Optical device and electronic device including same

Abstract

Disclosed in an embodiment is an optical device including: a lens barrel on which an outer lens is disposed; a light guide disposed in the lens barrel; a lens connected to the light guide; and a light source for emitting light through the light guide, where a distance between the light guide and the lens is shorter than a distance between the light source and the lens.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments relate to an optical device and an electronic device including the optical device. Background Art

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

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

[0004] Mixed Reality (MR) or Hybrid Reality refers to the fusion of the virtual world and the real world to create a new environment or new information. In particular, when referring to the real-time interaction between objects existing in the real world and objects in the virtual space, the real-time interaction is called mixed reality.

[0005] At this time, the created virtual environment, situation, etc. stimulates the user's five senses and realizes a space and time experience similar to the real world, thereby being able to cross the boundary between reality and imagination. In addition, the user can not only immerse himself in such an environment, but also interact with the elements realized in such an environment, such as adding operations and providing instructions using devices existing in the real space.

[0006] Recently, active research has been conducted on equipment (including gears and devices) used in this technical field. However, in such equipment, the demand for miniaturization and high resolution is increasing. Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] Embodiments are directed to provide an optical device and an electronic device including the same, which are used in augmented reality (AR) and in which a lens is disposed closer to a light guide than to a light source, thereby enabling the optical device and the electronic device to be more easily miniaturized.

[0009] Embodiments are also directed to providing optical devices and electronic devices with improved reliability and easier alignment of optical axes.

[0010] Embodiments are also directed to providing an optical device and an electronic device having improved light efficiency through a second light guide.

[0011] Embodiments are also directed to provide an optical device and an electronic device having further enhanced light efficiency by including a birefringence member.

[0012] Embodiments are also directed to providing optical devices and electronic devices that are more compact and exhibit improved optical uniformity.

[0013] Embodiments also relate to providing an optical device having improved resolution and an electronic device including the optical device.

[0014] Embodiments also relate to providing an optical device having improved reliability and an electronic device including the optical device.

[0015] Embodiments are also directed to provide an optical device that is easy to inspect and has improved coupling strength and durability, and an electronic device including the optical device.

[0016] The objects to be solved by the embodiments are not limited to the above-mentioned objects, and will include objects and effectiveness that can be recognized by solutions for the objects and embodiments described below.

[0017] Technical Solutions

[0018] An optical device according to an embodiment includes: a lens barrel on which an outer lens is disposed; a light guide disposed in the lens barrel; a lens connected to the light guide; and a light source configured to emit light to the light guide, wherein a distance between the light guide and the lens is smaller than a distance between the light source and the lens.

[0019] The light guide may be in contact with the lens.

[0020] The distance between the lens and the light source may be smaller than the length of the light guide.

[0021] The number of lenses may correspond to the number of light sources.

[0022] The optical device may include a first spacer in contact with the outer lens and a second spacer in contact with the light guide.

[0023] The second spacer may have a size larger than that of the light guide and smaller than a sum of a size of the light guide and a size of the lens.

[0024] The size of the second spacer may be larger than the sum of the size of the lens and the size of the light guide.

[0025] The light guide may include at least one prism.

[0026] The light guide may include an X-prism.

[0027] The optical device may include a housing surrounding the lens barrel, wherein the light source may be disposed in the housing.

[0028] The lens barrel may include a first groove and a second groove, the outer lens is disposed in the first groove, and the light guide is disposed in the second groove.

[0029] The first groove and the second groove may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other.

[0030] An inner side surface of the second groove in the lens barrel may include a lens barrel groove that bulges outward.

[0031] The inner side surface of the barrel may include a barrel protrusion protruding toward the light guide.

[0032] The size of the lens barrel protrusion may be smaller than the size of the light guide.

[0033] The size of the lens may be smaller than the size of the light guide.

[0034] The lens may be convex toward the light source.

[0035] According to an embodiment, an optical device includes: a plurality of lenses; a lens barrel in which the plurality of lenses are arranged; a first light guide arranged in the lens barrel; an opening formed in a side surface of the lens barrel; and a light source device coupled to the opening, wherein the light source device includes: a housing in which the opening is formed; a light source arranged in the housing and configured to emit light; and a second light guide arranged between the first light guide and the light source.

[0036] The light may be unpolarized.

[0037] The second light guide may reflect light transmitted through the first light guide.

[0038] The light source arrangement may include a light source lens disposed between the light source and the second light guide.

[0039] The optical device may include a third light guide disposed in the housing.

[0040] The third light guide may be disposed between the light source and the first light guide.

[0041] The light source may emit light toward the third light guide.

[0042] The third light guide may include a non-polarizing prism.

[0043] The light source device may include a birefringence member disposed in the housing.

[0044] The light source device may include a light source lens disposed between the light source and the second light guide, and the birefringence member may be disposed between the light source lens and the light source.

[0045] The light source lens may be disposed between the birefringence member and the second light guide.

[0046] The light source device may include a light source lens disposed between the light source and the second light guide, and the birefringence member may be disposed between the light source lens and the light source or between the second light guide and the light source lens.

[0047] The birefringence member may perform phase delay on light.

[0048] The birefringence member may be disposed on an inner side surface of the housing.

[0049] The first light guide may include a polarized light separation member configured to reflect the first polarized light and transmit the second polarized light.

[0050] Beneficial Effects

[0051] Embodiments may realize an optical device and an electronic device including the same, which are used in augmented reality (AR) and in which a lens is disposed closer to a light guide than to a light source, thereby enabling the optical device and the electronic device to be more easily miniaturized.

[0052] Furthermore, optical devices and electronic devices with improved reliability and easier optical axis alignment can be realized.

[0053] Furthermore, optical devices and electronic devices with improved light efficiency can be realized by the second light guide.

[0054] Furthermore, an optical device and an electronic device having further enhanced light efficiency can be realized by including the birefringent component.

[0055] Furthermore, optical devices and electronic devices that are more compact and exhibit improved optical uniformity can be realized.

[0056] Furthermore, an optical device having improved resolution and an electronic device including the same can be realized.

[0057] Furthermore, an optical device having improved reliability and an electronic device including the optical device can be realized.

[0058] Furthermore, an optical device that is easy to inspect and has improved coupling strength and durability, and an electronic device including the optical device can be realized.

[0059] Various advantages and effects of the present invention are not limited to the above description and can be more easily understood during the description of specific exemplary embodiments of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0060] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an embodiment of an artificial intelligence (AI) device.

[0061] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an extended reality electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 3is a perspective view of an augmented reality electronic device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figures 4 to 6 is a conceptual diagram for describing various display methods applicable to a display unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an optical device according to one embodiment.

[0065] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of an optical device according to one embodiment.

[0066] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a lens barrel in an optical device according to one embodiment.

[0067] Fig.10 is a side view of a lens barrel in an optical device according to one embodiment.

[0068] Fig.11 is a bottom view of a lens barrel in an optical device according to one embodiment, wherein a light guide is inserted into the lens barrel.

[0069] Fig.12 is a diagram illustrating coupling of an outer lens, a first spacer, a light guide, a lens, and a second spacer with a barrel in an optical device according to one embodiment.

[0070] Fig.13 2 is a diagram illustrating coupling between a barrel, a housing, and an additional housing in an optical device according to an embodiment.

[0071] Fig.14 is a diagram illustrating coupling between a housing and a light source unit in an optical device according to an embodiment.

[0072] Fig.15 It is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA'.

[0073] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 Magnified view of the K1 section.

[0074] Fig.17 is a bottom view of a lens barrel, a light guide, and a lens in an optical device according to one embodiment.

[0075] Fig.18 is based on Fig.17 A diagram of a second spacer is further included.

[0076] Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view of an optical device according to another embodiment.

[0077] Fig. 20 is a conceptual diagram of an optical device according to still another embodiment.

[0078] Fig.21 is a perspective view of an optical device according to still another embodiment.

[0079] Fig. 22 is an exploded perspective view of an optical device according to still another embodiment.

[0080] Fig.23 It is along Fig.21 A cross-sectional view taken along line BB'.

[0081] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 Magnified view of the K1 section.

[0082] Fig.25 yes Fig.23 Magnified view of the K2 portion.

[0083] Fig.26 yes Fig.23 Enlarged view of the K2 part in a.

[0084] Fig.27a is a cross-sectional view of a light source device in an optical device according to still another embodiment.

[0085] Figure 27b yes Fig.27a 's modified example.

[0086] Fig.27c yes Fig.27a Another modified example of .

[0087] Fig.27d yes Fig.27a Yet another modified example of .

[0088] Fig.28a is a cross-sectional view of a light source device in an optical device according to still another embodiment.

[0089] Fig.28b yes Fig.28a 's modified example.

[0090] Fig.29a is a cross-sectional view of a light source device in an optical device according to still another embodiment.

[0091] Fig.29b yes Fig.29a 's modified example.

[0092] Fig.29c yes Fig.29a Another modified example of . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0093] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0094] However, the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited to some embodiments which will be described and can be implemented in various forms, and one or more elements in the embodiments may be selectively used in combination and replaced within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0095] In addition, the terms (including technical terms and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted by the meanings generally understood by those skilled in the art unless otherwise specified or described, and commonly used terms, such as terms defined in dictionaries, may be understood in consideration of their contextual meanings in the relevant fields.

[0096] Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are provided only to describe the embodiments of the present invention and are not for the purpose of limitation.

[0097] In this specification, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form includes its plural form, and in the case of describing "at least one (or one or more) of A, B and C", this may include at least one of all combinations that can be combined with A, B and C.

[0098] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used to describe components of embodiments of the present invention.

[0099] These terms are used only to distinguish a component from other components, and the nature, sequence, order, etc. of the components are not limited by the terms.

[0100] In addition, when a component is described as being “connected,” “coupled” or “linked” to another component, the component may include not only a case of being directly connected, coupled or linked to another component, but also a case of being connected, coupled or linked to another element through another component between the component and the other component.

[0101] Furthermore, when a component is described as being formed “on (above)” or “under (below)” another component, the term “on (above)” or “under (below)” includes a case where the two components are in direct contact with each other or a case where one or more components are (indirectly) disposed between the two components. In addition, when a component is described as being disposed “on or under” another component, such description may include a case where the component is disposed on the upper side or the lower side relative to the other component.

[0102] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an embodiment of an artificial intelligence (AI) device.

[0103] Reference Figure 1 In an AI system, at least one of the AI server 16, the robot 11, the autonomous driving vehicle 12, the extended reality (XR) device 13, the smartphone 14, and the home appliance 15 is connected to the cloud network 10. Here, the robot 11, the autonomous driving vehicle 12, the XR device 13, the smartphone 14, the home appliance 15, etc. to which AI technology is applied can be referred to as AI devices 11 to 15.

[0104] The cloud network 10 can form part of the cloud computing infrastructure or can represent a network existing within the cloud computing infrastructure. Here, the cloud network 10 can be configured using a 3G network, a 4G or Long Term Evolution (LTE) network, a 5G network, etc.

[0105] That is, the devices 11 to 16 constituting the AI system can be interconnected via the cloud network 10. In particular, the devices 11 to 16 can communicate with each other via a base station, but they can also communicate directly with each other without passing through a base station.

[0106] The AI server 16 can include a server configured to perform AI processing and a server configured to perform calculations on big data.

[0107] The AI server 16 is connected via the cloud network 10 to at least one of the robot 11, the autonomous driving vehicle 12, the XR device 13, the smartphone 14, and the home appliance 15, which are AI devices constituting the AI system, and can assist with at least a part of the AI processing of the connected AI devices 11 to 15.

[0108] In this case, the AI server 16 can also train an artificial neural network based on a machine learning algorithm on behalf of the AI devices 11 to 15, and can also directly store the learning model or send the learning model to the AI devices 11 to 15.

[0109] In this case, the AI server 16 can receive input data from the AI devices 11 to 15, can use the learning model to infer the result value of the received input data, can generate a response or a control command based on the inferred result value, and can send the response or the control command to the AI devices 11 to 15.

[0110] Alternatively, the AI devices 11 to 15 can also directly infer the result value of the input data using the learning model, and can generate a response or a control instruction based on the inferred result value.

[0111] <AI + Robot>

[0112] AI technology is applied to the robot 11, and the robot 11 can be implemented as a guiding robot, a transport robot, a cleaning robot, a wearable robot, an entertainment robot, a pet robot, a drone, etc.

[0113] The robot 11 may include a robot control module for controlling operations, and the robot control module may refer to a software module or a chip in which the software module is implemented as hardware.

[0114] The robot 11 may obtain the status information of the robot 11, may detect (identify) the surrounding environment and objects, may generate map data, may determine a movement path and a driving plan, may determine a response to user interaction, or may determine operations using sensor information obtained from various types of sensors.

[0115] Here, the robot 11 may use sensor information obtained by at least one of a LiDAR, a radar, and a camera device to determine a movement path and a driving plan.

[0116] The robot 11 may use a learning model configured with at least one artificial neural network to perform the above operations. For example, the robot 11 may use the learning model to identify the surrounding environment and objects, and may use the identified surrounding environment information or object information to determine operations. Here, the learning model may be directly trained in the robot 11 or may be trained in an external device such as the AI server 16.

[0117] In this case, the robot 11 may directly generate results using the learning model and perform operations, but may also perform operations by sending sensor information to an external device such as the AI server 16 and receiving results generated in response to the sensor information.

[0118] The robot 11 may use at least one of map data, object information detected from sensor information, and object information obtained from an external device to determine a movement path and a driving plan, and drive along the determined movement path and driving plan by controlling the drive unit.

[0119] The map data may include object recognition information of various objects provided in the space where the robot 11 moves. For example, the map data may include object recognition information for fixed objects (such as walls and doors) and for movable objects (such as flower pots and tables). Additionally, the object recognition information may include a name, a type, a distance, a position, etc.

[0120] Furthermore, the robot 11 may control the drive unit to perform operations or drive based on user control / interaction. In this case, the robot 11 may obtain intention information of the interaction according to the user's behavior or voice expression, may determine a response based on the obtained intention information, and may perform operations.

[0121] <AI+Autopilot>

[0122] AI technology is applied to the autonomous driving vehicle 12, and the autonomous driving vehicle 12 can be implemented as a mobile robot, a vehicle, an unmanned aerial vehicle, etc.

[0123] The autonomous driving vehicle 12 may include an autonomous driving control module for controlling the autonomous driving function, which may refer to a software module or a chip in which the software module is implemented as hardware. The autonomous driving control module may be included in the autonomous driving vehicle 12 as a component of the autonomous driving vehicle 12, but may also be configured as separate hardware that is external to the autonomous driving vehicle 12 and connected to the autonomous driving vehicle 12.

[0124] The autonomous driving vehicle 12 may obtain status information of the autonomous driving vehicle 12 , may detect (recognize) the surrounding environment and objects, may generate map data, may determine a movement path and a driving plan, or may determine operations using sensor information obtained from various sensors.

[0125] Here, in order to determine the moving path and driving plan, the autonomous driving vehicle 12 may also use sensor information obtained from at least one sensor among LiDAR, radar and camera devices, like the robot 11 .

[0126] In particular, the autonomous driving vehicle 12 can identify the environment or objects in an area where the field of vision is blocked or in an area above a given distance by receiving sensor information about the environment or objects from an external device, or can directly receive identification information about the environment or objects from an external device.

[0127] The autonomous vehicle 12 may perform the above operations using a learning model configured with at least one artificial neural network. For example, the autonomous vehicle 12 may use the learning model to identify the surrounding environment and objects, and may use the identified surrounding environment information or object information to determine a driving path. Here, the learning model may have been trained directly in the autonomous vehicle 12, or may have been trained in an external device such as the AI ​​server 16.

[0128] In this case, the autonomous driving vehicle 12 may directly generate results and perform operations using the learning model, but may also perform operations by sending sensor information to an external device such as the AI ​​server 16 and receiving results generated in response to the sensor information.

[0129] The autonomous driving vehicle 12 may determine a moving path and a driving plan using at least one of map data, object information detected from sensor information, and object information obtained from an external device, and may drive based on the determined moving path and driving plan by controlling a driving unit.

[0130] Map data may include object recognition information of various objects set in the space (e.g., roads) where the autonomous vehicle 12 drives. For example, the map data may include object recognition information for fixed objects (such as streetlights, rocks, and buildings, etc.) and for movable objects (such as vehicles and pedestrians). Additionally, the object recognition information may include name, type, distance, location, etc.

[0131] Furthermore, the autonomous vehicle 12 may control the drive unit to perform operations or driving based on user control / interaction. In this case, the autonomous vehicle 12 may obtain intention information of the interaction according to the user's behavior or voice expression, may determine a response based on the obtained intention information, and may perform an operation.

[0132] <AI+XR>

[0133] Apply AI technology to the XR device 13, and the XR device 13 may be implemented as a Head-Mount Display (HMD), a Head-Up Display (HUD) set in a vehicle, a television, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a computer, a wearable device, a household appliance, a digital signage, a vehicle, a fixed robot, or a mobile robot.

[0134] The XR device 13 may generate position data and attribute data of three-dimensional points by analyzing three-dimensional point cloud data or image data obtained through various sensors or from external devices, may obtain information about the surrounding space or real objects based on the generated position data and attribute data, and may output an XR object by rendering the XR object. For example, the XR device 13 may output an XR object including additional information for the recognized object by corresponding the XR object to the recognized object.

[0135] The XR device 13 may use a learning model configured with at least one artificial neural network to perform the above operations. For example, the XR device 13 may use the learning model to recognize real objects in three-dimensional point cloud data or image data, and may provide information corresponding to the recognized real objects. Here, the learning model may have been directly trained in the XR device 13, or may have been trained in an external device such as the AI server 16.

[0136] In this case, the XR device 13 may directly generate results and perform operations using the learning model, but may also perform operations by sending sensor information to an external device such as the AI server 16 and receiving results generated in response to the sensor information.

[0137] <AI+robot+autonomous driving>

[0138] AI technology and autonomous driving technology are applied to robot 11, and robot 11 can be implemented as a guiding robot, a transport robot, a cleaning robot, a wearable robot, an entertainment robot, a pet robot, an unmanned flying robot, etc.

[0139] The robot 11 to which AI technology and autonomous driving technology are applied may refer to the robot itself with autonomous driving function, or may refer to the robot 11 that interacts with the autonomous driving vehicle 12.

[0140] The robot 11 with the autonomous driving function may be generally referred to as a device that moves autonomously along a given path or autonomously determines a path to move without user control.

[0141] The robot 11 with the autonomous driving function and the autonomous driving vehicle 12 may use a common sensing method to determine one or more of the moving path or the driving plan. For example, the robot 11 with the autonomous driving function and the autonomous driving vehicle 12 may use information sensed by LiDAR, radar, camera devices, etc. to determine one or more of the moving path or the driving plan.

[0142] The robot 11 that interacts with the autonomous driving vehicle 12 may exist separately from the autonomous driving vehicle 12 , and may perform operations associated with the autonomous driving function inside or outside the autonomous driving vehicle 12 , or operations associated with a user entering the autonomous driving vehicle 12 .

[0143] In this case, the robot 11 interacting with the autonomous driving vehicle 12 can control or assist the autonomous driving function of the autonomous driving vehicle 12 by obtaining sensor information instead of the autonomous driving vehicle 12 and providing the sensor information to the autonomous driving vehicle 12, or by obtaining sensor information, generating surrounding environment information or object information and providing the surrounding environment information or object information to the autonomous driving vehicle 12.

[0144] Alternatively, the robot 11 interacting with the autonomous vehicle 12 may control the functions of the autonomous vehicle 12 by monitoring the user entering the autonomous vehicle 12 or by interacting with the user. For example, the robot 11 may activate the autonomous driving function of the autonomous vehicle 12 or assist in the control of the driving unit of the autonomous vehicle 12 if it is determined that the driver is in a drowsy state. In this case, the functions of the autonomous vehicle 12 controlled by the robot 11 may include functions provided by a navigation system or an audio system provided in the autonomous vehicle 12 in addition to the autonomous driving function alone.

[0145] Alternatively, the robot 11 that interacts with the autonomous vehicle 12 can provide information to the autonomous vehicle 12 or assist with functions external to the autonomous vehicle 12. For example, the robot 11 can provide traffic information including signal information to the autonomous vehicle 12 as in an intelligent traffic light, and can also interact with the autonomous vehicle 12 as in an automatic charger for an electric vehicle to automatically connect the charger to the charging port.

[0146] <AI + Robot + XR>

[0147] The AI technology and XR technology are applied to the robot 11, and the robot 11 can be implemented as a guiding robot, a transportation robot, a cleaning robot, a wearable robot, an entertainment robot, a pet robot, an unmanned flying robot, etc.

[0148] The robot 11 to which the XR technology has been applied can refer to the robot that is the target of control / interaction within the XR image. In this case, the robot 11 is different from the XR device 13, and they can operate in combination with each other.

[0149] When the robot 11 that is the target of control / interaction within the XR image obtains sensor information from a sensor including a camera device, the robot 11 or the XR device 13 can generate an XR image based on the sensor information, and the XR device 13 can output the generated XR image. Additionally, the robot 11 can operate based on a control signal received through the XR device 13 or the interaction of the user.

[0150] For example, the user can identify the XR image corresponding to the perspective of the robot 11 remotely connected through an external device such as the XR device 13, and can adjust the autonomous driving path of the robot 11 through interaction, can control the operation or driving, or can identify information about surrounding objects.

[0151] <AI + Autonomous Driving + XR>

[0152] The AI technology and XR technology are applied to the autonomous vehicle 12, and the autonomous vehicle 12 can be implemented as a movable robot, a vehicle, an unmanned aerial vehicle, etc.

[0153] The autonomous vehicle 12 to which the XR technology has been applied can refer to an autonomous vehicle equipped with a device for providing an XR image or an autonomous vehicle that is the target of control / interaction within the XR image. In particular, the autonomous vehicle 12 that is the target of control / interaction within the XR image can be different from the XR device 13, and they can operate in combination with each other.

[0154] The autonomous driving vehicle 12 equipped with a device for providing an XR image can obtain sensor information from a sensor including a camera device, and can output an XR image generated based on the obtained sensor information. For example, the autonomous driving vehicle 12 may include a HUD, and can provide an XR object corresponding to a real object or an object on a screen to a passenger by outputting an XR image.

[0155] In this case, when the XR object is output to the HUD, at least a portion of the XR object may be output to overlap with a real object to which the passenger's line of sight is directed. On the other hand, when the XR object is output on a display included in the autonomous driving vehicle 12, at least a portion of the XR object may be output to overlap with an object within the screen. For example, the autonomous driving vehicle 12 may output XR objects corresponding to objects such as a lane, another vehicle, a traffic light, a traffic sign, a two-wheeled vehicle, a pedestrian, and a building.

[0156] When the autonomous driving vehicle 12, which is the object of control / interaction within the XR image, obtains sensor information from a sensor including a camera device, the autonomous driving vehicle 12 or the XR device 13 may generate an XR image based on the sensor information, and the XR device 13 may output the generated XR image. In addition, the autonomous driving vehicle 12 may operate based on a control signal received through an external device (such as the XR device 13) or a user's interaction.

[0157] [Extended Reality Technology]

[0158] Extended Reality (XR: eXtended Reality) is a general term for Virtual Reality (VR: Virtual Reality), Augmented Reality (AR: Augmented Reality), and Mixed Reality (MR: Mixed Reality). VR technology only provides real-world objects or backgrounds as computer graphics (CG) images. AR technology provides virtually generated CG images on actual object images. MR technology is a computer graphics technology for mixing and combining virtual objects with the real world and providing them.

[0159] MR technology is similar to AR technology in that both display real and virtual objects. However, in AR technology, virtual objects are used in the form of supplementing real objects, while in MR technology, unlike AR technology, virtual objects and real objects are used as the same role.

[0160] XR technology can be applied to HMD (Head-Mount Display), HUD (Head-Up Display), mobile phones, tablet PCs, laptop computers, desktop computers, TVs, digital signage, etc., and devices to which XR technology has been applied can be called XR devices.

[0161] Hereinafter, an electronic device for providing extended reality according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. In particular, an optical device applied to augmented reality and an electronic device including the optical device will be described in detail.

[0162] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an extended reality electronic device 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0163] Reference Figure 2 The extended reality electronic device 20 may include a wireless communication unit 21, an input unit 22, a sensing unit 23, an output unit 24, an interface unit 25, a memory 26, a control unit 27, a power supply unit 28, etc. It should be understood that the implementation Figure 2 Not all of the components shown in are requirements for the electronic device 20, and the electronic device 20 described herein may alternatively be implemented with more or fewer components.

[0164] More specifically, among the above components, the wireless communication unit 21 may include one or more modules that enable wireless communication between the electronic device 20 and a wireless communication system, between the electronic device 20 and another electronic device, or between the electronic device 20 and an external server. In addition, the wireless communication unit 21 may include one or more modules that connect the electronic device 20 to one or more networks.

[0165] The wireless communication unit 21 may include at least one of a broadcast receiving module, a mobile communication module, a wireless Internet module, a short-range communication module, and a location information module.

[0166] The input unit 22 may include a camera or an image input unit for receiving an image signal, a microphone or an audio input unit for receiving an audio signal, or a user input unit for receiving information from a user, such as a touch key, a key (mechanical key), etc. The audio data or image data obtained by the input unit 22 may be analyzed and processed through a user control command.

[0167] The sensing unit 23 may include one or more sensors for sensing at least one of internal information of the electronic device 20 , information about a surrounding environment of the electronic device 20 , and user information.

[0168] For example, the sensing unit 23 may include at least one of the following: a proximity sensor, an illumination sensor, a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a G sensor, a gyro sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a finger scan sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor (e.g., a capture device), a microphone, a battery meter, an environmental sensor (e.g., a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation detection sensor, a heat sensor, a gas sensor, etc.), and a chemical sensor (e.g., an electronic nose, a health care sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.). Meanwhile, the electronic device 20 described herein may combine and utilize information obtained from at least two or more of these sensors.

[0169] The output unit 24 may be configured to output various types of information related to audio, video, tactile output, etc., and may include at least one of a display unit, an audio output unit, a tactile module, or a light output unit. The display unit may adopt an interlayer structure or an integrated structure with a touch sensor to implement a touch screen. The touch screen may provide an output interface between the electronic device 20 and the user, and may be used as a user input unit that provides an input interface between the augmented reality electronic device 20 and the user.

[0170] The interface unit 25 serves as an interface with various types of external devices connected to the electronic device 20. Through the interface unit 25, the electronic device 20 can receive virtual reality or augmented reality content from the external device and perform mutual interaction by exchanging various input signals, sensing signals, and data.

[0171] For example, the interface unit 25 may include at least one of the following: a wired / wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device with an identification module, an audio input / output (I / O) port, a video input / output (I / O) port, and a headphone port.

[0172] In addition, the memory 26 stores data that supports various functions of the electronic device 20. The memory 26 can store a plurality of applications or applications executed in the electronic device 20, as well as data or instructions for the operation of the electronic device 20. At least some of these applications can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. In addition, at least some of these applications can exist on the electronic device 20 at the factory, which is usually the case for the basic functions of the electronic device 20 (e.g., receiving calls, making calls, receiving messages, sending messages, etc.).

[0173] In addition to the operations related to the application programs, the control unit 27 controls the overall operation of the electronic device 20. The control unit 27 may process signals, data, information, etc. input or output by the above-mentioned components.

[0174] In addition, the control unit 27 may execute an application program stored in the memory 26 to control at least some of the components and provide appropriate information to the user or provide processing functions. In addition, the control unit 27 may operate by combining at least two or more components included in the electronic device 20 to execute an application.

[0175] In addition, the control unit 27 may detect the movement of the electronic device 20 or the user by using a gyro sensor, a gravity sensor, a motion sensor, etc. included in the sensing unit 23. Alternatively, the control unit 27 may also detect an object approaching the electronic device 20 or the user by using a sensor such as a proximity sensor, a light sensor, a magnetic sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an optical sensor included in the sensing unit 23. In addition, the control unit 27 may also detect the movement of the user by a sensor provided in a controller operating in conjunction with the electronic device 20.

[0176] Furthermore, the control unit 27 may perform operations or functions of the electronic device 20 using application programs stored in the memory 26 .

[0177] The power supply unit 28 receives external power and internal power under the control of the control unit 27, and supplies power to respective components included in the electronic device 20. The power supply unit 28 includes a battery, which may be provided in a built-in or replaceable form.

[0178] At least some of the corresponding components can operate in cooperation with each other to implement the operation, control or control method of the electronic device according to the various embodiments described below. In addition, the operation, control or control method of the electronic device according to the various embodiments can be implemented on the electronic device by executing at least one application stored in the memory 26.

[0179] Hereinafter, the electronic device described as an example of the present invention will be described based on the implementation applied to HMD. However, the implementation of the electronic device according to the present invention may also include devices such as mobile phones, smart phones, laptop computers, terminals for digital broadcasting, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation systems, tablet personal computers (PCs), tablet PCs, ultrabooks, and wearable devices. In addition to HMD, wearable devices may also include watch-type terminals (smart watches), contact lenses, VR / AR / MR glasses, etc.

[0180] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an augmented reality electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0181] like Figure 3 As shown, the electronic device according to the embodiment of the present invention may include a frame 100 , an optical device 200 , and a display unit 300 .

[0182] The electronic device may be provided as a glasses type (smart glasses). The glasses type electronic device may be configured to be worn on the head of a human body, and may include a frame (housing, housing, etc.) 100 therefor. The frame 100 may be formed of a flexible material for easy wearing.

[0183] The frame 100 is supported on the head and has a space for installing various components. As shown in the figure, electronic components such as the optical device 200, the user input unit 130 or the audio output unit 140 can be installed on the frame 100. In addition, a lens covering at least one of the left eye and the right eye can be detachably installed on the frame 100.

[0184] As shown in the figure, the frame 100 may have the form of glasses worn on the face of the user's body, but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and the frame 100 may have the form of goggles such as goggles worn close to the user's face.

[0185] The frame 100 may include a front frame 110 having at least one opening and a y direction (based on Figure 3 ) and a pair of side frames 120 extending on the upper side and parallel to each other.

[0186] The frame 100 may have a length DI in the x-direction and a length LI in the y-direction, which may be the same as or different from each other.

[0187] The optical device 200 is provided to control various electronic components provided in the electronic device.

[0188] The optical device 200 may generate an image to be displayed to a user or a video in which images are continuous. The optical device 200 may include an image source panel that generates an image and a plurality of lenses that diffuse and converge light generated from the image source panel.

[0189] The optical device 200 may be fixed to any one of the two side frames 120. For example, the optical device 200 may be fixed to the inside or outside of any one of the side frames 120, or may be embedded and integrally formed in any one of the side frames 120. Alternatively, the optical device 200 may be fixed to the front frame 110 or provided separately from the electronic device.

[0190] The display unit 300 can be implemented in the form of an HMD. The HMD form refers to a display scheme that is mounted on the head and directly displays the video in front of the user's eyes. When the user wears the electronic device, the display unit 300 can be set to correspond to at least one of the left eye and the right eye so as to provide the video directly in front of the user's eyes. In this figure, the display unit 300 is shown as being located at a portion corresponding to the right eye so as to output the video toward the user's right eye. However, as described above, the display unit 300 is not limited thereto and can be placed on both the left eye and the right eye.

[0191] The display unit 300 may enable the user to display an image generated by the optical device 200 while the user visually recognizes the external environment. For example, the display unit 300 may project an image to a display area using a prism.

[0192] In addition, the display unit 300 may be formed to transmit light so that the projected image and the general field of view (the range visible to the user through their eyes) can be seen at the same time. For example, the display unit 300 may be translucent and may be formed of an optical element including glass.

[0193] In addition, the display unit 300 may be inserted into and fixed to the opening included in the front frame 110, or may be located on the rear surface of the opening (i.e., between the opening and the user) to be fixed to the front frame 110. In the figure, a case where the display unit 300 is located on the rear surface of the opening and fixed to the front frame 110 is shown as an example, but differently from this, the display unit 300 may also be provided and fixed at various positions of the frame 100.

[0194] like Figure 3 As shown, in the electronic device, when image light for an image is incident on one side of the display unit 300 through the optical device 200, the image light is emitted to the other side through the display unit 300 to display the image generated by the optical device 200 to the user.

[0195] Thus, the user can view the image generated by the optical device 200 while viewing the external environment through the opening of the frame 100. That is, the video output through the display unit 300 may appear to overlap with the general field of view. The electronic device can provide augmented reality (AR) in which a virtual image overlaps with a real image or background using the characteristics of the display to show one image.

[0196] In addition to the above operations, the external environment and the image generated by the optical device 200 can be provided to the user with a time difference within a short period of time that cannot be perceived by humans. For example, within a single frame, the external environment can be provided to the user during one segment, while the video from the optical device 200 can be provided during another segment.

[0197] Alternatively, both overlap and time difference may be provided.

[0198] Figures 4 to 6 is a conceptual diagram for describing various display methods applicable to a display unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0199] Specifically, Figure 4 is a diagram for describing an embodiment of a prism-type optical element, Figure 5 is a diagram for describing an embodiment of a waveguide type optical element, Figure 6 It is a diagram for describing an embodiment of a surface reflective optical element.

[0200] like Figure 4 As shown, a prism-type optical element may be used in the display unit 300 - 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0201] In an embodiment, if Figure 4 As shown in (a) of FIG. 1 , the prism type optical element may use a flat glass optical element in which a surface 300a on which image light is incident and from which image light is emitted is flat, or as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in (b), the prism type optical element may use a free-form glass optical element in which a surface 300b from which image light is emitted is formed as a curved surface without a constant radius of curvature.

[0202] The flat glass optical element can receive the image light generated by the optical device 200 through a flat side surface, reflect the received image light by using the total reflection mirror 300a installed therein, and emit the reflected image light toward the user. Here, the total reflection mirror 300a provided inside the flat glass optical element can be formed inside the flat glass optical element by laser.

[0203] The free-form glass optical element is formed so that its thickness decreases with increasing distance from the surface on which light is incident, receives image light generated by the optical device 200 through a side surface, totally reflects the received image light internally, and emits the reflected light toward a user.

[0204] like Figure 5 As shown, a waveguide optical element or a light guide optical element (LOE) may be used in a display unit 300 - 2 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0205] In an embodiment, a waveguide or light-guide type optical element can be formed by using a Figure 5 The segmented beam splitter type glass optical element shown in (a) is as follows Figure 5 (b) shows a sawtooth prism type glass optical element, such as Figure 5 The glass optical element with a diffractive optical element (DOE) shown in (c) Figure 5 The glass optical element with a hologram optical element (HOE) shown in (d) Figure 5 The glass optical element with passive grating shown in (e) and Figure 5 (f) is achieved by using a glass optical element with an active grating.

[0206] like Figure 5 As shown in (a), the segmented beam splitter type glass optical element may include a total reflection mirror 301a on the portion where the optical image is incident and a segmented beam splitter 301b on the portion where the optical image is emitted inside the glass optical element.

[0207] Therefore, the optical image generated by the optical device 200 is totally reflected by the total reflection mirror 301a inside the glass optical element, and the totally reflected optical image is partially separated and emitted by the segmented beam splitter 301b and is finally visually perceived by the user while being guided in the longitudinal direction of the glass.

[0208] In such Figure 5 In the sawtooth prism type glass optical element shown in (b), the optical image generated by the optical device 200 is incident on the side surface of the glass in an oblique direction and is totally reflected inside the glass, and is emitted to the outside of the glass through the sawtooth convex-concave structure 302 formed in the part where the optical image is emitted, and is finally visually perceived by the user.

[0209] like Figure 5The glass optical element having a diffractive optical element (DOE) shown in (c) may have a first diffraction unit 303a on the surface of a portion on which an optical image is incident, and a second diffraction unit 303b on the surface of a portion from which an optical image is emitted. The first diffraction unit 303a and the second diffraction unit 303b may be provided in such a manner that a specific pattern is patterned on the glass surface or a separate diffraction film is attached thereto.

[0210] Therefore, the optical image generated by the optical device 200 is diffracted when incident through the first diffraction unit 303a, is guided along the longitudinal direction of the glass while being totally reflected, is emitted through the second diffraction unit 303b, and is finally visually perceived by the user.

[0211] like Figure 5 The glass optical element with a holographic optical element (HOE) shown in (d) may have an output coupler 304 inside the glass, from which an optical image is emitted. Therefore, the optical image is incident from the optical device 200 through the side surface of the glass in an oblique direction, guided in the longitudinal direction of the glass by total reflection, emitted through the output coupler 304, and finally perceived by the user's vision. The structure of the HOE can be gradually modified to be further divided into a structure with a passive grating and a structure with an active grating.

[0212] like Figure 5 The glass optical element with a passive grating shown in (e) may have an input coupler 305a on the opposite surface of the glass surface on which the optical image is incident, and an output coupler 305b on the opposite surface of the glass surface from which the optical image is emitted. Here, the input coupler 305a and the output coupler 305b may be provided in the form of a film with a passive grating.

[0213] Therefore, the optical image on the glass surface on the incident side of the light incident to the glass is totally reflected by the input coupler 305a arranged on the opposite surface, guided in the longitudinal direction of the glass, and emitted through the opposite surface of the glass through the output coupler 305b, and is finally visually perceived by the user.

[0214] like Figure 5 The glass optical element with an active grating shown in (f) may have an input coupler 306a formed as an active grating inside the glass and an output coupler 306b formed as an active grating inside the glass, through which an optical image is incident and from which an output coupler 306b is emitted.

[0215] Therefore, the optical image incident on the glass is totally reflected by the input coupler 306a, guided in the longitudinal direction of the glass, and emitted to the outside of the glass by the output coupler 306b, and finally perceived by the user's vision.

[0216] A pin mirror-type optical element may also be used in the display unit according to the modified example.

[0217] In addition, if Figure 6 The surface reflective optical element based on the free-form combiner method shown in (a) can use a free-form combiner glass for which a plurality of flat surfaces having different incident angles for an optical image are combined to form a glass having a curved surface as a whole to perform the role of a combiner. Such a free-form combiner glass 300 enables an optical image to be incident at different angles according to a region and emitted toward a user.

[0218] like Figure 6 The surface reflective optical element based on the flat holographic optical element (HOE) method shown in (b) may have a holographic optical element (HOE) 311 coated or patterned on a flat glass surface, wherein an optical image emitted by the optical device 200 passes through the HOE 311, is reflected from the glass surface, passes through the HOE 311 again, and is finally emitted toward a user.

[0219] like Figure 6 The surface reflective optical element based on the free-form HOE method shown in (c) may have a HOE 313 coated or patterned on a free-form glass surface, and the operating principle may be the same as that of reference Figure 6 The same as described in (b).

[0220] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an optical device according to one embodiment, Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of an optical device according to an embodiment.

[0221] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 , an optical device 200 according to one embodiment may include an outer lens LS, a lens barrel 210, a housing 220, a light source unit 230, a light guide LG, a lens FL, and an additional housing 240. In addition, the optical device 200 may include a first spacer SP1 and a second spacer SP2.

[0222] First, the outer lens LS may be inserted into the lens barrel 210. That is, the lens barrel 210 is located on the inner side of the optical device 200 and may accommodate the outer lens LS. In addition, the lens barrel 210 may accommodate the light guide LG, the lens LF, the first spacer PS1, and the second spacer SP2.

[0223] The lens barrel 210 may have a space for accommodating the above-mentioned components or additional optical elements. For example, the lens barrel 210 may include a first groove and a second groove, which will be described below. The outer lens LS may be disposed in the first groove. In addition, the light guide LG may be disposed in the second groove. In addition, the first groove and the second groove in the lens barrel 210 may be disposed spaced apart from each other. That is, the lens barrel 210 has a space (e.g., a groove) for arranging the outer lens LS and the light guide LG, which may be separated or spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the insertion or coupling of the light guide with the outer lens may be facilitated.

[0224] In contrast, when spatially interconnected, miniaturization of optical devices can be achieved.

[0225] The outer lens LS may be accommodated in the lens barrel 210, and the first spacer SP1 may be located on the outer side of the outer lens LS. The first spacer SP1 may be disposed on the outer side of the outer lens LS accommodated in the first groove of the lens barrel 210 to prevent the outer lens LS from being disassembled.

[0226] The lens barrel 210 may include a plurality of holes connected to the second groove. The plurality of holes may be located in the side surface of the lens barrel 210. Therefore, the light emitted from the light source unit 230 described below may be incident on the light guide LG. In addition, the light incident on the light guide LG may be reflected and passed through or transmitted through the outer lens LS provided to the waveguide. To this end, the first groove and the second groove may be connected to each other through a through hole. That is, the light reflected by the light guide LG in the second groove may be provided to the outer lens LS of the first groove via the through hole. In addition, as described above, the light from the light source unit 230 may be emitted to the light guide LG inside the lens barrel 210 through a plurality of holes provided in the side surface of the lens barrel 210.

[0227] The light guide LG may be located in the lens barrel 210. The light guide LG may be connected to a lens FL described below.

[0228] The light guide LG may be configured as at least one prism. For example, the light guide LG may be formed by coupling or joining a plurality of prisms. The light guide LG may include a prism. The prism serves as a reflective member and may include, for example, an X-prism. In an embodiment, the light guide LG may have a structure in which at least two or more prisms are combined. In addition, the light guide LG may also be a non-polarized prism. That is, the light guide LG may not polarize the light emitted from the light sources 232a, 232b, and 232c.

[0229] The light guide LG may include at least two or more coated surfaces (reflection members or reflective sheets). One of the at least two or more coated surfaces may reflect light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength, and transmit light of a third wavelength. That is, the coated surface may reflect light of a predetermined wavelength band. Therefore, for light emitted from each of the plurality of light sources 232a, 232b, and 232c, light within a desired wavelength band may be reflected in the light guide LG. For example, light after passing through the light guide LG may be provided to the outer lens LS.

[0230] The lens FL may be connected to the light guide LG. The lens FL may be disposed adjacent to the light guide LG. For example, the lens FL may be in contact with the light guide. That is, the lens FL may be in contact with the light guide LG. In addition, the light guide LG may also be in contact with the lens FL.

[0231] In addition, the lens FL may be coupled to the light guide LG. In this case, the lens FL may be coupled to the light guide LG by a bonding member or a coupling member. The bonding member or the coupling member may be located between the lens FL and the light guide LG.

[0232] The lens FL is located on the outer surface of the light guide LG and may be provided as at least one or more lenses. For example, the number of lenses FL may correspond to the number of light sources in the light source unit 230 described below. When the number of light sources is three, the number of lenses FL may also be three.

[0233] For example, the lens FL may include a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens corresponding to the light source. The first lens may correspond to the first light source unit. The second lens may correspond to the second light source unit. The third lens may correspond to the third light source unit. That is, the first lens to the third lens may receive light emitted from the first light source unit to the third light source unit, respectively.

[0234] The second spacer SP2 may be located in the lens barrel 210. For example, the second spacer SP2 may be larger in size than the light guide LG or the lens FL. The second spacer SP2 may be disposed outside the light guide LG and the lens FL. Therefore, the light guide LG and the lens FL may not be detachable from the lens barrel 210. In other words, the second spacer SP2 may prevent the light guide LG and the lens FL from being separated from the lens barrel 210.

[0235] The housing 220 may be located on the outside of the lens barrel 210. The housing 220 may surround the lens barrel 210. For example, the housing 220 may be arranged to surround at least one area of ​​the lens barrel 210. In addition, the housing 220 may include a space for accommodating a light source. In addition, the housing 220 may include at least one housing hole. The light source may be arranged in the housing hole. In addition, the light emitted from the light source may be provided to the lens FL and the light guide LG through at least one housing hole. The housing 220 may be arranged on the outside of the lens barrel 210 and include a space for accommodating the lens barrel 210 and the light source unit 230.

[0236] The light source unit 230 may be provided as at least one or more light source units. As described above, the following description will be provided based on three light source units. The light source unit 230 may include a first light source unit 230a, a second light source unit 230b, and a third light source unit 230c.

[0237] The first light source unit 230a may overlap the outer lens LS in the second direction (Y-axis direction). The second direction (Y-axis direction) may correspond to the direction of light emitted from the optical device 200. That is, the second direction (Y-axis direction) may correspond to the direction in which light emitted from the light source device 220 is reflected by the light guide LG and emitted to the above-mentioned display unit.

[0238] The second light source unit 230b and the third light source unit 230c may be positioned facing each other. Alternatively, the second light source unit 230b and the third light source unit 230c may be positioned facing each other.

[0239] The second light source unit 230b and the third light source unit 230c may overlap in the first direction (X-axis direction). The first direction (X-axis direction) may be a direction perpendicular to the second direction (Y-axis direction). In addition, the third direction (Z-axis direction) may be a direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0240] In addition, the first light source unit 230a may be located in a region between the second light source unit 230b and the third light source unit 230c. In addition, directions of light emitted from the second light source unit 230b and the third light source unit 230c may be opposite to each other.

[0241] The light source unit may include substrates 231 a , 231 b , and 231 c , light sources 232 a , 232 b , and 232 c , and optical elements 233 a , 233 b , and 233 c , respectively.

[0242] In addition, the substrates 231a, 231b and 231c, the light sources 232a, 232b and 232c, and the optical elements 233a, 233b and 233c may be positioned toward the inside in sequence. That is, the optical element may be positioned adjacent to the light guide LG relative to the substrate and the light source.

[0243] The substrates 231 a , 231 b , and 231 c may be connected to the light sources 232 a , 232 b , and 232 c , respectively, and may transmit electric power to enable the light sources 232 a , 232 b , and 232 c to emit light.

[0244] The substrates 231 a , 231 b , and 231 c may each be located on the outermost side of the housing 220 .

[0245] In addition, the substrates 231a, 231b, and 231c may include a first substrate 231a, a second substrate 231b, and a third substrate 231c. The first substrate 231a may overlap the light guide LG in the second direction (Y-axis direction). The second substrate 231b and the third substrate 231c may overlap each other in the first direction (X-axis direction). In addition, the second substrate 231b and the third substrate 231c may be positioned facing each other in the housing 220. In addition, the first substrate 231a may be located in a region between the second substrate 231b and the third substrate 231c.

[0246] The light sources 232a, 232b, and 232c may each emit light. For example, light emitted from each of the light sources 232a, 232b, and 232c may be incident on the light guide LG in the housing 222. The light guide LG may be located in the housing 222.

[0247] In addition, the light sources 232a, 232b and 232c may be provided as one or more light sources. The light sources 232a, 232b and 232c may include a first light source 232a, a second light source 232b and a third light source 232c. In addition, the light sources 232a, 232b and 232c may be provided on corresponding substrates.

[0248] That is, the light sources 232a, 232b and 232c in the light source device 220 can be set as a single light source, or as a plurality of light sources. For example, the light sources 232a, 232b and 232c can include a plurality of light sources, including a first light source 232a, a second light source 232b and a third light source 232c. The first light source 232a to the third light source 232c can emit light in the same direction, or emit light in different directions. For example, the second light source 232b and the third light source 232c can be positioned facing each other. The second light source 232b and the third light source 232c can be positioned to overlap in the first direction (X-axis direction). In addition, the light guide LG can also be located between the second light source 232b and the third light source 232c. Therefore, the light guide LG can overlap with the second light source 232b and the third light source 232c.

[0249] The first to third light sources 232a to 232c may emit light toward the light guide LG. In addition, the first light source 232a may overlap the light guide LG in the second direction. With this configuration, the optical device 200 may have a light source device 220 in a compact form.

[0250] In addition, the first light source 232a, the second light source 232b and the third light source 232c may each emit light having a wavelength or color that is partially the same as or different from each other. For example, the first light source 232a, the second light source 232b and the third light source 232c may each emit red light, green light or blue light.

[0251] Optical elements 233a, 233b and 233c may be provided as at least one or more optical elements. Optical elements 233a, 233b and 233c may include first optical element 233a, second optical element 233b and third optical element 233c corresponding to first light source 232a, second light source 232b and third light source 232c, respectively. First optical element 233a, second optical element 233b and third optical element 233c may each include an optical filter. In addition, first optical element 233a, second optical element 233b and third optical element 233c may each include glass. First optical element 233a, second optical element 233b and third optical element 233c may each filter light. Alternatively, first optical element 233a, second optical element 233b and third optical element 233c may each block foreign matter entering the light source at an early stage. That is, the light source may be protected.

[0252] The additional housing 240 may be provided on the outside of the lens barrel 210, and may surround the lens barrel 210. The lens barrel 210 is coupled to the housing 220 by various coupling methods, and the additional housing 240 may be coupled to the housing 220. The additional housing 240 may also be coupled to the lens barrel 210. Therefore, the optical device 200 according to the embodiment may provide improved reliability.

[0253] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a lens barrel in an optical device according to one embodiment, Fig.10 is a side view of a lens barrel in an optical device according to one embodiment, and Fig.11 is a bottom view of a lens barrel in an optical device according to one embodiment, wherein a light guide is inserted into the lens barrel.

[0254] Further references Figures 9 to 11In the optical device according to the embodiment, the lens barrel 210 may include the first groove 210h1 and the second groove 210h2 as described above. The first groove 210h1 and the second groove 210h2 may overlap in the second direction (Y-axis direction). In addition, the second groove 210h2 and the first groove 210h1 may also be arranged in sequence in the second direction (Y-axis direction).

[0255] The outer lens may be disposed in the first groove 210h1. In addition, the light guide may be disposed in the second groove 210h2.

[0256] In addition, the first groove 210h1 and the second groove 210h2 may also be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the second direction (Y-axis direction). In addition, the first groove 210h1 and the second groove 210h2 may also be connected to each other through the through hole as described above. Therefore, the light reflected by the light guide in the second groove 210h2 may be provided to the outer lens in the first groove 210h1, and may be finally emitted to the display unit.

[0257] The lens barrel 210 may include a protrusion 210p extending outward. The protrusion 210p may include a coupling hole 210ph. The lens barrel 210 may be coupled to the housing via the coupling hole 210ph.

[0258] The lens barrel 210 may include a plurality of barrel holes to provide light emitted from a plurality of light sources to the light guide. The plurality of barrel holes may correspond to the number of light sources. For example, the barrel holes may include a first barrel hole 210h2a, a second barrel hole 210h2b, and a third barrel hole 210h2c. The first barrel hole 210h2a, the second barrel hole 210h2b, and the third barrel hole 210h2c may be provided in the side surface of the lens barrel 210.

[0259] The first tube hole 210h2a may overlap with the light guide in the second direction. The second tube hole 210h2b and the third tube hole 210h2c may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the first direction (X-axis direction). In addition, the second tube hole 210h2b and the third tube hole 210h2c may overlap with each other in the first direction (X-axis direction). The first tube hole 210h2a may be located between the second tube hole 210h2b and the third tube hole 210h2c.

[0260] In addition, the first, second, and third tube holes 210h2a, 210h2b, and 210h2c may be connected to the second groove 210h2. That is, the first, second, and third tube holes 210h2a, 210h2b, and 210h2c may overlap with the light guide in the first direction or the second direction.

[0261] In addition, each of the second barrel hole 210h2b and the third barrel hole 210h2c may include a grip groove gr formed at an edge thereof. Therefore, after the light guide is accommodated in the second groove 210h2, lenses (e.g., the second lens and the third lens) adjacent to the second barrel hole 210h2b and the third barrel hole 210h2c can easily contact the light guide. For example, by positioning a holder or the like in the grip groove gr, the lens can be easily placed on the outer side surface of the light guide.

[0262] The protrusion 210p may extend outward from the outer surface of the lens barrel 210 except the outer surface of the lens barrel 210 where the second barrel hole 210h2b and the third barrel hole 210h2c are located. Therefore, the reliability of the lens barrel may be improved. In addition, the lens barrel may be easily manufactured.

[0263] In addition, the lens barrel 210 may include a lens barrel groove 210gr. In the lens barrel 210, the inner side surface of the second groove 210h2 may include a lens barrel groove 210hr convex outward. Therefore, the second spacer may easily contact the inner side surface of the lens barrel 210.

[0264] In addition, in the lens barrel 210, the size S2 of the second groove 210h2 may be larger than the size S1 of the light guide LG. Therefore, optical alignment for the light guide LG and the like may be easily performed. In addition, hereinafter, the size will be described based on the XZ plane.

[0265] In addition, the lens barrel 210 may include a lens barrel protrusion 210pr protruding toward the light guide LG on an inner side surface thereof. The lens barrel protrusion 210pr may overlap the second and third barrel holes 210h2b and 210h2c in the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0266] The lens barrel protrusion 210pr may be in contact with the light guide LG. In this case, the size S1 of the light guide LG may be greater than the size S3 of the lens barrel protrusion 210pr. Alternatively, the size S3 of the lens barrel protrusion 210pr may be smaller than the size S1 of the light guide LG. Thus, even if the light guide LG is placed in the lens barrel 210 and in contact with the lens barrel protrusion 210pr, the light guide LG may not be in contact with the inner side surface of the lens barrel 210. That is, by reducing the contact between the light guide LG and the inner side surface of the lens barrel 210, damage to the light guide LG can be suppressed. In other words, the reliability of the lens barrel 210 and the optical device can be improved.

[0267] Fig.12 is a diagram illustrating coupling of an outer lens, a first spacer, a light guide, a lens, and a second spacer with a barrel in an optical device according to an embodiment. Fig.132 is a diagram illustrating coupling between a barrel, a housing, and an additional housing in an optical device according to an embodiment. Fig.14 is a diagram illustrating coupling between a housing and a light source unit in an optical device according to an embodiment.

[0268] Reference Figure 12 to Figure 14 , the outer lens LS may be inserted into the first groove 210h1 of the lens barrel 210. In addition, in the lens barrel 210, the first spacer SP1 may be located on the outer side of the outer lens LS in the first groove 210h1. As described above, the first spacer SP1 contacts the outer lens LS and may prevent the outer lens LS from being disassembled.

[0269] In addition, the light guide LG and the lenses FL1, FL2, and FL3 connected to the light guide LG may be inserted into the second groove 210h2. The light guide LG and the lenses FL1, FL2, and FL3 connected to the light guide LG may be located in the second groove 210h2. In addition, the second spacer SP2 may be located on the outer side of the light guide LG and the lenses FL1, FL2, and FL3 connected to the light guide LG. The second spacer SP2 may be in contact with the light guide LS or the lens (especially the first lens FL1). Thus, the disassembly of the light guide LG and the lenses FL1, FL2, and FL3 connected to the light guide LG can be suppressed.

[0270] The first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2 may be sequentially arranged in the second direction (Y-axis direction). The first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2 may overlap in the second direction (Y-axis direction). In addition, the outer lens LS, the light guide LG, and the first lens FL1 may be located between the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2. Therefore, the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2 may overlap with the outer lens LS, the light guide LG, and the first lens FL1 in the second direction (Y-axis direction).

[0271] In addition, the lens barrel 210 can be inserted into the housing 220. That is, the lens barrel 210 can be located in the receiving hole of the housing 220. In addition, the housing 220 and the lens barrel 210 can be coupled to each other using various coupling methods. For example, the protrusion of the housing 220 can be coupled to the coupling hole of the lens barrel 210. In addition, the housing 220 can be located below the lens barrel 210, and the additional housing 240 can be located above the lens barrel 210. By adding the housing 240, the lens barrel 210 can maintain an improved coupling strength with the housing 220.

[0272] In addition, after housing the lens barrel 210 in the housing 220, a plurality of light sources may be inserted into the side surface of the housing 220. For example, the first light source unit 230a, the second light source unit 230b, and the third light source unit 230c may be located on the side surface of the housing 220.

[0273] Fig.15 It is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA', Fig.16 yes Fig.15 Magnified view of the K1 section.

[0274] Reference Fig.15 and Fig.16 In the optical device 200 according to the embodiment, the distance L1 between the light guide LG and the lens FL (e.g., the first lens) may be smaller than the distance L2 between the light source (e.g., the first light source 232a) and the lens FL (e.g., the first lens). That is, the lens FL may be positioned closer to the light guide LG than to the light source. With this configuration, the distance L2 between the lens FL and the light source or the back focus may be reduced. Therefore, miniaturization of the optical device may be achieved.

[0275] Furthermore, the distance L2 between the lens FL and the light source may be smaller than the length L3 of the light guide LG. Therefore, miniaturization of the optical device may be more effectively achieved.

[0276] In addition, the second spacer SP2 may be located between the first lens FL1 and the first light source 232a. In addition, the size or length L5 of the second spacer SP2 may be greater than the size or length L4 of the light guide LG. In addition, the size or length L5 of the second spacer SP2 may be less than the size or length L4 of the light guide LG and the sum L6 of the sizes or lengths of the lenses FL2 and FL3.

[0277] Therefore, the light guide and one lens in the engaged state can be easily inserted into the barrel 210 through the hole in one side surface of the barrel 210. Therefore, with the light guide and the first lens in the coupled state, optical axis alignment in the second direction can be easily performed.

[0278] In addition, a plurality of lenses FL1 , FL2 , and FL3 may be connected to the outer side surface of the light guide LG and may protrude toward the light sources 232 a , 232 b , and 232 c , respectively.

[0279] For example, the first lens FL1 may be convex toward the first light source 232a. The second lens FL2 may be convex toward the second light source 232b. In addition, the third lens FL3 may be convex toward the third light source 232c. With this configuration, light emitted from the light source passes through the plurality of lenses FL1, FL2, and FL3 to be focused and provided to the light guide LG. As a result, light efficiency may be improved.

[0280] In addition, the plurality of lenses FL1, FL2, and FL3 may also be coupled to the light guide LG by a bonding member or a coupling member. The refractive index of the plurality of lenses FL1, FL2, and FL3 may each be the same as or different from the refractive index of the light guide LG. For example, the refractive index of the plurality of lenses FL1, FL2, and FL3 may each be 1.3 or greater. In addition, the refractive index of the light guide LG may be 1.5.

[0281] Furthermore, the light La, Lb and Lc respectively emitted from the light sources 232a, 232b and 232c may be incident on the light guide LG. In addition, the first light La, the second light Lb and the third light Lc respectively emitted from the first to third light sources 232a to 232b may be emitted from the light guide LG in the same direction.

[0282] For example, the light guide LG may include at least one coated surface. As described above, one of the plurality of coated surfaces may reflect some of the first wavelength of light, the second wavelength of light, and the third wavelength of light. For example, the first wavelength includes a wavelength band of red light. The second wavelength includes a wavelength band of green light. The third wavelength includes a wavelength band of blue light.

[0283] Fig.17 is a bottom view of a lens barrel, a light guide, and a lens in an optical device according to one embodiment, and Fig.18 is based on Fig.17 A diagram of a second spacer is further included.

[0284] Reference Fig.17 and Fig.18 , there may be a separation space between the light guide LG and the inner side surface of the lens barrel 210. The inner side surface of the lens barrel 210 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the light guide LG by a first spacing distance gap. Therefore, the light guide LG and the lens FL connected to the light guide LG may be easily tilted. That is, optical axis alignment and the like may be easily performed. In addition, the glare phenomenon may be suppressed by the lens.

[0285] In addition, the second spacer SP2 in the lens barrel 210 may surround the first lens FL1. The second spacer SP2 may contact the lens barrel groove 210gr. Therefore, the light guide LG and the lens FL surrounded by the spacer SP2 may not be detachable from the lens barrel 210.

[0286] In addition, the lens FL may be smaller in size than the light guide LG. Therefore, the connection between the lens FL and the light guide LG may be easily achieved. In addition, the first lens FL1 may not protrude outward from the second spacer SP2. That is, the first lens FL1 may be located inside the second spacer SP.

[0287] Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view of an optical device according to another embodiment.

[0288] Reference Fig.19 , except for the details described below, the details of the outer lens LS, the lens barrel 210, the housing 220, the light source unit 230, the light guide LG, the lens FL, the additional housing 240, the first spacer SP1 and the second spacer SP2 can be similarly applied to an optical device according to another embodiment.

[0289] In an optical device according to another embodiment, a size L5' of the second spacer SP2 may be larger than a sum L6 of a size of the lens and a size of the light guide LG. Therefore, a plurality of lenses may all be connected to the light guide LG and inserted into the lens barrel 210. That is, assembly between the light guide LG, the lens FL and the lens barrel 210 may be easily facilitated.

[0290] Fig. 20 is a conceptual diagram of an optical device according to yet another embodiment, Fig.21 is a perspective view of an optical device according to yet another embodiment, Fig. 22 is an exploded perspective view of an optical device according to yet another embodiment, Fig.23 It is along Fig.21 The cross-sectional view taken along line BB' in Fig.24 yes Fig.23 The enlarged view of the K1 part in FIG. Fig.25 and Fig.26 yes Fig.23 Magnified view of the K2 portion.

[0291] Reference Figure 20 to Figure 23 According to yet another embodiment, an optical device 400 includes a lens barrel 410, a lens L, and a first light guide LG1. In addition, the optical device 400 may include a light source device 420 located or coupled at an opening OP formed in a side surface of the lens barrel 410, and an optical signal generating unit 430 adjacent to the lens barrel 410. In addition, the optical device 400 may further include a cover CV covering the lens barrel 410, the light source device 420, the optical signal generating unit 430, and a substrate (including a connector, not shown).

[0292] The lens L may be provided as a plurality of lenses. For example, the lens L may include a plurality of lenses sequentially provided based on the upper side of the lens barrel 410. For example, the lens L may include a first lens L1 provided first on the upper side, a second lens L2 provided at the rear end of the first lens, and finally an N-th lens Ln provided on the upper side. Here, N may be a natural number of 2 or more. In addition, the N-th lens Ln among the plurality of lenses L may be located closest to the optical signal generating unit 430, and the optical signal generating unit 430 may be located at the rear end of the lens barrel 410 or the rear end of the plurality of lenses L.

[0293] In addition, in an embodiment according to the present invention, the first direction (X-axis direction) may correspond to the optical axis. In addition, the first direction (X-axis direction) may correspond to the direction in which the light emitted from the light source device 420 is reflected by the optical signal generating unit 430 and emitted toward the above-mentioned display unit. In addition, the second direction (Y-axis direction) is a direction perpendicular to the first direction (Y-axis direction). In addition, the second direction (Y-axis direction) may correspond to the direction from the first light guide LG1 toward the opening OP. In addition, hereinafter, in this specification or in this embodiment, the second direction (Y-axis direction) may also correspond to the direction from the first light guide LG1 toward the third light guide LG2. The first light guide LG1 may be referred to as a first light guide unit or a first guide member. In addition, the third light guide LG2 may also be referred to as a third light guide unit or a second guide member.

[0294] In addition, the lens barrel 410 may also include a hole corresponding to the opening OP. In an embodiment, the lens barrel 410 may include a barrel hole or an additional hole 410h. The additional hole 410h may be positioned to face the opening OP. Alternatively, the additional hole 410h may also overlap with the opening OP in the second direction (Y-axis direction). Alternatively, the distance of the additional hole 410h from the Nth lens Ln in the first direction may be equal to the distance between the opening OP and the Nth lens Ln. Alternatively, the additional hole 410h may be located in the inner surface of the lens barrel 410, in an area corresponding to the position of the opening OP. With this configuration, through the additional hole 410h, the bonding member can be easily applied to the light source device 420 coupled to, inserted into, fixed to or connected to the opening OP. Therefore, the coupling strength between the lens barrel 410 and the light source device 420 can be improved. Therefore, the optical device 400 according to the embodiment can have improved durability, robustness or reliability. Alternatively, through the additional hole 410h, it is also possible to easily perform an optical test of the light source device 420 located in the opening OP. Alternatively, through the additional hole 410h, it is possible to easily perform the discharge or injection of a fluid (e.g., air) from the lens barrel 410 and the light source device 400. Whether or not there is an additional hole 410h may vary according to the embodiment. For example, as described above, the additional hole 410h may be provided on the side surface of the lens barrel 410. Alternatively, in consideration of durability, etc., the additional hole 410h may not be present on the side surface of the lens barrel 410.

[0295] In addition, a plurality of lenses L may be positioned in the lens barrel 410. In addition, a first light guide LG1 may be positioned in the lens barrel 410.

[0296] In addition, the lens barrel 410 according to the embodiment may include an opening OP formed in a side surface thereof. The opening OP may be various shapes such as a circle, a polygon, etc. In addition, the opening OP may correspond to the position of the first light guide LG1.

[0297] In an embodiment, the opening OP may overlap the first light guide LG1 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. With this configuration, light emitted from the light source device 420 located at a side portion of the barrel 410 may be easily incident on the first light guide LG1.

[0298] In addition, the first light guide LG1 may be disposed between two lenses among the plurality of lenses. For example, the first light guide LG1 may be disposed between the first lens L1 and the N-th lens Ln. In addition, the first light guide LG1 may also be located between the first lens L1 and the optical signal generating unit 430. In addition, the first light guide LG1 may be located between the first lens L1 and the second lens L2, or may be located between the second lens L2 and the N-th lens Ln. Various positions of the first light guide LG1 will be described in various embodiments, as described below.

[0299] In the present embodiment, the first light guide LG1 may also be located between the second lens L2 and the N-th lens Ln. Therefore, the N-th lens Ln may be located between the first light guide LG1 and the optical signal generating unit 430. With this configuration, when the light reflected from the first light guide LG1 is provided to the optical signal generating unit 430, an appropriate optical path may be ensured. In addition, refraction of the reflected light may occur. Therefore, miniaturization of the first light guide LG1 may be achieved.

[0300] The first light guide LG1 may include a first prism. The first prism may be a polarizing prism. In addition, the first prism may be a polarized light separation prism. Alternatively, the first prism may be a polarization separation prism.

[0301] The first prism may reflect the first polarized light and transmit the second polarized light. For example, a portion of the light (first polarized light) provided from the light source device 420 or incident on the first light guide LG1 may be reflected by the first light guide LG1 and provided to the optical signal generating unit 430. In addition, another portion of the light (second polarized light) incident on the first light guide LG1 may pass through the first light guide LG1 and be absorbed in the lens barrel 410.

[0302] In addition, light emitted from the light source device 420 may be incident on the first light guide LG1 through the opening OP. To this end, as described above, the opening OP may be provided in the region where the first light guide LG1 is located. For example, the incident surface of the first light guide LG1 may be positioned to face the opening OP. Alternatively, the position of the first light guide LG1 in the lens barrel 410 may be the same as the position of the first light guide LG1.

[0303] The light source device 420 may include a light source 423 to generate (produce or provide) or emit light. The light source device 420 according to the embodiment may be located in the opening OP or coupled to the opening OP. That is, the light source device 420 may be connected or coupled to the lens barrel 410.

[0304] The light source device 420 may include a housing 422 having an opening 422 h , a third light guide LG2 disposed in the housing 422 , a light source 423 configured to provide light to the third light guide LG2 , and a second light guide PR disposed between the first light guide LG1 and the light source 423 .

[0305] In addition, the light source device 420 may include a light source assembly 421 disposed outside the light source device 420 and surrounding a housing 422 , a light source lens 424 adjacent to the light source 423 , and an intermediate lens 424 located in the housing 422 .

[0306] The light source assembly 421 may be disposed on the outermost side of the light source device 420. When it is difficult to install the light source 423 in the housing 422 or when a lens (light source lens) needs to be additionally installed, the light source assembly 421 may be located outside the housing 422. The light source assembly 421 may be configured as a structure integrated with the housing 422 or as a separate structure.

[0307] The housing 422 may include an opening 422h. The housing 422 may be positioned adjacent to the opening OP of the lens barrel 410. For example, the opening 422h of the housing 422 may be positioned to correspond to the opening OP of the lens barrel 410. Therefore, the opening 422h of the housing 422 may overlap with the opening OP of the lens barrel 410 in the second direction (Y-axis direction).

[0308] The light source 423 may be located in the housing 422 or the light source assembly 421. The light source 423 may emit light. For example, the light emitted from the light source 423 may be incident on the third light guide LG2 in the housing 422. The third light guide LG2 may be located in the housing 422. The third light guide LG2 may be located between the light source 423 and the first light guide LG1. Therefore, the third light guide LG2 may transmit the light emitted from the light source 423 to the opening 422h or the first light guide LG1.

[0309] In addition, the light source 423 may be set to one or more light sources. That is, the light source 423 in the light source device 420 may be set to a single light source or a plurality of light sources. For example, the light source 423 may be set to a plurality of light sources, including a first light source 423a, a second light source 423b, and a third light source 423c. The first light source 423a to the third light source 423c may emit light in the same direction, or emit light in different directions. For example, the first light source 423a and the third light source 423c may be positioned facing each other. The first light source 423a and the third light source 423c may overlap in the first direction (X-axis direction). In addition, the third light guide LG2 may be located between the first light source 423a and the third light source 423c. Therefore, the third light guide LG2 may overlap with the first light source 423a and the third light source 423c. In addition, the second light source 423b may be located between the first light source 423a and the third light source 423c. The first light source 423a to the third light source 423c may emit light toward the third light guide LG2. In addition, the second light source 423b may overlap the third light guide LG2 in the second direction. With this configuration, the optical device 400 may have the light source device 420 in a compact form.

[0310] In addition, each of the first light source 423a, the second light source 423b and the third light source 423c can emit light having a wavelength or color that is partially the same or different from each other. For example, the first light source 423a, the second light source 423b and the third light source 423c can each emit red light, green light or blue light.

[0311] The third light guide LG2 may include a second prism. The second prism serves as a reflective member and may include, for example, an X prism. In an embodiment, the third light guide LG2 or the second prism may have a structure in which at least two or more prisms are combined. In addition, the third light guide LG2 may be a non-polarized prism. That is, the third light guide LG2 may not polarize the light emitted from the light source 423.

[0312] In addition, the second prism may include at least two or more coated surfaces (reflective members or reflective sheets). One of the at least two or more coated surfaces may reflect light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength, and transmit light of a third wavelength. That is, the coated surface may reflect light of a predetermined wavelength band. Therefore, for light emitted from each of the plurality of light sources 423, each light within a desired wavelength band may be reflected by the third light guide LG2. For example, the light after passing through the third light guide LG2 may be provided to the first light guide LG1 or the intermediate lens MO.

[0313] The light source lens 424 may be positioned adjacent to the light source 423. For example, the light source lens 424 may be provided as a plurality of light source lenses. The light source lenses 424 may be located on the paths of the light emitted from the light source 423, respectively.

[0314] In an embodiment, the light source lens 424 may be located between the third light guide LG2 and the light source 423. In addition, the light source lens 424 may be provided as a plurality of light source lenses. The light source lens 424 may be provided as a plurality of light source lenses and located between the third light guide LG2 and the light source 423. Alternatively, the light source lens 424 may be provided as a plurality of lenses corresponding to the plurality of light sources 423, respectively.

[0315] For example, the light source lens 424 may include a first light source lens 424a, a second light source lens 424b, and a third light source lens 424c. The first light source lens 424a may be located between the first light source 423a and the third light guide LG2. The second light source lens 424b may be located between the second light source 423b and the third light guide LG2. The third light source lens 424c may be located between the third light source 423c and the third light guide LG2.

[0316] In addition, the first light source lens 424a, the second light source lens 424b, and the third light source lens 424c may each be provided as a plurality of lenses and respectively located on the first light source 423a, the second light source 423b, and the third light source 423c. For example, one of the plurality of first light source lenses 424a may be located on the first light source 423a and may be coupled to the light source assembly 421. In addition, another of the plurality of first light source lenses 424a may be located between the one of the plurality of first light source lenses 424a and the third light guide LG2 and may be coupled to the housing 422.

[0317] In addition, the first light source lens 424a, the second light source lens 424b, and the third light source lens 424c may each include a collimating lens or a collimator.

[0318] In addition, a substrate 425 connected to the light source 423 may be provided in the light source assembly 421. The substrate 425 may be provided as at least one substrate corresponding to the light source 423. For example, the plurality of substrates 425 may include a first substrate 425a, a second substrate 425b, and a third substrate 425c. As described above, the plurality of substrates 425 may be provided as a single integrated substrate, or as a plurality of substrates corresponding to the number of light sources.

[0319] In addition, the substrate 425 can be electrically connected to a control unit or a processor in the above-mentioned frame (or display unit). Therefore, the substrate 425 may include a connector for communicating with an external device or a device connected thereto. In addition, the substrate 425 may be arranged outside the light source 423 to dissipate the heat generated by the light source to the outside. Therefore, the reliability of the light source device 420 can be improved.

[0320] The middle lens MO may be located between the opening 422h and the third light guide LG2. In addition, the middle lens MO may be located between the first light guide LG1 and the third light guide LG2.

[0321] The middle lens MO may include a plurality of lenses. For example, the middle lens MO may include a first middle lens MO1 and a second middle lens MO2. However, as will be described below, the light reflected by the third light guide LG2 may be directly provided to the first light guide LG1 without the middle lens MO.

[0322] The first middle lens MO1 may include a first surface MO1s1 adjacent to the first light guide LG1 and a second surface MO1s2 corresponding to the first surface MO1s1. Light emitted from the light source 423 may pass through the third light guide LG2 and sequentially pass through the second surface MO1s2 and the second surface MO1s1.

[0323] The second surface MO1s2 may be convex toward the third light guide LG2. Alternatively, the second surface MO1s2 may be concave toward the first light guide LG1. In addition, the first surface MO1s1 may be convex or concave toward the third light guide LG2. For example, the first intermediate lens MO1 may have a meniscus shape. As described above, when the second surface MO1s2 is convex toward the third light guide LG2, light may be focused while passing through the intermediate lens MO. Therefore, the uniformity of light provided to the optical signal generating unit 430 may be improved. In other words, the light incident on the optical signal generating unit 430 may be planar light. In addition, the uniformity of the planar light may be improved. Therefore, the accuracy or resolution of the image signal or image emitted to the display unit by the optical device 400 according to the embodiment may be improved.

[0324] The second intermediate lens MO2 may include a micro lens array (MLA).As a result, the light passing through the third light guide LG2 may undergo partial planarization.

[0325] Furthermore, the second intermediate lens MO2 may have a different size than the third light guide LG2. Furthermore, the first intermediate lens MO1 may have a different size than the third light guide LG2. For example, the size of the intermediate lens MO2 may be larger than the third light guide LG2.

[0326] In addition, the plurality of lenses L, the intermediate lens MO and the light source lens 424 may be held in place by spacers SP. For example, a plurality of spacers SP adjacent to the plurality of lenses L may be present in the lens barrel 410. In addition, a plurality of spacers SP adjacent to the intermediate lens MO and the light source lens 424 may be disposed in the housing 422 or the light source assembly 421 of the light source device 420. In an embodiment, a plurality of spacers SP may be disposed on the upper or lower sides of the above-mentioned lenses to fix or maintain the positions of the lenses.

[0327] The second light guide PR may be located in the light source device 420. In addition, the second light guide PR may be located between the first light guide LG1 and the light source 423. The second light guide PR may be a polarization reflector. In addition, the second light guide PR may also reflect specific light. In addition, the second light guide PR may only polarize, transmit polarized light, or refract light. That is, the second light guide PR may correspond to a lens. In addition, the second light guide PR may be coupled to a third light guide, which will be described below, or the third light guide may perform the above-mentioned function of the second light guide (e.g., reflecting specific light, performing only polarization, transmitting polarized light, or refracting light).

[0328] In addition, the second light guide PR may be located at the front end of the first light guide LG1 to perform reflection of polarized light. For example, the second light guide PR may reflect light transmitted through the first light guide LG1. In addition, the second light guide PR may transmit light having a polarization angle corresponding to or the same as the polarization angle of the light reflected by the first light guide LG1 and directed toward the optical signal generating unit 430. In other words, the second light guide PR may transmit light having a polarization angle corresponding to the light reflected by the first light guide LG1, and may reflect light having a polarization angle corresponding to the light transmitted through the first light guide LG1. With this configuration, the light source device or the optical device according to the embodiment may provide improved light efficiency.

[0329] In an embodiment, the second light guide PR may be located between the first light guide LG1 and the lens (intermediate lens or light source lens). Therefore, the light efficiency may be improved by using the birefringence occurring in the lens (intermediate lens or light source lens). In other words, the light reflected by the second light guide PR may experience birefringence, phase delay, or polarization in the lens (intermediate lens or light source lens). As described above, the polarized light passing through the lens (intermediate lens or light source lens) may be transmitted through the second light guide PR. For example, at least a portion of the polarized light passing through the lens (intermediate lens or light source lens) may be transmitted through the second light guide PR. Therefore, the light efficiency of the light source device or the optical device may be improved.

[0330] In addition, the light source 423 may emit non-polarized light. In addition, the second light guide PR may reflect light from the light source 423. In addition, the lens may perform phase delay on the light. Therefore, since the path of the light does not change, the position or emission path of the light emitted from the optical device may remain unchanged through the second light guide PR. In other words, phenomena such as afterimages may be suppressed.

[0331] The optical signal generating unit 430 may be located at a rear end of the lens barrel 410. The optical signal generating unit 430 may overlap the lens L along the optical axis or in the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0332] The optical signal generating unit 430 may convert light incident on and reflected by the first light guide LG1 and passing through the Nth lens into an optical signal including image information.

[0333] The optical signal generating unit 430 may reflect the light (first polarized light) reflected by the first light guide LG1. The optical signal generating unit 430 may generate an optical signal including image information. That is, the light reflected by the optical signal generating unit 430 may be light including image information.

[0334] The optical signal generating unit 430 may include a Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS) display device.

[0335] The LCoS display device may have a structure in which liquid crystal is inserted between a silicon wafer including a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) array and an anti-reflection (AR) layer coated with a transparent electrode made of indium tin oxide (ITO).

[0336] In addition, an alignment layer may be formed on the wafer (silicon wafer) to establish initial alignment of the liquid crystal.

[0337] In addition, a reflective layer or a reflective electrode formed by an aluminum layer with high optical reflectivity can be located below the alignment layer. The reflective electrode can be located on a silicon wafer. In addition, a semiconductor array (CMOS array) can be formed on the silicon wafer. In addition, such a semiconductor array can enable data signals to be transmitted through the panel.

[0338] The optical signal generating unit 430 may reflect at least a portion of the incident light according to the operation. In addition, the optical signal generating unit 430 may reflect the light incident from the planar light source for each pixel. In addition, the intensity of the reflected light may also be adjusted according to the degree of modulation. For example, the optical signal generating unit 430 may partially modulate the first polarized light into the second polarized light. Therefore, the light modulated into the second polarized light may pass through the first light guide LG1 and the first lens L1 and be provided to the display unit.

[0339] That is, the optical signal generating unit 430 can modulate the delay of the modulated light (ie, polarized light). The optical signal generating unit 430 can perform delay on the first polarized light in various ways. That is, the electric field can be formed by adjusting the voltage of each pixel (control of the electrode voltage). In addition, the degree of distortion in the liquid crystal can also be adjusted according to the control voltage. For example, at the maximum voltage, the light reflected by the optical signal generating unit 430 can be reflected as a whole by the first light guide LG1. In addition, at the minimum voltage, the light reflected by the optical signal generating unit 430 can be transmitted through the third light guide LG1. However, the optical signal generating unit 430 can operate in the opposite manner according to the electric field. In addition, when a medium level of voltage is applied, some light can pass through the first light guide LG1. That is, the intensity (e.g., brightness) of the light provided to the display unit can be at a medium level.

[0340] The optical signal thus generated by the optical signal generating unit 430 may be transmitted to the first lens L1 through the Nth lens Ln and the first light guide LG1. In addition, at least a portion of the optical signal generated by the optical signal generating unit 430 may pass through the first lens L1 and be incident on the display unit.

[0341] In addition, a transparent member 440 may be further provided between the optical signal generating unit 430 and the N-th lens Ln (or the first light guide). The transparent member 440 may be glass. The transparent member 440 may be coupled to the lens barrel 410 or the cover CV. In addition, the transparent member 440 may be located on the optical signal generating unit 430. Therefore, foreign matter may be easily prevented from flowing into the optical signal generating unit 430. In addition, the transparent member 440 may have the same or different size as the optical signal generating unit 430. In addition, the transparent member 440 may overlap with at least a portion of the optical signal generating unit 430 along the optical axis or in the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0342] Further references Fig.24 a, the lights La, Lb, and Lc emitted from the corresponding light sources 423 of the light source device 420 may pass through the light source lens 424, the third light guide LG2, and the intermediate lens MO. For example, the first light La, the second light Lb, and the third light Lc emitted from the first light source 432a to the third light source 432b, respectively, may be emitted from the third light guide LG2 in the same direction.

[0343] For example, the third light guide LG2 may include a first coating surface LG2a and a second coating surface LG2b. As described above, one of the at least two or more coating surfaces may reflect some of the first wavelength of light, the second wavelength of light, and the third wavelength of light. For example, the first wavelength includes a wavelength band of red light. The second wavelength includes a wavelength band of green light. The third wavelength includes a wavelength band of blue light.

[0344] In addition, the first coated surface LG2a may reflect the first light La or the light of the first wavelength. That is, the first coated surface LG2a may transmit the second light Lb and the third light Lc. In other words, the first coated surface LG2a may transmit the light of the second wavelength and the light of the third wavelength.

[0345] The second coated surface LG2b may reflect the second light Lb or the light of the second wavelength. The second coated surface LG2b may transmit the first light La and the third light Lc. In other words, the second coated surface LG2b may transmit the light of the first wavelength and the light of the third wavelength.

[0346] Therefore, the first light La from the third light guide LG2 can be reflected by the intermediate lens MO or the opening OP or incident on the intermediate lens MO or the opening OP. In addition, the second light Lb from the third light guide LG2 can be reflected by the intermediate lens MO or the opening OP or incident on the intermediate lens MO or the opening OP. In addition, the third light Lc from the third light guide LG2 can be reflected by the intermediate lens MO or the opening OP or incident on the intermediate lens MO or the opening OP.

[0347] Therefore, the light IL (or La, Lb, or Lc) emitted from the light source 423 may be incident on the first light guide LG. At this time, the light incident on the first light guide LG may be the first incident light IL.

[0348] Further references Fig.25 , the first incident light IL may be partially reflected by the first light guide LG1 and partially transmitted through the first light guide LG1. That is, the first light guide LG1 may reflect the first polarized light ILa of the first incident light IL and transmit the second polarized light ILb of the first incident light IL. For example, the first polarized light ILa and the second polarized light ILb may each correspond to a different one of the S polarized light and the P polarized light. Therefore, the first polarized light ILa as a part of the first incident light IL may be provided to the optical signal generating unit 430 through the Nth lens Ln. In addition, the second polarized light ILb may be absorbed by the lens barrel 410 or provided to the additional hole 410h.

[0349] At this time, the light source device or the optical device according to the embodiment may include a second light guide PR, and the second polarized light ILb may be reflected by the second light guide PR. For example, the second polarized light ILb may be at least partially reflected by the second light guide PR. In other words, due to the second light guide PR, the amount of the second polarized light ILb transmitted through the first light guide LG1 may be reduced, and the amount of the first reflected polarized light ILaa to be described below may be increased. That is, the light efficiency of the optical device 400 may be improved.

[0350] Further references Fig.26As described above, the optical signal generating unit 430 may reflect the first polarized light ILa by adjusting the voltage. In an embodiment, the first polarized light ILa reflected by the optical signal generating unit 430 is described below as reflected polarized light.

[0351] In this manner, the first light guide LG1 may reflect at least a portion of the incident light or light IL emitted from the light source 423 and incident on the first light guide to the Nth lens (or the optical signal generating unit). That is, the reflected polarized light may be at least partially reflected by the first light guide LG1. However, as described above, the reflected polarized light may be completely reflected by the first light guide LG1 or transmitted through the first light guide LG1 according to the voltage applied by the optical signal generating unit 430. Hereinafter, a description is made based on a case where the reflected polarized light is at least partially transmitted through the first light guide LG1.

[0352] The reflected polarized light may include first reflected polarized light ILaa transmitted through the first light guide LG1 and second reflected polarized light ILab reflected by the first light guide LG1. As described above, the intensity of the first reflected polarized light ILaa, ie, the degree of transmission of the reflected polarized light, may be adjusted in response to an image provided to the display unit.

[0353] In addition, the second reflected polarized light ILab may be transmitted through the second light guide PR. In addition, the second reflected polarized light ILab may be polarized at a predetermined angle by a lens (intermediate lens or light source lens). Therefore, the second reflected polarized light ILab may move to the second light guide PR again after being partially polarized and reflected by the lens (intermediate lens or light source lens). In this case, the second reflected polarized light ILab may be transmitted through the second light guide PR and reflected by the first light guide LG1. As a result, the light efficiency may be further improved.

[0354] In addition, the optical device 400 according to the embodiment may further include a display unit, which is disposed in front of the first lens L1 and is configured to display an optical signal including image information transmitted to the first lens L1 as a video. In other words, the optical device 400 may be a structure integrally formed with the above-mentioned display unit. However, hereinafter, the optical device 400 will be described based on a structure separated from the display unit.

[0355] Furthermore, in the modified example, Fig.25 As shown in FIG. 4B , the lens barrel 410 may further include an additional hole 410h in a side surface thereof. For example, the second polarized light may be provided to the additional hole 410h. The description of the above-mentioned further embodiment also applies to the description of the modified example described below.

[0356] Fig.27a is a cross-sectional view of a light source device in an optical device according to still another embodiment, Figure 27b yes Fig.27a A modified example of Fig.27c yes Fig.27a Another modified example of, and Fig.27d yes Fig.27a Yet another modified example of .

[0357] In addition to the description of various embodiments and modified examples described below, the description of the optical device and the components of the optical device according to the above-described embodiments also applies.

[0358] Reference Fig.27a As described above, the second light guide PR may be located in the light source device 420. In addition, the second light guide PR may be located between the first light guide LG1 and the light source 423. In addition, the second light guide PR may also be located at the front end of the first light guide LG1 to perform reflection of polarized light. For example, the second light guide PR may reflect light transmitted through the first light guide LG1. In addition, the second light guide PR may transmit light having a polarization angle corresponding to or the same as the polarization angle of light reflected by the first light guide LG1 and directed toward the optical signal generating unit 430. In other words, the second light guide PR may transmit light having a polarization angle corresponding to the light reflected by the first light guide LG1, and may reflect light having a polarization angle corresponding to the light transmitted through the first light guide LG1. With this configuration, the light source device or the optical device according to the embodiment may provide improved light efficiency.

[0359] In addition, in the present embodiment, the second light guide PR may be located between the first light guide LG1 and the lens (intermediate lens or light source lens). At this time, the second light guide PR may be in contact with the lens. For example, one surface of the second light guide PR may be in contact with the lens. In an embodiment, the second light guide PR may be in contact with the intermediate lens MO. Therefore, the light converged or focused by the intermediate lens MO may be reflected. That is, the light efficiency passing through the optical device or the light source device may be maximized.

[0360] Reference Figure 27b According to the light source device 400 of the present embodiment, a birefringence member MR may be included. The birefringence member MR may be made of various materials that provide a birefringence phenomenon. For example, the birefringence member MR may be made of a transparent material through which light can be transmitted. In addition, the birefringence member MR may provide a stress birefringence phenomenon. The birefringence member MR may provide a phase delay only for incident light. The birefringence member MR may, for example, have layers or regions each having a different material density. Therefore, the birefringence member MR may provide a phase delay. The description of the birefringence member MR may be applied to other embodiments and modified examples in the same manner.

[0361] In addition, the birefringence member MR can be located in the housing 422 of the light source device 400. For example, the birefringence member MR can be located between the second light guide PR and the light source 423. In the present embodiment, the birefringence member MR can be located between the second light guide PR and the third light guide LG2. In addition, the birefringence member MR can be located between the intermediate lens and the third light guide LG2. Therefore, the birefringence member MR can effectively perform polarization on the collected light. In other words, birefringence can be easily performed with one birefringence member MR.

[0362] Alternatively, if Fig.27c As shown, the birefringence member MR may be located between the second light guide PR and the light source lens 424. At this time, the light source lens 424 may be disposed between the light source 423 and the second light guide PR. In addition, the description of the light source lens 424 may also be applied in the same manner below.

[0363] In addition, the birefringence member MR may be located between the intermediate lens MO and the light source lens 424. In addition, the birefringence member MR may be located between the third light guide LG2 and the light source lens 424. In addition, the birefringence member MR may be located between the third light guide LG2 and the light source 423.

[0364] Furthermore, as an additional example, the birefringence member MR may be located between the light source lens 424 and the light source 423. Therefore, the light source lens 424 may be disposed between the birefringence member MR and the second light guide PR.

[0365] Therefore, the birefringence member MR may be disposed between the light source lens 424 and the light source 423 , or between the second light guide PR and the light source lens 424 .

[0366] Alternatively, if Fig.27d As shown, the birefringence member MR can be located on the inner surface of the housing 422. In addition, the birefringence member MR can be located on the inner surface of the light source assembly 421. Therefore, the birefringence member MR can perform phase delay on the light reflected by the second light guide PR. Therefore, the phase delay or polarized light can be transmitted through the second light guide PR and reflected by the first light guide. Therefore, the light source device or the optical device can provide improved light efficiency.

[0367] Fig.28a is a cross-sectional view of a light source device in an optical device according to still another embodiment, and Fig.28b yes Fig.28a 's modified example.

[0368] Reference Fig.28a, the optical device 400 according to still another embodiment may include only the first light guide LG1. The third light guide and the third light guide described above do not exist in the light source device 420. In addition to the details described below in this embodiment, the details described in each embodiment of this specification may be applied.

[0369] In addition, the light source 423 may be provided as at least one light source. In addition, the intermediate lens MO may be located between the light source 423 and the first light guide LG1.

[0370] For example, one light source 423 may only provide one light to the display unit. In the case of providing information only to the user, the light source device may only have one light source. In addition, the light source 423 may emit two lights. For example, the two lights may be any two of red, green and blue. Alternatively, the two lights may also include white light.

[0371] In addition, the intermediate lens MO may be provided in the housing 422 of the light source device 420. The intermediate lens MO may be located between the light source 423 and the first light guide LG1.

[0372] In addition, the light source lens 424 may be disposed on the light source 423. Therefore, the light source lens 424 may be located between the light source 423 and the intermediate lens MO. In addition, the light source lens 424 may be located between the light source 423 and the first light guide LG1. In addition, the first light guide LG1, the intermediate lens MO, the light source lens 424, and the light source 423 may overlap in the second direction (Y-axis direction).

[0373] The light source lens 424 may be located on each of the two light sources 423. In addition, the light source lens 424 may be provided as a single lens and may be located on the two light sources 423.

[0374] In addition, as an additional example, the intermediate lens 424 may not be provided in the housing 422 of the light source device 420. In addition, the light source lens 424 may be provided on the light source 423. Therefore, the light source lens 424 may be located between the light source 423 and the first light guide LG1. In addition, the first light guide LG1, the light source lens 424, and the light source 423 may overlap in the second direction (Y-axis direction).

[0375] In addition, the light source lens 424 may be located on each of the two light sources 423. In addition, the light source lens 424 may be provided as a single lens and may be located on the two light sources 423.

[0376] In addition, the second light guide PR may have various shapes. The second light guide PR may have a shape that is convex or concave toward the first light guide LG1. Alternatively, the second light guide PR may have a flat shape. The second light guide PR may have various shapes corresponding to the shapes and functions of the light source 423, the intermediate lens M, and the light source lens 424 to improve light efficiency.

[0377] In addition, the second light guide PR may be spaced apart from the lens (intermediate lens or light source lens). In addition, the second light guide PR may also be in contact with the lens (intermediate lens or light source lens). With this configuration, the reflection efficiency of light transmitted through the lens may be improved.

[0378] In addition, further reference Fig.28b , the lens (middle lens or light source lens) may be disposed between the second light guide PR and the light source. At this time, the lens (middle lens or light source lens) may be spaced apart from or in contact with the second light guide PR as described above. In addition, the lens (middle lens or light source lens) may be spaced apart from or in contact with the light source 423. In addition, the lens (middle lens or light source lens) may extend in the second direction to contact the light source 423 or the second light guide PR. For example, the lens (middle lens or light source lens) may contact both the light source 423 and the second light guide PR. Therefore, the light efficiency may be further maximized.

[0379] Fig.29a is a cross-sectional view of a light source device in an optical device according to still another embodiment, Fig.29b yes Fig.29a A modified example of Fig.29c yes Fig.29a Another modified example of .

[0380] Reference Fig.29a In an optical device according to still another embodiment, the light source device may include the second light guide PR and the birefringence member MR as described above.

[0381] At this time, the birefringence member MR may be disposed between the second light guide PR and the light source 423. Furthermore, the birefringence member MR may be disposed between the second light guide PR and the light source lens 424. In addition, the intermediate lens MO may be disposed between the second light guide PR and the birefringence member MR.

[0382] In addition, the intermediate lens MO may be disposed between the second light guide PR and the birefringence member MR. The intermediate lens MO or the light source lens 424 may be in contact with the birefringence member MR. Fig.29b As shown, the intermediate lens MO may extend in the second direction to be in contact with the second light guide PR or the birefringence member MR.

[0383] In addition, if Fig.29cAs shown, the birefringence member MR may be located on the inner side surface of the housing 422 in the light source device 420. At this time, the intermediate lens MO may be formed in various shapes as described above.

[0384] Furthermore, as an additional example, the above-mentioned birefringence member MR may be located between the light source 423 and the second light guide PR. For example, the birefringence member MR may be located between a lens (intermediate lens or light source lens) and the second light guide PR. As a result, the efficiency of generating polarization may be improved.

Claims

1. An optical device, comprising: A lens barrel, on which an outer lens is disposed; a light guide disposed in the lens barrel; a lens connected to the light guide; as well as a light source configured to emit light toward the light guide, Wherein, the distance between the light guide and the lens is smaller than the distance between the light source and the lens.

2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein: The light guide is in contact with the lens.

3. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein: The distance between the lens and the light source is smaller than the length of the light guide.

4. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein: The number of the lenses corresponds to the number of the light sources.

5. The optical device according to claim 1, comprising: a first spacer in contact with the outer lens; as well as A second spacer is in contact with the light guide.

6. The optical device according to claim 5, wherein: The second spacer has a size larger than that of the light guide and smaller than a sum of a size of the light guide and a size of the lens.

7. The optical device according to claim 5, wherein: The second spacer has a size greater than a sum of a size of the lens and a size of the light guide.

8. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein: The light guide includes at least one prism.

9. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein: The light guide includes an X-prism.

10. The optical device of claim 1, comprising a housing surrounding the lens barrel, wherein: The light source is disposed in the housing.

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