retarder may have a quarter wavelength retardation at visible wavelengths.Advantageously, high efficiency of flux of light through the laterally deforming component may be achieved over a wide field angle.

[0012] The optical system may include an input linear polarizer disposed between the spatial light modulator and the array of extraction reflectors, wherein 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 reflected from the reflective polarizer may be reduced and, advantageously, image contrast may be improved.

[0013] The lateral deformation component may further include: a polarization control retarder, the polarization control retarder is arranged between the reflective linear polarizer and the array of extraction features, the polarization control retarder is arranged to change the polarization state of light passing through the polarization control retarder; and an absorption linear polarizer, the absorption linear polarizer is arranged between the polarization control retarder and the reflective linear polarizer, wherein the absorption linear polarizer and the reflective linear polarizer can be arranged to pass a common linear polarization state, which can be a component of the polarization state output from the polarization control retarder in the direction along the waveguide. In operation, light of the input polarization state can propagate in a first direction, and light of the output polarization state orthogonal to the input polarization state can propagate in a second direction. The polarization control retarder can have a delay of a quarter wavelength or a half wavelength at a visible light wavelength. The optical system may include an input linear polarizer, which is arranged between the spatial light modulator and the array of extraction reflectors. Stray light can be reduced and the efficiency of light extraction can be improved. Advantageously, image contrast can be improved.

[0014] The extraction feature may be a reflective extraction feature disposed inside the extraction waveguide. The reflective extraction feature may include an extraction reflector extending across at least a portion of the extraction waveguide between a front guide surface and a rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide. The extraction reflector may include intermediate surfaces spaced apart by a partially reflective coating. Advantageously, surface scattering artifacts may be reduced and image contrast may be improved.

[0015] The partially reflective coating may include at least one dielectric layer. Polarized light propagating in a first direction with an input polarization state may be preferentially transmitted, and polarized light propagating in a second direction with a polarization state different from the input polarization state may be preferentially extracted. Efficiency may be improved and image contrast may be advantageously reduced.

[0016] The extraction reflector may have a surface normal direction which may be tilted relative to the direction along the 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, visibility of flipped images in the lateral direction may be reduced.

[0017] The extraction waveguide may have a front guiding surface and a rear guiding surface, and the rear guiding surface may include extraction facets, which may be extraction features, each of which is arranged to reflect light guided in the second direction through the front guiding surface toward an eye of a viewer. Advantageously, the production cost and complexity of the extraction waveguide may be reduced. High operating efficiency may be achieved.

[0018] The extraction waveguide may have a front guiding surface and a rear guiding surface, and the rear guiding surface may include a diffractive optical element, and the diffractive optical element may include extraction features. Advantageously, the cost and complexity of assembling the extraction waveguide may be reduced.

[0019] The extraction waveguide may include: a front guiding surface; a polarization-sensitive reflector, the polarization-sensitive reflector being opposite to the front guiding surface; and an extraction element, the extraction element being arranged outside the polarization-sensitive reflector, wherein the extraction element may include: a rear guiding surface, the rear guiding surface being opposite to the front guiding surface; and an array of extraction features; the deformable near-eye display device may be arranged to provide an input linear polarization state for light guided along the extraction waveguide in a first direction before the light reaches the polarization-sensitive reflector; the polarization conversion retarder arranged between the reflective linear polarizer and the light reverse reflector may be a first polarization conversion retarder; the deformable near-eye display device may include a second polarization conversion retarder arranged between the polarization-sensitive reflector and the reflective linear polarizer, the second polarization conversion retarder being arranged to convert from a state that may be parallel to or orthogonal to the input linear polarization state to a polarization state that may have a component parallel to the input linear polarization state and a component orthogonal to the input linear polarization state; the deformable near-eye display device may include an absorbing linear polarizer, the absorbing linear polarizer being arranged to transmit The reflective linear polarizer may be arranged to transmit the same component as the absorbing linear polarizer; the second polarization conversion retarder, the absorbing linear polarizer, the reflective linear polarizer, the first polarization conversion retarder and the light reverse reflector may be arranged in combination to rotate the input linear polarization state of the light guided in the first direction so that the light guided in the second direction and output from the second polarization conversion retarder may have a linear polarization state, the linear polarization state may have a component parallel to the input linear polarization state and a component orthogonal to the input linear polarization state; and the polarization-sensitive reflector may be arranged to reflect the light guided in the first direction with the input linear polarization state and transmit the component of the light guided in the second direction that may be orthogonal to the input linear polarization state, so that the front guiding surface and the polarization-sensitive reflector may be arranged to guide the light in the first direction, and the front guiding surface and the rear guiding surface may be arranged to guide the component of the light that may be orthogonal to the input linear polarization state in the second direction. The polarization-sensitive reflector may include a reflective linear polarizer. The polarization-sensitive reflector may include at least one dielectric layer. The near-eye deformable display device may be provided with reduced image blur at least in the lateral direction. The visibility of stray light and inverted images in lateral directions can be reduced. The manufacturing complexity of the extraction waveguide can be reduced.

[0020] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a head mounted display device, the head mounted display device comprising a deformed near eye display device according to the first aspect and a head fixing arrangement, the head fixing arrangement being arranged to fix the deformed near eye display device on a wearer's head, wherein the deformed near eye display device extends across at least one eye of the wearer. A display device suitable for virtual reality and augmented reality applications may be provided.

[0021] According to a third 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 lateral deformable component, the lateral deformable component having a positive optical power in the lateral direction, wherein the lateral 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 lateral deformable component is guided to a direction distributed in the lateral direction; an extraction waveguide, the extraction waveguide being arranged to receive light from the lateral deformable component; a lateral deformable component, the lateral deformable component having a positive optical power in the lateral direction, the extraction waveguide being arranged to guide the light from the lateral deformable component in a first direction along the extraction direction. The optical system is directed to a lateral deformation component; and a light retroreflector, the light retroreflector being arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide in a 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 extraction features, the extraction features are 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 toward the eye of the viewer, the array of extraction features are distributed along the extraction waveguide to provide an exit pupil expansion, and the lateral deformation component includes: a partially reflective surface; a reflective linear polarizer, the reflective linear polarizer is arranged in series with the partially reflective surface, wherein at least one of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer has positive optical power in the lateral direction; and a polarization conversion retarder, the polarization conversion retarder is arranged between the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer, 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. Aberrations of the optical system in at least the lateral direction can be advantageously reduced. Image blur of pixels seen by the viewer can be reduced, and image contrast is advantageously improved. A compact lateral anamorphic assembly may be provided. An increased field of view in the lateral direction for a desired maximum image blur may be achieved.

[0022] Each of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer may have positive optical power in the lateral direction. The partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer may be curved in only one plane, so may be conveniently formed from flexible layers without distortion. Advantageously, image fidelity may be improved.

[0023] At least one of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer having positive optical power in the transverse direction may have no optical power in the lateral direction. Advantageously, the complexity and cost of manufacturing may be reduced.

[0024] The lateral anamorphic assembly may further comprise at least one lens element. Advantageously, aberrations may be further reduced and image fidelity improved.

[0025] The reflective linear polarizer can be arranged in the transmission direction of the light from the spatial light modulator, behind the partially reflective surface, or the reflective linear polarizer can be arranged in the transmission direction of the light from the spatial light modulator, in front of the partially reflective surface. The desired aberration performance can be achieved by appropriate selection of the order of the reflective linear polarizer and the partially reflective surface.

[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, and the transverse deformation component may be disposed between the spatial light modulator and the input end of the extraction waveguide. The transverse light beam may be guided into the extraction waveguide, thereby advantageously providing a desired field of view for a viewer to operate.

[0027] The lateral deformation component may further include a further polarization conversion delay device, which may be arranged in the transmission direction of the light from the spatial light modulator, in front of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer, or may be arranged in the transmission direction of the light from the spatial light modulator, behind the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer.

[0028] The deformable near-eye display device may further include a linear polarizer disposed between the lateral deformable component and the input end of the extraction waveguide. The spatial light modulator may be arranged to output linearly polarized light. The illumination system may further include an output polarizer disposed between the spatial light modulator and the lateral optical component, the output polarizer being arranged to output linearly polarized light. The polarization state propagating along the waveguide in the first direction may be provided with a desired orientation to achieve high efficiency and high image contrast.

[0029] According to a fourth 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 being arranged to receive light from the transverse direction. light from an anamorphic assembly; a lateral anamorphic assembly having positive optical power in a lateral direction, an extraction waveguide arranged to direct light from the lateral anamorphic assembly in a first direction along the extraction waveguide to the lateral anamorphic assembly; 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, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises an array of extraction features, the extraction features being arranged to transmit light directed along the extraction waveguide in the first direction and to extract light directed along the extraction waveguide in the second direction toward an eye of a viewer, the array of extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion, and wherein the lateral anamorphic assembly comprises a lens formed by at least one surface of an air gap formed in the waveguide. Advantageously, improved aberrations can be achieved across a field of view and for a larger exit pupil.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] The waveguide in which the air gap may be formed may be an extraction waveguide. The light retro-reflector may be a reflective end of the extraction waveguide. The laterally deformable assembly may further comprise a light retro-reflector. Advantageously, a compact display device with improved aberrations may be achieved.

[0033] According to a fourth 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 deformable properties in lateral and transverse directions 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 lateral deformable component, the lateral deformable component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, wherein the lateral 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 lateral deformable component is guided to a direction distributed in the lateral direction; an extraction waveguide, the extraction waveguide being arranged to receive light from the lateral deformable component. an extraction waveguide arranged to direct light from the lateral anamorphic assembly along the extraction waveguide in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic assembly; 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, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises an array of extraction features, the extraction features being arranged to transmit light directed along the extraction waveguide in the first direction and to extract light directed along the extraction waveguide in the second direction toward an eye of a viewer, the array of extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion, and the lens of the lateral anamorphic assembly being a Pancharatnam-Berry lens. Advantageously, the size of the lateral anamorphic assembly can be reduced.

[0034] According to a sixth 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 being arranged to receive light from the transverse deformable component; and a transverse deformable component having a positive optical power in the transverse direction. The invention relates to a method for producing an image sensor having a first image sensor and a second image sensor, wherein the first image sensor comprises ...

[0035] According to a seventh 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 being arranged to receive light from the transverse deformable component; a lateral deformable component, the lateral deformable component having a positive optical power in the lateral direction The invention relates to a method for producing a spatial light modulator having positive optical power upward, an extraction waveguide arranged to guide light from the lateral anamorphic component in a first direction along the extraction waveguide to the lateral anamorphic component; and a light retroreflector 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 extraction features, the 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 an eye of a viewer, the array of extraction features are distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion, and the spatial light modulator includes an array of pixels, wherein each pixel includes sub-pixels of a plurality of color components, and the spacing of the sub-pixels of each color component across the pixel in the lateral direction varies between the color components in a manner that compensates for chromatic aberrations between the light of the color components. The spacing of the separated color components is caused at least by refraction at the front light guiding surface and is seen by the viewer as color blurring can be reduced, thereby achieving improved image fidelity for color images. The appearance of image distortion can be reduced and the active area of ​​the image being viewed is increased.

[0036] The sub-pixels of each pixel can be aligned in a lateral direction. The spacing of the sub-pixels of each color component across the pixel in the lateral direction can be the same for each color component. The spacing of the sub-pixels of each color component across the pixel in the lateral direction varies between the color components in a manner that compensates for the chromatic aberration between the light of the color components. Advantageously, the manufacturing cost and complexity of the spatial light modulator can be reduced.

[0037] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a deformable near-eye display device according to any one of the third to seventh aspects is provided, wherein: an extraction waveguide comprises: a front guiding surface; a polarization-sensitive reflector, the polarization-sensitive reflector being opposite to the front guiding surface; and an extraction element, the extraction element being arranged outside the polarization-sensitive reflector, the extraction element comprising: a rear guiding surface, the rear guiding surface being opposite to the front guiding surface; and an array of extraction features; the deformable near-eye display device is arranged to provide an input linear polarization state for light guided along the extraction waveguide in a first direction before the light reaches the polarization-sensitive reflector; and the optical system further comprises a polarization conversion retarder arranged between the polarization-sensitive reflector and the light reverse reflector, wherein 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, and The polarization conversion retarder and the light reverse reflector are combined and arranged to rotate the input linear polarization state of light guided in a first direction so that the light guided in a second direction and output from the polarization conversion retarder has an orthogonal linear polarization state orthogonal to the input linear polarization state; the polarization sensitive reflector is arranged to reflect the light with the input linear polarization state guided in the first direction and transmit the light with the orthogonal linear polarization state guided in the second direction, so that the front guiding surface and the polarization sensitive reflector are arranged to guide light in the first direction, and the front guiding surface and the rear guiding surface are arranged to guide light in the second direction; and the array of extraction features is arranged to extract the light guided along the extraction waveguide in the second direction through the front guiding surface toward the viewer's eyes, and the array of extraction features is distributed along the extraction waveguide to provide an exit pupil expansion in a lateral direction.

[0038] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a head-mounted display device is provided, the head-mounted display device comprising a deformable near-eye display device according to any one of the third to eighth aspects and a head fixing arrangement, the head fixing arrangement being arranged to fix the deformable near-eye display device on a wearer's head, wherein the deformable near-eye display device extends across at least one eye of the wearer.

[0039] The optical system of any one of the first to ninth aspects of the present disclosure may further include: an input waveguide, the input waveguide being arranged to receive light from the lateral deformation component; a partial reflector, the input waveguide being arranged to guide the light from the lateral deformation component along the input waveguide to the partial reflector, and the partial reflector being arranged to reflect at least some of the light; an intermediate waveguide, the intermediate waveguide being arranged to receive at least some of the light reflected by the partial reflector; a lateral deformation component, the lateral deformation component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the intermediate waveguide being arranged to guide the light received from the partial reflector along the intermediate waveguide to the lateral deformation component in a first direction; a light reverse reflector, the light reverse reflector being arranged to reflect the light that has been guided along the intermediate waveguide in a first direction so that the reflected light is guided along the intermediate waveguide in a second direction opposite to the first direction to the partial reflector, the partial reflector being arranged to transmit at least some of the light; and wherein the extraction waveguide is arranged to receive at least some of the light that has been guided along the intermediate waveguide in the second direction and is transmitted by the partial reflector. The light transmitted by the input waveguide and the intermediate waveguide does not pass through the light extraction element. Advantageously, stray light may be reduced.

[0040] According to the tenth 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, wherein the optical system has an optical axis, and has a deformable property in lateral and transverse directions perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein the array of light sources comprises light sources distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse deformable component, the transverse deformable component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse deformable component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, and the lighting 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 being arranged to receive light from the transverse deformable component; a lateral deformable component, the lateral deformable component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the extraction waveguide being Arranged to guide light from the lateral deformation component along the extraction waveguide in a first direction to the lateral deformation component; and a light retroreflector, the light retroreflector is 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 at least one extraction feature, the at least one 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, and the lateral deformation component includes: a reflective linear polarizer, the reflective linear polarizer is arranged between the light retroreflector and the at least one extraction feature; and a polarization conversion retarder, the polarization conversion retarder is arranged between the reflective linear polarizer and the light retroreflector, 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. The aberration of the lateral deformation component can be improved. The fidelity of the light cone can be improved, and the illumination field can be increased. Higher contrast illumination of the external scene can be provided. Reduced glare and increased brightness can be achieved.

[0041] According to an eleventh 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, wherein the optical system has an optical axis and has a deformable property in lateral and transverse directions perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein the array of light sources comprises light sources 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 array of light sources, and the lighting 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 being arranged to receive light from the transverse deformable component; a lateral deformable component, the lateral deformable component having a positive optical power in the lateral direction, the extraction waveguide being arranged to extract the light from the lateral deformable component in a direction distributed in the lateral direction. A light cone is guided along the extraction waveguide in a first direction to a lateral deformation component; and a light retro-reflector, the light retro-reflector is 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 at least one extraction feature, the at least one 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, and the lateral deformation component includes: a partially reflective surface; a reflective linear polarizer, the reflective linear polarizer is arranged in series with the partially reflective surface, wherein at least one of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer has a positive focal length in the lateral direction; and a polarization conversion retarder, the polarization conversion retarder is arranged between the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer, 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. Advantageously, the fidelity of the light cone output can be improved. Higher contrast illumination of the external scene can be provided. Reduced glare and improved brightness can be achieved.

[0042] According to a twelfth 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 a light source array, the lighting system being arranged to output light; and an optical system, the optical system being arranged to guide light from the lighting system, wherein the optical system has an optical axis, and has a deformable property in lateral and transverse directions 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 deformable component, the transverse deformable component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse deformable component is arranged to receive light from the light source array, and the lighting system is arranged so that light output from the transverse deformable component is guided to a direction distributed in the transverse direction; an extraction waveguide, the extraction waveguide being arranged To receive light from a lateral anamorphic component; a lateral anamorphic component, the lateral anamorphic component having positive optical power in a lateral direction, an extraction waveguide arranged to guide light from the lateral anamorphic component in a first direction along the extraction waveguide to the lateral anamorphic component; and a light retro-reflector arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide in a 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 extraction feature, the at least one 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 a second direction, and wherein the lateral anamorphic component includes a lens, the lens formed by at least one surface of an air gap formed in the waveguide. Advantageously, the fidelity of the light cone output can be improved. Higher contrast illumination of an external scene can be provided. Reduced glare and improved brightness can be achieved.

[0043] According to a thirteenth 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 a light source array, the lighting system being arranged to output light; and an optical system, the optical system being arranged to guide light from the lighting system, 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 light source array comprises light sources 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 light source array, and the lighting system is arranged so that light output from the transverse deformable component is guided to a direction distributed in the transverse direction; an extraction waveguide , an extraction waveguide arranged to receive light from a lateral anamorphic component; a lateral anamorphic component, the lateral anamorphic component having positive optical power in a lateral direction, the extraction waveguide 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 guided along the extraction waveguide in a 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 extraction feature, the at least one 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, and the lens of the lateral anamorphic component is a Pancharatnam-Berry lens. Advantageously, the fidelity of the light cone output can be improved. Higher contrast illumination of an external scene can be provided. Reduced glare and improved brightness can be achieved. The compactness of the anamorphic directional lighting device can be improved.

[0044] According to a fourteenth 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, wherein the optical system has an optical axis, and has a deformable property in lateral and transverse directions perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein the array of light sources comprises light sources distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse deformable component, the transverse deformable component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse deformable component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, and the lighting 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 being arranged to receive light from the transverse direction. light from an anamorphic assembly; a lateral anamorphic assembly having positive optical power in a lateral direction, an extraction waveguide arranged to guide light from the lateral anamorphic assembly along the extraction waveguide to the lateral anamorphic assembly in a first direction; and a light retro-reflector arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide in a 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 extraction feature, the at least one 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 a second direction, and at least one of the input end of the extraction waveguide, the lateral anamorphic assembly, and the light source array has a curvature in the lateral direction that compensates for the field curvature of the lateral anamorphic assembly. Advantageously, the fidelity of the light cone output can be improved and the illumination field can be increased. Higher contrast illumination of an external scene can be provided. Reduced glare and improved brightness can be achieved.

[0045] According to a fifteenth 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, wherein the optical system has an optical axis, and has a deformable property in lateral and transverse directions perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein the array of light sources comprises light sources distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse deformable component, the transverse deformable component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse deformable component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, and the lighting 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 being arranged to receive light from the transverse deformable component; a lateral deformable component, the lateral deformable component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the lateral deformable component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, and the lighting system is arranged so that the light output from the lateral deformable component is guided to a direction distributed in the lateral direction; and The anamorphic assembly has positive optical power in a lateral direction, an extraction waveguide is arranged to guide light from the lateral anamorphic assembly along the extraction waveguide to the lateral anamorphic assembly in a first direction; and a light retro-reflector, the light retro-reflector is arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide in a 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 extraction feature, the at least one 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, and the light source array includes an array of light sources, wherein each light source includes sub-light sources of a plurality of color components, and the sub-light sources of each color component vary between the color components in a manner that compensates for chromatic aberrations between the light of the color components across the spacing of the light sources in the lateral direction. Advantageously, the color rendering of the output light cone can be reduced. Image fidelity can be improved, and the illumination field can be improved.

[0046] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle exterior light device is provided, the vehicle exterior light device comprising a deformed directional lighting device according to any one of the tenth to fifteenth aspects. An array of illumination light cones for illuminating a road scene may be provided. The light cones may provide control of the illuminated area of ​​the road scene. The illumination may be reduced in the area of ​​oncoming vehicles to reduce glare for oncoming drivers. The illumination for road hazards may be increased in areas not around the driver's location. Improved driver safety may be achieved.

[0047] Any of the various aspects of the present disclosure may be applied in any combination.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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

[0051] The embodiments are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate similar parts, and in which:

[0052] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a morphing near-eye display device;

[0053] 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;

[0054] Figure 1C is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of the operation of a near-eye display in a transverse plane;

[0055] Figure 1D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of the operation of a near-eye display in a lateral plane orthogonal to the transverse plane;

[0056] 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;

[0057] 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;

[0058] 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;

[0059] 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;

[0060] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light input into an extraction waveguide;

[0061] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light propagation along a first direction in an extraction waveguide;

[0062] 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;

[0063] Figure 3D is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic perspective view of an optical design for a near-eye anamorphic display device;

[0064] 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;

[0065] 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;

[0066] Figure 4C is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light output from an anamorphic near-eye display device for multiple locations for an observer moving in a lateral direction;

[0067] 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;

[0068] Figure 5B This is a diagram illustrating the position of a single pupil. Figure 1AA schematic diagram of a front view of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0069] 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;

[0070] 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;

[0071] 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;

[0072] Figure 6C It is illustrated by FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0073] Fig. 7A 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;

[0074] Figure 7B It is illustrated by Fig. 7A Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0075] Figure 7C 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;

[0076] Fig.7D 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;

[0077] Fig. 7E is 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;

[0078] Figure 7Fis 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;

[0079] Figure 7G It is illustrated by Figure 7F Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0080] Figure 7H 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;

[0081] Fig.7I It is illustrated by Figure 7H Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0082] Fig. 8A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a portion of an optical system for an anamorphic near-eye display device including a half-silvered mirror and a reflective polarizer;

[0083] Figure 8B is a diagram illustrating the propagation through Fig. 8A Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction and polarization state of light of the polarization control component;

[0084] Figure 8C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a portion of an optical system for an anamorphic near-eye display device including a half-silvered mirror and a reflective polarizer;

[0085] Fig.8D is a diagram illustrating the propagation through Figure 8C Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction and polarization state of light of the polarization control component;

[0086] Fig. 8E is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a portion of an optical system for an anamorphic near-eye display device including a curved half-silvered mirror and a planar reflective polarizer;

[0087] Figure 8F is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a portion of an optical system for an anamorphic near-eye display device including a flat half-silvered mirror and a curved reflective polarizer;

[0088] Fig.9A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, an anamorphic near-eye display device including a laterally anamorphic component that is refractive and reflective;

[0089] Fig. 9B 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;

[0090] Fig. 9C 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;

[0091] Fig.9D is illustrated in side view Fig. 9C Schematic diagram of a deformable near-eye display device;

[0092] Fig. 10A 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;

[0093] Fig. 10B is a schematic diagram illustrating the optical structure of a Pancharatnam-Berry lens in end view;

[0094] Fig. 10C is illustrated in front view Fig. 10B Schematic diagram of the optical structure of the Pancharatnam-Berry lens;

[0095] Fig. 10D This diagram is for Fig. 10B Schematic diagram of the variation of the phase difference of an illustrative Pancharatnam-Berry lens with lateral position;

[0096] Fig.10E is illustrated in side view Fig. 10A Schematic diagram of the operation of the Pancharatnam-Berry lens;

[0097] Fig.11A 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;

[0098] Fig. 11B 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;

[0099] Fig. 11Cis 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;

[0100] Fig.11D 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 curvature direction is in the same direction as Fig. 11C In the direction opposite to the direction of curvature;

[0101] Fig.11E 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 curvature of these components are different;

[0102] Fig. 12A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in end view, extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide illuminated by a white pixel comprising a co-located red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel;

[0103] Fig. 12B is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide illuminated by a white pixel including a co-located red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel;

[0104] Fig. 12C is a schematic diagram illustrating a reference array of pixel sites on a surface of a spatial light modulator;

[0105] Fig.12D is a diagram illustrating an illustrative embodiment of a deformable near-eye display device Fig. 12C A schematic diagram of an array of pixel locations corresponding to an array of angular output directions;

[0106] Fig.12E It is a graphic illustration Fig.12D a schematic diagram of the area of ​​the diagram;

[0107] Fig.13A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in end view, extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide illuminated by a white pixel including separate red, green, and blue sub-pixels;

[0108] Fig. 13Bis a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide illuminated by a white pixel including separate red, green, and blue sub-pixels;

[0109] Fig. 13C is a schematic diagram illustrating a correction array of pixel sites on a surface of a spatial light modulator;

[0110] Fig.13D It is a graphic illustration Fig. 13C a schematic diagram of the area of ​​the diagram;

[0111] Fig.13E is a diagram illustrating an illustrative embodiment of a deformable near-eye display device Fig. 13C A schematic diagram of an array of pixel locations corresponding to an array of angular output directions;

[0112] Fig.13F is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, an arrangement of color subpixels for a first site and a second site on a spatial light modulator, wherein the spacing of the subpixels for each color component varies in the lateral direction and in the transverse direction across the pixel;

[0113] Figure 13G is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, an arrangement of color subpixels for a first site and a second site on a spatial light modulator, wherein the spacing of the subpixels for each color component varies in the lateral direction and in the transverse direction across the pixel;

[0114] Fig.13H is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, an arrangement of color subpixels for a first site and a second site on a spatial light modulator, wherein the pitch of the pixels varies in a lateral direction and a transverse direction;

[0115] Fig.13I is a flow chart illustrating a method of providing calculation of locations of an array of red sub-pixels, green sub-pixels, and blue sub-pixels of a spatial light modulator, the spatial light modulator comprising c different color sub-pixels, m pixel columns, and n pixel rows;

[0116] Fig.13J is an alternative flow chart illustrating a method of providing calculation of locations of an array of red, green, and blue sub-pixels of a spatial light modulator, the spatial light modulator comprising c different color sub-pixels, m pixel columns, and n pixel rows;

[0117] Figure 13K is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view the extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide illuminated by white pixels, wherein the extraction waveguide further comprises a dichroic diffractive optical element disposed between an array of light retro-reflectors and the extraction reflectors;

[0118] Figure 13L is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a color separation diffractive optical element in a front view;

[0119] Fig.14A is a schematic diagram illustrating details of the arrangement of an input focusing lens in side view;

[0120] Fig. 14B is illustrated in front view Fig.14A A schematic diagram of details of the arrangement of the input focusing lens;

[0121] Fig.15A is illustrated in side view for use in Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a spatial light modulator arrangement used in a deformable near-eye display device, the deformable near-eye display device including separate red spatial light modulators, green spatial light modulators and blue spatial light modulators and a beam combining element;

[0122] Fig. 15B is a diagram illustrating in side view a folding arrangement for use in a birdbath-type arrangement Figure 1A A schematic diagram of an illumination system used in a deformed near-eye display device;

[0123] Fig.16 is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of an input focusing lens in a perspective front view;

[0124] Fig.17 is illustrated in side view for use in Figure 1A A schematic diagram of an arrangement of a spatial light modulator used in a deformable near-eye display device, the deformable near-eye display device comprising a spatial light modulator, the spatial light modulator comprising a laser scanner and a light diffusion screen;

[0125] Fig.18A is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view an input of an extraction waveguide including a laser source and a scanning arrangement;

[0126] Fig.18B is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view a spatial light modulator arrangement comprising a Fig.18A An array of laser light sources for use in an arrangement;

[0127] Fig.18C 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;

[0128] Fig.19A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of an anamorphic near-eye display device including a stepped extraction waveguide;

[0129] Fig.19B is illustrated in side view Fig.19A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0130] Fig. 20A 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;

[0131] Fig. 20B is illustrated in side view Fig. 20A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0132] Fig.21A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of an anamorphic near-eye display device including a polarization-sensitive reflector;

[0133] Fig. 21B is illustrated in side view Fig.21A Schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device for light propagating in a first direction along an extraction waveguide;

[0134] Fig. 21C is illustrated in side view Fig.21A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device for light propagating along an extraction waveguide in a second direction;

[0135] Fig.21D It is a graphic illustration Fig.21A A schematic diagram of a side view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device;

[0136] Fig.21E It is a graphic illustration Fig.21A Schematic diagram of a front view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device;

[0137] Fig.21F It is a diagram showing the FIG. 21A to FIG. 21E Schematic diagram of the alignment direction of the polarization control component;

[0138] Figure 21G It is a graphic illustration FIG. 7F to FIG. 7G A schematic diagram of a side view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device, wherein the waveguide includes a polarization-sensitive reflector;

[0139] Fig.21H It is a graphic illustration FIG. 7F to FIG. 7I A schematic diagram of a side view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device, wherein the waveguide includes a polarization-sensitive reflector;

[0140] Fig.21Iis a schematic diagram of a front perspective view of a deformable near-eye display device including a polarization-sensitive reflector, wherein the extraction element is a deflection element;

[0141] Fig.21J It is a graphic illustration Fig.21I A schematic diagram of a side view of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0142] Figure 21K It is a graphic illustration Fig.21I A schematic diagram of a side view of a portion of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0143] Fig.22A 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. 22B is illustrated in side view Fig.22A A schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device;

[0145] Fig.23A 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;

[0146] Fig. 23B 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;

[0147] Fig.23C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in a perspective front view, an eyepiece arrangement for an augmented reality head mounted display device;

[0148] Fig.24A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in a perspective front view, a deformable near-eye display device having a spatial light modulator at a temple temple location;

[0149] Fig. 24B 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;

[0150] Fig.24C 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;

[0151] Fig.25is 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;

[0152] Fig.26A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a morphing near-eye display device;

[0153] Fig.26B It is a graphic illustration Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a top view of a deformable near-eye display;

[0154] Fig.26C It is a graphic illustration Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a front view of a deformable near-eye display;

[0155] Fig.27A is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of polarization state propagation in an alternative arrangement of a morphing near-eye display device;

[0156] Fig.27B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of polarization state propagation in an alternative arrangement of a morphing near-eye display device;

[0157] Fig.28 is a schematic diagram of an intermediate waveguide of a deformable near-eye display device illustrating in a front view the guide including an input waveguide, a partial mirror, an intermediate waveguide and an extraction waveguide, wherein the lateral deformable component further includes a planar reflective polarizer and a quarter-wave retarder, and the quarter-wave retarder is arranged between the reflective end and the reflective polarizer.

[0158] Fig.29A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformed directional lighting device; and

[0159] Fig.29B is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a vehicle including a vehicle exterior light apparatus including Fig.29A Deformed directional lighting device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0160]

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

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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:

[0167] Γ=2.π.Δn.d / λ0 Equation 1.

[0168] In Equation 1, Δn is defined as the difference between the extraordinary refractive index and the ordinary refractive index, that is,

[0169] Δn=n e -n o Equation 2.

[0170] 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.

[0171] Some aspects of the propagation of light through a transparent retarder between a pair of polarizers will now be described.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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.

[0177] 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.

[0178] A retarder providing a relative net phase shift between the orthogonal polarization components changes the SOP and provides attenuation at the analyzing polarizer.

[0179] 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:

[0180] Δn.d / λ=κEquation 3

[0181] where κ is essentially a constant.

[0182] 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.

[0183] 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.

[0184] 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.

[0185] 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.

[0186] 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.

[0187] 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.

[0188] 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.

[0189] 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.

[0190] 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.

[0191] As hereinafter (for example in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D and Fig.18A 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.

[0192] 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.

[0193] As discussed 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.

[0194] In the present disclosure, as hereinafter described, for example, Fig.16 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.

[0195] 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).

[0196] 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:

[0197] O=T×L Equation 4

[0198] 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.

[0199] 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.

[0200] The optical system 250 further includes a light retro-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.

[0201] 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.

[0202] 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.

[0203] As will be further described below, the extraction reflectors 170 are examples of reflective extraction features 169, and each includes a set of layers that are reflective layers. Fig. 20A As described in FIG. 20D , the functionality of the extraction reflector 170 may be performed by any of the other forms of extraction features described herein, such as the reflective extraction feature 169 , which is a diffractive feature (including, for example, a phase grating).

[0204] 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.

[0205] 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.

[0206] 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.

[0207] 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 .

[0208] 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.

[0209] We will now describe Figure 1A Further features of the arrangement.

[0210] 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.

[0211] Further, the optical system 250 may include a polarization conversion retarder 72 disposed between the array of light retro-reflectors 140 and extraction reflectors 170. The polarization conversion retarder 72 may be an A-plate having an optical axis direction, which is arranged to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light and to convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light. Figure 1A In the embodiment of the invention, the polarization conversion retarder 72 is arranged with a light guiding portion of the extraction waveguide 1, the light guiding portion being arranged between the polarization conversion retarder 72 and the light retro-reflector 140. Advantageously, the variation in the flatness of the polarization conversion retarder 72 does not provide image blur. Figure 1B In an alternative embodiment, the light retro-reflector 140 is arranged on the polarization converting retarder 72. Advantageously, the complexity of the assembly can be reduced.

[0212] In the following, we will focus on at least Fig. 6A The operation of input linear polarizer 70 and polarization conversion retarder 72 is further described in Figure 6F.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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 .

[0216] The operation of anamorphic near-eye display device 100 as an augmented reality display will now be further described.

[0217] 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.

[0218] 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.

[0219] Figure 1C is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of the operation of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a transverse plane; and Figure 1D is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of 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 1ASchematic 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.

[0220] 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 1A The 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.

[0221] 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.

[0222] 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.

[0223] 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 .

[0224] 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 T With 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 .

[0225] 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:

[0226] M L =φp L / P L Equation 5

[0227] And the lateral angular magnification M provided by the lateral deformation component 60 of the optical system 250 T can be given as:

[0228] M T =φp T / P T Equation 6

[0229] 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:

[0230] M L =M T *P T / P L Equation 7.

[0231] 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 / P T 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.

[0232] 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 .

[0233] 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 .

[0234] 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.

[0235] 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 .

[0236] We will now describe Figure 1A Illustrative imaging properties of the deformed near-eye display device 100.

[0237] 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.

[0238] Figure 1Fis 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.

[0239] 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.

[0240] 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.

[0241] 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 .

[0242] 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 .

[0243] In the following FIG. 12A to FIG. 12EChromatic aberration for an illustrative deformed near-eye display device 100 is further described in .

[0244] An illustrative arrangement of pixels 222 of a spatially multiplexed spatial light modulator 48 will now be described.

[0245] 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.

[0246] 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.

[0247] 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.

[0248] 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 .

[0249] 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 .

[0250] 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 .

[0251] 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.

[0252] 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.

[0253] 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.

[0254] 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.

[0255] Figure 2D is illustrated in front view for Figure 1ASchematic 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.

[0256] 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.

[0257] 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.

[0258] 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.

[0259] The input to Figure 1A Deformed light input in the near-eye display device 100.

[0260] 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; Figure 3C is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of light extraction from the extraction waveguide 1; and Figure 3D is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic perspective view of the optical design for the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 . FIG. 3A to FIG. 3DFeatures 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.

[0261] Now refer to Figure 3A To describe the lateral light cone 491 input into the extraction waveguide 1 T Input.

[0262] exist Figure 3A In 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.

[0263] 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 size 454 of the pixel blur PSF 452 may be reduced in at least the lateral direction 197 .

[0264] 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.

[0265] 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.

[0266] 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°

[0267] Table 1

[0268] 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.

[0269] The extraction reflector 170 desirably has a surface normal direction n R , 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.

[0270] 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 460C through light guiding surface 8 when light 460C has not been reflected from intermediate surface 172 after reflecting from light guiding surface 8.

[0271] 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 φ T can be enlarged, and a larger angular image can be seen in the lateral direction.

[0272] 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 .

[0273] Now refer to Figure 3B To describe the transverse light cone 491T Propagation along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191, for Figure 3B , for clarity of explanation, the extraction reflector 170 is omitted.

[0274] 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.

[0275] 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 .

[0276] 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.

[0277] 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.

[0278] 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.

[0279] 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 .

[0280] 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.

[0281] 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.

[0282] 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.

[0283] 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.

[0284] 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.

[0285] exist Figure 3DIn an alternative embodiment of the invention, in order to extract light, the waveguide 1 includes an extraction feature, which is a reflective extraction reflector 174 disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1 and extending all the way between the front light guiding surface 6 and the rear light guiding surface 8. This is an alternative to the extraction reflector 170 shown in FIG. 1 that extends partially across the extraction waveguide 1 between the opposite rear guiding surface 6 and the front guiding surface 8, but as Figure 1A Such an extraction feature 170 shown in FIG. 1 may alternatively be employed.

[0286] exist Figure 3D 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. Figure 3D 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. 12A to FIG. 12E The surface profile of the optical design.

[0287] The extraction reflector may have a surface normal direction n, which may be tilted at an angle α' in the range of 20 to 40 degrees, preferably in the range of 25 to 35 degrees, and most preferably in the range of 27.5 to 32.5 degrees relative to the direction along the waveguide 193. The desired surface normal n direction may reduce the visibility of the flipped image in the lateral direction 197. Such visibility reduction may be achieved, for example, in Figure 3C Through the light cone 493 T f and light cone 495 T As shown in the figure, the light cone 493 T f will include the flipped image and will not be extracted, light cone 495 T Includes non-flipped images.

[0288] Expansion of the exit pupil 40 in the lateral direction 197 will now be described.

[0289] 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 cone of light input into a viewer's pupil 44 in a lateral direction 197 (44); and 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. 4C 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.

[0290] 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 .

[0291] 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.

[0292] 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.

[0293] 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 φ 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 .

[0294] 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.

[0295] As in the following Figure 5A 5E, the lateral deformation component 110 further provides an expansion of the exit pupil 40 in the lateral direction 195, that is, increases the size of the eye box 40 in the lateral direction 195. L .

[0296] The imaging properties of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in the lateral direction 195 will now be further considered.

[0297] 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.

[0298] 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.

[0299] 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.

[0300] 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 , the desirably small lateral size 454 of the blurred PSF 452 L can be achieved.

[0301] 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.

[0302] 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.

[0303] 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.

[0304] 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).

[0305] 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.

[0306] 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.

[0307] 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.

[0308] We will now describe Figure 1A Polarized light propagation in an illustrative embodiment of.

[0309] 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.

[0310] 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.

[0311] exist FIG. 6A to FIG. 6CIn 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.

[0312] 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.

[0313] 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.

[0314] 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.

[0315] 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.

[0316] 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 .

[0317] 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.

[0318] 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.

[0319] 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.

[0320] 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 .

[0321] 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.

[0322] It would be desirable to improve the aberrations from the lateral anamorphic component 110 .

[0323] Fig. 7A 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 Figure 7B It is illustrated by Fig. 7A Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction of the polarization control assembly. 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.

[0324] Fig. 7AAn alternative embodiment of the invention illustrates an anamorphic near-eye 45 display device 100, comprising an illumination system 240 including a spatial light modulator 48, the illumination system 240 being arranged to output light, and an optical system 250 being arranged to direct the light from the illumination system 240 to the eye 45 of the viewer. 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. The spatial light modulator 48 includes pixels 222 distributed in the lateral direction 195. The optical system 250 includes a lateral anamorphic component 60 having positive optical power in the lateral direction 197, wherein the lateral anamorphic component 60 is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator 48, and the illumination system 240 is arranged so that the light output from the lateral anamorphic component 60 is directed in a direction distributed in the lateral direction 197. The extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light rays 480 for each pixel 222 and from the lateral anamorphic component 60. The lateral anamorphic component 110 has a positive optical power in a lateral direction 195, and the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to guide light from the lateral anamorphic component 60 along the extraction waveguide 1 to the lateral anamorphic component 110. The light retro-reflector 140 is arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a first direction 191 so that the reflected light is guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 opposite to the first direction 191, wherein the extraction waveguide 1 comprises an array of extraction features 169, the extraction features 169 comprising extraction reflectors 174A to 174C, the extraction features 169 being arranged to transmit light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 and extract light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 towards the eye 45 of the viewer, the array of extraction features 169 being distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 so as to provide an exit pupil 40 expansion. The extraction reflectors 174A to 174C are disposed within the interior of the extraction waveguide 1 and extend fully between the front light guiding surface 6 and the rear light guiding surface 8, as shown in Figure 3. This is an alternative to the extraction reflector 170 shown in Figure 1 extending partially across the extraction waveguide 1 between the opposing rear guiding surface 6 and the front guiding surface 8, but such an extraction feature 170 as shown in Figure 1 may alternatively be employed.

[0325] exist Fig. 7AIn an alternative embodiment, the lateral deformation component 110 includes: a reflective linear polarizer 99, which is arranged in an array of a light reverse reflector 140 and extraction reflectors 174A to 174C, wherein the light reverse reflector 140 is curved in the lateral direction 195; and a polarization conversion delay 89, which is arranged 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.

[0326] 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. Figure 7F 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 140 such that the waveguide portion 911C is omitted.

[0327] exist Figure 7B , 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.

[0328] 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.

[0329] 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.

[0330] 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 .

[0331] Fig. 7A The polarization conversion retarder 89 outputs a circular polarization state 980. After reflection at the light retro-reflector 140, 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 140 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.

[0332] Light 489 is thus twice incident on light retroreflector 140. Such an arrangement can reduce the droop of light retroreflector 140 compared to light retroreflector 141, 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.

[0333] 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 reflector 174 after reflection from light retro reflector 140. Further improvements in aberrations as described below may be achieved.

[0334] Figure 7C 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. Figure 7C 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.

[0335] and Fig. 7A Compared with the implementation scheme, Figure 7CIn 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.

[0336] 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.

[0337] Fig.7D 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. 7E 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. 7D to FIG. 7E 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.

[0338] exist Fig.7D 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.

[0339] Further, reflective linear polarizer 99 may have a profile having an aspherical shape to advantageously achieve improved aberrations.

[0340] exist Fig. 7E 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.

[0341] Fig. 7E 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.

[0342] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7G The embodiment of shows that the same polarization state 902 propagates in the waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 and the second direction 193. It may be desirable to reduce stray light.

[0343] Figure 7F 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, and a polarization control retarder 87, the polarization conversion retarder 89 is arranged between an optical retro-reflector 140 and the reflective linear polarizer 99, the optical retro-reflector 140 is a reflective end 4, and the polarization control retarder 87 is arranged between an input end 2 and the reflective linear polarizer 99; and

[0344] Figure 7G is a diagram illustrating illustrative polarization states propagating through Figure 7F Schematic diagram of the polarization control components. FIG. 7F to FIG. 7G 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.

[0345] exist Figure 7FIn 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.

[0346] exist Figure 7F , 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.

[0347] 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 .

[0348] exist Figure 7G , 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.

[0349] consider Figure 7F 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.

[0350] 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. 7A 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 sensitive extraction reflectors 174A to 174C, while light having polarization state 999P is transmitted to input end 2.

[0351] 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.

[0352] Figure 7F 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.

[0353] exist Figure 7F 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.

[0354] 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. Figure 7F 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.

[0355] Further, the polarization conversion retarder 89 is curved and is arranged on the light retro-reflector 140. Advantageously, the manufacturing complexity is reduced.

[0356] Figure 7His a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a front view, wherein the lateral anamorphic assembly 110 further comprises an absorbing polarizer 85, a planar reflective linear polarizer 99, a polarization conversion retarder 89 and a further quarter wave retarder 87, 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 further quarter wave retarder 87 being arranged between an input end 2 and the reflective linear polarizer 99; and Fig.7I is a diagram illustrating illustrative polarization states through Figure 7H Schematic diagram of the propagation of polarization-controlled components. FIG. 7H to FIG. 7I 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.

[0357] Through FIG. 7F to FIG. 7G For comparison, FIG. 7H to FIG. 7I 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.

[0358] 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 Figure 7F 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 sensitive extraction reflectors 174A to 174C, while light having polarization state 999P is transmitted to input port 2.

[0359] 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.

[0360] It may be desirable to improve the aberrations of the lateral anamorphic component 60 and / or reduce the size of the lateral anamorphic component 60.

[0361] Various alternative arrangements of extraction features will now be described. In general, extraction features from different embodiments are interchangeable. That is, the extraction features provided in any one of the above embodiments can be replaced with alternative arrangements of extraction features described elsewhere herein, including the following examples.

[0362] The extraction feature 169 may include an extraction reflector 170 that extends partially across the extraction waveguide 1 between the front guide surface 8 and the rear guide surface 6 of the extraction waveguide 1, such as Figure 1A In an alternative embodiment, the extraction features may be reflective extraction reflectors 174A to 174C disposed within the extraction waveguide 1 and extending entirely across the extraction waveguide 1 between the front light guiding surface 6 and the rear light guiding surface 8, such as Figure 3D and 7A to 7I . In both alternatives, the extraction reflectors 170, 174 may include intermediate surfaces separated by a partially reflective coating. The partially reflective coating may include at least one dielectric layer. The extraction reflectors 170, 174 may have a surface normal direction that is tilted relative to the direction along the waveguide at an angle a in the range of 20 to 40 degrees, preferably tilted at an angle in the range of 25 to 35 degrees, and most preferably tilted at an angle in the range of 27.5 to 32.5 degrees.

[0363] In another alternative, the extraction waveguide 1 may have a front guide surface 8 and a rear guide surface 6, and the rear guide surface 6 includes extraction facets 12, 172, the extraction facets 12, 172 being extraction features 169, each of which is arranged to reflect light guided in the second direction 193 through the front guide surface 8 toward the eye 45 of the viewer, for example as described below FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B and FIG. 21A to FIG. 21F The diagram in the figure shows the following figure.

[0364] In yet another alternative, the extraction waveguide 1 has a front guide surface 8 and a rear guide surface 6, and the rear guide surface 6 comprises, for example Fig.22A 1 . The diffractive optical element 11B illustrated in FIG. 1 includes extraction features 169 .

[0365] Any of these alternative arrangements of extraction features 169 may be provided for use in the following disclosure. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F , 9A to 9D , Fig. 10A To Figure 10F, FIG. 11A to FIG. 11E and FIG. 13A to FIG. 13K An extraction waveguide 1 of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0366] Fig. 8A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a portion of an optical system 250 for a deformed near-eye display device 100 including a half-silvered mirror 214 and a reflective polarizer 218; and Figure 8B is a diagram illustrating the propagation through Fig. 8A Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction and polarization state of light of the polarization control component. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B 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.

[0367] Fig. 8A An alternative embodiment of the invention illustrates an anamorphic near-eye 45 display device 100 comprising an illumination system 240 including a spatial light modulator 48, the illumination system 240 being arranged to output light, and an optical system 250 being arranged to direct the light from the illumination system 240 to a viewer's eye 45. 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. The spatial light modulator 48 comprises pixels 222 (illustrated by top pixel 222T), a center pixel 222C, and a bottom pixel 222B distributed in the lateral direction 195. The optical system 250 includes a lateral anamorphic component 60 having positive optical power in a lateral direction 197, wherein the lateral anamorphic component 60 is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator 48, and the illumination system 240 is arranged so that the light output from the lateral anamorphic component 60 is directed in directions distributed in the lateral direction 197. The extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light rays 480T, 480C, 480B from the lateral anamorphic component 60 for respective pixels 222T, 222C, 222B. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B is not shown, but for example Figure 1A1 ) has positive optical power in a lateral direction 195, and the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to guide light from the lateral deformation group 60 in a first direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1 to the lateral deformation component 110. The light retro-reflector 140 (not shown) is arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 so that the reflected light is guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 opposite to the first direction 191, wherein the extraction waveguide 1 includes an array of extraction features 169 (not shown), the extraction features 169 are arranged to transmit the light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 and extract the light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 towards the eye 45 of the viewer, and the array of extraction features 169 is distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 so as to provide an exit pupil 40 expansion.

[0368] The laterally deformable component 60 includes a light-transmitting optical stack 610 , which includes a partially reflective surface 214 , a reflective linear polarizer 218 , and a polarization-converting retarder 216 .

[0369] Partially reflective surface 214 may include, for example, a partially transmissive metal layer formed on surface 232A of transmissive member 234A of refractive lens 61. Reflective linear polarizer 218 may be of the type described elsewhere hereinabove.

[0370] exist FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B In an embodiment, the polarization conversion delay 261 is arranged in the transmission direction of the light from the spatial light modulator 48, behind the partially reflective surface 214 and between the partially reflective surface 214 and the reflective linear polarizer 218.

[0371] At least one of the partially reflective surface 214 and the reflective linear polarizer 218 has positive optical power in the transverse direction 197. Fig. 8A In the illustrative embodiment, each of the partially emitting surface 214 and the reflective linear polarizer 218 is curved to provide optical power in the transverse direction 197 for the light rays 480T, 480C, 480B.

[0372] Polarization conversion retarder 216 is arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through polarization conversion retarder 216 between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state. For example, linear polarization state 964 is converted to circular polarization state 962, or circular polarization state 966 is converted to linear polarization state 902.

[0373] The lateral anamorphic assembly 60 further includes at least one lens element 61 including transmissive members 234A, 234B having respective outer surfaces 232A, 232B disposed on each side of the polarization conversion retarder 216 .

[0374] At least one of the partially reflective surface 214 and the reflective linear polarizer 218 having positive optical power in the transverse direction 197 has no optical power in the lateral direction 195. Advantageously, the partially reflective surface 214 and / or the reflective linear polarizer 218 can be provided as a film without distortion that can be conveniently formed from a single plane of curvature. For example, the film can be conveniently adhered to a cylindrical surface at low cost and complexity without degradation of the optical properties of the film.

[0375] The propagation of light rays 480T, 480C, 480B will now be described.

[0376] consider Fig. 8A The spatial light modulator 48 can be arranged to output linearly polarized light from respective pixels 222T, 222C, 222B, and most typically, the illumination system 240 further includes an output polarizer 210 disposed between the spatial light modulator 48 and the lateral optical component 60, and the output polarizer 210 is arranged to output linearly polarized light having a polarization state 960.

[0377] The extraction waveguide 1 has an input end 2 extending in a lateral direction 195 and a transverse direction 197 , the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light from the illumination system 240 through the input end 2 , and the transverse deformation component 60 is disposed between the spatial light extraction 48 and the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0378] The lateral deformation assembly 60 includes a further polarization conversion retarder 212, which is arranged in the transmission direction 191 of the light from the spatial light modulator 48, in front of the partially reflective surface 214 and the reflective linear polarizer 218, and the polarization conversion retarder 212 is arranged to convert the linear polarization state 960 into a circular polarization state 962. The polarization conversion retarder 212 can be optically bonded to the linear polarizer 210, advantageously reducing reflections and stray light.

[0379] When incident on the partially reflective surface 214 , some of the light rays 480T, 480C, 480B are transmitted and refracted, while some of the light is reflected as light ray 482 having polarization state 961 because of the π phase shift due to reflection at the partially reflective surface 214 . Fig. 8A The partially reflective surface 214 is curved to provide refractive power in the lateral direction. Advantageously, some optical power can be provided by the curvature of the surface 232.

[0380] The circular polarization state 962 is converted into a linear polarization state 964 by the polarization conversion retarder 216. Fig. 8AIn an embodiment of the present invention, the polarization-converting retarder 216 is disposed between the transparent members 234A, 234B of the lens 61. Advantageously, image degradation from distortion of the flatness of the polarization-converting retarder 216 can be reduced.

[0381] Light rays 480T, 480C, 480B are reflected at reflective linear polarizer 218, which is curved to provide optical power and wide spectral bandwidth in lateral direction 197. Linear polarization state 964 is further converted to circular polarization state 962 by a second pass through polarization conversion retarder 216; some of the light is reflected from partially reflective surface 214 with polarization state 966; and is transmitted a third time through polarization conversion retarder 216 to provide polarization state 902, which is transmitted by reflective linear polarizer 218. The curvature of surface 232B of lens 61 further provides refractive optical power at the output into air.

[0382] A clean-up polarizer 70 may be provided to input the polarization state 902 into the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0383] exist Fig. 8A In an embodiment, the reflected light power is provided by reflection and refraction at the curved partially reflective surface 214 and the reflective linear polarizer 218. The profiles of the surfaces 232A, 232B can be arranged to provide the desired aberration reduction, reduce image blur and distortion and further achieve a reduced thickness of the lateral anamorphic component 60 compared to the refractive lens 61 as described elsewhere herein.

[0384] The anamorphic near-eye display device 100 may further include a linear polarizer 70 arranged between the lateral anamorphic component 60 and the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0385] Figure 8C is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a portion of an optical system 250 for an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 including a half-silvered mirror 214 and a reflective polarizer 218; and Fig.8D is a diagram illustrating the propagation through Figure 8C Schematic diagram of the optical axis alignment direction and polarization state of light of the polarization control component. FIG. 8C to FIG. 8D 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.

[0386] exist FIG. 8C to FIG. 8DIn an alternative embodiment, the transverse deformation component 60 includes a further polarization conversion retarder 212, which is arranged in the transmission direction 191 of the light from the spatial light modulator 48, after the partially reflecting surface 214 and the reflective linear polarizer 218. The propagation of polarization states 960, 970, 972, 902 is illustrated accordingly.

[0387] and Fig. 8A Compared to the embodiment of the present invention, the polarization conversion retarder 216 is arranged on the surface 232A of the transparent body 234 of the lens 61 and between the reflective linear polarizer 218 and the body 234. Advantageously, the complexity of assembly can be reduced. The retarder 212 can be further arranged on the polarizer 70, advantageously reducing surface reflections and stray light. The retarder 212 is away from the spatial light modulator 48 so that the heating of the retarder 212 can be reduced, advantageously improving the life span.

[0388] Alternative arrangements for the lateral deforming assembly 60 will now be described.

[0389] Fig. 8E is a schematic diagram illustrating, in side view, a portion of an optical system 250 for an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 including a curved half-silvered mirror 214 and a planar reflective polarizer 218; and Figure 8F is a schematic diagram illustrating a portion of an optical system 250 for an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 including a flat half-silvered mirror 214 and a curved reflective polarizer 218 in side view. FIG. 8E to FIG. 8F 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.

[0390] exist Fig. 8E In an alternative embodiment, only the partially reflective surface is curved and is arranged on the surface 232AA of the first lens 61A, and the first lens 61A further includes a curved surface 232AB and a transparent body 234A. The surface 232BA of the lens 61B is planar and has a curved surface 232BB of the transparent body 234B. The reflective linear polarizer 218 and the polarization control retarder 216 are arranged on the planar surface 232BA. The optical power is provided by refraction at the surfaces 232AA, 232AB, 232BA and 232BB and reflection from the curved partially reflective surface 214. Additional refractive surfaces 232AB, 232BA can be arranged to further improve aberrations. The material of the transparent body 234A can be different from the material of the transparent body 234B to advantageously achieve reduced chromatic aberration.

[0391] By comparison, in Figure 8FIn an alternative embodiment, only the reflective linear polarizer 218 is curved and is disposed on the surface 232AA of the first lens 61A. The partially reflective surface 214 and the polarization conversion retarder 216 are disposed on the planar surface 232BA. Optical power is provided by refraction at the surfaces 232AA, 232AB, 232BA, and 232BB and by reflection from the curved partially reflective surface 218.

[0392] FIG. 8E to FIG. 8F It is further illustrated that the polarizer 70 may be omitted, advantageously reducing cost.

[0393] It would be desirable to improve the aberration performance of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 , such as reducing image blur for off-axis directions.

[0394] Fig.9A 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, in particular surfaces 91, 92 and intermediate materials 93, 94 forming part of an extraction waveguide 1 and being arranged between the reflective end 4 and a reflective extraction feature 169. Fig.9A 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.

[0395] Fig.9A The illustrated lateral deformation assembly 110 further comprises a lens 95, which in this example comprises surfaces 91, 92 and intermediate materials 93, 94. The lens 95 may be arranged with opposing rear and front guiding surfaces 6, 8 coplanar with the opposing light guiding surfaces 6, 8 of the waveguide. Advantageously, high efficiency may be achieved.

[0396] In operation, lens 95 may be arranged to provide a wider exit aperture e L The improved aberration in the lateral direction 195 on the image plane is shown in FIG. Figure 1F The image blur 454 illustrated in FIG. 4 may advantageously be reduced.

[0397] exist Fig.9A In an alternative embodiment, the extraction waveguide 1 is shown with a stepped extraction reflector 170, but FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B 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.

[0398] It may be desirable to reduce the size of the reflector end.

[0399] Fig. 9Bis a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in front view, wherein a lateral anamorphic component 110 comprises a reflective end 4 of a waveguide, which in this example is formed as a Fresnel reflector 97 . Fig. 9B 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.

[0400] The Fresnel reflector 84 is arranged to advantageously remove Fig.9A The droop of the dome-shaped reflective end 4 is illustrated in FIG.

[0401] exist Fig. 9B 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.

[0402] The expectation is to increase Fig.9A The optical power of lens 95 illustrated in FIG. 1 is increased to achieve increased image blur reduction.

[0403] Fig. 9C is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view a deformable near-eye display device 100, wherein a lateral deformable component 110 includes a refractive component 95, and the refractive component 95 includes an air gap and an air gap mirror 96; and Fig.9D is illustrated in side view Fig. 9C Schematic diagram of a deformed near-eye display device 100. FIG. 9C to FIG. 9D 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.

[0404] Fig.9AAn alternative embodiment of the invention illustrates an anamorphic near-eye 45 display device 100, comprising an illumination system 240 including a spatial light modulator 48, the illumination system 240 being arranged to output light, and an optical system 250 being arranged to direct the light from the illumination system 240 to the eye 45 of the viewer. 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. The spatial light modulator 48 includes pixels 222 distributed in the lateral direction 195. The optical system 250 includes a lateral anamorphic component 60 having positive optical power in the lateral direction 197, wherein the lateral anamorphic component 60 is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator 48, and the illumination system 240 is arranged so that the light output from the lateral anamorphic component 60 is directed in a direction distributed in the lateral direction 197. The extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light rays 480 for respective pixels 222 and from the lateral anamorphic component 60. The lateral anamorphic component 110 has a positive optical power in a lateral direction 195, and the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to guide light from the lateral anamorphic component 60 along the extraction waveguide 1 to the lateral anamorphic component 110 in a first direction 191. The light retro-reflector 140 is arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 so that the reflected light is guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 opposite to the first direction 191, wherein the extraction waveguide 1 comprises an array of extraction features 169 arranged to transmit the light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 and to extract the light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 towards the eye 45 of the viewer, the array of extraction features 169 being distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 so as to provide an expansion of the exit pupil 40.

[0405] exist FIG. 9C to FIG. 9D In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the lateral deformation assembly 110 comprises a lens 95 formed by at least one surface 91, 92 of an air gap 97 formed in the waveguide. Advantageously, with, for example Figure 1A Compared to an arrangement of , aberrations in the lateral direction can be reduced. The modulation transfer function can be increased and image blur can be reduced. Image contrast for details can be increased and image realism can be advantageously improved.

[0406] 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.

[0407] The waveguide in which the air gap 97 is formed is the extraction waveguide 1, and the light retro-reflector 140 is the reflective end 4 of the extraction waveguide 1. The side deformation assembly 110 further includes the light retro-reflector 140. Advantageously, size and complexity are reduced, and efficiency is improved.

[0408] Through Fig.9A For comparison, Fig. 9C In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the intermediate material 93 is replaced with an air gap 97 having surfaces 91, 92 facing 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.

[0409] It would be desirable to reduce the size of the lateral anamorphic assembly 110. An alternative arrangement of the lateral anamorphic assembly 110 including a Pancharatnam-Berry lens will now be described.

[0410] Fig. 10A 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. 10A 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.

[0411] exist Fig. 10A 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.

[0412] exist Fig. 10A 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.

[0413] 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.

[0414] Fig. 10B is a schematic diagram illustrating the optical structure of the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 in an end view; Fig. 10C is illustrated in front view Fig. 10B Schematic diagram of the optical structure of the Pancharatnam–Berry lens. FIG. 10B to FIG. 10C 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.

[0415] Fig. 10B and Fig. 10C An 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.

[0416] 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.

[0417] 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.

[0418] Fig. 10D This diagram is for Fig. 10B Schematic plot of the phase difference of an illustrative Pancharatnam-Berry lens as a function of lateral position. Fig. 10D 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. 10B 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.

[0419] 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.

[0420] Fig.10E 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.10E 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.

[0421] 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 .

[0422] 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.

[0423] 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.

[0424] For the offset distance X from the site 161 in the lateral direction 195 L 902 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.

[0425] 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 .

[0426] 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.9A A Pancharatnam-Berry lens 350 in combination with the refractive lens 95 illustrated in FIG. 1 may be provided, the refractive lens 95 being split in a direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1. Improved aberration control may be achieved, and the exit pupil 40 may be expanded in a lateral direction 195. Advantageously, Figure 1F The blurred PSF 452 may have a reduced lateral blur size 454 L .

[0427] It may be desirable to reduce image blur at higher side field angles.

[0428] Fig.11A 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.11A 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.

[0429] Fig.11A An alternative embodiment illustrates a deformable near-eye 45 display device 100, which includes: an illumination system 240, the illumination system 240 including a spatial light modulator 48, the illumination system 240 is arranged to output light; and an optical system 250, the optical system 250 is arranged to direct light from the illumination system 240 to the viewer's eye 45.

[0430] 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 to the optical axis 199. The spatial light modulator 48 includes pixels 222 distributed in the lateral direction 195.

[0431] The optical system 250 includes: a lateral deformation component 60, which has a positive optical focal length in the lateral direction 197, wherein the lateral deformation component 60 is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator 48, and the illumination system 240 is arranged so that the light output from the lateral deformation component 60 is guided to a direction distributed in the lateral direction 197.

[0432] The extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light rays 489 for respective pixels 222 and coming from the lateral deformation component 60 .

[0433] The lateral deformation component 110 has a positive optical power in a lateral direction 195 , and the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to guide light from the lateral deformation component 60 in a first direction 191 sh along the extraction waveguide 1 to the lateral deformation component 110 .

[0434] The light reverse reflector 140 is arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a first direction 191 so that the reflected light is guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 opposite to the first direction 191, wherein the extraction waveguide 1 includes an array of extraction features 169, the extraction features 169 include extraction reflectors 174A to 174C, the extraction features 169 are arranged to transmit the light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 and extract the light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 toward the viewer's eye 45, and the array of extraction features 169 is distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 so as to provide an exit pupil 40 expansion.

[0435] Return to Figure 5A , and by comparing with this embodiment, Figure 5A The diagram illustrates an input end 2 having no curvature in a lateral direction 195 , a lateral deformation component 60 , and a spatial light modulator 48 having pixels located on a pixel surface 224 .

[0436] In practice, the aberration of the lateral deformation component 110 is Fig.11A 2B has a Petzval curvature of field for the illustrative curved image field surface 98B shown in FIG. 2B , which is spaced a distance δ from the pixel surface 224. Image pixels 222 on the surface 224 that are spaced wider from the image field surface 98B in the direction 191 have a reduced modulation transfer function (MTF) and appear more blurred. Considering the image field surface 98B, pixels 222 that are off-axis in the lateral direction 195 can be perceived as having increased image blur compared to pixels 222 that are on-axis.

[0437] It would be desirable to provide pixels 222 of spatial light modulator 48 on image field surface 98A that is proximate to pixel surface 224 of illumination system 240 across spatial light modulator 48 in lateral direction 195 .

[0438] consider Fig.11A In the embodiment, the curved input end 2 of the extraction waveguide provides a modified image field surface 98A.

[0439] In operation, light rays 480 are illustrative rays for output light from pixels 222 on lateral anamorphic component 60 that are directed toward an observer's eye 45. Indicative light rays 450A, 451A, 450B, 451B illustrate light that would propagate from eye 45 toward spatial light modulator 48 if the light source were arranged at a location corresponding to retina 46 of eye 45. Indicative light rays 450A, 451A form indicative image point 223A, and indicative light rays 450B, 451B form indicative image point 223B, wherein indicative image points 223A, 223B are located in surface 98A.

[0440] Considering the best focus 223B, the spacing δ provided by the surface 98B will provide the best focus 223C B In comparison, the spacing of surface 98A from the plane of pixels 222 of spatial light modulator 48 is reduced across the field of view.

[0441] exist Fig.11A In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1 thus has a curvature in the lateral direction 195 which compensates for the Petzval field curvature of the lateral deformation component 110. Fig. 11B The desired image field surface 98A is provided to be more closely aligned with the pixel plane 224 of the spatial light modulator 48. The MTF for off-axis image points is increased and, advantageously, image blur is reduced.

[0442] Alternative embodiments for reducing curvature of field will now be described.

[0443] Fig. 11Bis 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, and the lateral deformable component 60 has a curvature in a lateral direction 195; Fig. 11C 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.11D 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 curvature direction of each of the input end 2, the lateral anamorphic component and the spatial light modulator 48 is in accordance with Fig. 11C The curvatures of are in opposite directions; and Fig.11E 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 curvature direction of each of the input end 2 and the lateral anamorphic component is Fig. 11C The curvature direction of the spatial light modulator 48 is opposite to that of Fig. 11C The curvature direction is the same. FIG. 11B 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.

[0444] FIG. 11B to FIG. 11E An alternative embodiment of is an example illustrating the case where at least one of the input end 2 of the extraction waveguide 1, the lateral anamorphic component 60 and the spatial light modulator 48 may have a curvature in the lateral direction 195 in a manner that compensates for the Petzval field curvature of the lateral anamorphic component 110. The direction of curvature of each element 2, 60, 48 may be modified to achieve optimized image performance such that the MTF for off-axis field points is further increased and, advantageously, image blur is reduced.

[0445] 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.

[0446] Return to Figure 1F Description, it is expected to reduce the lateral color blur 455 of the deformed near-eye display device 100 of the embodiment of the present application L and horizontal color blur 455 T .

[0447] Fig. 12A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in end view, extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide 1 illuminated by a white pixel 222RGB comprising a co-located red sub-pixel 222R, a green sub-pixel 222G, and a blue sub-pixel 222B; and Fig. 12B is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, the extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide 1 illuminated by a white pixel 222RGB comprising a co-located red sub-pixel 222R, a green sub-pixel 222G, and a blue sub-pixel 222B.

[0448] Fig. 12A 1 illustrates the propagation of white light 404RGB from a single point on an illustrative white pixel 222RGB after reflection from the extraction reflector 170. White light 404RGB is incident at location 229 on the front guide surface 8 and is output toward the eye 45. The dispersion of the material forming the extraction waveguide 1 means that for a given angle of incidence φ RGB (having a lateral direction component and a transverse direction component), output directions 404R, 404G, 404B are provided for illustrative red wavelength light (e.g., 625 nm), green wavelength light (e.g., 550 nm), and blue wavelength light (e.g., 465 nm), respectively, providing output directions φ R '、φ G '、φ B '. For typical dispersive materials, φ R ' is less than φ B Color blur 454 provides an undesirable splitting of red, green, and blue pixels when imaged onto retina 46.

[0449] Fig. 12B Different views of the propagation of light 404RGB are further illustrated. In operation, light 404RGB is output to eye 45 as a beam that, when propagating in direction 191, is most typically output from illustrative white pixel 222RGB in a direction close to the direction of optical axis 199 (110). Such operation may be referred to as telecentric operation.

[0450] Light rays 404RGB are reflected by the extraction reflector 170 at location 229 to the front directing surface 8, providing output light rays 404R, 404G, 404B separated by a color blur angle 455.

[0451] Fig. 12C is a schematic diagram illustrating a reference array of pixel 222 sites on the surface of the spatial light modulator 48; Fig.12D is a diagram illustrating an illustrative embodiment of a deformable near-eye display device Fig. 12C A schematic diagram of an array of angular output directions corresponding to an array of pixel sites; and Fig.12E It is a graphic illustration Fig.12D Schematic diagram of the area of ​​the diagram.

[0452] Fig. 12C illustrates the locations of reference pixels 225, 227 on a regular array, and Fig.12D Illustration for use Fig. 12C The corresponding angular image field locations of the pixels 225, 227 of the pixel 222 at the location of the pixel 225, 227 after being imaged by the illustrative embodiment of the deformed near-eye display device 100, the deformed near-eye display device 100 having a structure similar to Figure 3D Surface profile of the structure illustrated in FIG.

[0453] FIG. 12D to FIG. 12E The diagram illustrates that the output angular array is provided with a pincushion distortion across the array and further, the chroma blur 455 as FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B Seen as described in.

[0454] It would be desirable to reduce color blur 455.

[0455] Fig.13A is a schematic diagram illustrating, in end view, extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide 1 illuminated by a white pixel comprising separate red sub-pixel 222R, green sub-pixel 222G, and blue sub-pixel 222B; and Fig. 13B is a schematic diagram illustrating, in front view, the extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide 1 illuminated by a white pixel comprising separate red, green, and blue sub-pixels 222R, 222G, and 222B. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13B 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] and FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B compared to, FIG. 13A to FIG. 13B The diagram illustrates the output light direction 404RGB, which is the same for the light rays 404R, 404G, 404B incident on the location 229 at the front guiding surface 8. Fig.13A In the example, for the incident angles φ of the light rays 404R, 404G, and 404B R ,φ G ,φ BWith a common refraction angle φ RGB ' is output, and for Fig.13A , for the incident angles θ of the light rays 404R, 404G, and 404B R ,θ G ,θ B With a common refraction angle θ RGB To realize the light rays 404R, 404G, 404B, the pixels 222R, 222G, 222B are spatially separated on the spatial light modulator 48.

[0457] Fig. 13C is a schematic diagram illustrating a correction array of pixel sites 222R, 222B on the surface of the spatial light modulator 48; Fig.13D It is a graphic illustration Fig. 13C a schematic diagram of the area of ​​the diagram; and Fig.13E is a diagram illustrating an illustrative embodiment of a deformable near-eye display device Fig. 13C Schematic diagram of the pixel location array corresponding to the angular output direction array. FIG. 13C to FIG. 13E 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.

[0458] exist FIG. 13C to FIG. 13D In an alternative embodiment, for light directed to angular location 227, corresponding sub-pixels 222R, 222B are indicated, illustrating that the lateral locations have been shifted for red and blue wavelengths.

[0459] Fig.13E The diagrams illustrate embodiments in which the relative locations of color subpixels 222R, 222G, and 222B on spatial light modulator 48 are shifted to adjust for distortion, and color shifting may achieve a uniform distribution of angular locations.

[0460] We will now describe the Fig. 13C The arrangement of color sub-pixels 222R, 222G, and 222B in the pixel array.

[0461] Fig.13F is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement of color sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B for the first and second sites 225 and 227 on the spatial light modulator 48 in a front view, wherein the pitch P in the lateral direction is LR , P LG , P LB change; Figure 13Gis a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement of color sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B for the first site 225 and the second site 227 on the spatial light modulator 48 in a front view, wherein the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B of each color component span the pitch P of the pixel 222 in the lateral direction. LR , P LG , P LB The pitch P of the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B of each color component in the lateral direction across the pixel 222 varies in the lateral direction 195. TR , P TG , P TB varies in a lateral direction 197; and Fig.13H is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement of color sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B for a first point 225 and a second point 227 on a spatial light modulator 48 in a front view, wherein the spacing of the pixels 222 varies in the lateral and transverse directions, but the spacing of the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B for a single pixel 222 in the lateral direction is constant. FIG. 13F to FIG. 13H 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.

[0462] FIG. 13F to FIG. 13H An alternative embodiment of the invention is illustrated as follows Figure 1A, the anamorphic near-eye 45 display device 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes an illumination system 240 including a spatial light modulator 48, the illumination system 240 being arranged to output light, and an optical system 250, the optical system 250 being arranged to direct the light from the illumination system 240 to the eye 45 of the viewer. 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. The spatial light modulator 48 includes pixels 222 distributed in the lateral direction 195. The optical system 250 includes a lateral anamorphic component 60 including a lens 61 having positive optical power in the transverse direction 197, wherein the lateral anamorphic component 60 is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator 48, and the illumination system 240 is arranged so that the light output from the lateral anamorphic component 60 is directed to a direction distributed in the transverse direction 197. The extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to receive light rays 480 for respective pixels 222 and from the lateral anamorphic component 60. The lateral anamorphic component 110 has a positive optical power in a lateral direction 195, and the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to guide light from the lateral anamorphic component 60 in a first direction 191 along the extraction waveguide 1 to the lateral anamorphic component 110. The light retro-reflector 140 is arranged to reflect light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 so that the reflected light is guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 opposite to the first direction 191, wherein the extraction waveguide 1 comprises an array of extraction features 169, the array of extraction features 169 comprising extraction reflectors 170A to 170N, the extraction features 169 being arranged to transmit light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 and to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 towards the eye 45 of the viewer, the array of extraction features 169 being distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 so as to provide an expansion of the exit pupil 40.

[0463] consider Fig.13F In an alternative embodiment, the spatial light modulator 48 includes an array of pixels 222, wherein each pixel 222 includes a plurality of sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B of a color component. The sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B of each color component are spaced at a pitch P across the pixel 222 in the lateral direction 195. LG , P LR , P LB The color difference between the light 404R, 404G, 404B of the color components is varied in a manner that compensates for the color difference between the light 404R, 404G, 404B of the color components. Considering the position 225, the pitch P LG (225), P LR (225), P LB(225) is different from the site 227 (separated by a distance Δ in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197 on the spatial light modulator 48). L , Δ T ) at the spacing P LG (227), P LR (227), P LB (227). The sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B of each pixel 222 are arranged to have the same spacing in the lateral direction 197, so that the spacing P TG , P TR , P TB is constant across the array of pixels 222 in the lateral direction 197. Advantageously, visibility of chromatic blur 455 and visibility of image distortion in the lateral direction 195 may be reduced.

[0464] exist Fig.13F In an alternative embodiment, the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B of each pixel 222 are aligned in the lateral direction 197. Further, the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B of each color component are aligned in the lateral direction 197 at a pitch P across the pixel 222. TR , P TG , P TB This is the same for each color component. Advantageously, the complexity of the structure of the spatial light modulator 48 is reduced.

[0465] exist Figure 13G In an alternative embodiment, the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B of each color component are spaced a distance P across the pixel 222 in the lateral direction 197. TR , P TG , P TB varies between color components in a way that compensates for the chromatic aberration between the light of the color components. Consider Figure 13G An alternative implementation of Fig.13F Compared with the embodiment of the present invention, the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, and 222B of each pixel 222 are arranged with different pitches in the lateral direction 197, so the pitch P TG (227), P TR (227), P TB (227) varies across the array of pixels 222 in the lateral direction 197. Advantageously, the chromaticity blur 455 in the lateral direction 195 and the lateral direction 197 L ,455 T The visibility of each can be reduced.

[0466] consider Fig.13H An alternative implementation of Fig.13FCompared to the embodiment of the present invention, the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, and 222B of each pixel 222 are arranged with the same intervals d1 and d2 in the lateral direction 195, and the interval P L (227), P T (227) varies across the array of pixels 222 in both the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197. Advantageously, the visibility of the distortion may be reduced.

[0467] It may be desirable to reduce the complexity of the spatial light modulator 48 while achieving reduced chromatic blur 455 and image distortion.

[0468] Fig.13I is a flow chart illustrating a method of providing calculation of locations of an array of red, green, and blue sub-pixels of a spatial light modulator, the spatial light modulator comprising c different color sub-pixels, m pixel columns, and n pixel rows; and Fig.13J is an alternative flow chart illustrating a method of providing calculation of locations of an array of red, green, and blue sub-pixels of a spatial light modulator comprising c different color sub-pixels, m pixel columns, and n pixel rows.

[0469] Reference Fig.13I In the exemplary method illustrated in FIG. 1 , in a first step S1, an image angle is selected, for example with Fig.13E The image angle corresponding to panel position 227.

[0470] In a second step S2, a color channel is selected, for example the red color channel.

[0471] In a third step S3, the corrected color sub-pixel location 222R on the spatial light modulator 48 is calculated. Steps S2 and S3 are repeated for the three color sub-pixels 222G, 222B.

[0472] In a fourth step S4, the image data is addressed to the respective pixel locations so that the corrected image data is sent in the correct direction. Fig.13E The image angle positions between the array and the elements of the array are illustrated), and steps S1 to S4 are repeated.

[0473] Reference Fig.13I, in a first step S1, a desired image of m columns and n rows with c color channels is read into computer memory, and variables K, J, and c are initialized to values ​​corresponding to the first pixel in the image array (e.g., 0, 0, R), and then when the test condition is not met, step S2 is executed, in which the optical position of the pixel is calculated based on the known optical distortion of the system. Then, step S3 is executed, in which the inverse distortion is mathematically calculated for the image pixel position so that when it is written or output by the system, it will be displayed at the originally expected position. Step S4 writes or outputs the modified pixel position. The values ​​of c, K, and J are then incremented until the entire original image is processed and a new output image is generated. In step S5, the SLM 48 can then be written or addressed with a pre-corrected image that will eliminate the distortion and then render the appearance of the original image.

[0474] include FIG. 13I to FIG. 13J An alternative embodiment of the method may be directed to, for example, FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D A pixel arrangement of is provided. In such a fixed pixel 222 array, image data is provided to compensate for color errors and distortion errors.

[0475] In an alternative embodiment, FIG. 13I to FIG. 13J The method can be provided to FIG. 13F to FIG. 13H Advantageously, chrominance image blur 455 and image distortion can be further reduced.

[0476] It may be desirable to provide a further reduction in chromatic image blur 455 caused by refraction at the front light directing surface 8 .

[0477] In the present description, color pixels 222R, 222G, 222B may be provided more generally by other or alternative bands (including but not limited to white sub-pixels, yellow sub-pixels, magenta sub-pixels, and cyan sub-pixels). Pixel 222 may include three sub-pixels or a number of sub-pixels other than three, such as one sub-pixel in a monochrome display device 100, or four sub-pixels in an extended color gamut display device 100.

[0478] Figure 13K is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view the extraction of colored light from an extraction waveguide 1 illuminated by white pixels 222 RGB, wherein the extraction waveguide 1 further comprises a dichroic diffractive optical element 142 disposed between an array of light retro-reflectors 140 and extraction reflectors 170; and Figure 13L is illustrated in front view Figure 13K Schematic diagram of the operation of the color separation diffractive optical element 142.

[0479] exist FIG. 13K to FIG. 13IIn an alternative embodiment of the invention, the dichroic diffractive optical element 142 is arranged to refract the incident light 404RGB so that the light incident on the light retroreflector 140 is reflected at different angles θ. R ,θ G ,θ B incident, and output as light rays 404R, 404G, 404B, respectively. Diffractive diffusion may have the reverse dispersion of the reverse dispersion provided by dispersive refraction at the front light directing surface 8. Advantageously, chromatic blur 455 may be reduced.

[0480] The dichroic diffractive optical element 142 may be a dichroic optical element having a structure as described elsewhere herein for example FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B The described operating grating may be a Pancharatnam-Berry lens, or may be another type of diffractive optical element, such as a volume hologram.

[0481] Alternative arrangements of the lighting system and the lateral deformation assembly 60 will now be described.

[0482] Fig.14A 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. 14B is illustrated in front view Fig.14A Schematic diagram of a detail of the arrangement of the lateral lens 61. 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.

[0483] exist Fig.14A 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. 14B 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.

[0484] Advantageously, aberrations in the lateral direction 197 ( 60 ) may be improved.

[0485] 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.

[0486] Fig.14A 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.

[0487] Fig.15A is a diagram illustrating in side view a configuration including separate red spatial light modulators 48R, green spatial light modulators 48G and blue spatial light modulators 48B and a beam combining element 82. Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a spatial light modulator arrangement 50 used in a modified near-eye display device 100. Fig.15A 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.

[0488] Fig.15A An 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.

[0489] Fig. 15B 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. 15B 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.

[0490] exist Fig. 15BIn 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.

[0491] Additionally or alternatively, a curved mirror 86B may be provided to improve operating efficiency.

[0492] Fig.16 is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of the input focusing lens 61 in a perspective front view. Fig.16 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] 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. Some of lenses 60A to 60F may include aspheric surfaces to achieve improved aberrations, such as reduced field curvature.

[0494] Alternative arrangements of spatial light modulator 48, illumination system 240, and optical system 250 will now be described.

[0495] Fig.17 is illustrated in side view for use in Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a spatial light modulator arrangement used in a deformed near-eye display device, the spatial light modulator arrangement comprising a spatial light modulator 48, the spatial light modulator 48 comprising a laser 50, a scanning arrangement 51 and a light diffusion screen 52. Fig.17 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] exist Fig.17 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.

[0497] 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.

[0498] 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.

[0499] 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.

[0500] 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.

[0501] A further arrangement comprising a laser source will now be described.

[0502] Fig.18A 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.18B is a schematic diagram illustrating a spatial light modulator 48 in front view, the spatial light modulator 48 comprising Fig.18A A row of laser light sources 172 used in an arrangement of; and Fig.18C is a schematic diagram illustrating alternative lighting arrangements. 18A to 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.

[0503] Fig.18A An alternative embodiment comprises a lateral deformation assembly 60 formed by a deflector element 50 comprising a scanning mirror 51 .

[0504] Fig.18B Illustration suitable for Fig.18AThe 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 The spacing P in a row, lateral direction 195 L With e.g. Figure 2D The spacing is the same as shown in the figure.

[0505] Return to Fig.18A 1 , 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.

[0506] 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.

[0507] Advantageously, the cost and complexity of the lighting system 240 and the lateral deformation assembly 60 may be reduced.

[0508] Fig.18CAn alternative embodiment provides a beam expander 61A, 61B that increases the width 63 of the output beam from the illumination system 240. Fig.18C , 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.

[0509] We will now describe the Figure 1A Embodiments of reflective extraction features 169 that are alternative forms of those reflective extraction features of . It may be desirable to reduce the manufacturing cost and complexity of the waveguide 1.

[0510] Fig.19A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformed near-eye display device 100 including a stepped 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.

[0511] exist Fig.19A In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the extraction features 169 are provided by steps 12A to 12D separated by intermediate regions 10. The rear guide surface 8 thus has a stepped shape including a plurality of facets 12 and intermediate regions 10 between the facets 12, the facets 12 extending in a lateral direction 195 across the extraction waveguide 1 and oriented to reflect input light from the input end 2 as output light through the front guide surface 8, the intermediate regions 10 being arranged to guide light through the extraction waveguide 1 without extracting it. Stepped extraction waveguides are further described in U.S. Patent No. 9,594,261, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0512] Through Figure 1A For comparison, FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B The arrangement may provide an extraction waveguide 1 that is more convenient to manufacture and advantageously less expensive.

[0513] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B The deformable near-eye display device 100 may include various embodiments arranged to improve aberrations and improve image quality as described elsewhere herein. The lateral deformation component 60 may include as described in reference Figure 8F The light-transmitting optical stack 610 is illustrated. The lateral deformation component 110 may include reference 7A to 7I The arrangement is shown in the figure. Field curvature can be 9A to 9D The aberration control and focal length of the deformation components 60, 110 can be improved by using a lateral deformation component 110 and / or a transverse deformation component 60. Fig. 10A The chromatic aberration and image distortion can be further improved by using the Pancharatnam-Berry lens of FIG. 10F. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13K Improved as illustrated in the figure.

[0514] It may be desirable to improve image brightness uniformity.

[0515] Fig. 20A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a perspective front view, wherein extraction reflector 169 includes extraction reflectors 174A-174D including a plurality of constituent panels 180A-180E; 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.

[0516] and Figure 1A 20, 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, some regions 178A, 178B along the extraction waveguide 1 are provided without extraction reflectors 174.

[0517] exist FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflectors 174 have the same reflective area. Advantageously, brightness can be reduced as a function of viewing angle.

[0518] FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B The deformable near-eye display device 100 may include various embodiments arranged to improve aberrations and improve image quality as described elsewhere herein. The lateral deformation component 60 may include as described in reference Figure 8F The light-transmitting optical stack 610 is illustrated. The lateral deformation component 110 may include reference 7A to 7I The arrangement is shown in the figure. Field curvature can be 9A to 9D The aberration control and focal length of the deformation components 60, 110 can be improved by using a lateral deformation component 110 and / or a transverse deformation component 60. Fig. 10A The chromatic aberration and image distortion can be further improved by using the Pancharatnam-Berry lens of Figure 10F. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13K Improved as illustrated in the figure.

[0519] It may be desirable to increase operating efficiency and reduce manufacturing complexity.

[0520] Fig.21A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 including a polarization-sensitive reflector 700; Fig. 21B is illustrated in side view Fig.21A Schematic diagram of the operation of the deformed near-eye display device 100 for light propagating along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191; Fig. 21C is illustrated in side view Fig.21A Schematic diagram of the operation of the deformed near-eye display device 100 for light propagating along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193; Fig.21D It is a graphic illustration Fig.21A A schematic diagram of a side view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device; Fig.21E It is a graphic illustration Fig.21A A schematic diagram of a front view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device; and Fig.21F It is a diagram showing the FIG. 21D to FIG. 21E Schematic diagram of the alignment direction of the polarization control components. FIG. 21A to FIG. 21F 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.

[0521] The deformable near-eye display device 100 includes: an illumination system 240, the illumination system 240 includes a spatial light modulator 48, the illumination system 240 is arranged to output light; and an optical system 250, the optical system 250 is arranged to guide the light from the illumination system 240 to the pupil 44 of the eye 45 of the viewer, wherein the optical system 250 has an optical axis 199 and has deformable 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 spatial light modulator 48 includes pixels 222 distributed in the lateral direction 195, and the optical system 250 includes: a lateral deformable component 60, the lateral deformable component 60 has a positive optical power in the transverse direction 197, wherein the lateral deformable component 60 is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator the light from the transverse deformation component 60; the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to receive the light from the transverse deformation component 60; the lateral deformation component 110, the lateral deformation component 110 has a positive optical focal length in the lateral direction 195, and the extraction waveguide 1 is arranged to guide the light from the transverse deformation component 60 along the extraction waveguide 1 to the lateral deformation component 110 in a first direction 191; and the light reverse reflector 140, the light reverse reflector 140 is arranged to reflect the light that has been guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 so that the reflected light is guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a second direction 193 opposite to the first direction 191.

[0522] The extraction waveguide 1 includes: a front guiding surface 8; a polarization-sensitive reflector 702, which is opposite to the front guiding surface 8; and an extraction element 169, which is arranged outside the polarization-sensitive reflector 702, and the extraction element 169 includes: a rear guiding surface 6, which is opposite to the front guiding surface 8; and an array of extraction features 272A to 272D.

[0523] The deformable near-eye display device 100 is arranged to provide an input linear polarization state 902 for the light 401 guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 before the light reaches the polarization-sensitive reflector 702; and the optical system 250 further includes a polarization conversion retarder 72 disposed between the polarization-sensitive reflector 702 and the light reverse reflector 140, wherein the polarization conversion retarder 72 is arranged to convert the polarization state of the light passing through the polarization conversion retarder 72 between the linear polarization state 902 and the circular polarization state 922, and the polarization conversion retarder 72 and the light reverse reflector 140 are arranged in combination to rotate the input linear polarization state 902 of the light guided in the first direction 191 so that the light guided in the second direction 193 and output from the polarization conversion retarder 72 has An orthogonal linear polarization state 904 is orthogonal to the input linear polarization state 902; the polarization-sensitive reflector 72 is arranged to reflect light having the input linear polarization state 902 guided in a first direction and transmit a component having the orthogonal linear polarization state 194 guided in a second direction 193, so that the front guiding surface 8 and the polarization-sensitive reflector 702 are arranged to guide light in a first direction 191, and the front guiding surface 8 and the rear guiding surface 6 are arranged to guide light in a second direction 193; and the array of extraction features 172 is arranged to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 through the front guiding surface 8 toward the viewer's eye 45, and the array of extraction features 172 is distributed along the extraction waveguide 1 so as to provide an exit pupil expansion 40 in a lateral direction 197.

[0524] The extraction waveguide 1 includes a waveguide member 111A between the front guide surface 8 and the polarization-sensitive reflector 170 , and a waveguide member 111B between the polarization-sensitive reflector 700 and the rear guide surface 6 .

[0525] consider Fig. 21B , the propagation of light rays distributed in the lateral direction 197 in the cone 491 is illustrated. The on-axis light rays 401 from the pixel 222 of the spatial light modulator 48 are guided through the lateral deformation component 60 into the extraction waveguide 1.

[0526] The polarization-sensitive reflector 700 may include a reflective linear polarizer 702 or a dielectric stack, for example. The light ray 401 has a polarization state 902 provided by the input polarizer 70 and propagates by being guided between the polarization-sensitive reflector 700 and the front guiding surface 8 .

[0527] Light Cone 491 T is incident on the reflective linear polarizer 702 and is reflected so that the replicated light cone 491 T f is provided to propagate along the extraction waveguide 1 in direction 191.

[0528] 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 197, the laterally deforming component 110 has no optical power and has a surface normal direction parallel to the first directions 191, 193. The visibility of artifacts caused by stray light (including double and ghost images) can be reduced.

[0529] Reflected Light Cone 493 T ,493 T f propagates along the second direction 193 about the optical axis 199(60) and 199f(60). The corresponding lateral directions 197(60), 197f(60) are also indicated.

[0530] The reflected light propagating along the extraction waveguide 1 in the second direction 193 has a polarization state 904 provided by a polarization conversion retarder 72 (which may be, for example, a quarter wave plate) at or near the lateral deformation component 110 and by reflection from the light retroreflector 140 .

[0531] 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 .

[0532] Output light ray 401 propagates by total internal reflection off opposing surfaces 6, 8 until it is incident on guide surface 176 and then at extraction facet 172 where at least some of the light is reflected and where at least some of the light is further reflected as will be further described below to cause light cone 493 to be T is preferentially directed toward the front guiding surface 8. After refraction 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.

[0533] The extraction facets 172A to 172E are tilted at the same angle so that Figure 1A Each of the light extraction facets 172A to 172E has a light cone 493 Tare parallel, and image blur is advantageously reduced for light rays 401 extracted to the pupil 44 from the different extraction facets 172 across the waveguide.

[0534] By comparison, the light cone 493 surrounding the ray 461 T f is incident on surface 8 and then directly incident on extraction facet 172 without first reflecting from guide surface 176 for preferential transmission through extraction facet 172, and light cone 493 T f is not directed toward the eye 45. Degeneracy is reduced or removed, and image crosstalk or reflected images are advantageously reduced.

[0535] The embodiment of the present application makes the output uniformity and FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B The deformed near-eye display device 100 can be improved compared to the FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B Compared with the deformed near-eye display device 100, it is more convenient to manufacture.

[0536] Figure 21G It is a graphic illustration FIG. 7F to FIG. 7G A schematic diagram of a side view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device 100, wherein the extraction waveguide 1 includes a polarization-sensitive reflector 702; and Fig.21H It is a graphic illustration FIG. 7H to FIG. 7I Schematic diagram of a side view of polarized light propagation in a deformed near-eye display device 100 , wherein the waveguide includes a polarization-sensitive reflector 702 . FIG. 21G to FIG. 21H 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] exist Figure 21G In an alternative embodiment, the deformable near-eye display device 100 includes: an extraction waveguide 1, the extraction waveguide 1 includes: a front guiding surface 8; a polarization-sensitive reflector 702, the polarization-sensitive reflector 702 is opposite to the front guiding surface 8; and an extraction element 270, the extraction element 270 is arranged outside the polarization-sensitive reflector 702, wherein the extraction element 270 includes: a rear guiding surface 6, the rear guiding surface 6 is opposite to the front guiding surface 8; and an array of extraction features 169, the array of extraction features 169 includes inclined extraction reflectors 272A to 272D.

[0538] The anamorphic near-eye display device 100 is arranged to provide an input linear polarization state 902 for light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in the first direction 191 before the light reaches the polarization-sensitive reflector 702 .

[0539] The polarization conversion retarder 89 is disposed between the reflective linear polarizer 99 and the light reverse emitter 140, and is a first polarization conversion retarder 89. The deformable near-eye display device 100 includes a second polarization conversion retarder 87 disposed between the polarization-sensitive reflector 702 and the reflective linear polarizer 99, and the second polarization conversion retarder 87 is arranged to convert a state parallel to or orthogonal to the input linear polarization state 902 into a polarization state 900, and the polarization state 900 has a component parallel to the input linear polarization state 902 and a component orthogonal to the input linear polarization state 902.

[0540] The anamorphic near-eye display device 100 includes an absorbing linear polarizer 85 arranged to pass a component 991 orthogonal to the input linear polarization state 902. In an alternative embodiment, the absorbing linear polarizer 85 may be arranged to pass a component parallel to the input linear polarization state 902.

[0541] The reflective linear polarizer 99 is arranged to pass the same component 991 as the absorbing linear polarizer 85 .

[0542] The second polarization conversion retarder 87, the absorptive linear polarizer 85, the reflective linear polarizer 99, the first polarization conversion retarder 89 and the light reverse reflector 140 are arranged in combination to rotate the input linear polarization state 902 of the light guided in the first direction 191 so that the light guided in the second direction 193 and output from the second polarization conversion retarder 87 has a linear polarization state 997, and the linear polarization state 997 can have a component 999P parallel to the input linear polarization state 902 and a component 999S orthogonal to the input linear polarization state 902.

[0543] The polarization-sensitive reflector 702 is arranged to reflect light having an input linear polarization state 902 guided in a first direction 191 and to transmit a component 999S of light guided in a second direction 193 orthogonal to the input linear polarization state 902, so that the front guiding surface 8 and the polarization-sensitive reflector 702 are arranged to guide light in the first direction 191, and the front guiding surface 8 and the rear guiding surface 6 are arranged to guide a component 999S of light orthogonal to the input linear polarization state 902 in the second direction 193.

[0544] The polarization-sensitive reflector 702 may include a reflective linear polarizer or at least one dielectric layer.

[0545] and Figure 21G Compared to the second polarization conversion retarder 87 (which is arranged to provide conversion between linear polarization state and circular polarization state, such as a quarter wave plate), Fig.21HAn alternative embodiment provides a second polarization conversion retarder 88, which is arranged to provide a rotation of the linear polarization state, such as a half-wave plate. Input light loss control for light propagating in the first direction 191 can be balanced with output light loss for light propagating in the second direction 193, and can be achieved.

[0546] Advantageously, improved aberrations may be achieved at least in the lateral direction 195 and an extraction waveguide 1 with reduced cost and complexity may be provided.

[0547] An alternative extraction arrangement will now be described.

[0548] Fig.21I is a schematic diagram of a front perspective view of a deformable near-eye display device including a polarization-sensitive reflector, wherein the extraction element is a deflection element; Fig.21J It is a graphic illustration Fig.21I A schematic diagram of a side view of a deformed near-eye display device; and Figure 21K It is a graphic illustration Fig.21I Schematic diagram of a side view of a portion of a deformed near-eye display device. FIG. 21I to FIG. 21K 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.

[0549] Through Fig.21A For comparison, FIG. 21I to FIG. 21KIn an alternative embodiment, the extraction waveguide 1 includes a rear guiding surface 6 and a polarization-sensitive reflector 700 opposite to the rear guiding surface 6; the deformable directional lighting device 1000, which can be a deformable near-eye display device, further includes a deflection arrangement 112 disposed outside the polarization-sensitive reflector 700, and the deformable directional lighting device 1000 is arranged to provide an input linear polarization state 902 for the light guided along the extraction waveguide 1 in a first direction 191 before it reaches the polarization-sensitive reflector 700. The optical system 250 further includes a polarization conversion retarder 72 disposed between the polarization-sensitive reflector 700 and the optical reverse reflector 140, wherein the polarization conversion retarder 72 is arranged to convert the polarization state 902 of the light passing through the polarization conversion retarder 72 between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state 922, and the polarization conversion retarder 72 and the optical reverse reflector 140 are arranged in combination to rotate the input linear polarization state 902 of the light guided in the first direction 191 so that the light guided in the second direction 193 and output from the polarization conversion retarder 72 has an orthogonal linear polarization state 904 that is orthogonal to the input linear polarization state 902. The polarization-sensitive reflector 700 is arranged to: reflect light having an input linear polarization state 902 guided in a first direction 191 so that the rear guiding surface 6 and the polarization-sensitive reflector 700 are arranged to guide the light in the first direction 191, and transmit light having an orthogonal linear polarization state 904 guided in a second direction 193 so that the transmitted light is incident on the deflection arrangement 112; and the deflection arrangement 112 is arranged to deflect at least a portion of the light incident on the polarization-sensitive reflector 700 and transmitted by the polarization-sensitive reflector 700 toward an output direction in front of the deformed directional lighting device 1000.

[0550] exist FIG. 21A to FIG. 21K In an embodiment of the invention, extraction features are provided in the deflection arrangement 112 as deflection elements 116 , deflection features 118 and reflectors 117 .

[0551] consider Figure 21K In operation, light 460C (191) can be transmitted along the extraction waveguide 1 with high efficiency. Reflected light 460C (193) is transmitted by the polarization-sensitive reflector 700 in the optical axis direction 773 to the intermediate polarization conversion retarder 73, which is arranged to convert the incident p-polarization state 904 to an s-polarization state 902. The deflection arrangement 112 includes a deflection element 116, which includes a deflection feature 118A, which is a reflector 117, which can be partially reflective. Light 460C having an s-polarization state 902 R At least some of the light (193) is transmitted by the draft facet 118B and is reflected to be output toward the viewer's eye 45. TSome of the (193) is transmitted and guided within the front waveguide 114, which includes the front guiding surface 8. Such light is guided to be output at the deflection features 118A at different locations on the second reverse direction 193. Advantageously, the exit pupil 40 size is increased and image uniformity is improved.

[0552] The polarization-sensitive reflector 700 may include a reflective polarizer 702, a dichroic stack 712, or other type of polarization-sensitive reflector. The partially reflective layer 275 may be provided by a dichroic stack 276, a metal layer, or other partially reflective layer. The partially reflective layer 275 may be polarization-sensitive.

[0553] Through FIG. 21A to FIG. 21H Implementation schemes are compared. FIG. 21I to FIG. 21K An alternative embodiment provides output light 460CR (193) that, after deflection, does not pass back through the polarization-sensitive reflector 700. Advantageously, stray light is reduced and image quality is improved.

[0554] FIG. 21A to FIG. 21K The deformable near-eye display device 100 may include various embodiments arranged to improve aberrations and improve image quality as described elsewhere herein. The lateral deformation component 60 may include as described in reference FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F The light-transmitting optical stack 610 is illustrated. The lateral deformation component 110 may include reference 7A to 7I The arrangement is shown in the figure. Field curvature can be 9A to 9D The aberration control and focal length of the deformation components 60, 110 can be improved by using a lateral deformation component 110 and / or a transverse deformation component 60. Fig. 10A The chromatic aberration and image distortion can be further improved by using the Pancharatnam-Berry lens of Figure 10F. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13K The above features may be provided individually or in combination.

[0555] It may be desirable to further reduce the cost and complexity of the extraction waveguide 1 .

[0556] Fig.22A 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 11B; Fig. 22B is illustrated in side view Fig.22A Schematic diagram of the operation of a deformed near-eye display device 100. FIG. 22A to 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.

[0557] consider Fig.22A In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the extraction waveguide 1 comprises a transmission element 11A and a diffractive optical element 11B optically coupled to the transmission element 11A. The operation of the transverse deformation assembly 60 and the lateral deformation assembly 110 is as described elsewhere herein.

[0558] The diffractive optical element 11B is arranged to provide extraction of some of the light guided between the opposing rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8 in the extraction waveguide 1, wherein the diffractive optical element 11B is arranged between the opposing rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8. A central light ray 460C along the first direction 191 of the extraction waveguide 1 on the optical axis 199 (60) is partially reflected by the diffractive optical element 11B to output light 464 away from the eye 45. After reflection at the light retro-reflector, the light is further reflected.

[0559] Advantageously, the extraction feature 169, which is the diffractive optical element 11B, can be conveniently manufactured and attached to the transmissive element 11A.

[0560] FIG. 22A to FIG. 22B The deformable near-eye display device 100 may be modified to include any of the various features described elsewhere herein (e.g., as follows) arranged to improve aberrations and improve image quality. The lateral deformation component 60 may include a Figure 8F The light-transmitting optical stack 610 is illustrated. The lateral deformation component 110 may include reference 7A to 7I The arrangement is shown in the figure. Field curvature can be 9A to 9D The aberration control and focal length of the anamorphic assemblies 60, 110 can be further improved by using Pancharatnam-Berry lenses in the lateral anamorphic assembly 110 and / or the transverse anamorphic assembly 60. Chromatic aberration and image distortion can be improved as shown in FIG. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13K Improved as illustrated in the figure.

[0561] Above 7A to 7I , FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F , 9A to 9D , Fig. 10A To Figure 10F, FIG. 11A to FIG. 11E and FIG. 13A to FIG. 13K The features may be provided individually or in combination.

[0562] A headgear 600 including the deformed near-eye display device 100 will now be described.

[0563] Fig.23Ais 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. 23B 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. 23A to FIG. 23B 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.

[0564] 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.

[0565] It may be desirable to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance for the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 .

[0566] Fig.23C is a schematic diagram illustrating an eyepiece arrangement 102 for an augmented reality head mounted display device 600 in a perspective front view. 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.

[0567] 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.

[0568] 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.

[0569] It may be desirable to change the positioning of lighting system 240 in head mounted display device 600 .

[0570] The eyepiece arrangement 102 including the substrate 103 may further be provided to other embodiments among the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0571] Fig.24A 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. 24B 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.24C 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. 24A to 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.

[0572] and Figure 1A Compared to the arrangement of FIG. 4 , the illumination system 240 is arranged to the side of the extraction waveguide 1 and in a direction 191 in which the extraction waveguide 1 extends in a horizontal direction to the user's eye 45. Thus, 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 within the arm of the head mounted device 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 and thus reduced cost.

[0573] 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.

[0574] Fig.25 is a schematic diagram illustrating a virtual reality head mounted display device 600 including a left-eye anamorphic display device 100R and a right-eye anamorphic display device 100L in a front view. Fig.25 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.

[0575] Fig.25 An alternative embodiment of the head mounted display device 600 may include display devices 100R, 100L fixed to the head equipment 601, and the size of the display devices 100R, 100L is larger than Fig. 23B 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 PSF 452 limit. Further, image brightness can be improved.

[0576] An alternative arrangement of a morphing near-eye display device comprising an input waveguide and a separate extraction waveguide will now be described.

[0577] Fig.26A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformed near-eye display device 100; Fig.26B It is a graphic illustration Fig.26A A schematic diagram of a top view of a deformed near-eye display device 100; and Fig.26C It is a graphic illustration Fig.26A Schematic diagram of a front view of a deformed near-eye display device 100.

[0578] Fig.26AThe diagram illustrates an anamorphic near-eye display device 100, which includes: an illumination system 240, the illumination system 240 including a spatial light modulator 48, the illumination system 240 being arranged to output light (e.g., light ray 401); and an optical system 250, the optical system 250 being arranged to direct the light from the illumination system 240 to an eye 45 of a viewer, wherein 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, wherein the spatial light modulator 48 includes pixels 222 distributed in the lateral direction 195, and The optical system 250 includes: a transverse deformation component 60, the transverse deformation component 60 has a positive optical power in the transverse direction 197, wherein the transverse deformation component 60 is arranged to receive the light 401 from the spatial light modulator 48, and the illumination system 240 is arranged so that the light output from the transverse deformation component 60 is guided to a direction distributed in the transverse direction 197; an extraction waveguide 1A, the extraction waveguide 1A is arranged to receive the light from the transverse deformation component 60; a partial reflector 7, the input waveguide 1A is arranged to guide the light from the transverse deformation component 60 along the input waveguide 1A to the partial reflector 7, and the partial reflector 7 is arranged an intermediate waveguide 1C, the intermediate waveguide 1C being arranged to receive at least some of the light reflected by the partial reflector 7, a lateral deformation component 110, the lateral deformation component 110 having a positive optical power in a lateral direction 195, the intermediate waveguide 1C being arranged to guide the light received from the partial reflector 7 along the intermediate waveguide 1C in a first direction 191C to the lateral deformation component 110; a light reverse reflector 140, the light reverse reflector 140 being arranged to reflect the light that has been guided along the intermediate waveguide 1C in the first direction 191C so that the reflected light is reflected in a second direction 191C opposite to the first direction 191C. 93C, the partial reflector 7 is arranged to transmit at least some of the light; and an extraction waveguide 1B, the extraction waveguide 1B is arranged to receive at least some of the light transmitted by the partial reflector 7 that has been guided along the intermediate waveguide 1C in a second direction 193C, wherein the extraction waveguide 1B includes an array of reflective extraction features 170a to 170n, the reflective extraction features 170a to 170n are arranged to extract the light guided along the extraction waveguide 1B toward the viewer's eye 45, and the array of reflective extraction features 170a to 170n are distributed along the extraction waveguide 1B so as to provide an exit pupil 40 expansion.

[0579] The input waveguide 1A is arranged to guide light 400 in the cone 491A from the lateral deformation component 60 along the input waveguide 1A along the direction 191A to the partial reflector 7. The input waveguide 1A has planar and parallel opposing rear guide surfaces 6A and front guide surfaces 8A. The input waveguide 1A further has an input face 2A extending in a lateral direction 195 (60) and a lateral direction 197 (60), the input waveguide 1A being arranged to receive light 400 from the illumination system 240 through the input face 2A. The input face 2A extends between the edges 22A, 24A of the input waveguide 1A in the lateral direction 195 and between the opposing rear guide surfaces 6A and the front guide surface 8A of the input waveguide 1A in the lateral direction 197. The output face 4A of the input waveguide 1B is arranged to output light towards the partial reflector 7.

[0580] The input waveguide 1A and the intermediate waveguide 1C do not include extraction features arranged to extract light guided along them. In operation, the input waveguide 1A is arranged to guide light rays 400 between the opposing rear and front guiding surfaces 6 and 8 as illustrated by the zigzag paths of the guided light rays 401 in the two input waveguides 1A. Advantageously, light can be guided from the lateral deformable component 60 to the partial reflector 7 with high efficiency, and an image can be provided with reduced image blur.

[0581] The partially reflecting mirror 7 is arranged to receive light from the input waveguide 1 A. The partially reflecting mirror 7 may be arranged within a mirror waveguide 1D having edges 22D, 24D, an input face 2D, a waveguide output face 4DC and a waveguide output face 4DB.

[0582] Air gaps 3AD, 3DC and 3DB are arranged between the mirror waveguide 1D and the input waveguide 1A, intermediate waveguide 1C and extraction waveguide 1B, respectively. Some light rays may be guided within the mirror waveguide 1D. The operation of the air gap 3 will be further described below with respect to FIGS. 6G to 6K.

[0583] In general, the mirror 7 of the mirror waveguide ID is arranged to guide at least some of the light from the input waveguide IA into the intermediate waveguide 1C.

[0584] The partially reflective mirror 7 may include a partially reflective layer, such as an air gap, a reflective polarizer, or a dielectric layer. The partially reflective mirror 7 may provide polarization-sensitive reflectivity, and the polarizer 70 may be as described below, for example, in FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B is provided as described in .

[0585] The partially reflective mirror 7 may further be arranged to transmit light reflected by the light retro-reflector 140 of the intermediate waveguide 1C. In an alternative embodiment, the partially reflective mirror 7 may be arranged to transmit light from the input waveguide 1A and reflect light from the intermediate waveguide 1C.

[0586] The intermediate waveguide 1C is arranged to receive at least some of the light from the partial reflector 7 and includes a light reverse reflector 140, which is arranged to reflect light in a light cone 491C that has been guided along the intermediate waveguide 1C in a first direction 191C so that the reflected light in the light cone 493C is guided along the intermediate waveguide 1C toward the partial reflector 7 and the extraction waveguide 1B in a second direction 193C opposite to the first direction 191C.

[0587] The intermediate waveguide 1C further has an input facet 2C extending in a lateral direction 195(60) and a transverse direction 197(60), the intermediate waveguide 1C being arranged to receive light 400 from the partial reflector 7. The input facet 2C extends between the edges 22C, 24A of the intermediate waveguide 1C in the lateral direction 195 and between the opposite rear and front guide surfaces 6C, 8C of the intermediate waveguide 1C in the transverse direction 197C.

[0588] The intermediate waveguide 1C may not include extraction features arranged to extract light guided along it. The front guide surface 8C and the rear guide surface 6C of the intermediate waveguide 1C are planar and parallel. Advantageously, light can be guided along the intermediate waveguide 1C with high efficiency, and image blur of the output image is reduced.

[0589] exist Fig.26A In the embodiment of the present invention, the light retro-reflector 140 is the reflective end 4C of the intermediate waveguide 1C. In addition, the light retro-reflector 140 forms the lateral deformation component 110. Specifically, the reflective end 4C of the intermediate waveguide 1C has a curved shape and further includes a reflective material that provides positive optical power in the lateral direction 195, the reflective material affects the light in the cone 491C in the lateral direction 195 (110), and has no optical power in the transverse direction 197 (110). The reflective material can be a reflective film, such as ESR from 3M. TM , or it can be a evaporated or sputtered metal material. Fig.26A 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.

[0590] The optical system 250 is thus arranged so that the light output from the lateral deformation component 110 is directed in directions distributed in the transverse direction 197 (110) and the lateral direction 195 (110). The curved shape of the reflective end 4C can be a shape that achieves the desired imaging of the light from the spatial light modulator 48 to the pupil 44 of the eye 45 as will be further described below, that is, a cross-section of a sphere, an ellipse, a parabola, or other aspherical shape.

[0591] The reflected light from the optical retro-reflector 140 is output from the intermediate waveguide 1C and is incident on the mirror waveguide 1D with a polarization state 902, which is preferentially transmitted by the partial mirror 7. Advantageously, efficiency can be improved.

[0592] The extraction waveguide 1B is arranged to receive light from the lateral deformation component 110 .

[0593] The extraction waveguide 1B further has an input face 2B extending in a lateral direction 195 (60) and a transverse direction 197 (60), the extraction waveguide 1B being arranged to receive light 400 from the partial reflector 7. The input face 2B extends between the edges 22B, 24B of the extraction waveguide 1B in the lateral direction 195, and extends between the opposite rear guide surface 6B and the front guide surface 8B of the extraction waveguide 1B in the transverse direction 197B. The output face 4B of the extraction waveguide 1B may, for example, comprise a light absorbing material. Advantageously, stray light may be reduced.

[0594] The extraction waveguide 1B has a front guide surface 8B and a rear guide surface 6B, and the rear guide surface 6B includes an extraction facet 270, which is a reflective extraction feature 169. The extraction waveguide includes an array of reflective extraction features 170a to 170n, which are arranged to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide 1B towards the eye 45 of the viewer, and the array of reflective extraction features 170a to 170n are distributed along the extraction waveguide 1B to provide an exit pupil expansion.

[0595] The extraction waveguide 1B includes extraction facets 270 and an intermediate surface 272 extending along the extraction waveguide between adjacent pairs of extraction reflectors 270 and arranged on the rear light guiding surface 6B. Fig.26A In an embodiment of the invention, the intermediate surface 272 is arranged between the extraction reflection pairs 170A to 170B, 170B to 170C, 170C to 170D, and 170D to 170E. Such an outer surface can reflect the light 401 directed to the eye 45 by means of total internal reflection at the intermediate surface 272 and total internal reflection at the extraction facet 270, and is therefore polarization independent, so that the polarization conversion retarder 72B can be omitted and the polarization state 904 can be propagated within the extraction waveguide 1B. The input linear polarizer is thus arranged to propagate light in the s-polarization state 904 in the extraction waveguide. Advantageously, improved efficiency can be achieved.

[0596] exist Fig.26AIn the embodiment of the present invention, directions 193C, 191B are the same. In other embodiments described below, directions 193C, 191B may be different. As will be further described below, the extraction reflector 270 is arranged to extract at least some of the light cone 491B guided along the extraction waveguide 1B in the direction 191B towards the eye 45 of the viewer 47.

[0597] FIG. 27A to FIG. 27B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of polarization state propagation in an alternative arrangement of a morphing near-eye display device. 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.

[0598] Through Fig.26B For comparison, Fig.27A An alternative embodiment of includes an extraction reflector 170 disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1B. However, light propagation suitable for efficient reflection at the partial reflector 7 is Fig.26B and Fig.27A is the same.

[0599] The extraction reflector 170 partially extends across the extraction waveguide 1B between the opposite rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1B at continuously shifted positions. The continuously shifted positions are arranged along the waveguide along direction 191 B. In other words, in the transverse direction 197, the extraction reflector 170 partially extends across the extraction waveguide 1B at continuously shifted positions.

[0600] The input linear polarizer 70 is arranged between the spatial light modulator 48 and the partial reflector 7. Fig.26B In an embodiment of the invention, the partial reflector 7 is between the transverse deformation component 60 and the input waveguide 1A. The input linear polarizer 70 is an absorbing polarizer, such as a dichroic iodine polarizer arranged to transmit linear polarization states 904, 902 and absorb orthogonal polarization states 902, 904, respectively.

[0601] exist Fig.27AIn an alternative embodiment of the invention, the polarizer 70 can be arranged to transmit the s-polarized polarization state 904, which can be preferentially reflected from the partial reflector 7 toward the intermediate waveguide 1C. A polarization conversion retarder 72C is disposed between the partial reflector 7 and the light retro-reflector 140, and the polarization conversion retarder 72C is arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder 72C between the linear polarization state 904 and the circular polarization state 924, wherein the polarization conversion retarder 72C has a quarter-wavelength delay at a visible light wavelength (e.g., 550nm); that is, the polarization conversion retarder 72C can be a quarter-wave delay at a visible light wavelength (e.g., 550nm) and can include a composite retarder stack, which is arranged to achieve operation of a quarter-wave retarder over an increased spectral band, for example including a Pancharatnam stack. Improved chromaticity of the output can be achieved.

[0602] After reflection at the light retro-reflector 140, an orthogonal circular polarization state 922 is provided, and the polarization conversion retarder 72C provides a p-polarization linear state 902 back toward the partial reflector 7, which is preferentially transmitted toward the extraction waveguide 1B. Increased transmission of the partial reflector 7 can be achieved for light propagating toward the extraction waveguide 1B.

[0603] The optical system 250 further comprises a further polarization conversion retarder 72B disposed between the partial reflector 7 and the extraction waveguide 1B, the polarization conversion retarder 72B being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder 72B between a linear polarization state 902 and an orthogonal linear polarization state 904, wherein the further polarization conversion retarder 72B has a half wavelength delay at visible wavelengths. As will be described below, the further polarization conversion retarder 72B provides the polarization state 904 incident on the extraction reflector 170. Advantageously, as will be described below, improved efficiency can be achieved.

[0604] Fig.27BAn alternative embodiment includes an extraction reflector 170 disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1B. An input linear polarizer 70 is disposed between the spatial light modulator 48 and the lateral deformation component 60. The polarizer 70 can be arranged to transmit a polarization state 902 of p-polarization, which can be preferentially transmitted by the partial reflector 7 toward the intermediate waveguide 1C. The polarization conversion retarder is arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization conversion retarder between a linear polarization state 902 and a circular polarization state 922. After reflection at the light retro-reflector 140, an orthogonal circular polarization state 924 is provided, and the polarization conversion retarder 72C provides an s-polarization linear state 904 back toward the partial reflector 7, which is preferentially reflected toward the extraction waveguide 1B. The improved reflectivity of the partial reflector 7 can be achieved for light propagating toward the extraction waveguide 1B.

[0605] Fig.27A The further polarization converting retarder 72C is omitted so that the polarization state 904 is preferentially reflected by the reflective extractor 170. Advantageously, the efficiency is improved.

[0606] Through Figures 1A to 25 For comparison, FIG. 26A to FIG. 27B An alternative embodiment of includes an input waveguide 1A separated from an extraction waveguide 1B. The intermediate waveguide 1C can be arranged with an aberration correction embodiment provided for the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197 as described above. Further, the extraction waveguide 1B can be provided with various embodiments of the extraction features 169 as described above. In addition, FIG. 26A to FIG. 27B The embodiments of the present invention do not provide for light incident on the extraction features 169 for light transmitted along the first direction 191, for example as described above in Figure 1B Advantageously, efficiency can be improved and stray light can be reduced.

[0607] Fig.28 is a schematic diagram illustrating a deformed near-eye display device 100 in a front view, FIG. 26A to FIG. 27B The intermediate waveguide 1C of the deformable near-eye display device 100 of the type illustrated in the figure, the deformable near-eye display device 100 includes an input waveguide 1A, a partial mirror 7, an intermediate waveguide 1C and an extraction waveguide 1B, wherein the lateral deformation component 110 further includes a planar reflective linear polarizer 99 and a polarization conversion delay 89, and the polarization conversion delay 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.

[0608] and Fig. 7A Compared with the implementation scheme, Fig.28 In an alternative embodiment, the lateral deformation component 110 is provided at the end 4C of the intermediate waveguide 1C instead of Fig. 7A At the end 4 of the extraction waveguide 1. Further, the extraction waveguide 1B is arranged to receive light from the lateral deformation component 60 through the input waveguide 1A and the intermediate waveguide 1C.

[0609] This arrangement enables Fig. 7A In other examples, specific examples of lateral deformation components 110 and transverse deformation components 60 are shown (e.g., including reflective linear polarizers 99, Fig. 7A and Fig.28 The polarization conversion retarder 89, and Fig. 8A The half-silvered mirror 214 and the reflective polarizer 218, Fig. 10A Pancharatnum-Berry lens 350, etc.), but this is not limiting, and in general, any of the aberration enhancement embodiments disclosed herein for use in embodiments including extraction waveguide 1 can be alternatively applied to embodiments including intermediate waveguide 1C. Similarly, various features can be combined together in any combination.

[0610] The lighting system 240 and the optical system 250 of the above embodiments may be provided to a deformable directional lighting device for illuminating an external scene 479 .

[0611] Fig.29A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformed directional lighting device 1000 arranged to illuminate an external scene 479. Fig.29A Featur...

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, in the extraction waveguide comprising an array of extraction features arranged to transmit light guided along the extraction waveguide in the first manner and to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide in the second direction towards an eye of a viewer, the array of extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion, and The lateral deformation component comprises: a reflective linear polarizer disposed between the light retroreflector and the array of extraction features; and A polarization-converting retarder is disposed between the reflective linear polarizer and the optical retro-reflector, the polarization-converting retarder being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization-converting retarder between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state.

2. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 1, wherein the reflective linear polarizer is curved in the lateral direction.

3. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 2, wherein the light retro-reflector is not curved in the lateral direction.

4. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light retro-reflector is curved in the lateral direction.

5. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the polarization-converting retarder is curved in the lateral direction.

6. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the polarization-converting retarder has a quarter-wavelength retardation at visible wavelengths.

7. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the optical system includes an input linear polarizer, which is arranged between the spatial light modulator and the array of extraction reflectors, and wherein the input linear polarizer and the reflective linear polarizer of the lateral deformable component are arranged to transmit a common polarization state.

8. The deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the lateral deformation component further comprises: a polarization controlled retarder disposed between the reflective linear polarizer and the array of extraction features, the polarization controlled retarder being arranged to alter the polarization state of light passing through the polarization controlled retarder; as well as an absorbing linear polarizer disposed between the polarization control retarder and the reflective linear polarizer, wherein the absorbing linear polarizer and the reflective linear polarizer are arranged to transmit a common linear polarization state, which is a component of the polarization state output from the polarization control retarder in a direction along the waveguide.

9. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 8, wherein the polarization-controlled retarder has a retardation of a quarter-wave retarder or a half-wavelength at visible light wavelengths.

10. A morphing near-eye display device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the optical system comprises an input linear polarizer disposed between the spatial light modulator and the array of extraction reflectors.

11. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the extraction feature is an extraction feature disposed inside the extraction waveguide.

12. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 11, wherein the extraction feature comprises an extraction reflector extending across at least a portion of the extraction waveguide between a front guide surface and a rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

13. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 12, wherein the extraction reflector comprises intermediate surfaces separated by a partially reflective coating.

14. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 13, wherein the partially reflective coating comprises at least one dielectric layer.

15. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, 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.

16. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the extraction waveguide has a front guiding surface and a rear guiding surface, and the rear guiding surface includes extraction facets, each of which is an extraction feature, and each extraction facet is arranged to reflect light guided in the second direction through the front guiding surface toward the viewer's eyes.

17. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the extraction waveguide has a front guiding surface and a rear guiding surface, and the rear guiding surface includes a diffractive optical element, and the diffractive optical element includes the extraction feature.

18. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The extraction waveguide comprises: front guide surface; a polarization-sensitive reflector opposite the front directing surface; and an extraction element disposed outside the polarization-sensitive reflector, wherein the extraction element comprises: a rear guide surface, the rear guide surface being opposite to the front guide surface; and an array of said extracted features; The anamorphic near-eye display device is arranged to provide an input linear polarization state for light guided along the extraction waveguide in the first direction before the light reaches the polarization-sensitive reflector; The polarization-converting retarder disposed between the reflective linear polarizer and the light retro-reflector is a first polarization-converting retarder; The anamorphic near-eye display device includes a second polarization-converting retarder disposed between the polarization-sensitive reflector and the reflective linear polarizer, the second polarization-converting retarder being arranged to convert from a state parallel to or orthogonal to the input linear polarization state to a polarization state having a component parallel to the input linear polarization state and a component orthogonal to the input linear polarization state; The anamorphic near-eye display device comprises an absorbing linear polarizer arranged to pass a component parallel to the input linear polarization state or a component orthogonal to the input linear polarization state; The reflective linear polarizer is arranged to pass the same component as the absorbing linear polarizer; The second polarization conversion retarder, the absorbing linear polarizer, the reflecting linear polarizer, the first polarization conversion retarder and the light reverse reflector are arranged in combination to rotate the input linear polarization state of the light guided in the first direction so that the light guided in the second direction and output from the second polarization conversion retarder has a linear polarization state, and the linear polarization state has a component parallel to the input linear polarization state and a component orthogonal to the input linear polarization state; and the polarization-sensitive reflector is arranged to reflect the light having the input linear polarization state guided in the first direction and transmit the component orthogonal to the input linear polarization state guided in the second direction, so that the front guiding surface and the polarization-sensitive reflector are arranged to guide the light in the first direction, and the front guiding surface and the rear guiding surface are arranged to guide the component of the light orthogonal to the input linear polarization state in the second direction.

19. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 18, wherein the polarization-sensitive reflector comprises a reflective linear polarizer.

20. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 18 or 19, wherein the polarization-sensitive reflector comprises at least one dielectric layer.

21. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the optical system further comprises: an input waveguide arranged to receive light from the lateral deformation assembly; a partially reflective mirror, the input waveguide being arranged to direct light from the lateral anamorphic component along the input waveguide to the partially reflective mirror, and the partially reflective mirror being arranged to reflect at least some of the light; an intermediate waveguide arranged to receive at least some of the light reflected by the partial reflector; a lateral anamorphic component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the intermediate waveguide being arranged to guide light received from the partial reflector along the intermediate waveguide in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; a light retro-reflector arranged to reflect light that has been directed along the intermediate waveguide in the first direction so that the reflected light is directed along the intermediate waveguide in a second direction opposite to the first direction to the partial reflector, the partial reflector being arranged to transmit at least some of the light; and wherein the extraction waveguide is arranged to receive at least some of the light transmitted by the partial reflector that has been guided along the intermediate waveguide in the second direction.

22. A head-mounted display device, comprising a deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 1 to 21 and a head fixing arrangement, wherein the head fixing arrangement is arranged to fix the deformable near-eye display device on a wearer's head, wherein the deformable near-eye display device extends across at least one eye of the wearer.

23. 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 a 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises an array of extraction features 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 extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion, and The lateral deformation component comprises: Partially reflective surfaces; a reflective linear polarizer disposed in series with the partially reflective surface, wherein at least one of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer has positive optical power in the transverse direction; and A polarization-converting retarder is disposed between the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer, the polarization-converting retarder being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization-converting retarder between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state.

24. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 23, wherein each of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer has positive optical power in the lateral direction.

25. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 23 or 24, wherein at least one of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer having positive optical power in the transverse direction has no optical power in the lateral direction.

26. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the laterally morphing component further comprises at least one lens element.

27. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the reflective linear polarizer is arranged behind the partially reflective surface in the transmission direction of light from the spatial light modulator.

28. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the reflective linear polarizer is disposed in front of the partially reflective surface in a transmission direction of light from the spatial light modulator.

29. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 28, wherein The extraction waveguide has an input end extending in the lateral direction and the transverse direction, the extraction waveguide being arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input end, and The lateral deformation component is disposed between the spatial light modulator and the input end of the extraction waveguide.

30. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 29, wherein the lateral deformable component further includes a further polarization conversion delay device, which is arranged in the transmission direction of the light from the spatial light modulator, in front of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer, or is arranged in the transmission direction of the light from the spatial light modulator, behind the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer.

31. The deformable near-eye display device of claim 29 or 30, further comprising a linear polarizer disposed between the lateral deformable component and the input end of the extraction waveguide.

32. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 31 , wherein the spatial light modulator is arranged to output linearly polarised light.

33. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 32, wherein the illumination system further comprises an output polarizer disposed between the spatial light modulator and the lateral optical component, the output polarizer being arranged to output linearly polarized light.

34. 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 a 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises an array of extraction features 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 extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion, and The lateral deformation component includes a lens formed by at least one surface of an air gap formed in the waveguide.

35. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 34, wherein the air gap has an edge, and the anamorphic near-eye display device comprises a reflector extending across the edge of the air gap.

36. A morphing near-eye display device according to claim 34 or 35, wherein the waveguide in which the air gap is formed is the extraction waveguide.

37. A morphing near-eye display device according to claim 36, wherein the light retro-reflector is a reflective end of the extraction waveguide.

38. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 34 to 36, wherein the laterally deformable component further comprises the light retro-reflector.

39. 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 a 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises an array of extraction features 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 extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion, and The lens of the lateral anamorphic assembly is a Pancharatnam-Berry lens.

40. 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 a 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises an array of extraction features 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 extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion, and At least one of the input end of the extraction waveguide, the lateral anamorphic component and the spatial light modulator has a curvature in the lateral direction that compensates for the field curvature of the lateral anamorphic component.

41. 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 a 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises an array of extraction features 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 extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion, and The spatial light modulator comprises an array of pixels, wherein each pixel comprises sub-pixels of a plurality of color components, and the spacing of the sub-pixels of each color component varies between the color components across the pixels in the lateral direction in a manner that compensates for chromatic aberrations between the light of the color components.

42. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 41 , wherein the sub-pixels of each pixel are aligned in the lateral direction.

43. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 41 or claim 42, wherein the spacing of the sub-pixels of each color component across the pixel in the lateral direction is the same for each color component.

44. A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 41 or 42, wherein the spacing of the sub-pixels of each color component across the pixels in the lateral direction varies between the color components in a manner to compensate for the chromatic aberration between the light of the color components.

45. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 44, wherein the extraction feature is a reflective extraction feature disposed inside the extraction waveguide.

46. ​​A deformable near-eye display device according to claim 45, wherein the reflective extraction feature includes an extraction reflector that extends across at least a portion of the extraction waveguide between a front guide surface and a rear guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

47. A morphing near-eye display device according to claim 46, wherein the extraction reflector comprises intermediate surfaces separated by partially reflective coatings.

48. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 47, wherein the partially reflective coating comprises at least one dielectric layer.

49. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 46 to 48, 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.

50. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 44, wherein the extraction waveguide has a front guiding surface and a rear guiding surface, and the rear guiding surface includes extraction facets, which are the extraction features, and each extraction facet is arranged to cause light guided in the second direction to be reflected through the front guiding surface toward the viewer's eyes.

51. A deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 44, wherein the extraction waveguide has a front guiding surface and a rear guiding surface, and the rear guiding surface includes a diffractive optical element, and the diffractive optical element includes the extraction feature.

52. A morphing near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 51, wherein: The extraction waveguide comprises: front guide surface; a polarization-sensitive reflector opposite the front directing surface; and an extraction element, the extraction element being disposed outside the polarization-sensitive reflector, the extraction element comprising: a rear guide surface, the rear guide surface being opposite to the front guide surface; and an array of said extracted features; The anamorphic near-eye display device is arranged to provide an input linear polarization state for light guided along the extraction waveguide in the first direction before the light reaches the polarization-sensitive reflector; and The optical system further comprises a polarization conversion retarder disposed between the polarization sensitive reflector and the light retro-reflector, wherein 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, and the polarization conversion retarder and the light retro-reflector are arranged in combination to rotate an input linear polarization state of light directed in the first direction so that light directed in the second direction and output from the polarization conversion retarder has an orthogonal linear polarization state orthogonal to the input linear polarization state; the polarization-sensitive reflector being arranged to reflect light having the input linear polarization state directed in the first direction and to pass light having the orthogonal linear polarization state directed in the second direction, such that the front guiding surface and the polarization-sensitive reflector are arranged to guide light in the first direction, and the front guiding surface and the rear guiding surface are arranged to guide light in the second direction; and The array of extraction features is arranged to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide in the second direction through the front guide surface towards an eye of a viewer, the array of extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion in the lateral direction.

53. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 52, wherein the polarization-sensitive reflector comprises a reflective linear polarizer.

54. A morphing near-eye display device according to claim 52 or 53, wherein the polarization-sensitive reflector comprises at least one dielectric layer.

55. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 23 to 51, wherein the optical system further comprises: an input waveguide arranged to receive light from the lateral deformation assembly; a partially reflective mirror, the input waveguide being arranged to direct light from the lateral anamorphic component along the input waveguide to the partially reflective mirror, and the partially reflective mirror being arranged to reflect at least some of the light; an intermediate waveguide arranged to receive at least some of the light reflected by the partial reflector; a lateral anamorphic component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the intermediate waveguide being arranged to guide light received from the partial reflector in a first direction along the intermediate waveguide to the lateral anamorphic component; a light retro-reflector arranged to reflect light that has been directed along the intermediate waveguide in the first direction so that the reflected light is directed along the intermediate waveguide in a second direction opposite to the first direction to the partial reflector, the partial reflector being arranged to transmit at least some of the light; and wherein the extraction waveguide is arranged to receive at least some of the light transmitted by the partial reflector that has been guided along the intermediate waveguide in the second direction.

56. A head-mounted display device, comprising a deformable near-eye display device according to any one of claims 23 to 55 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.

57. 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 a transverse direction, wherein the transverse anamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises at least one extraction feature 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, and The lateral deformation component comprises: a reflective linear polarizer disposed between the light retroreflector and the at least one extraction feature; and A polarization-converting retarder is disposed between the reflective linear polarizer and the optical retro-reflector, the polarization-converting retarder being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization-converting retarder between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state.

58. 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 a transverse direction, wherein the transverse anamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises at least one extraction feature 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, and The lateral deformation component comprises: Partially reflective surfaces; a reflective linear polarizer disposed in series with the partially reflective surface, wherein at least one of the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer has positive power in the transverse direction; and A polarization-converting retarder is disposed between the partially reflective surface and the reflective linear polarizer, the polarization-converting retarder being arranged to convert the polarization state of light passing through the polarization-converting retarder between a linear polarization state and a circular polarization state.

59. 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 a transverse direction, wherein the transverse anamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises at least one extraction feature 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, and The lateral deformation component includes a lens formed by at least one surface of an air gap formed in the waveguide.

60. 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 a transverse direction, wherein the transverse anamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises at least one extraction feature 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, and The lens of the lateral anamorphic assembly is a Pancharatnam-Berry lens.

61. 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 a transverse direction, wherein the transverse anamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises at least one extraction feature 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, and At least one of the input end of the extraction waveguide, the lateral anamorphic component and the light source array has a curvature in the lateral direction that compensates for the field curvature of the lateral anamorphic component.

62. 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 a transverse direction, wherein the transverse anamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, 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 in a first direction to the lateral anamorphic component; 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, in The extraction waveguide comprises at least one extraction feature 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, and The light source array comprises an array of light sources, wherein each light source comprises sub-light sources of a plurality of color components, and the spacing of the sub-light sources of each color component across the light sources in the lateral direction varies between the color components in a manner that compensates for chromatic aberrations between the lights of the color components.

63. A vehicle exterior lamp device, comprising the deformed directional lighting device according to any one of claims 57 to 62.

64. 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 63, the vehicle exterior light device is mounted on the housing.

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