Electronic device

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electronic device such as a wearable display for implementing a wider field of view (FOV), and may provide an electronic device comprising: a transparent substrate; a light source module array disposed on the first surface of the transparent substrate and having a plurality of light source modules arranged in a grid structure; an optical array disposed on the second surface of the transparent substrate and having a plurality of optical elements arranged to respectively correspond to the plurality of light source modules; and an optical driving unit for controlling the light source module array, in which external light is provided to a user through spaces between the plurality of light source modules and spaces between the plurality of optical elements, and a light beam from an image generated in the optical driving unit is emitted from the light source module array and provided to the user through the optical array.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device, and more particularly, to an electronic device such as a wearable display for virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), etc. Background Art

[0002] Virtual reality (VR) refers to a specific environment, situation, or technology itself that is similar to reality created by artificial technology such as using computers, but is not real.

[0003] Augmented reality (AR) refers to technology that synthesizes virtual objects or information in a real environment and makes them look like objects that exist in the original environment.

[0004] Mixed reality (MR) refers to creating a new environment or new information by combining the virtual world and the real world. In particular, when it refers to something that can interact between real things and virtual things in real time, it is called mixed reality.

[0005] In this case, the created virtual environment, situation, etc. stimulates the five senses of the user, and allows them to freely enter and exit the boundary between reality and imagination by allowing them to experience space and time similar to real things. In addition, the user can not only simply immerse himself in such an environment, but also interact with things realized in such an environment, such as manipulating or issuing commands using real devices.

[0006] Recently, equipment (tools) used in these technical fields are being actively studied.

[0007] Wearable displays that generate images in the air are generally divided into two types. That is, there are helmet-type wearable displays worn on the user's head and glasses-type wearable displays. The helmet-type wearable display has a structure in which the optical lens system has an increased volume to generate a large image through an expanded field of view (FOV) and is mounted on the user's head, so it is called a head-mounted display (HMD). Therefore, helmet-type wearable displays are used in professional fields where space is limited and there is little movement, such as military training (cyber flight training) and online games.

[0008] On the other hand, Figure 1 As exemplarily shown in FIG, the glasses-type wearable display has a light-weight and small-sized structure, which is mounted on the nose and ears of the user like a pair of glasses, and is easy to use while exercising. The glasses-type wearable display is divided into three structures.

[0009] First, the panel and lens are fixed to the direct-view structure in front of the eye ( Figure 1(1-1)) is the most classic and basic design of the virtual image optical system, and is formed into a closed field of view type in which the user can see the external scenery. Therefore, the direct view structure ( Figure 1 (1-1)) requires recognizing external scenery in mobile space and is therefore disadvantageous.

[0010] Secondly, in order to solve the direct view structure ( Figure 1 In order to overcome the disadvantages of (1-1)), a top-fixed reflective structure is provided in which a panel is fixed on the top and a user can use a partially reflective surface to see the outside scenery. Figure 1 (1-2)). However, since the panel and the optical system group are usually fixed in front of the eye, the top fixed reflective structure ( Figure 1 (1-2)) is difficult to have a thin thickness and light weight like in general eyeglass structures.

[0011] Third, a side-fixed light guide structure is provided ( Figure 1 (1-3)), wherein the panel and the optical lens group move from the front frame to the side frame on the side of the eye, and are similar to eyeglass lenses using light guides.

[0012] Side fixed light guide structure ( Figure 1 (1-3)) are divided into PBS type ( Figure 2 (2-1)) and prism type ( Figure 2 (2-2)) to transmit the light beam to the pupil through internal reflection of the planar light guide, such as Figure 2 As shown in the example. Since several dozen layers of special partial coating are performed on each PBS plane segment, these segments are then joined to emit light beams uniformly from each reflector, and the top fixed reflective structure ( Figure 2 (2-1)) is formed by a limited material such as glass, so the top fixed reflective structure ( Figure 2 (2-2)) is difficult to mass produce using a mold structure. On the other hand, the prism-type structure 220 can be manufactured using a mold structure and is easily formed from plastic. However, the lens group is set away from the eye by total internal reflection, so both planar light guide types are limited in extending the FOV, and the PBS or prism pattern is actually visible.

[0013] In addition, the light beam is reflected within the effective range of the partial PBS mirror or prism mirror that changes the path to guide the light beam to the pupil by total internal reflection of the planar light guide, so the conventional method is limited in determining the FOV of the image size. Figure 3 As shown in the example, in order to form a range where the light beams do not overlap to perform internal reflection, the thickness of the planar light guide is combined to limit the effective segmented portion of the PBS reflector range ( Figure 3 (3-1)) or prism reflector range ( Figure 3(3-2)). In particular, since the interval between eyes varies from person to person and the pupil moves, the eye movement frame (EMB) range that maintains the desired image performance is considered even in such changes, and therefore, there is a severe limitation on increasing the FOV by internal reflection. In addition, the visual pattern is visible, so a segmented partial PBS reflector structure or a prism reflector structure needs to be considered in the design. Summary of the invention

[0014] Technical tasks

[0015] The present disclosure is proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems and various related problems, and a technical task of the present disclosure is to provide an electronic device, such as a wearable display, that allows a wider field of view (FOV) and a visual pattern with an inconspicuous appearance.

[0016] Technical Solution

[0017] In one technical aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided, which includes: a transparent substrate; a light source module array, which is arranged on a first surface of the transparent substrate and has a plurality of light source modules arranged in a grid structure; an optical array, which is arranged on a second surface of the transparent substrate and has a plurality of optical elements arranged to correspond to the plurality of light source modules, respectively; and an optical driving unit, which controls the light source module array, wherein external light can be provided to a user through spaces between the plurality of light source modules and spaces between the plurality of optical elements, and wherein a light beam according to an image generated by the optical driving unit can be irradiated from the light source module array and provided to the user through the optical array.

[0018] A single light source module among the plurality of light source modules may include an external light blocking member for blocking external light from passing through the light source module and a light source device configured to irradiate a light beam.

[0019] The single light source module may further include a collimating lens for preventing the irradiated light beam from spreading, and the light source device may be in contact with the transparent substrate with the collimating lens interposed between the light source device and the transparent substrate.

[0020] The external light blocking member may have a hat shape covering the light source device and the collimating lens.

[0021] The optical characteristics of the collimating lens may be the same for all light source modules.

[0022] The transparent substrate may be disposed such that the second surface faces a user.

[0023] The optical element may include a lens, and optical characteristics of the lens may be determined based on the position of the optical element.

[0024] The optical element may include a pinhole formed in a layer polarized in the first direction.

[0025] The light source module array may irradiate a light beam polarized in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0026] The transparent substrate may be disposed such that the first surface faces a user.

[0027] The optical element may include a reflective lens, and an optical characteristic of the reflective lens may be determined based on a position of the optical element.

[0028] The intervals between the plurality of light source modules may increase as moving outward from the center of the light source module array.

[0029] The transparent substrate may be planar, or have a defined curvature.

[0030] Each optical element may align its light source module in a radial direction from the user's pupil toward the transparent substrate.

[0031] The optical array may include a diffractive optical element (DOE) or a holographic optical element (HOE).

[0032] The electronic device may further include a front frame on which the transparent substrate is disposed, and a side frame on which the optical driving unit is disposed.

[0033] The electronic device may further include an image splitting circuit configured to split the image generated by the optical driving unit and transmit the split images to the individual light source modules.

[0034] The scale of the grid structure may be determined based on at least one of the distance between the light source module array and the user's pupil, the pupil size, or the light wavelength band.

[0035] The light source device may include a liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) device, a liquid crystal display (LCD) device, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) device, a digital micromirror device (DMD), a micro light emitting diode (LED) device, and a quantum dot (QD) LED device.

[0036] The electronic device may include a wearable display.

[0037] Beneficial effects

[0038] The effects of the electronic device according to the present disclosure will be described as follows.

[0039] According to at least one of the various aspects of the present disclosure, there is an advantage in that a wearable display that allows a wider field of view (FOV) and a visual pattern with an inconspicuous appearance can be realized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Figure 1 is a view showing an example of a glasses-type wearable display.

[0041] Figure 2 is a view showing an example of a planar light guide type wearable display.

[0042] Figure 3 is a view showing the field of view (FOV) of a planar light guide type wearable display.

[0043] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an optical driving unit and a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 5 and Figure 6 An optical path changing region according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0045] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Fig.11 It is shown Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a plan view of a display unit of an electronic device.

[0050] Fig.12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Fig.14 It is shown Fig.13 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a plan view of a display unit of an electronic device.

[0053] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Fig.16 It is shown Fig.15 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a plan view of a display unit of an electronic device.

[0055] Fig.17 and Fig.18is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Fig.19 are diagrams illustrating a cross-sectional view and a plan view of a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] A description will now be given in detail according to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. In order to be briefly described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals may be provided to the same or equivalent components, and their description will not be repeated. Generally, suffixes such as "module" and "unit" may be used to represent elements or components. The use of such suffixes herein is intended only to facilitate the description of this specification, and the suffixes themselves are not intended to give any special meaning or function. In the present disclosure, for the sake of simplicity, the contents familiar to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art are generally omitted. The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand various technical features, and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the present disclosure should be interpreted as extending to any changes, equivalents and substitutions in addition to those specifically stated in the accompanying drawings.

[0058] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are generally used only to distinguish one element from another.

[0059] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, the element may be directly connected to the other element, or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected to" another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0060] A singular expression may include a plural expression unless it clearly indicates a different meaning from the context.

[0061] Terms such as “including” or “having” are used herein and should be understood to indicate the presence of a plurality of components, functions or steps disclosed in the specification, and it is also understood that more or fewer components, functions or steps may be similarly utilized.

[0062] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an optical driving unit and a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Reference Figure 4 , the electronic device 10 according to the present disclosure may include an optical driving unit 200 and a display unit 300 .

[0064] The optical drive unit 200 for controlling various electronic components provided in the electronic device 10 may include an image source panel 210 and a lens unit 220 for diffusing and / or converging light generated from the image source panel 210. The image source panel 210 may generate a light beam for displaying an image. The light beam may be a light beam for generating a 2D image or a 3D image. The 3D image may include at least one of a stereoscopic image or a multi-view image. The lens unit 220 may include at least one lens, and the lens may include at least one of a glass lens, a plastic lens, and a liquid crystal lens. The lens unit 220 is used to allow the image generated by the image source panel 210 to be viewed as a virtual image by the user. The lens unit 220 may be located between the image source panel 210 and the display unit 300.

[0065] like Figure 4 As shown, the image source panel 210 and the lens unit 220 may be spaced apart from the display unit 300 and disposed in a lateral direction thereof.

[0066] The display unit 300 may allow a user to simultaneously see an image generated by the optical driving unit 200 and an external scene.

[0067] To this end, the display unit 300 may include a transparent substrate 301 and an optical path changing region 302 formed on one surface of the transparent substrate 301. The optical path changing region 302 may be understood as a kind of optical array. The one surface may refer to a surface of the transparent substrate 301 that is closer to the user's pupil. The transparent substrate 301 may be formed as a plane or a surface with a prescribed curvature. The transparent substrate 301 may include at least one of a glass substrate, a plastic substrate, and a metal substrate. At least one of the size and position of the optical path changing region 302 may be determined based on the user's field of view (FOV). The optical path changing region 302 will be further described later.

[0068] The optical driving unit 200 may directly irradiate the light beam generated by the image source panel 210 to the light path changing region 302 of the display unit 300. That is, the optical driving unit 200 may irradiate the light beam to the light path changing region 302 obliquely from one side direction of the display unit 300. The light beam may be directly irradiated to the light path changing region 302 without passing through the transparent substrate 301. In this case, the lens unit 220 of the optical driving unit 200 may allow the light beam to be incident on the light path changing region 302 by being restricted thereto.

[0069] One portion of the optical path changing region 302 may be configured to reflect the light beam at a predetermined level or above in the user's pupil direction (Z direction). The one portion may be opaque to block external light 410 incident from the outside, or may be translucent so that only some external light 410 is transmitted. Another portion of the optical path changing region 302 may be configured not to reflect the light beam in the user's pupil direction while transmitting the external light 410.

[0070] To this end, the light path changing region 302 may be configured in a uniform pattern shape. Figure 5 and Figure 6 Further description. Figure 5 and Figure 6 An optical path changing region according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0071] The optical path changing region 302 may include a coated region A1 for reflecting the light beam and a non-coated region A2 which is not coated so that the light beam is not reflected.

[0072] like Figure 5 As shown, the coated area A1 and the non-coated area A2 may have a fine and uniform pattern shape in the optical path changing area 302. Therefore, when the electronic device 10 is worn close to the user's pupils, it may be difficult for the user to recognize the pattern shape of the optical path changing area 302.

[0073] exist Figure 5 In FIG. 1 , the pattern shape is shown as a net or grid shape, but is not limited thereto, and various periodic pattern shapes may be used. Figure 6 In (6-1), the pattern shape is shown as a diamond pattern shape, in Figure 6 In (6-2), the pattern shape is shown as a checkerboard pattern shape. Figure 6 In (6-3), the pattern shape is shown as a stripe pattern shape, but is not limited to this.

[0074] The scale of the pattern shape may vary from tens of micrometers to several millimeters according to at least one of the distance between the optical path changing region 302 and the user's pupil, the pupil size, and the light wavelength band.

[0075] As the coating material in the coating area A1, a reflection mode material may be applied. The coating material may include materials used for partial reflective mirror coating and special band coating.

[0076] The grids of the periodic pattern shape may correspond to the coating area A1 , and the spaces between the grids may correspond to the non-coating area A2 , and vice versa.

[0077] A diffractive optical element (DOE) pattern A1-1 for changing the optical path of the light beam so that the light beam is reflected in the user's pupil direction (Z direction) may be provided in the coating area A1. Instead of the DOE pattern, a holographic optical element (HOE) pattern is provided in the coating area A1 so that the optical path of the light beam can be changed in the user's pupil direction.

[0078] In accordance with Figure 4In the case of the electronic device 10, a thin glass lens structure is possible because total internal reflection in the transparent substrate 301 is not used. In addition, since the light path can be changed in a desired direction by adjusting the light path change angle of the DOE or HOE pattern in the light path change area 302, a wide viewing angle FOV can be ensured.

[0079] In the above description, it is described that the light beam generated by the image source panel 210 is directly irradiated to the light path changing region 302 of the display unit 300 without passing through the transparent substrate 301. However, the electronic device 10 may be configured so that the light beam generated by the image source panel 210 passes through the transparent substrate 301 and then irradiates to the light path changing region 302 of the display unit 300. This will be referred to Figure 7 Further description. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 In the figure, the optical driving unit 200 is omitted for the convenience of illustration.

[0080] Reference Figure 7 , the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300 of the electronic device 10 can be used as a planar light guide.

[0081] The light beam generated by the optical driving unit may be irradiated inward from one side of the transparent substrate 301 and guided within the transparent substrate 301 by total internal reflection.

[0082] The optical path changing area 302 may be disposed on one surface of the transparent substrate 301. The one surface may refer to a surface away from the user's pupil among the two surfaces of the transparent substrate 301. As described above, at least one of the size and position of the optical path changing area 302 may be determined based on the user's field of view FOV.

[0083] The guided light beam reaching the optical path changing area 302 may be reflected in the direction of the user's pupil.

[0084] As described above, the reflected light beam, together with the external light 410 , may be visible to a user.

[0085] also, Figure 4 The transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300 of the electronic device 10 may be formed of a curved surface. Figure 8 Further description. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For the convenience of illustration, Figure 8 The optical driving unit 200 is omitted.

[0086] Reference Figure 8 , the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300 of the electronic device 10 may be formed of a curved surface.

[0087] The optical path changing region 302 may be formed on one surface of the transparent substrate 301. The one surface may refer to the inner surface of the two surfaces of the transparent substrate 301, that is, the surface closer to the user's pupil. As described above, at least one of the size and position of the optical path changing region 302 may be determined based on the user's viewing angle FOV.

[0088] As described above, the optical driving unit irradiates the light beam generated by the image source panel directly to the light path changing area 302 of the display unit 300, and the light path changing area 302 reflects the light beam in the direction of the user's pupil.

[0089] When using the electronic device 10, Figure 8 As shown, it can be manufactured in a structure that is easy to ensure viewing angle or optical performance while reducing the optical path distance between the pupil and the optical driver, and can be applied to existing glasses-type structures, thereby realizing an electronic device 10 that can provide more convenience for glasses wearers or sunglasses users.

[0090] In the above description, it is described that the image source panel 210 and the lens unit 220 are disposed to be spaced apart from the display unit 300. Incidentally, the image source panel 210 and the lens unit 220 may be formed integrally with the display unit 300. This will be referred to as Fig. 9 Further description. Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] like Fig. 9 As shown, the electronic device 10 may include a frame 100 , an optical driving unit 200 , and a display unit 300 .

[0092] The electronic device 10 may be provided in a glasses type (smart glasses). The glasses type electronic device 10 is configured to be worn on the head of a human body and may include a frame (eg, housing, casing, etc.) 100 for this purpose. The frame 100 may be formed of a flexible material that is easy to wear.

[0093] The frame 100 is supported by the head and provides space for mounting various components. Fig. 9 As shown, electronic components such as the optical driving unit 200, the user input unit 130, the sound output unit 140, etc. may be mounted on the frame 100. In addition, a lens covering at least one of the left eye and the right eye may be detachably mounted on the frame 100.

[0094] like Fig. 9 As shown, the frame 100 may be in the form of glasses worn on the face of the user's body, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and may be in the form of goggles worn in close contact with the user's face.

[0095] Such a frame 100 may include a front frame 110 having at least one opening and a pair of side frames 120 extending in a first direction y crossing the front frame 110 .

[0096] The optical driving unit 200 may control various electronic components provided in the electronic device 10. Figure 4 Unlike an electronic device of the present invention, the optical driving unit 200 may not include an image source panel and a lens unit. This will be described later.

[0097] The optical drive unit 200 may be fixed to either of the two side frames 120. For example, the optical drive unit 200 may be fixed to the inside or outside of either side frame 120, or may be embedded in either side frame 120 to be integrally formed. Alternatively, the optical drive unit 200 may be fixed to the front frame 110, or may be provided separately from the electronic device 10.

[0098] The display unit 300 may be implemented in the form of a head mounted display (HMD). The HMD form refers to a display mechanism mounted on the head to display an image directly in front of the user's eyes. When the user wears the electronic device 10, the display unit 300 may be set to correspond to at least one of the left eye and the right eye to provide an image directly in front of the user's eyes. Fig. 9 , it is shown that the display unit 300 is located at a portion corresponding to the right eye so that an image can be output toward the right eye of the user.

[0099] The display unit 300 may allow a user to visually recognize an external scene while seeing an image generated under the control of the optical driving unit 200 .

[0100] The electronic device 10 may include a display area 303 on the display unit 300 instead of Figure 4 The image source panel 210 of the display area 303 can be configured as a light source module array. Each light source module 313 in the light source module array 303 may include a light source device that implements a single pixel, or may include a light source device that implements hundreds to thousands of pixel clusters. The light source device can be understood as a micro light source device.

[0101] The light source device may include a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) device, a liquid crystal display (LCD) device, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) device, a digital micromirror device (DMD), etc., and also includes next-generation display devices such as micro light emitting diodes (LEDs), quantum dot (QD) LEDs, etc.

[0102] The image data generated by the optical driving unit 200 is transmitted as an image signal along the conductive input line 316 to the light source module array 303, and the light source module array 303 can convert the image signal into light and irradiate it to the user's eyes.

[0103] The plurality of light source modules 313 constituting the light source module array 303 may be arranged in a grid structure. The scale of the grid structure may vary according to at least one of the distance between the light source module array 303 and the user's pupil, the pupil size, the light band, etc. Since the plurality of light source modules 313 are implemented in a grid structure to have a fine size, a wide viewing angle FOV may be provided without impairing the aesthetics of the electronic device 10.

[0104] The image signal generated by the optical drive unit 200 is transmitted to the image segmentation circuit 315 set on one side of the display area 303 through the conductive input line 316, and is divided into a plurality of branches in the image segmentation circuit 315 to be transmitted to the light source module 313 set for each branch. The image segmentation circuit 315 can be positioned outside the user's visual range to minimize visual interference. Each segmented image generated by the image segmentation circuit 315 is output by a single light source module 313, and the segmented images can realize a single image as a whole.

[0105] Below, we will refer to Fig.10 The display unit 300 is further described. Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] The light source module array 303 may be disposed on a first surface of the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300. The first surface may be a surface further away from a user. The light source module array 303 may include a plurality of light source modules 313 arranged in a grid structure.

[0107] The distances between the plurality of light source modules 313 in the light source module array 303 may be uniform. Alternatively, the distances between the plurality of light source modules 313 may gradually increase as moving outward from the center of the light source module array 303 .

[0108] The light source module array 303 may output the segmented image 323 to have directionality in the direction of the user.

[0109] The light source device of the light source module array 303 may be configured to have a size of several hundred micrometers or less, and may be configured to have a specific wavelength band and a visible light range according to the purpose.

[0110] The light source module array 303 may be configured to have a prescribed beam orientation angle in a uniform pattern shape, and each light source module may have a structure to block light from an external direction. The pattern shape may be a grid shape, a diamond pattern shape, or a checkerboard pattern shape as described above.

[0111] In addition, the lens array 304 may be arranged on the second surface of the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300. The lens array 304 may be understood as an optical array. As a surface opposite to the first surface, the second surface may be a surface closer to the user. The lens array 304 may include a plurality of lenses 314 arranged in a grid structure. The lens 314 may be understood as an optical element. For example, the lens may include a micro lens. The lens may include a Fresnel lens or a HOE or DOE lens.

[0112] The plurality of light source modules 313 may correspond to the plurality of lenses 314 one by one, respectively. That is, each lens may be aligned with each light source module in a radiation direction from the user's pupil toward the display unit 300. Therefore, the segmented images 323 from each light source module array 303 may be output to the user's pupil through each lens 314. At the same time, external light 410 incident from the outside may be incident to the user's pupil through the space between the plurality of light source modules 313 and the space between the plurality of lenses 314. Therefore, the display unit 300 may allow the user to visually recognize the external scenery while seeing the image generated under the control of the optical drive unit 200.

[0113] The plurality of light source modules 313 can be used as Figure 4 The image source panel 210 of the electronic device 10 and the plurality of lenses 314 may be used as Figure 4 The lens unit 220 of the electronic device 10.

[0114] The light source module array 303 and the lens array 304 will refer to Fig.11 Further description. Fig.11 It is shown Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a plan view of a display unit of an electronic device. Fig.11 , a partial plane of the second surface facing the transparent substrate 301 is shown.

[0115] like Fig.11 As shown, the plurality of light source modules 313 may correspond to the plurality of lenses 314 one by one, respectively. That is, each lens 314 may be aligned with each light source module 313 in the radiation direction from the user's pupil toward the display unit 300. Therefore, the segmented images from each light source module may be output to the user's pupil through each lens. The optical properties of each lens 314 may be different, so that the segmented images of the corresponding light source modules face the user's pupil according to their positions. At the same time, external light incident from the outside may be incident to the user's pupil through the space between the plurality of light source modules 313 and the space between the plurality of lenses 314.

[0116] Below, we will refer to Fig.12 Describe in more detail Fig.10 The light source module 313 is provided. Fig.12is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0117] like Fig.12 As shown, the light source module 313 may include an external light blocking member 313A, a light source device 313B and a collimating lens 313C. The light source device 313B contacts the transparent substrate 301 with the collimating lens 313C interposed therebetween, and the external light blocking member 313A may have a cap shape covering the light source device 313B and the collimating lens 313C.

[0118] The external light blocking member 313A may block external light from passing through the light source module 313 .

[0119] The light source device 313B may output or irradiate the light beam 323 corresponding to the divided image to have directivity in the direction of the transparent substrate 301 .

[0120] The collimating lens 313C prevents the light beam 323 output from the light source device 313B from being formed in parallel so as not to spread in an undesired direction. The optical properties of the collimating lens 313C may be common to all light source modules 313, or may be different according to their positions to form a light beam parallel to the corresponding lens 314. The collimating lens 313C may be configured as a Fresnel lens or a HOE or DOE lens. Due to the collimating lens 313C, the diameter of a single lens 313 may be smaller than the size of a single light source module 313.

[0121] The light beam 323 having passed through the collimating lens 313C passes through the transparent substrate 301 and the corresponding lenses 314 of the lens array 304 in sequence.

[0122] If the transparent substrate 301 is thin and the distance between the light source module 313 and the corresponding lens 314 is short, it is a matter of course that the collimating lens 313C may be omitted.

[0123] In addition, in the electronic device 10, a pinhole array may be used instead of the lens array 304. This will refer to Fig.13 Further description. Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0124] The light source module array 303 may be disposed on a first surface of the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300. The first surface may be a surface further away from a user. The light source module array 303 may include a plurality of light source modules 313 arranged in a grid structure.

[0125] The distances between the plurality of light source modules 313 in the light source module array 303 may be uniform. Alternatively, the distances between the plurality of light source modules 313 may gradually increase as moving outward from the center of the light source module array 303 .

[0126] The light source module array 303 may output the segmented image 323 to have directionality in the user direction. However, the output segmented image may be an image polarized in the first direction. Although not shown, for this purpose, the light source module array 303 may output the segmented image through a layer (e.g., a film or coating) polarized in the first direction.

[0127] The light source device of the light source module array 303 may be configured to have a size of several hundred micrometers or less, and may be configured to have a specific wavelength band and a visible light range according to the purpose.

[0128] The light source module array 303 may be configured to have a prescribed beam orientation angle in a uniform pattern shape, and each light source module may have a structure to block light from an external direction. The pattern shape may be a grid shape, a diamond pattern shape, or a checkerboard pattern shape as described above.

[0129] In the case of the light source module array 303 , a layer (eg, a film or coating (not shown)) polarized in the first direction may be formed between the light source device 313B and the collimating lens 313C or between the collimating lens 313C and the transparent substrate 301 .

[0130] In addition, the pinhole array 305 may be provided on the second surface of the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300. The pinhole array 305 may be understood as a kind of optical array. The second surface is a surface opposite to the first surface, and may be a surface closer to the user. The pinhole array 305 is a layer (e.g., a film or coating) polarized in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and a plurality of pinholes 315 may be formed in a grid structure. The pinhole 315 may be understood as a kind of optical element.

[0131] Each of the plurality of light source modules 313 may correspond to each of the plurality of pinholes 315. That is, each pinhole 315 may be aligned with each light source module 313 in a radiation direction from the user's pupil toward the display unit 300. Therefore, the segmented image 323 from each light source module 313 may be output to the user's pupil through each pinhole 315. At the same time, external light 410 incident from the outside may be incident on the user's pupil through the space between the plurality of light source modules 313 and the layer polarized in the second direction of the pinhole array 305. Since the image polarized in the first direction cannot pass through the layer polarized in the second direction, the user may view the image based on the pinhole effect. The pinhole is a term derived from the fact that a hole facing the object is the same as being pierced by a pin, and the pinhole effect refers to the effect that the depth of field (DOF) of the light that has passed through the small hole is increased to provide a clear image.

[0132] Therefore, the display unit 300 may allow the user to visually recognize an external scene while seeing an image generated under the control of the optical driving unit 200 .

[0133] The plurality of light source modules 313 can be used as Figure 4 The image source panel 210 of the electronic device 10, the plurality of pinholes 315 can be used as Figure 4 The lens unit 220 of the electronic device 10.

[0134] Will refer to Fig.11 The light source module array 303 and the pinhole array 305 are described. Fig.14 It is shown Fig.13 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a plan view of a display unit of an electronic device. Fig.14 , a partial plane of the second surface facing the transparent substrate 301 is shown.

[0135] like Fig.14 As shown, the plurality of light source modules 313 may correspond to the plurality of pinholes 314, respectively. That is, each pinhole 315 may be aligned with each light source module 313 in a radiation direction from the user's pupil toward the display unit 300. Therefore, the segmented image 323 polarized in the first direction from each light source module 315 may be output to the user's pupil through each pinhole 315. At the same time, external light 410 incident from the outside may be incident to the user's pupil through the space between the plurality of light source modules 313 and the layer of the pinhole array 305 polarized in the second direction.

[0136] In the above description, the electronic device 10 is configured so that the light source module array 303 is disposed on the first surface of the transparent substrate (i.e., a surface farther from the user), and the individual light source modules 313 of the light source module array 303 illuminate the light beam of the split image 323 to have directivity in the user direction. By the way, in the above description, the electronic device 10 may be configured so that the light source module array 303 is disposed on the second surface of the transparent substrate (i.e., a surface closer to the user), and the individual light source modules 313 of the light source module array 303 illuminate the light beam of the split image 323 in the direction opposite to the user direction. This will refer to Fig.15 Further description. Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0137] The light source module array 303 may be disposed on the second surface of the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300. The second surface may be a surface closer to the user. The light source module array 303 may include a plurality of light source modules 313 arranged in a grid structure.

[0138] The distances between the plurality of light source modules 313 in the light source module array 303 may be uniform. Alternatively, the distances between the plurality of light source modules 313 may gradually increase as moving outward from the center of the light source module array 303 .

[0139] The light source module array 303 may output the segmented image 323 to have directivity in a direction opposite to the user direction.

[0140] The light source device of the light source module array 303 may be configured to have a size of several hundred micrometers or less, and may be configured to have a specific wavelength band and a visible light range according to the purpose.

[0141] The light source module array 303 may be configured to have a prescribed beam orientation angle in a uniform pattern shape, and each light source module may have a structure to block a beam in the direction of a user. The pattern shape may be a grid shape, a diamond pattern shape, or a checkerboard pattern shape as described above.

[0142] In addition, the reflector array 306 may be arranged on the first surface of the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300. The reflector array 306 may be understood as an optical array. The first surface may be a surface opposite to the second surface, which may be a surface away from the user. The reflector array 306 may include a plurality of reflectors 316 arranged in a grid structure. The reflector 316 may be understood as an optical element. For example, the reflector 316 may be a micro-reflector. Each of the plurality of reflectors 316 may be configured as a reflective lens. The reflective lens may be configured as a Fresnel lens, or may be configured as a HOE or DOE lens. Since the plurality of reflectors 316 are implemented in a fine-sized grid structure, the aesthetics of the electronic device 10 will not be impaired.

[0143] The plurality of light source modules 313 may correspond to the plurality of reflectors 316 one by one. That is, each reflector may be aligned with each light source module in a radiation direction from the user's pupil toward the display unit 300. Therefore, the segmented images 323 from each light source module 313 may be reflected by each reflector 315 and output to the user's pupil. At the same time, the external light 410 incident from the outside may be incident on the user's pupil through the space between the plurality of light source modules 313 and the space between the plurality of reflectors 316. Therefore, the display unit 300 allows the user to visually recognize the external scenery while seeing the image generated under the control of the optical drive unit 200.

[0144] The plurality of light source modules 313 can be used as Figure 4 The image source panel 210 of the electronic device 10, the plurality of reflectors 316 can be used as Figure 4 The lens unit 220 of the electronic device 10.

[0145] Will refer to Fig.16 The light source module array 303 and the reflector array 316 are described. Fig.16 It is shown Fig.15 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a plan view of a display unit of an electronic device. Fig.16 , a partial plane of the second surface facing the transparent substrate 301 is shown.

[0146] like Fig.16 As shown, the plurality of light source modules 313 may correspond to the plurality of reflectors 316 one by one, respectively. That is, each reflector 316 may be aligned with each light source module 313 in the radiation direction from the user's pupil toward the display unit 300. Therefore, the segmented images from each light source module may be reflected by each reflector and output to the user's pupil. The optical properties of the reflective lenses of each reflector 316 may vary so that the segmented images of the corresponding light source modules are reflected according to their positions and then guided to the user's pupil. At the same time, external light incident from the outside may be incident to the user's pupil through the spaces between the plurality of light source modules 313 and the spaces between the plurality of reflectors 316.

[0147] Below, we will refer to Fig.17 Describe in more detail Fig.15 The light source module 313 is provided. Fig.17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0148] like Fig.17 As shown, the light source module 313 may include an external light blocking member 313A and a light source device 313B. The light source device 313B contacts the transparent substrate 301, and the external light blocking member 313A may have a cap shape covering the light source device 313B.

[0149] The external light blocking member 313A may have a structure that blocks the light beam 323 from the light source device 313B in the user direction.

[0150] The light source device 313B may output a light beam 323 corresponding to the divided image to have directivity in the direction of the reflecting mirror 316 .

[0151] The light beam 323 from the light source device 313B may pass through the transparent substrate 301, be reflected by the reflector 316, pass through the transparent substrate 301 again, and then be guided to the user's pupil.

[0152] External light 410 incident from the outside may be completely or partially blocked by the reflector 316 .

[0153] The size of the reflector 316 (eg, tens to hundreds of microns) may be configured to be smaller than the normal user pupil size (eg, several millimeters). The size of the light source module 313 (eg, less than tens of microns) may be configured to be smaller than the size of the reflector 316.

[0154] Below, we will refer to Fig.18 The optical characteristics of the reflector 316 (ie, the reflective lens) are described in more detail. Fig.18 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] like Fig.18 (18-1) and Fig.18 As shown in (18-2), the reflector 316 may change the path of the light beam 323 from the light source module 313 according to the first optical characteristic. The reflector 316 may only change the light path in some directions y and / or the light path of some wavelengths.

[0156] like Fig.18 (18-3) and Fig.18 As shown in (18-4), the reflector 316 allows the light beam 323 from the light source module 313 to spread or focus, that is, the focal length changes according to the second optical characteristic.

[0157] At least one of the first optical characteristic and the second optical characteristic of the reflective lens of each reflector 316 may be different according to its position so that the split image of the corresponding light source module is reflected and guided toward the user's pupil.

[0158] In the above description, the light source module array 303 and the reflector array 306 are disposed on a planar transparent substrate 301. However, the light source module array 303 and the reflector array 306 may be disposed on a transparent substrate having a prescribed curvature. This will be referred to as Fig.19 Further description. Fig.19 A cross-sectional view and a plan view illustrating a display unit of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0159] like Fig.19 As shown in (19-1), the light source module array 303 may be disposed on the second surface (ie, a surface closer to the user) of the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300 having a prescribed curvature.

[0160] The distances between the plurality of light source modules 313 in the light source module array 303 may be uniform. Fig.19 As shown in (19-2), the distance between the plurality of light source modules 313 may gradually increase as moving outward from the center of the light source module array 303. The degree to which the distance gradually increases may vary according to at least one of the curvature and the viewing angle of the image.

[0161] The mirror array 306 may be disposed on a first surface (ie, a surface facing away from a user) of the transparent substrate 301 of the display unit 300 .

[0162] The plurality of light source modules 313 may correspond one-to-one to the plurality of reflectors 316 , respectively. That is, each reflector may be aligned with each light source module in a radiation direction from the user's pupil toward the display unit 300 .

[0163] The above detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all aspects, but should be regarded as illustrative. The scope of the present disclosure should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes within the equivalent scope of the present disclosure are included in the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An electronic device, comprising: Transparent substrate; a light source module array, which is disposed on the first surface of the transparent substrate and has a plurality of light source modules arranged in a grid structure; an optical array, which is disposed on the second surface of the transparent substrate and has a plurality of optical elements arranged to correspond to the plurality of light source modules respectively; as well as an optical driving unit, the optical driving unit controls the light source module array, wherein external light is provided to a user through spaces between the plurality of light source modules and spaces between the plurality of optical elements, and Wherein, a light beam according to an image generated by the optical driving unit is irradiated from the light source module array and provided to the user through the optical array.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: A single light source module among the plurality of light source modules includes an external light blocking member for blocking the external light from passing through the light source module and a light source device configured to irradiate the light beam.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein: The single light source module further includes a collimating lens for preventing the irradiated light beam from spreading, and wherein the light source device is in contact with the transparent substrate with the collimating lens interposed between the light source device and the transparent substrate.

4. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein: The external light blocking member has a hat shape covering the light source device and the collimator lens.

5. The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein: For all the light source modules, the optical characteristics of the collimating lens are the same.

6. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein: The transparent substrate is disposed so that the second surface faces the user.

7. The electronic device according to claim 6, wherein: The optical element is a lens, and wherein an optical characteristic of the lens is determined based on a position of the optical element.

8. The electronic device according to claim 6, wherein: The optical element is a pinhole formed in a layer polarizing in a first direction.

9. The electronic device according to claim 8, wherein: The light source module array irradiates a light beam polarized along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

10. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein: The transparent substrate is disposed so that the first surface faces the user.

11. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: The optical element is a reflective lens, and wherein an optical characteristic of the reflective lens is determined based on a position of the optical element.

12. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein: The intervals between the plurality of light source modules increase as the light source modules move from the center toward the outside of the light source module array.

13. The electronic device according to claim 12, wherein: The transparent substrate is planar or has a prescribed curvature.

14. The electronic device according to claim 13, wherein: Each of the optical elements is aligned with the light source module for the optical element in a radial direction from the user's pupil toward the transparent substrate.

15. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The optical array includes a diffractive optical element DOE or a holographic optical element HOE.

16. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: A front frame, on which the transparent substrate is arranged; as well as A side frame is provided with the optical driving unit. 17 . The electronic device according to claim 1 , further comprising an image segmentation circuit configured to segment the image generated by the optical driving unit and transmit the segmented image to a single light source module.

18. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The scale of the grid structure is determined based on at least one of the distance between the light source module array and the user's pupil, the pupil size, or the light band.

19. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein: The light source device includes a liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) device, a liquid crystal display (LCD) device, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) device, a digital micromirror device (DMD), a micro light emitting diode (LED) device, and a quantum dot (QD) LED device.

20. The electronic device according to claim 16, wherein: The electronic device is a wearable display.

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