Light guide device and electronic device including the same

Abstract

Embodiments disclose a light guide device and an electronic device including the same. The light guide device includes: a projector including a lens provided to emit light and a lens barrel coupled to the lens; a first substrate that guides light emitted from the projector; a first diffractive element region provided on the first substrate and receiving light; and a second diffractive element region disposed on the first substrate and spaced apart from the first diffractive element region, in which the lenses include a first lens disposed closest to the first substrate, the first diffractive element region overlaps a first lens of the projector in an optical axis direction of the first lens, and the second diffractive element region overlaps a second lens of the projector in an optical axis direction of the first lens. The diameter of the first diffractive element region of the first substrate is smaller than the diameter of the first lens of the projector.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0128798 filed on September 24, 2024 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0156138 filed on November 13, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments relate to a light guide device and an electronic device including the light guide device. Background Art

[0004] Virtual reality (VR) refers to a specific environment or situation that is similar to reality but not real, or the technology itself created by artificial technology such as computers.

[0005] Augmented reality (AR) refers to a technology that synthesizes virtual objects or information into a real environment to make it appear as if the objects exist in the original environment.

[0006] Mixed reality (MR) or hybrid reality refers to combining the virtual world and the real world to create a new environment or new information. In particular, MR refers to the real-time interaction between real things and virtual things.

[0007] In this case, the created virtual environment, situation, etc. stimulates the five senses of the user and allows the user to experience space and time similar to reality, so that the user can move freely between reality and imagination. In addition, the user can not only easily immerse himself in such an environment, but also interact with things realized in such an environment using real devices, such as manipulation, command, etc.

[0008] Recently, research on equipment (gear or device) used in such technical fields is being actively conducted. However, there is a growing demand for miniaturization of such equipment and improvement of its optical performance. Summary of the invention

[0009] An embodiment is directed to providing a light guide device and an electronic device, wherein, when using the light guide device for augmented reality (AR) or the like and the electronic device including the light guide device, the diameter of the lens and the distance between the projector and the first diffraction element are adjusted to improve the diffraction efficiency and achieve miniaturization and compactness.

[0010] In addition, the embodiments are directed to provide a light guide device and an electronic device whose volumes are reduced by adjusting the position of each element.

[0011] The purpose of the embodiment is not limited thereto, and may also include a purpose or effect that can be determined according to a configuration or embodiment to be described below.

[0012] According to an embodiment, a light guide device includes: a projector, the projector including a lens configured to emit light and a lens barrel coupled to the lens; a first substrate that guides the light emitted from the projector; a first diffraction element area that is disposed on the first substrate and receives the light; and a second diffraction element area that is disposed on the first substrate and is spaced apart from the first diffraction element area, wherein the lens includes a first lens that is disposed closest to the first substrate, the first diffraction element area overlaps with the first lens of the projector in the optical axis direction of the first lens, and the diameter of the first diffraction element area of ​​the first substrate is smaller than the diameter of the first lens of the projector.

[0013] The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate may be smaller than the diameter of the lens barrel of the projector.

[0014] The first lens of the projector may be arranged to face the first diffraction element region of the first substrate.

[0015] A projector may have a viewing angle.

[0016] The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector may satisfy the following formula 1:

[0017] [Formula 1]

[0018] 1.9*[IC / 2+y1]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y1],

[0019] y1 = distance between the first diffraction element area and L1S1 * tan(H_Fov),

[0020] (Here, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, H_Fov represents half or 0.5 times the viewing angle of the projector, and the distance between the first diffraction element area and L1S1 represents the shortest distance from the center of the first lens to the center of the diameter of the first diffraction element area).

[0021] The first diffraction element region of the first substrate may be disposed on a surface that does not face the first lens of the projector, of both surfaces of the first substrate.

[0022] A projector may have a viewing angle.

[0023] The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector may satisfy the following formula 2:

[0024] [Formula 2]

[0025] 1.9*[IC / 2+y2]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y2],

[0026] y2=the distance between WG1S1 and L1S1*tan(H_Fov)+the thickness of the first substrate (WG1)*tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n_WG1)),

[0027] (Here, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, WG1S1 represents the surface of the first substrate not facing the first lens of the projector, H_Fov represents 1 / 2 times the viewing angle θb of the projector, n0 represents the diffraction index of air, and n_WG1 represents the diffraction index of the first substrate).

[0028] The light guide may include an optical member disposed on the first diffractive element region of the first substrate.

[0029] The diffraction index of the optical member may be greater than that of air, and may be equal to or less than that of the first substrate.

[0030] The thickness of the optical member may be equal to or smaller than the thickness of the first substrate.

[0031] The size of the optical member may be larger than the diameter of the first lens of the projector.

[0032] A distance between the optical member and the first substrate may be shorter than a distance between the optical member and the first lens of the projector.

[0033] A projector may have a viewing angle.

[0034] The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector may satisfy the following formula 3:

[0035] [Formula 3]

[0036] 1.9*[IC / 2+y3]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y3],

[0037] y3 = (distance between WG1S2 and L1S1 - thickness of optical component * tan(H_Fov) + thickness of optical component * tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n1)),

[0038] (Here, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate (first lens surface), WG1S2 represents the surface of the first substrate adjacent to the first lens of the projector (second surface), H_Fov represents 1 / 2 of the viewing angle θb of the projector, n0 represents the refractive index of air, n_WG1 represents the refractive index of the first substrate, and n1 represents the refractive index of the optical component).

[0039] A length from the first substrate to the optical member may be smaller than a thickness of the optical member.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the light guide device includes: a projector, the projector including a lens configured to emit light and a lens barrel coupled to the lens; a first substrate that guides the light emitted from the projector and is disposed adjacent to the projector, and a second substrate that is disposed below the first substrate; a first diffraction element area that is disposed on the first substrate and receives light; and a second diffraction element area that is disposed on the first substrate and spaced apart from the first diffraction element area, wherein the lens includes a first lens that is disposed closest to the first substrate, the first diffraction element area overlaps with the first lens of the projector in the optical axis direction of the first lens, and the diameter of the first diffraction element area of ​​the first substrate is smaller than the diameter of the first lens of the projector.

[0041] A projector may have a viewing angle.

[0042] The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector may satisfy the following formula 1:

[0043] [Formula 1]

[0044] 1.9*[IC / 2+y1]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y1],

[0045] y1 = distance between the first diffraction element area and L1S1 * tan(H_Fov),

[0046] (Here, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, H_Fov represents half or 0.5 times the viewing angle of the projector, and the distance between the first diffraction element area and L1S1 represents the shortest distance from the center of the first lens to the center of the diameter of the first diffraction element area).

[0047] A projector may have a viewing angle.

[0048] The first diffraction element region of the first substrate is disposed on a surface of the first substrate that does not face the first lens of the projector, of the two surfaces of the first substrate, and

[0049] The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector may satisfy the following formula 2:

[0050] [Formula 2]

[0051] 1.9*[IC / 2+y2]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y2],

[0052] y2=the distance between WG1S1 and L1S1*tan(H_Fov)+the thickness of the first substrate (WG1)*tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n_WG1)),

[0053] (Here, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, WG1S1 represents the surface of the first substrate not facing the first lens of the projector, H_Fov represents 1 / 2 times the viewing angle θb of the projector, n0 represents the diffraction index of air, and n_WG1 represents the diffraction index of the first substrate).

[0054] The light guide device may include an optical member disposed on the first diffractive element region of the first substrate.

[0055] A projector may have a viewing angle.

[0056] The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector may satisfy the following formula 3:

[0057] [Formula 3]

[0058] 1.9*[IC / 2+y3]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y3],

[0059] y3 = (distance between WG1S2 and L1S1 - thickness of optical component * tan(H_Fov) + thickness of optical component * tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n1)),

[0060] (Here, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate (first lens surface), WG1S2 represents the surface of the first substrate adjacent to the first lens of the projector (second surface), H_Fov represents 1 / 2 of the viewing angle θb of the projector, n0 represents the refractive index of air, n_WG1 represents the refractive index of the first substrate, and n1 represents the refractive index of the optical component). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an extended reality electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an augmented reality electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a projection device according to an embodiment.

[0064] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a projection device according to an embodiment.

[0065] Figure 5 2 is a diagram showing a projection device and a light guide device according to a first embodiment.

[0066] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Magnified view of the K1 section.

[0067] Figure 7 is a diagram showing a light guide device according to a first embodiment.

[0068] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Magnified view of the K2 portion.

[0069] Fig. 9 2 is a diagram showing a projection device and a light guide device according to a second embodiment.

[0070] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 An enlarged view of the K3 portion of FIG.

[0071] Fig.11 2 is a diagram showing a projection device and a light guide device according to a third embodiment.

[0072] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 An enlarged view of the K4 portion of the image.

[0073] Fig.13 2 is a diagram showing a projection device and a light guide device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0074] Fig.14 yes Fig.13 An enlarged view of the K5 portion of FIG.

[0075] Fig.15 is a graph showing the effect of the light guide device according to the embodiment.

[0076] Fig.16 is a diagram for describing the length when the light guide device according to the embodiment is used.

[0077] Fig.17 2 is a diagram showing a projection device and a light guide device according to a fifth embodiment.

[0078] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 An enlarged view of the K6 section in FIG.

[0079] Fig.19 2 is a diagram showing a projection device and a light guide device according to a sixth embodiment.

[0080] Fig. 20 2 is a diagram showing a light guide device according to a seventh embodiment.

[0081] Fig.21 is a block diagram showing an example of an electronic device (camera module) according to an embodiment.

[0082] Fig. 22 Is used to describe Fig.21 FIG. 1 is a diagram of the configuration and operation of a camera device module.

[0083] Fig.23 yes Fig. 22 Modification example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0084] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0085] However, the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments described, but can be implemented in various different forms, and these components can be used by selectively coupling or replacing one or more components in the embodiments without departing from the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0086] In addition, unless explicitly and specifically defined and described otherwise, the terms (including technical terms and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as meanings that are generally understood by technicians in the field to which the present invention belongs, and the meanings of commonly used terms such as terms defined in dictionaries may be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meanings of the relevant technology.

[0087] In addition, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0088] In the specification, unless otherwise specified in a phrase, a singular form may include a plural form, and when described as "at least one (or one or more) of A, B, and C", it may include one or more combinations of all possible combinations of A, B, and C.

[0089] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used to describe components of embodiments of the present invention.

[0090] These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another component, and the nature, sequence, order, etc. of the corresponding components are not limited by these terms.

[0091] In addition, when a first component is described as being “connected,” “coupled” or “engaged” to a second component, it may include a case where the first component is directly connected, coupled or engaged to the second component, and may include a case where the first component is “connected,” “coupled” or “engaged” to the second component via other components existing between the first component and the second component.

[0092] In addition, when a certain component is described as being formed or disposed “on (above)” or “under (below)” another component, it may include not only a case where the two components are in direct contact with each other but also a case where one or more other components are formed or disposed between the two components. In addition, when described as “on (above) or under (below)”, it may include not only a meaning based on an upward direction of one component but also a meaning based on a downward direction.

[0093] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an extended reality electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Reference Figure 1 , 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, and a power supply unit 28. Figure 1 The components shown in are not necessary to implement the electronic device 20, and thus the electronic device 20 described herein may have more or fewer components than those listed above.

[0095] More specifically, among the components, the wireless communication unit 21 may include one or more modules that implement 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] The input unit 22 may include a camera or a video input unit for inputting a video signal, a microphone or an audio input unit for inputting an audio signal, and a user input unit (e.g., a touch key, a mechanical key, etc.) for receiving information from a user. The voice data or image data collected by the input unit 22 may be analyzed and processed by a user's control command.

[0098] 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 the surrounding environment around the electronic device 20 , and user information.

[0099] 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 gravity sensor, a gyro sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared sensor (IR sensor), a finger scan sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor (e.g., a capture device), a microphone, a battery gauge, an environmental sensor (e.g., a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation detection sensor, a heat detection sensor, a gas detection sensor, etc.), and a chemical sensor (e.g., an electronic nose, a health care sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.). Meanwhile, the electronic device 20 disclosed herein may use information sensed by at least two or more of these sensors in combination.

[0100] The output unit 24 is used to generate output related to vision, hearing or touch, and may include at least one of a display unit, an audio output unit, a tactile module and a light output unit. The display unit may form a mutual layer structure with the touch sensor or be formed as a single body to implement a touch screen. The touch screen may be used as a user input device to provide an input interface between the AR electronic device 20 and the user, and to provide an output interface between the AR electronic device 20 and the user.

[0101] The interface unit 25 serves as a passage for various types of external devices connected to the electronic device 20. Through the interface unit 25, the electronic device 20 may receive VR or AR content from the external device and perform interaction by exchanging various input signals, sensing signals, and data.

[0102] For example, the interface unit 25 may include a wired / wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device provided with an identification module, an audio input / output (I / O) port, a video I / O port, and a headphone port.

[0103] 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 running on the electronic device 20, data for the operation of the electronic device 20, and commands. 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 from the time of shipment for basic functions of the electronic device 20 (e.g., call receiving and sending functions and message receiving and sending functions).

[0104] In addition to operations related to application programs, the control unit 27 generally controls the overall operation of the electronic device 20. The control unit 27 may process signals, data, information, etc. input or output through the above-mentioned components.

[0105] In addition, the control unit 27 can control at least some of the components by executing the application program stored in the memory 26 for providing appropriate information to the user or the processing function. In addition, the control unit 27 can operate at least two or more of the components included in the electronic device 20 in combination to execute the application program.

[0106] In addition, the control unit 27 may detect the movement of the electronic device 20 or the user using a gyro sensor, a gravity sensor, a motion sensor, etc. included in the sensing unit 23. Alternatively, the control unit 27 may detect an object approaching the electronic device 20 or the user using a proximity sensor, an illumination sensor, a magnetic sensor, an IR sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor, etc. included in the sensing unit 23. In addition, the control unit 27 may detect the movement of the user through a sensor provided in a controller that operates in cooperation with the electronic device 20.

[0107] In addition, the control unit 27 may perform operations (or functions) of the electronic device 20 using applications stored in the memory 26 .

[0108] The power supply unit 28 receives external power or internal power under the control of the control unit 27 to supply power to each component 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.

[0109] According to various embodiments described below, at least some of the components may operate cooperatively to implement the operation, control or control method of the electronic device. In addition, the operation, control or control method of the electronic device may be implemented on the electronic device by executing at least one application stored in the memory 26.

[0110] Hereinafter, the electronic device described as an example of the present invention will be described based on an embodiment applied to a head-mounted display (HMD). However, embodiments of the electronic device according to the present invention may include mobile phones, smart phones, laptop computers, digital broadcast terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation systems, flat PCs, tablet PCs, ultrabooks, wearable devices, etc. In addition to HMDs, wearable devices may also include watch-type terminals (smart watches), contact lenses, VR / AR / MR glasses, etc.

[0111] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an AR electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] like Figure 2 As shown, the electronic device according to the embodiment of the present invention may include a frame 100 , a projection device 200 , and a display unit 300 .

[0113] The electronic device may be made into a glass type (smart glass). The glass type electronic device is configured to be worn on the head of a human body, and for this purpose, may have a frame 100 (housing, housing, etc.). The frame 100 may be made of a flexible material for easy wearing.

[0114] The frame 100 is supported on the head and provides a space for installing various components. As shown in the figure, electronic components such as a projection device 200, a user input unit 130, an audio output unit 140, etc. 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.

[0115] As shown in the figure, the frame 100 may have the form of glasses worn on the face of the user's body, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and may also have the form of goggles such as worn close to the user's face.

[0116] The frame 100 may include a front frame 110 having at least one opening and a plurality of openings extending in the y direction (in the Figure 2 A pair of side frames 120 extending from the front frame 110 and intersecting the front frame 110 and being parallel to each other.

[0117] The length D1 of the frame 100 in the x-direction and the length L1 in the y-direction may be the same or different.

[0118] The projection device 200 is provided for controlling various electronic components provided in the electronic device. The projection device 200 may be used interchangeably with "optical output device", "optical projection device", "light radiating device", "optical device", "projector" and the like.

[0119] The projection device 200 may generate an image displayed to a user or a video having continuous images. The projection device 200 may include an image source panel for generating an image, a plurality of lenses for diffusing and converging light generated from the image source panel, and the like.

[0120] The projection device 200 may be fixed to one of the two side frames 120. For example, the projection device 200 may be fixed to the inside or outside of one side frame 120, or may be integrally formed by being built into one side frame 120. Alternatively, the projection device 200 may be fixed to the front frame 110 or provided separately from the electronic device.

[0121] The display unit 300 can be implemented in the form of an HMD. The HMD form refers to a display method that is mounted on the head to display an image directly in front of the user's eyes. When the user wears the electronic device, the display unit 300 can be arranged to correspond to at least one of the left eye and the right eye to provide an image directly in front of the user's eyes. The figure shows an example in which the display unit 300 is located in front of the part corresponding to the right eye to output an image toward the user's right eye. However, as described above, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the display unit 300 can be arranged in front of both the left eye and the right eye.

[0122] The display unit 300 may enable the user to intuitively perceive the external environment and simultaneously enable the user to see the image generated by the projection device 200. For example, the display unit 300 may project the image onto the display area using a prism.

[0123] In addition, the display unit 300 may be formed to be transparent so that the projected image and the overall forward field of view (the range seen by the user's eyes) can be seen at the same time. For example, the display unit 300 may be translucent and formed of an optical member including glass. For example, the display unit 300 may be a light guide device or may include a light guide device.

[0124] In addition, the display unit 300 may be fixedly inserted into 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) and fixed to the front frame 110. The figure shows an example in which the display unit 300 is located on the rear surface of the opening and fixed to the front frame 110, but alternatively, the display unit 300 may be fixedly provided at various positions of the frame 100.

[0125] like Figure 2 As shown, when the projection device 200 projects image light for an image to one side of the display unit 300 , the electronic device may emit the image light to the other side through the display unit 300 , so that the user sees the image generated by the projection device 200 .

[0126] Therefore, the user can see the external environment through the opening of the frame 100 and at the same time see the image generated by the projection device 200. That is, the image output by the display unit 300 can be viewed by overlapping with the total field of view. The electronic device can provide AR using such display characteristics, so that a virtual image can be overlapped with a real image or background to be displayed as a single image.

[0127] In addition, in addition to such a manner, the external environment and the image generated by the projection device 200 can be provided to the user using a time difference in a short time that the person may not perceive. For example, the external environment can be provided to the person in one section of one frame, and the image provided by the projection device 200 can be provided to the person in another section.

[0128] Alternatively, both overlap and time difference may be provided.

[0129] In addition, the projection device according to the embodiment may have the structure described below, or have a structure that additionally includes a waveguide and / or glass in the corresponding structure. In addition, the projection device may include a digital light processing (DLP) projector or a projection device.

[0130] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a projection device according to an embodiment, Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a projection device according to an embodiment.

[0131] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the projection device 200 according to the embodiment may include a light source unit, a housing, a lens unit, a light modulator, and a projection lens unit 290 .

[0132] The housing may have a space or housing groove for accommodating or arranging various components of the projection device 200. The housing may be located at the outermost side of the projection device 200.

[0133] In addition, the housing may be a structure having one open side. Therefore, the above components can be assembled through the open area or surface. The housing may have various shapes. For example, the housing may have a hexahedral structure. Therefore, the projection device according to the embodiment can be easily mounted on an electronic device. In addition, the projection device according to the embodiment can be easily miniaturized or compact.

[0134] The light source unit may be disposed inside the housing. The light source unit may be disposed adjacent to one of the outer surfaces of the housing.

[0135] The light source unit may include at least one light source. In addition, when there are a plurality of light sources, these light sources may emit light of different wavelength bands or colors.

[0136] In addition, the lens unit may be formed by at least one optical element (eg, a lens). The lens unit may focus light. With this configuration, the loss of light emitted from the light source may be reduced, and the volume of the projection device may be easily reduced.

[0137] Additionally, the lens unit may align or change the path of light by including a relay lens, etc. Additionally, the lens unit may adjust the size of the illumination or image (maximum area of ​​light) provided by the illumination system or compensate for optical differences.

[0138] In addition, the lens unit may include an element (eg, a prism, etc.) for changing the light path.

[0139] For example, the lens unit may include a total internal reflection prism (TIR prism). The prism may change the traveling direction of light as described above. That is, the prism may perform transmission and reflection of light. With this configuration, the projection device according to the embodiment may be miniaturized.

[0140] The light modulator may be disposed at the rear end of the prism. The light modulator may transmit light transmitted by the prism back to the prism. The light modulator may reflect incident light and project a video. For example, the light modulator may transmit or project a video or image based on a video signal incident through a substrate or the like. That is, the light modulator may modulate the light emitted from the light source.

[0141] The light modulator according to an embodiment may include a digital micromirror device (DMD).The light modulator may include a plurality of small mirrors.

[0142] The projection lens unit 290 may be disposed at the rear end of the prism. In addition, the projection lens unit 290 may be located at the rear end of the projection device 200. When the light emitted from the light modulator is reflected by the prism, the light reflected by the prism may be incident on the projection lens unit 290. The above light may be projected from the projection lens unit 290. The projection lens unit 290 may project the light emitted from the projection device onto a screen or a waveguide (or a display unit).

[0143] In an embodiment, the projection lens unit 290 may adjust the size of an image so that light is incident on an entrance pupil diameter (EPD) of a waveguide or the like.

[0144] To this end, the projection lens unit 290 according to the embodiment may include a lens barrel 291 and a plurality of lenses L1 to L4 (or optical systems) disposed in the lens barrel.

[0145] A projection device according to an embodiment may include an illumination system and a projection system (or a projection system, a projection unit, a projection unit, a projection unit, etc.).

[0146] The illumination system may include a prism as a component, receive light (illumination light) from a light source and emit the light in a predetermined direction. The illumination light may be transmitted or provided to a light modulator of a projection system.

[0147] The illumination system may include a prism, a light modulator, and a projection lens unit 290. The projection system may include a prism as a component. In an embodiment, the prism may be an element of the illumination system and the projection system.

[0148] In addition, the projection system may further include the above-mentioned illumination system. That is, the projection system may modulate the illumination light generated in the illumination system through the light modulator, and emit or radiate the illumination light in a predetermined direction through the prism and the projection lens unit 290.

[0149] The light modulator may reflect the illumination light as patterned light or the like, and the patterned light may pass through the projection lens unit 290 and may be output to the outside of the projection device.

[0150] Furthermore, the output unit of the projection device and the input unit of the waveguide or wavelength guide (waveguide) or light guiding device may be positioned correspondingly.

[0151] In an embodiment, as described above, the projection lens unit 290 may include a plurality of lenses L1 to L4. The plurality of lenses may include a first lens L1, a second lens L2, a third lens L3, and a fourth lens L4. The first lens L1 may be positioned at the outermost side of the projection device 200. In addition, the first lens L1 may be positioned closest to the light guide, the waveguide of the light guide, or the first substrate. Therefore, light transmitted through the first lens L1 may be guided to the first substrate of the light guide.

[0152] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a projection device and a light guide device according to a first embodiment, Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The enlarged view of the K1 part in Figure 7 is a diagram showing a light guide device according to a first embodiment, Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Magnified view of the K2 portion.

[0153] Reference Figures 5 to 8 In this embodiment, the light guide device 300 may include the projection device 200, or may not include the projection device 200. For example, the light guide device 300 may include the projection device 200, a substrate, and a diffraction element (diffraction element region). Alternatively, the light guide device 300 may include a substrate and a diffraction element (diffraction element region).

[0154] The light guide device 300 according to the first embodiment may include a first substrate 311 and first diffraction element units 312, 313, and 314. In addition, the light guide device 300 according to the embodiment may include a projection device (hereinafter referred to as a projector) 200. As described above, the light guide device 300 may be a structure separated from the projector 200, in which case the first lens L1 of the projector 200 and the light guide device 300 may be arranged spaced apart from each other, and the light guide device 300 will be described below. In addition, the projector 200 may include a projection lens unit 290, which includes a plurality of lenses and a lens barrel 291 as described above. In particular, the lens of the projector 200 may include a first lens L1. In this case, the first lens L1 may be arranged closest to the first substrate 311.

[0155] In addition, the first diffraction element unit according to the embodiment may include a plurality of diffraction element regions. The first diffraction element unit may be disposed on the first substrate 311 and may have a nanometer unit pattern. Therefore, the first diffraction element unit may diffract and guide the light incident from the projector 200. For example, the first diffraction element unit may include a first diffraction element region 312 and a second diffraction element region 314. In addition, the first diffraction element unit may include a third diffraction element region 313 positioned between the first diffraction element region 312 and the second diffraction element region 314. The first diffraction element region 312 may correspond to an "input coupler". The second diffraction element region 314 may correspond to an "output coupler". The third diffraction element region 313 may correspond to a folded grating.

[0156] The light guide device 300 may change the path of light output from the light output unit and output the light back to the outside. The light may be incident on the first diffraction element area 312, the third diffraction element area 313, and the second diffraction element area 314 in sequence and output back to the outside. The direction of the light incident on the light guide device 300 may be a first direction. The first direction may be the incident direction of the light or a direction opposite thereto.

[0157] In an embodiment, the first substrate 311 can guide the light emitted from the projector 200. The first substrate 311 can be used as a path for transmitted light. The first diffraction element area 312, the third diffraction element area 313, and the second diffraction element area 314 can be arranged on the first substrate 311. The light can be completely reflected from the inside of the first substrate 311 and can travel along the inside of the first substrate 311. The first substrate 311 may include a waveguide. The first diffraction element area 312, the third diffraction element area 313, and the second diffraction element area 314 can be arranged on the first substrate 311 spaced apart from each other. The first substrate 311 can extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction of light incidence. The refractive index of the first substrate 311 can be in the range of 1.4 to 2.0.

[0158] The first diffraction element area 312 can guide light to be incident on the first substrate 311. That is, the first diffraction element area 312 can be used as a guide for light. Alternatively, the first diffraction element area 312 can receive light. The first diffraction element area 312 can be used to guide light to be incident on the first substrate 311. The first diffraction element area 312 can be arranged on the first substrate 311. Light can be incident on the light guide device 300 from the outside or the projector 200 through the first diffraction element area 312, and transmitted along the first substrate 311 to the second diffraction element area 314 and the third diffraction element area 313. The first diffraction element area 312 can change the path of light by diffracting light.

[0159] The third diffraction element region 313 can be used to change the path of light. The third diffraction element region 313 can be disposed on the first substrate 311. The third diffraction element region 313 can change the path of light incident through the first diffraction element region 312. The third diffraction element region 313 can change the path of light to guide the light toward the second diffraction element region 314. The third diffraction element region 313 can change the path of light by diffracting light.

[0160] The second diffraction element area 314 can guide the light to be emitted to the outside, such as the user. The second diffraction element area 314 can be arranged on the first substrate 311. The light can be emitted to the outside of the light guide device 300 through the second diffraction element area 314. The second diffraction element area 314 can receive the light whose path has been changed from the first transmission element and emit it outward. The second diffraction element area 314 can change the path of the light and emit it outward. The first emitting diffraction element can change the path of the light by diffracting light. The second diffraction element area 314 can be arranged to be spaced apart from the first diffraction element area 312. In addition, the second diffraction element area 314 can cause the light to emit.

[0161] The first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, and the second diffraction element region 314 may include a plurality of protrusions. The plurality of protrusions may have a constant width, period, and height, and may be arranged on the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, and the second diffraction element region 314. The plurality of protrusions may protrude along the first direction on the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, and the second diffraction element region 314. The plurality of protrusions may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vector direction of the pattern including the protrusions. Depending on the width, period, and height of the plurality of protrusions, the path of light may change differently after passing through the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, and the second diffraction element region 314. The width of the protrusion may be the width of the pattern including the protrusion in the vector direction. The period of the protrusion may be the interval of the pattern of the protrusion between one side surface of the protrusion and the same side surface of the adjacent protrusion. The height of the protrusion may be the height of the protruding portion of the protrusion in the first direction. The protrusion may be arranged to have a predetermined pattern.

[0162] In an embodiment, the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, and the second diffraction element region 314 may be formed of the same material or different materials. For example, the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, and the second diffraction element region 314 may be formed of the same material. In addition, the refractive index of the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, and the second diffraction element region 314 may be in the range of 1.7 to 2.7.

[0163] In addition, the profile (boundary area) of the first diffraction element area 312 does not overlap with the profile (boundary area) of the third diffraction element area 313. When these profiles overlap each other, because the partial light incident on the second diffraction element area 314 from the third diffraction element area 313 is blocked, it is possible that the video cannot be emitted from the second diffraction element area 314 due to the blocked area. Since the profile (boundary area) of the first diffraction element area 312 overlaps with the profile (boundary area) of the third diffraction element area 313, the efficiency is reduced, so it is preferred that the profile (boundary area) of the first diffraction element area 312 does not overlap with the profile (boundary area) of the third diffraction element area 313.

[0164] The third diffraction element region 313 according to an embodiment may include a first region 313 a adjacent to the second diffraction element region 314 and a second region 313 b contacting the first region 313 a and spaced apart from the second diffraction element region 314 .

[0165] The first area 313a and the second area 313b may be a part of the third diffraction element area 313. When the third diffraction element area 313 is observed in the first direction of the incident light signal, the first area 313a and the second area 313b may be two separated areas. The first area 313a may be an area of ​​the third diffraction element area 313 adjacent to the second diffraction element area 314. The first area 313a may be an area of ​​the third diffraction element area 313 adjacent to the first diffraction element area 312. The second area 313b may be an area of ​​the third diffraction element area 313 spaced apart from the second diffraction element area 314. The second area 313b may be an area of ​​the third diffraction element area 313 spaced apart from the first diffraction element area 312. The spacing distance between the first area 313a and the second diffraction element area 314 may be less than the spacing distance between the second area 313b and the second diffraction element area 314. The shapes or areas of the first area 313a and the second area 313b may be different. The first region 313a and the second region 313b may each include a plurality of surfaces. Some surfaces of the first region 313a may be in contact with some surfaces of the second region 313b.

[0166] The first area 313a may include a first pattern, and the first pattern may include a first protrusion protruding along a first direction. The second area 313b may include a second pattern and include a second protrusion protruding along the first direction. The first protrusion and the second protrusion may be portions protruding from the first area 313a and the second area 313b along the first direction, respectively. The first direction may be a direction in which light emitted from a projector is incident on the first diffraction element area 312. The first direction may be a direction in which light is incident or a direction opposite thereto. The first direction is a direction perpendicular to the first substrate 311.

[0167] The first protrusion and the second protrusion may be repeatedly arranged on the first area 313a and the second area 313b with a predetermined period, width and height. A plurality of first protrusions may be arranged perpendicular to the first direction and spaced apart from each other in the vector direction of the first area 313a of the third diffractive element area 313. A plurality of second protrusions may be arranged perpendicular to the first direction and spaced apart from each other in the vector direction of the second area 313b of the third diffractive element area 313.

[0168] In addition, in the light guide device 300 according to the embodiment, the first diffraction element region 312 may overlap with the first lens L1 in the optical axis direction (e.g., corresponding to the first direction in the case of vertical arrangement) of the first lens L1 of the projector 200. That is, the first lens L1 and the first diffraction element region 312 may overlap with respect to the optical axis direction of the first lens L1. With this configuration, the light emitted through the first lens L1 of the projector 200 may be provided to the first diffraction element region 312 without loss. Therefore, the light loss of the light guide device according to the embodiment may be minimized, thereby improving light efficiency.

[0169] In addition, the first substrate 311 and the first diffraction element unit may have the same or different refractive indexes. The refractive index of the first substrate 311 may be in the range of 1.4 to 2.0. For example, the first substrate 311 may include glass. In addition, the first diffraction element unit may be made of an insulating material. For example, the first diffraction element unit may include a polymer, TiO2, HfO2, Al2O3, SiO2, etc. In addition, the refractive index of the first diffraction element unit may be in the range of 1.7 to 2.7. The refractive index of the optical member (e.g., cover glass) described below may be in the range of 1.4 to 1.6.

[0170] In an embodiment, a diameter r2 of the first diffraction element region 312 on the first substrate 311 may be smaller than a diameter r3 of the first lens L1 of the projector 200 .

[0171] In addition, the diameter r2 of the first diffraction element region 312 of the first substrate 311 may be smaller than the diameter r1 of the lens barrel 291 of the projector 200 .

[0172] Therefore, the light guide device according to the embodiment can be easily miniaturized.

[0173] In addition, according to the embodiment, the first lens L1 of the projector 200 and the first diffraction element region 312 on the first substrate 311 may be disposed to face each other. Thus, the light guide device according to the embodiment can minimize the loss of light.

[0174] In addition, the projector 200 according to the embodiment may have a predetermined viewing angle θa. The viewing angle θa may be referred to as a field of view (FOV), a viewing angle, or the like.

[0175] A diameter r2 of the first diffraction element region 312 on the first substrate 311 and a diameter r3 of the first lens L1 of the projector 200 according to the embodiment may satisfy the following Formula 1.

[0176] [Formula 1]

[0177] 1.9*[IC / 2+y1]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y1].

[0178] y1 = distance between the first diffractive element area and L1S1 (first lens surface) * tan(H_Fov).

[0179] Here, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, H_Fov represents half or 0.5 times the viewing angle θa of the projector, and the distance (D1) between the first diffraction element area and L1S1 represents the shortest distance from the center of the first lens to the center of the diameter of the first diffraction element area.

[0180] Therefore, since the projector and the light guide device have predetermined sizes and are disposed on the side surface of the user (e.g., an area adjacent to the ear) when the electronic device is worn on the user's face, collision between the projector and the user's face can be avoided.

[0181] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a projector and a light guide device according to a second embodiment, Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 An enlarged view of the K3 portion of FIG.

[0182] Reference Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , the light guide device 300A according to the second embodiment may include a first substrate 311 and first diffraction element units 312, 313 and 314. In addition, the light guide device 300A may include the projector 200. Alternatively, the projector 200 may be separated from the light guide device 300A. Except for the following content, all the above contents may be applied to the description thereof.

[0183] In the present embodiment, the first diffraction element region 312 on the first substrate 311 may be disposed on a surface 311S1 or WG1S1 that does not face the first lens L1 of the projector 200 , of the two surfaces of the first substrate 311 .

[0184] For example, the first substrate 311 may include two surfaces spaced apart from each other or facing each other in the first direction. The first substrate 311 may include a first surface 311S1 and a second surface 311S2. The first surface 311S1 may be a surface that does not face the first lens L1. The second surface 311S2 may be a surface that faces the first lens L1. The distance between the first surface 311S1 and the first lens L1 may be greater than the distance between the second surface 311S2 and the first lens L1.

[0185] That is, unlike the first embodiment, in this embodiment, the first diffraction element region 312 can be set on a surface (first surface) of the first substrate 311 that is farther from the projector 200 than the surface (second surface) adjacent to the projector 200.

[0186] In addition, the first lens L1 may also include a first lens surface L1S1 adjacent to the second surface or the first substrate 311 and a second lens surface L1S2 opposite to the first lens surface L1S1. The second lens surface L1S2 may not face the first substrate 311.

[0187] According to an embodiment, the projector 200 may have a viewing angle θb. In addition, in an embodiment, a diameter r2 of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and a diameter r3 of the first lens of the projector may satisfy the following Formula 2.

[0188] [Formula 2]

[0189] 1.9*[IC / 2+y2]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y2].

[0190] y2 = distance between WG1S1 and L1S1 (D2) * tan (H_Fov) + thickness T1 of first substrate (WG1) (refer to Fig.12 )*tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n_WG1)).

[0191] Here, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element region, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate (first lens surface), 311S1 or WG1S1 represents the surface of the first lens of the first substrate that does not face the projector (first surface), and H_Fov represents 1 / 2 of the viewing angle θb of the projector. In addition, n0 represents the refractive index of air, and n_WG1 represents the refractive index of the first substrate.

[0192] Fig.11 is a diagram showing a projector and a light guide device according to a third embodiment, Fig.12 yes Fig.11 An enlarged view of the K4 portion of the image.

[0193] Reference Fig.11 and Fig.12 , the light guide device 300B according to the third embodiment may include a first substrate 311 and first diffraction element units 312, 313 and 314. In addition, the light guide device 300B may include a projector 200. Alternatively, the projector 200 may be separated from the light guide device 300B. All of the above contents may be applied to the description thereof except for the following contents.

[0194] In the present embodiment, in addition to the first substrate 311 , the first diffraction element region 312 , the third diffraction element region 313 , and the second diffraction element region 314 as described above, the light guide device 300B may further include an optical member 330 .

[0195] The optical member 330 may be located on the first substrate 311, the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, and the second diffraction element region 314. The optical member 330 may be disposed adjacent to the projector 200 compared to the first substrate 311, the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, and the second diffraction element region 314. Light may pass through the optical member 330 and may be incident on the first diffraction element region 312. In addition, light may pass through the second diffraction element region and may be emitted through the optical member 330. The optical member 330 may have an effect of protecting the interior of the light guide device 300B. The optical member 330 may be a "cover glass". The refractive index of the optical member 330 according to the embodiment may be greater than the refractive index of air and equal to or less than the refractive index of the first substrate 311. The refractive index of the optical member 330 may be in the range of 1.4 to 1.6.

[0196] The size of the optical member 330 may be greater than the diameter of the first lens L1 of the projector 200. For example, the length of the optical member 330 in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction may be greater than the diameter r3 of the first lens L1.

[0197] In addition, the distance gap1 between the optical member 330 and the first substrate 311 may be smaller than the distance gap2 between the optical member 330 and the projector 200. With this configuration, light deformation according to the user's facial shape can be minimized and the light guide device can be miniaturized.

[0198] In addition, in this embodiment, the projector may have a viewing angle θa.

[0199] In addition, the diameter r2 of the first diffraction element region 312 of the first substrate and the diameter r3 of the first lens L1 of the projector may satisfy Formula 3.

[0200] [Formula 3]

[0201] 1.9*[IC / 2+y3]<=diameter r3 of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y3].

[0202] y3=(the distance “D1” or “gap1+T2+gap2” between WG1S2 (or 311S2) and L1S1−the thickness of the optical member T2*tan(H_Fov)+the thickness of the optical member T2*tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n1)).

[0203] Here, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element region, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate (first lens surface), 311S2 or WG1S2 represents the surface of the first substrate adjacent to the first lens of the projector (second surface), and H_Fov represents 1 / 2 of the viewing angle θb of the projector. In addition, n0 represents the refractive index of air, and n_WG1 represents the refractive index of the first substrate. In addition, n1 represents the refractive index of the optical member 330.

[0204] In addition, in an embodiment, a length gap1 from the first substrate 311 to the optical member 330 may be smaller than a thickness T2 of the cover glass. In addition, the thickness T2 of the cover glass may be the same as or different from the thickness T1 of the first substrate 311.

[0205] Fig.13 2 is a diagram showing a projector and a light guide device according to a fourth embodiment. Fig.14 yes Fig.13 An enlarged view of the K5 portion of FIG.

[0206] Reference Fig.13 and Fig.14 , the light guide device 300C according to the fourth embodiment may include a first substrate 311 and first diffraction element units 312, 313 and 314. In addition, the light guide device 300C may include the projector 200. Alternatively, the projector 200 may be separated from the light guide device 300C. All of the above contents except the following contents may be applied to the description thereof.

[0207] In this embodiment, in addition to the first substrate 311 , the first diffraction element region 312 , the third diffraction element region 313 , and the second diffraction element region 314 as described above, the light guide device 300C may further include an optical member 330 .

[0208] In addition, the projection lens unit of the projector 200 may further include an additional optical member CG. The additional optical member CG may be a cover glass.

[0209] In addition, in this embodiment, the projector may have a viewing angle θa.

[0210] In addition, the diameter r2 of the first diffraction element region 312 of the first substrate and the diameter r3 of the first lens L1 of the projector may satisfy Formula 4.

[0211] [Formula 4]

[0212] 1.9*[IC / 2+y3]<=diameter r3 of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y3].

[0213] y3=(the distance “D1” or “gap1+T2+gap2” between WG1S2 (or 311S2) and L1S1-(the thickness of the optical component+the thickness of the additional optical component)*tan(H_Fov)+the thickness of the optical component 330*tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n1))+the thickness of the additional optical component CG*tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n2)).

[0214] Here, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate (first lens surface), 311S2 or WG1S2 represents the surface of the first substrate adjacent to the first lens of the projector (second surface), and H_Fov represents 1 / 2 of the viewing angle θa of the projector. In addition, n0 represents the refractive index of air, and n_WG1 represents the refractive index of the first substrate. In addition, n1 represents the refractive index of the optical member 330. n2 represents the refractive index of the additional optical member CG.

[0215] Fig.15 is a graph showing the effect of the light guide device according to the embodiment, Fig.16 is a diagram for describing the length when the light guide device according to the embodiment is used.

[0216] Reference Fig.15 and Fig.16 , the horizontal length D1 of the user's face (excluding the ears) and the vertical length D2 of the user's face (the maximum distance from the nose tip to the back of the head) each define a head ellipse based on the 50th percentile (e.g., the median). Therefore, D1 is set to 139 mm and D2 is set to 215 mm. In the following, the unit of length, thickness, etc. is mm.

[0217] [Table 1]

[0218]

[0219]

[0220]

[0221]

[0222]

[0223]

[0224]

[0225] In this case, when the values ​​of Table 1 are obtained, Table 2 is set as the parameter values.

[0226] [Table 2]

[0227]

[0228]

[0229] Therefore, in Fig.15 In , LI1 represents a shape corresponding to the user's face, and as shown in Table 1, when LI2, i.e., the distance from the projector to the first substrate is adjusted (tested by adjusting the thickness of the cover glass as an optical member), it can be seen that a collision with the user's face occurs when the distance from the projector to the first substrate is greater than 42 mm. Fig.15 In , the x-axis and the y-axis refer to length (mm), and refer to the horizontal length and the vertical length of the face. Therefore, based on the expression according to the embodiment, conflicts between users can also be avoided.

[0230] Fig.17 is a diagram showing a projector and a light guide device according to a fifth embodiment, Fig.18 yes Fig.17 An enlarged view of the K6 section in FIG.

[0231] Reference Fig.17 and Fig.18 , the light guide device 300D according to the fifth embodiment may include a first substrate 311 and first diffraction element units 312, 313 and 314. In addition, the light guide device 300D may include the projector 200. Alternatively, the projector 200 may be separated from the light guide device 300D. All of the above contents may be applied to the description thereof except for the following contents.

[0232] In this embodiment, in addition to the first substrate 311 , the first diffraction element region 312 , the third diffraction element region 313 and the second diffraction element region 314 as described above, the light guide device 300D may also include a second substrate 321 and second diffraction element units 322 , 323 and 324 .

[0233] That is, as described above, the light guide device 300D according to the present embodiment may include a first substrate 311, a first diffraction element region 312, a third diffraction element region 313, a second diffraction element region 314, a second substrate 321, a fourth diffraction element region 322, a sixth diffraction element region 323 and a fifth diffraction element region 324.

[0234] The second substrate 321, the fourth diffraction element region 322, the sixth diffraction element region 323, and the fifth diffraction element region 324 may be disposed on a lower surface of the first substrate 311. For example, the second substrate 321 may be located below the first substrate 311.

[0235] The second substrate 321, the fourth diffraction element area 322, the sixth diffraction element area 323 and the fifth diffraction element area 324 may be arranged on the first substrate 311 and spaced apart from the projector 200. The second substrate 321, the fourth diffraction element area 322, the sixth diffraction element area 323 and the fifth diffraction element area 324 may overlap with the first substrate 311 in the first direction of light incidence. The fourth diffraction element area 322, the sixth diffraction element area 323 and the fifth diffraction element area 324 may be arranged between the first substrate 311 and the second substrate 321. The optical member 330 may be located on the first substrate 311, the first diffraction element area 312, the third diffraction element area 313 and the second diffraction element area 314. The optical member 330 may be arranged on the first substrate 311, the first diffraction element area 312, the third diffraction element area 313 and the second diffraction element area 314 adjacent to the projector 200. Light may pass through the optical member 330 and may be incident on the first diffraction element region 312. The optical member 330 may have an effect of protecting the inside of the light guide device 300D. The refractive index of the optical member 330 may be about 1.5.

[0236] The second substrate 321 can be used as a path for transmitting light. The fourth diffraction element area 322, the sixth diffraction element area 323 and the fifth diffraction element area 324 can be arranged on the second substrate 321. Light can be totally reflected from the inside of the second substrate 321 and can travel along the inside of the second substrate 321. The second substrate 321 may include a waveguide. The fourth diffraction element area 322, the sixth diffraction element area 323 and the fifth diffraction element area 324 can be arranged on the second substrate 321 spaced apart from each other. The second substrate 321 can be arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction of light incidence. The refractive index of the first substrate 311 and the second substrate 321 can be in the range of 1.4 to 2.0.

[0237] The fourth diffraction element region 322 may serve as a path along which light is incident. The second input diffraction element 1200 may be disposed on the second substrate 321. Light may be incident through the second input diffraction element 1200 and transmitted through the second substrate 321. The fourth diffraction element region 322 may change the path of light by diffracting light.

[0238] The sixth diffraction element region 323 can be used to change the path of light. The sixth diffraction element region 323 can be disposed on the second substrate 321. The sixth diffraction element region 323 can change the path of light incident through the fourth diffraction element region 322. The sixth diffraction element region 323 can change the path of light to guide the light toward the fifth diffraction element region 324. The sixth diffraction element region 323 can change the path of light by diffracting light.

[0239] The fifth diffraction element region 324 can be used as the path along which the emitted light follows. The fifth diffraction element region 324 can be arranged on the second substrate 321. The light can be emitted to the outside of the light guide device 300D through the fifth diffraction element region 324. The fifth diffraction element region 324 can receive the light whose path has been changed from the second transmission element and emit it outward. The fifth diffraction element region 324 can change the path of the light and emit it outward. The second emitting diffraction element can change the path of the light by diffracting the light.

[0240] The fourth diffraction element region 322, the sixth diffraction element region 323 and the fifth diffraction element region 324 may include a plurality of protrusions. The plurality of protrusions may have a constant width, period and height, and may be arranged on the fourth diffraction element region 322, the sixth diffraction element region 323 and the fifth diffraction element region 324. The plurality of protrusions may protrude along the first direction on the fourth diffraction element region 322, the sixth diffraction element region 323 and the fifth diffraction element region 324. The plurality of protrusions may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vector direction perpendicular to the first direction of the pattern including the protrusions. Depending on the width, period and height of the plurality of protrusions, the path of light may vary after passing through the fourth diffraction element region 322, the sixth diffraction element region 323 and the fifth diffraction element region 324. The width of the protrusion may be the width of the pattern including the protrusion in the vector direction. The period of the protrusion may be the interval of the pattern of the protrusion between one side surface of the protrusion and one side surface of the adjacent protrusion. The height of the protrusion may be the height of the part of the protrusion protruding in the first direction. The refractive index of the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, the second diffraction element region 314, the fourth diffraction element region 322, the sixth diffraction element region 323 and the fifth diffraction element region 324 may be in the range of 1.7 to 2.7. The refractive index of the first diffraction element region 312, the third diffraction element region 313, the second diffraction element region 314, the fourth diffraction element region 322, the sixth diffraction element region 323 and the fifth diffraction element region 324 may be greater than or equal to the refractive index of the first substrate 311 and the second substrate 321.

[0241] In addition, as described above, the first diffraction element region may be located on the lower surface (the surface not facing the projector, ie, the first surface) of the first substrate 311. In addition, an optical member may be located between the projector 200 and the first substrate 311.

[0242] In addition, Formulas 1 to 4 can also be applied in the same manner. In particular, Fig.19 Formula 3 is applied in the same manner.

[0243] Fig.19 2 is a diagram showing a projection device and a light guide device according to a sixth embodiment.

[0244] Reference Fig.19 , the light guide device 300E according to the sixth embodiment may include a first substrate 311 and first diffraction element units 312, 313 and 314. In addition, the light guide device 300E may include the projector 200. Alternatively, the projector 200 may be separated from the light guide device 300E. Except for the following content, all the above contents can be applied to the description thereof.

[0245] In this embodiment, as described above, the light guide device 300E according to this embodiment may include a first substrate 311, a first diffraction element region 312, a third diffraction element region 313, a second diffraction element region 314, a second substrate 321, a fourth diffraction element region 322, a sixth diffraction element region 323, a fifth diffraction element region 324 and an optical member 330.

[0246] In this regard, Formula 3 may be applied. As a modification, the light guide device 300E may have the optical member 330, and the projector 200 may also include an additional optical member (corresponding to the above-mentioned "CG"). In this case, Formula 4 may be applied.

[0247] Fig. 20 2 is a diagram showing a light guide device according to a seventh embodiment.

[0248] Reference Fig. 20 , the light guide device 300F according to the seventh embodiment may include a first substrate and first diffraction element units 313 and 314. All of the above contents except the following contents may be applied to the description thereof.

[0249] In this example, a light receiving unit IS (eg, an image sensor) may be provided on the light guide device 300F instead of the projector. Hereinafter, the light receiving unit or the image sensor will be described as the light receiving unit IS.

[0250] In addition, in this example, the optical path between the above-mentioned projector and the user (e.g., eye) can be replaced by the optical path between the light receiving unit IS and the user (e.g., eye). In addition, the optical path between the light receiving unit IS and the user (e.g., eye) can be a path opposite to the optical path between the above-mentioned projector and the user (e.g., eye). That is, as a path opposite to the optical path provided from the projector to the user (e.g., eye), the optical path between the light receiving unit IS and the user (e.g., eye) can be a case where light (e.g., image) for the user's eye is provided from the user (e.g., eye) to the second diffraction element region 314, and then provided from the first diffraction element region 312 to the light receiving unit IS via the first substrate.

[0251] In addition, the size of the first diffraction element area 312 can be larger than the size LD1 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light receiving unit IS. In addition, according to the design, the size of the first diffraction element area 312 can be smaller than the size LD1 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light receiving unit IS. Hereinafter, the size of the light receiving unit IS or the projector (or light source unit) can be the size of the effective diameter or the effective area, such as diameter, length, width, etc.

[0252] In addition, as described below, a projector may be additionally added. Therefore, the light projected by the projector may be transmitted to the user (e.g., eyes) through the first diffraction element region 312 and the second diffraction element region 314, and the light reflected from the user (e.g., eyes) may be incident on the light receiving unit IS through the second diffraction element region 314, the first diffraction element region 312 (or the additional diffraction element region 315).

[0253] The size LD2 (e.g., diameter, width) of the first diffraction element region 312 may be larger or smaller than the size (e.g., diameter, width) of the projector. In addition, the size of the first diffraction element region 312 may be larger or smaller than the size LD1 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light receiving unit IS. Figure 21 to Figure 23 A detailed description thereof is given.

[0254] Fig.21 is a block diagram showing an example (camera module) of an electronic device according to an embodiment, Fig. 22 Is used to describe Fig.21 A diagram of the configuration and operation of the camera device module, and Fig.23 yes Fig. 22 Modification example.

[0255] First, the electronic device may be a camera module or may include a camera module. In addition, the camera module (or electronic device) may be applied to a vehicle system. The vehicle system (or environment) may include a vehicle, a passenger (driver), and an electronic device. In the following description, the electronic device is described as a device separately provided in a vehicle, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device may be implemented as a part of a vehicle.

[0256] The vehicle may include a vehicle body and various devices for moving the vehicle body (e.g., wheels, a driving device for driving the wheels, a starting device for turning on the driving device, an engine for generating power and transmitting the generated power to the driving device, a steering device for controlling the direction of the vehicle, an acceleration device for controlling the speed of the vehicle, etc.). In addition, the vehicle may include various electrical systems. For example, the electrical system may include an engine control device for controlling the engine, a temperature control device for controlling the temperature inside the vehicle, a light control device for controlling the light according to external conditions, etc.

[0257] In particular, the vehicle may include a communication interface capable of communicating with the electronic device, and an additional processor for analyzing data transmitted through the communication interface and executing a preset function according to the analysis result.

[0258] The processor may be implemented as, for example, the above-mentioned engine control device or motor control unit. The communication interface may support at least one of various communication methods, such as a controller area network (CAN) communication supporting transmission and reception of data in the vehicle, wired communication through a cable connected to the electronic device, etc. As an example, the vehicle may receive an image or an image analysis result acquired by the electronic device, and execute a specified function according to the received result.

[0259] According to an embodiment, the electronic device may be connected to the camera module CM to acquire an image of the driver, may analyze the acquired image, and then perform various set functional processing (e.g., deceleration processing, turning on or off emergency lights, horn device control, vehicle vibration control, window opening / closing control, etc.) according to the analysis result. In addition, in addition to such functional processing, various functional processing may be additionally implemented.

[0260] In addition, the driver may be a person who can sit in the driver's seat and control the steering device, and may be the subject of the image to be captured by the electronic device. In the present invention, an example in which the electronic device acquires an image of the driver sitting in the driver's seat is described as a representative example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the monitoring system may be applied to acquire not only the image of the driver but also the image of the passenger sitting in the front passenger seat or other seats, and the image acquisition method may be adjusted according to various actions of the passenger.

[0261] The camera module CM may be disposed in a position in the vehicle where a passenger can be easily photographed. For example, the camera module CM may be disposed in various positions, such as a specific position of the vehicle such as a windshield (e.g., a position where a head-up display is disposed) or the bottom of the windshield, a dashboard, an instrument panel, etc., in order to obtain an image of a subject sitting in a driver's seat. In addition, the camera module CM may also be disposed in a position where it is difficult for a passenger to easily recognize the camera module CM.

[0262] In addition, the camera module CM connected to the electronic device may be set at a predetermined position in the vehicle to receive image information about passengers other than the driver of the vehicle. For example, there may be one or more camera modules CM, and the camera module CM may be positioned on a rearview mirror (or interior rearview mirror) or the like to detect all passengers other than the driver. Therefore, the camera module CM may generate images of all passengers.

[0263] Reference Fig.21 , the camera module CM according to the embodiment may include a light source unit 200A, a light guide device 300G, a light receiving unit IS, and a control unit COL.

[0264] First, the light source unit 200A may output light by a control signal. Finally, the light output from the light source unit 200A may be radiated to the object. In addition, the light radiated to the object may also be reflected and provided to the light receiving unit IS.

[0265] The light source unit 200A may include at least one light source. In addition, the at least one light source may emit light having a predetermined wavelength band or light having a predetermined central wavelength. In addition, the light source of the light source unit 200A may emit light having a predetermined pattern according to a pre-designed algorithm. The light source unit 200A may output light under the control of the control unit COL. The light source unit 200A may include the above-mentioned projector.

[0266] Hereinafter, output light or incident light is light output from the light source unit 200A and provided to the object, and input light or reflected light is light output from the light source unit 200A, reaches the object, is reflected from the object, and is input to the light receiving unit IS. That is, from the perspective of the object, the output light may be incident light, and the input light may be reflected light.

[0267] At least one light source of the light source unit 200A may output light having a predetermined wavelength band. For example, the light output from the light source may be infrared light having a wavelength of 770nm to 3000nm. In addition, the light output from the light source may be visible light having a wavelength of 380nm to 770nm. In addition, the light source of the light source unit 200A may emit light outside the above-mentioned wavelength range. In particular, the light source may radiate light having a specific wavelength band as described above so as not to cause harm to the driver or passengers in the vehicle, or radiate light having a specific energy or less energy so as not to cause harm to them.

[0268] The light source may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a laser diode (LD), a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), a plasma lamp, a fluorescent lamp, a xenon lamp, a halogen lamp, a neon lamp, etc. The light source may output light having a wavelength of about 800 nm to 1000 nm, for example, about 850 nm or about 940 nm.

[0269] The light guide device 300G can be disposed adjacent to the light source unit 200A and the light receiving unit IS. The light guide device 300G can guide the light radiated from the light source unit 200A and transmit the light to the object. In addition, the light guide device 300G can redirect the light reflected from the object and provide the light to the light receiving unit IS. In this way, the light guide device 300G can be configured to control the light and move the light to the desired path. That is, the light guide device 300G can perform both transmitting the light to the object (e.g., user, object, etc.) and receiving the reflected light. Therefore, the light guide device 300G can be configured to help the light from the camera module CM accurately reach the sensor or guide the light along a specific path so as to accurately transmit optical information. The light guide device 300G may include the above-mentioned light guide device or have a similar structure.

[0270] The light guide 300G may be made of materials such as glass, polymer, silicon, etc. The light guide 300G may include various other materials capable of guiding light.

[0271] In addition, the light guide device 300G can use diffraction to transmit light in a desired direction. Therefore, the light guide device 300G may include an optical element for determining the path of light on the substrate as a waveguide. The optical element may include various elements that operate based on diffraction.

[0272] In an embodiment, the light guide device 300G may include a diffractive element as a holographic optical element (HOE). The light guide device 300G may include an input diffractive element, an input / output diffractive element, and an output diffractive element as described below. For example, the input diffractive element, the input / output diffractive element, and the output diffractive element may be formed as a HOE.

[0273] In addition, HOE can diffract light (or rays) using interference patterns generated by laser interference to control light with a specific wavelength or diffract light in a desired direction. In such a diffraction process, Bragg's law can be applied, and the diffraction angle can be determined according to the wavelength of light and the structure of the HOE.

[0274] HOE can be formed by an interference pattern formed on a transparent substrate. As described above, the transparent substrate can be a waveguide and can be formed of various materials such as glass, plastic, polymer, etc. The interference pattern of the HOE can be precisely designed inside or on the surface of the substrate to guide light in a specific direction. In addition, the HOE can be classified into a transmission type in which diffraction occurs when light passes through and a reflection type in which diffraction occurs when light is reflected. Therefore, the position of the HOE can be changed on the substrate. Light can be precisely controlled by the HOE to provide a high-resolution image. In addition, the HOE can support high-speed data transmission through wavelength separation and combination in optical communications. In addition, the HOE can provide a miniaturized camera module because it is lighter and thinner than a conventional lens or mirror. A detailed description of the input diffraction element, the input / output diffraction element, and the output diffraction element as the diffraction element of the light guide device 300G will be described below.

[0275] The light receiving unit IS may receive light transmitted through the light guide device 300G. The light receiving unit IS may include an image sensor. The image sensor may receive light reflected from an object. Accordingly, the image sensor may detect light and convert the light into an electrical signal. For example, the image sensor may convert the electrical signal to generate a digital image. The image sensor may include a charge coupled device (CCD), a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS), an InGaAs sensor, a HgCdTe sensor, a microbolometer, etc. The light receiving unit IS may include an image sensor for receiving light of various wavelength bands other than the above content or examples.

[0276] In addition, the light receiving unit IS may also include a lens unit or an optical unit on the image sensor. Therefore, the size of the light receiving unit IS may correspond to the size of the effective diameter or effective area of ​​the lens unit or the optical unit. In particular, the size of the light receiving unit IS may be the diameter length of the effective diameter of the lens closest to the first substrate or facing the first substrate.

[0277] In addition, the light receiving unit IS may also be located near the light guide device 300G similarly to the light source unit 200A. Alternatively, an additional lens (not shown) may be provided between the light receiving unit IS and the light guide device 300G. The same applies between the light source unit 200A and the light guide device 300G.

[0278] The control unit COL may control the operation of the light source unit 200A and the light receiving unit IS. In addition, the control unit COL may generate depth information based on an image generated by the light receiving unit IS, or transmit and receive image information with other electronic devices such as a vehicle. The control unit COL may control the operation of components in the camera module and communicate with a processor in a device such as an external electronic device (such as a vehicle).

[0279] The control unit COL may include a processor, a microcontroller (MCU), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc., and may also be implemented in the form of an application processor (AP) of various electronic devices. Fig. 22 , the light guide device 300G may include a first substrate 311, an input diffraction element 312, an input / output diffraction element 314, and an output diffraction element 315. The input diffraction element 312 may correspond to the above-mentioned first diffraction element area. The input / output diffraction element 314 may correspond to the above-mentioned second diffraction element area. In addition, the output diffraction element 315 may be the first diffraction element area or the additional diffraction element area. In this way, the diffraction element area may correspond to a "diffraction element". For example, the input diffraction element 312 and the output diffraction element 315 may be formed integrally or separately. Accordingly, the first diffraction element area and the additional diffraction element area may be formed integrally or separately.

[0280] The input diffraction element 312, the input / output diffraction element 314, and the output diffraction element 315 may be disposed on the first substrate 311 as a waveguide. The input diffraction element 312, the input / output diffraction element 314, and the output diffraction element 315 may correspond to one of a transmission type and a reflection type, and may be located on one surface (e.g., an upper surface) or another surface (e.g., a lower surface) of the first substrate 311. For example, the input diffraction element 312 and the output diffraction element 315 may be located on a surface of the first substrate 311 opposite to the surface on which the input / output diffraction element 314 is disposed. That is, the input diffraction element 312 and the output diffraction element 315 may be located on a surface different from or opposite to the surface of the input / output diffraction element 314.

[0281] In addition, the input diffraction element 312, the input / output diffraction element 314, and the output diffraction element 315 are diffraction elements as described above, and may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other.

[0282] The input diffraction element 312 may be configured such that the incident angle of the optical axis of the light radiated from the light source unit 200A varies with the wavelength based on the grating vector of the input diffraction element 312 .

[0283] In addition, the input diffractive element 312 may be formed of a plurality of diffractive elements, or may include a plurality of regions. For example, the input diffractive element 312 may be formed of an integrated diffractive element. In an embodiment, the input diffractive element 312 may be formed of a plurality of sub-elements.

[0284] In addition, according to an embodiment, the light LG1 emitted from the light source unit 200A may be input to the input diffraction element 312 , and the input diffraction element 312 may diffract the light radiated from the light source unit 200A and guide it into the first substrate 311 .

[0285] The input diffraction element 312 may diffract the light LG1 provided from the light source unit 200A and guide the diffracted light LG1 into the first substrate 311 , and the light guided into the first substrate 311 may be provided to the input / output diffraction element 314 .

[0286] The input / output diffraction element 314 may diffract the light LG2 guided from the input diffraction element 122 to the first substrate 311 to an object, diffract the light LG3 reflected from the object and guide the diffracted light LG3 into the first substrate 311 .

[0287] Specifically, the input / output diffraction element 314 may diffract the light guided from the input diffraction element 312 to the first substrate 311 and guide the diffracted light to the object. That is, the input / output diffraction element 314 may diffract the light LG2 to the object.

[0288] The object may be various objects (e.g., users, objects, etc.) outside the camera module or the light guide device 300G. That is, the object may be various objects that can be detected or recognized by the camera module, and may include people, vehicles, animals, buildings, etc. For example, a passenger in a vehicle or a building or object outside the vehicle may correspond to the object.

[0289] In addition, the light LG2 emitted from the input / output diffraction element 314 may be reflected from the object and provided to the input / output diffraction element 314. In this case, the light LG3 provided to the input / output diffraction element 314 may be diffracted by the input / output diffraction element 314 to change the optical path.

[0290] Therefore, the input / output diffraction element 314 may diffract the light reflected from the object and guide the diffracted light to the first substrate 311. In this case, the light diffracted by the input / output diffraction element 314 and guided to the first substrate 311 may be guided or provided to the output diffraction element 315.

[0291] The output diffraction element 315 may diffract the light reflected from the object and guided to the first substrate 311 by the input / output diffraction element 314, and guide or provide the diffracted light to the light receiving unit IS. In this case, the light LG4 diffracted by the output diffraction element 315 and guided to the light receiving unit IS may be incident on the light receiving unit IS and converted into image information.

[0292] The camera module according to the present embodiment can be formed by an illumination system and an imaging system. The illumination system can be used to illuminate a target in an illumination optical system. The illumination system can evenly disperse or focus light to help make a target or object appear clearly. In addition, the imaging system can be used to form an image of a target in an optical system. The imaging system can collect light for focusing and form a resulting image on an image sensor, film, or eye. The illumination system and the imaging system work together in the optical system and play an important role in forming an accurate and clear image.

[0293] The lighting system may be composed of components on a path where light emitted from the light source 200A passes through the input diffraction element 312, the first substrate 311, and the input / output diffraction element 314 and is provided to the object. The imaging system may be composed of components on a path where light reflected from the object passes through the input / output diffraction element 314, the first substrate 311, and the output diffraction element 315 and is provided to the light receiving unit IS. For example, the lighting system may include a light source, an input diffraction element 312, the first substrate 311, and the input / output diffraction element 314. The imaging system may include the input / output diffraction element 314, the first substrate 311, the output diffraction element 315, and the light receiving unit IS. The camera module may include components (e.g., substrate, input / output diffraction element) belonging to both the lighting system and the imaging system.

[0294] In addition, the size LD2 of the first diffraction element area 312 may be larger than the size LD1 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light receiving unit IS. In addition, according to the design, the size LD2 of the first diffraction element area 312 may be smaller than the size LD1 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light receiving unit. In addition, the size LD2 (e.g., diameter, width) of the first diffraction element area 312 may be larger than the size LD3 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light source unit 200A as a projector. According to the design, as various examples, the size LD1 (e.g., diameter, width, or diagonal length in the case of a quadrilateral) of the first diffraction element area 312 may be smaller than the size LD3 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light source unit 200A as a projector.

[0295] In addition, the additional diffraction element region 315 as an output diffraction element may be adjacent to or integrally formed with the first diffraction element region 312. The size LD4 (e.g., diameter, width) of the additional diffraction element region 315 may be larger than the size LD1 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light receiving unit IS. In addition, the size LD4 (e.g., diameter, width) of the additional diffraction element region 315 may be smaller than the size LD1 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light receiving unit IS. The size LD4 (e.g., diameter, width) of the additional diffraction element region 315 may be larger than the size LD3 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light source unit 200A as a projector. In addition, according to the design, the size LD4 (e.g., diameter, width) of the additional diffraction element region 315 may be smaller than the size LD3 (e.g., diameter, width) of the light source unit 200A as a projector.

[0296] In addition, as in the various examples described above, the electronic device may be a camera module or may include a camera module. Therefore, at least one of the projector and the light receiving unit IS (or image sensor) may be provided on the light guide device 300E. For example, the electronic device may include the light guide device 300E and the projector. Alternatively, the electronic device may include the light guide device 300E and the light receiving unit IS. Alternatively, the electronic device may include the light guide device 300E, the projector, and the light receiving unit IS.

[0297] Reference Fig.23 The position of the light guide device 300G′ according to the modified example between the light guide device 300G, the light receiving unit IS and the light source unit 200A may be different from Fig. 22 For example, the light source unit 200A may be located between the light receiving unit IS and the input / output diffraction element 314. In addition, the light receiving unit IS or the light source unit 200A may be tilted to have a predetermined angle relative to the light guide device 300G', or the light path may be partially changed. In addition, the light receiving unit IS and the light source unit 200A may be disposed at various positions, so that the additional diffraction element 315 as the output diffraction element corresponding to the light receiving unit IS and the input diffraction element 312 corresponding to the light source unit 200A may have various sizes as described above.

[0298] When using a light guide device for augmented reality (AR) or the like and an electronic device including the same, the diameter of a lens and a distance between a projector and a first diffraction element are adjusted, thereby improving diffraction efficiency and achieving miniaturization and compactness.

[0299] In addition, a light guiding device and an electronic device having a reduced volume can be realized by adjusting the position of each element.

[0300] Various beneficial advantages and effects of the present invention are not limited to the above contents and will be more easily understood in the course of describing specific embodiments of the present invention.

[0301] The features, structures, effects, etc. described above in the embodiments are included in at least one embodiment and are not necessarily limited to only one embodiment. In addition, the features, structures, effects, etc. exemplified in each embodiment can be combined or modified by a person skilled in the art to which the embodiments belong and implemented in other embodiments. Therefore, the contents related to such combinations and modifications should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the embodiments.

[0302] Although the above mainly describes the embodiments, these embodiments are only illustrative and do not limit the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs can know that various modifications and applications not illustrated above can be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments can be implemented by modification. In addition, the differences related to these modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the embodiments defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A light guide device, comprising: a projector comprising a lens configured to emit light and a lens barrel coupled to the lens; a first substrate that guides light emitted from the projector; a first diffraction element region, the first diffraction element region being disposed on the first substrate and receiving the light; as well as a second diffraction element region, the second diffraction element region being disposed on the first substrate and spaced apart from the first diffraction element region; The lens includes a first lens disposed closest to the first substrate, The first diffraction element region overlaps with the first lens of the projector in the optical axis direction of the first lens, and The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate is smaller than the diameter of the first lens of the projector.

2. The light guide device according to claim 1, wherein: The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate is smaller than the diameter of the lens barrel of the projector.

3. The light guide device according to claim 1, wherein: The first lens of the projector is arranged to face the first diffraction element region of the first substrate.

4. The light guide device according to claim 3, wherein: The projector has a viewing angle, and The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector satisfy the following formula 1: [Formula 1] 1.9*[IC / 2+y1]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y1], y1 = distance between the first diffraction element area and L1S1 * tan(H_Fov), Among them, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, H_Fov represents half or 0.5 times the viewing angle of the projector, and the distance between the first diffraction element area and L1S1 represents the shortest distance from the center of the first lens to the center of the diameter of the first diffraction element area.

5. The light guide device according to claim 1, wherein: The first diffraction element region of the first substrate is provided on a surface which does not face the first lens of the projector, of the two surfaces of the first substrate.

6. The light guide device according to claim 5, wherein: The projector has a viewing angle, and The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector satisfy the following formula 2: [Formula 2] 1.9*[IC / 2+y2]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y2], y2 = distance between WG1S1 and L1S1 * tan(H_Fov) + thickness of first substrate * tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n_WG1)), Among them, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, WG1S1 represents the surface of the first substrate not facing the first lens of the projector, H_Fov represents 1 / 2 times the viewing angle θb of the projector, n0 represents the diffraction index of air, and n_WG1 represents the diffraction index of the first substrate.

7. The light guide device according to claim 1, comprising an optical member disposed on the first diffractive element region of the first substrate.

8. The light guide device according to claim 7, wherein: The diffraction index of the optical member is greater than the diffraction index of air and is equal to or smaller than the diffraction index of the first substrate.

9. The light guide device according to claim 7, wherein: The thickness of the optical member is equal to or smaller than the thickness of the first substrate.

10. The light guide device according to claim 7, wherein: The optical member has a size greater than a diameter of a first lens of the projector.

11. The light guide device according to claim 7, wherein: A distance between the optical member and the first substrate is shorter than a distance between the optical member and a first lens of the projector.

12. The light guide device according to claim 7, wherein: The projector has a viewing angle, and The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector satisfy the following formula 3: [Formula 3] 1.9*[IC / 2+y3]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y3], y3 = (distance between WG1S2 and L1S1 - thickness of optical component * tan(H_Fov) + thickness of optical component * tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n1)), Among them, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, WG1S2 represents the surface of the first substrate adjacent to the first lens of the projector, H_Fov represents 1 / 2 of the viewing angle θb of the projector, n0 represents the refractive index of air, n_WG1 represents the refractive index of the first substrate, and n1 represents the refractive index of the optical component.

13. The light guide device according to claim 7, wherein: A length from the first substrate to the optical member is smaller than a thickness of the optical member.

14. A light guide device comprising: a projector comprising a lens configured to emit light and a lens barrel coupled to the lens; a first substrate and a second substrate, the first substrate guiding light emitted from the projector and disposed adjacent to the projector, the second substrate disposed below the first substrate; a first diffraction element region, the first diffraction element region being disposed on the first substrate and receiving the light; as well as a second diffraction element region, the second diffraction element region being disposed on the first substrate and spaced apart from the first diffraction element region; The lens includes a first lens disposed closest to the first substrate, The first diffraction element region overlaps with the first lens of the projector in the optical axis direction of the first lens, and The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate is smaller than the diameter of the first lens of the projector.

15. The light guide device according to claim 14, wherein: The projector has a viewing angle, and The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector satisfy the following formula 1: [Formula 1] 1.9*[IC / 2+y1]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y1], y1 = distance between the first diffraction element area and L1S1 * tan(H_Fov), Among them, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, H_Fov represents half or 0.5 times the viewing angle of the projector, and the distance between the first diffraction element area and L1S1 represents the shortest distance from the center of the first lens to the center of the diameter of the first diffraction element area.

16. The light guide device according to claim 14, wherein: The projector has a viewing angle, The first diffraction element region of the first substrate is disposed on a surface of the first substrate that does not face the first lens of the projector, among the two surfaces of the first substrate, and The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector satisfy the following formula 2: [Formula 2] 1.9*[IC / 2+y2]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y2], y2 = distance between WG1S1 and L1S1 * tan(H_Fov) + thickness of first substrate * tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n_WG1)), Among them, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, WG1S1 represents the surface of the first substrate not facing the first lens of the projector, H_Fov represents 1 / 2 times the viewing angle θb of the projector, n0 represents the diffraction index of air, and n_WG1 represents the diffraction index of the first substrate.

17. The light guide device according to claim 14, comprising an optical member disposed on the first diffractive element region of the first substrate, in, The projector has a viewing angle, The diameter of the first diffraction element region of the first substrate and the diameter of the first lens of the projector satisfy the following formula 3: [Formula 3] 1.9*[IC / 2+y3]<=diameter of the first lens<=2.1*[IC / 2+y3], y3 = (distance between WG1S2 and L1S1 - thickness of optical component * tan(H_Fov) + thickness of optical component * tan(asin(n0*sin(H_Fov) / n1)), Among them, IC represents the diameter of the first diffraction element area, L1S1 represents the surface of the first lens adjacent to the first substrate, WG1S2 represents the surface of the first substrate adjacent to the first lens of the projector, H_Fov represents 1 / 2 of the viewing angle θb of the projector, n0 represents the refractive index of air, n_WG1 represents the refractive index of the first substrate, and n1 represents the refractive index of the optical component.

Images