Waveguide device and optical device using same

Abstract

A waveguide device comprises at least one light-transmitting substrate, a first image coupling-in element, a first image coupling-out element, a second image coupling-in element and a second image coupling-out element. The light-transmitting substrate comprises a central area and a peripheral area surrounding the central area. The first image coupling element is located in the peripheral area and configured to diffract the first light beam into the light-transmitting substrate. The first image coupling-out element is located in the central area and is configured to diffract the diffracted first light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. The second image coupling element is located in the peripheral area and configured to diffract a second light beam into the light-transmitting substrate. The second image coupling-out element is located in the central area and is configured to diffract a diffracted second light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. Therefore, more flexible and diversified virtual image presentation effects can be provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a waveguide device and an optical device using the same. Background Technology

[0002] Various types of computing devices, entertainment devices, and / or mobile devices can be implemented using see-through or semi-see-through displays, through which users can view their surroundings. Such devices, also known as see-through, mixed reality display systems, or augmented reality (AR) systems, allow users to see their surroundings through the device's see-through or semi-see-through display, simultaneously viewing virtual objects (such as text, graphics, videos, etc.) generated for display, making them appear as part of and / or superimposed on the surrounding environment. These devices can be implemented as head-mounted display (HMD) glasses or other wearable display devices, but are not limited to these. They typically utilize optical waveguides to replicate images to locations where the user can perceive the images as virtual images within the augmented reality environment. Because this is still an emerging technology, there are certain challenges in using waveguides to display virtual object images to users.

[0003] However, examining existing augmented reality display devices on the market, their core architecture is mostly based on a single image guiding unit, operating in a one-to-one image input and output mode. This design often provides only a single, fixed virtual image presentation effect at any given time, making it difficult to adjust key parameters of the virtual image viewed by the user in real-time and flexibly, such as position, virtual image distance, and virtual image field of view. In other words, current technology is still insufficient in providing users with diverse and dynamically adjustable virtual image experiences.

[0004] Therefore, providing a waveguide device that can solve the above problems and an optical device using it is an important issue for the industry. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide a waveguide device and an optical device using the same, which can effectively solve the aforementioned problems.

[0006] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a waveguide device includes at least a light-transmitting substrate, a first image coupling element, a first image coupling element, a second image coupling element, and a second image coupling element. The light-transmitting substrate includes a central region and a peripheral region surrounding the central region. The first image coupling element is located in the peripheral region and is configured to diffract a first light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. The first image coupling element is located in the central region and is configured to diffract the diffracted first light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. The second image coupling element is located in the peripheral region and is configured to diffract a second light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. The second image coupling element is located in the central region and is configured to diffract the diffracted second light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate.

[0007] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a first image coupling element and a first image coupling element are radially aligned. A second image coupling element and a second image coupling element are radially aligned.

[0008] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first beam and the second beam have the same wavelength.

[0009] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a first image coupling element is configured to diffract a first diffracted light beam propagating at a first diffraction angle. A second image coupling element is configured to diffract a second diffracted light beam propagating at a second diffraction angle different from the first diffraction angle.

[0010] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first image coupling element conforms to a first diffraction wave function. The second image coupling element conforms to a second diffraction wave function different from the first diffraction wave function.

[0011] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first diffraction wavefunction is a wavefunction of a first virtual image distance. The second diffraction wavefunction is a wavefunction of a second virtual image distance, different from the first virtual image distance.

[0012] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first diffraction wavefunction is the wavefunction of a first virtual image field of view. The second diffraction wavefunction is the wavefunction of a second virtual image field of view, which is different from the first virtual image field of view.

[0013] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first image coupling element includes a first diffraction grating. The second image coupling element includes a second diffraction grating. The first diffraction grating and the second diffraction grating intersect each other.

[0014] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the at least one light-transmitting substrate includes a first light-transmitting substrate and a second light-transmitting substrate. A first image coupling element and a first image coupling element are located on the first light-transmitting substrate. A second image coupling element and a second image coupling element are located on the second light-transmitting substrate.

[0015] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first beam and the second beam have different wavelengths.

[0016] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first beam and the second beam have the same wavelength.

[0017] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the central region is rotatably connected to the peripheral region.

[0018] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, an optical device includes a housing, a waveguide device, and a projector. The waveguide device includes at least one light-transmitting substrate, a first image coupling element, a first image coupling element, a second image coupling element, and a second image coupling element. The light-transmitting substrate is rotatably connected to the housing and includes a central region and a peripheral region surrounding the central region. The first image coupling element is located in the peripheral region and is configured to diffract a first light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. The first image coupling element is located in the central region and is configured to diffract the diffracted first light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. The second image coupling element is located in the peripheral region and is configured to diffract a second light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. The second image coupling element is located in the central region and is configured to diffract the diffracted second light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. The projector is disposed on the housing and configured to emit the first and second light beams along an optical path toward the peripheral region.

[0019] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first beam and the second beam have the same wavelength.

[0020] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a first image coupling element is configured to diffract a first diffracted light beam propagating at a first diffraction angle. A second image coupling element is configured to diffract a second diffracted light beam propagating at a second diffraction angle different from the first diffraction angle.

[0021] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first image coupling element conforms to a first diffraction wave function. The second image coupling element conforms to a second diffraction wave function different from the first diffraction wave function.

[0022] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first diffraction wavefunction is a wavefunction of a first virtual image distance. The second diffraction wavefunction is a wavefunction of a second virtual image distance, different from the first virtual image distance.

[0023] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first diffraction wavefunction is the wavefunction of a first virtual image field of view. The second diffraction wavefunction is the wavefunction of a second virtual image field of view, which is different from the first virtual image field of view.

[0024] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first image coupling element includes a first diffraction grating. The second image coupling element includes a second diffraction grating. The first diffraction grating and the second diffraction grating intersect each other.

[0025] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the central region is rotatably connected to the peripheral region.

[0026] Therefore, in the waveguide device and optical device of this disclosure, by placing multiple image coupling elements in the peripheral area of ​​the light-transmitting substrate and correspondingly placing multiple image coupling elements in the central area of ​​the light-transmitting substrate, independent optical guidance and output control of multiple beams can be achieved. In this way, the waveguide device and optical device of this disclosure can effectively solve the bottlenecks encountered in the prior art, such as potential limitations in virtual image position, virtual image distance, or virtual image field of view, thereby providing more flexible and diverse virtual image presentation effects.

[0027] The above description is only used to illustrate the problem to be solved by this disclosure, the technical means to solve the problem, and the effects produced, etc. The specific details of this disclosure will be described in detail in the following embodiments and related drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0028] To make the above and other objects, features, advantages and embodiments of this disclosure more apparent and understandable, the accompanying drawings are described below:

[0029] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an optical device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0030] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 Front view of one of the waveguide devices.

[0031] Figure 3A Show Figure 2 A partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0032] Figure 3B Show Figure 2 Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0033] Figure 3C Show Figure 2 Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0034] Figure 3D Show Figure 2 Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0035] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing different virtual image positions is provided.

[0036] Figure 5 Show Figure 3A A partial schematic diagram of the first image coupling element in the image.

[0037] Figure 6A schematic diagram of an optical exposure system used to manufacture diffraction elements is shown.

[0038] Figure 7 A partial schematic diagram of a light-transmitting substrate with a first image coupling element according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0039] Figure 8 A partial schematic diagram of a first image coupling element according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0040] Figure 9A A partial schematic diagram of a waveguide device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0041] Figure 9B Show Figure 9A Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0042] Figure 9C Show Figure 9A Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0043] Figure 9D Show Figure 9A Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0044] Figure 10 A schematic diagram showing different virtual image distances is provided.

[0045] Figure 11A A partial schematic diagram of a waveguide device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0046] Figure 11B Show Figure 11A Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0047] Figure 11C Show Figure 11A Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0048] Figure 11D Show Figure 11A Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device in the diagram.

[0049] Figure 12 A schematic diagram showing different virtual image fields of view is provided.

[0050] Figure 13 A front view of a waveguide device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0051] Figure 14 A front view of a waveguide device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0052] Figure 15 A front view of a waveguide device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0053] Figure 16 A front view of a waveguide device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0054] Symbol explanation:

[0055] 100: Optical devices

[0056] 110: Shell

[0057] 111: Framework

[0058] 112: Mirror temple

[0059] 113: Connecting components

[0060] 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620, 720: Waveguide devices

[0061] 121,121',122a3,421,521a,521b,521c,621,721a,721b,721c: Transparent substrate

[0062] 121a,421a,521a1,521b1,521c1,621a,721a1,721b1,721c1: Central Area

[0063] 121b,421b,521a2,521b2,521c2,621b,721a2,721b2,721c2: Surrounding area

[0064] 121c: First surface

[0065] 121d: Second surface

[0066] 122a,122a',122a”,222a,322a,422a,522a,622a,722a: First image coupling element; 122a1: Holographic grating

[0067] 122a1': Surface structure

[0068] 122a1”: Liquid crystal molecules

[0069] 122a2: Photoalignment layer

[0070] 122b, 222b, 322b, 422b, 522b, 622b, 722b: Second image coupling element; 122c, 222c, 322c, 422c, 522c, 622c, 722c: Third image coupling element; 122d, 222d, 322d: Fourth image coupling element; 123a, 223a, 323a, 423a, 523a, 623a, 723a: First image coupling element; 123b, 223b, 323b, 423b, 523b, 623b, 723b: Second image coupling element; 123c, 223c, 323c, 423c, 523c, 623c, 723c: Third image coupling element; 123d, 223d, 323d: Fourth image coupling element.

[0071] 130: Projector

[0072] 900: Optical Exposure System

[0073] 920c, 920d: Mirror

[0074] 930a, 930b: Half wave plate

[0075] 940: Polarizing beam splitter

[0076] 950a, 950b: Spatial Filters

[0077] 960a, 960b: Lenses

[0078] 970: Prism

[0079] La: First beam

[0080] Lb: Second beam

[0081] Lc: Third beam

[0082] Ld: Fourth Beam

[0083] La1, La2, La3: First output beam

[0084] Lb1, Lb2, Lb3: Second output beams

[0085] Lc1, Lc2, Lc3: Third output beam

[0086] Ld1, Ld2, Ld3: Fourth output beam

[0087] OP: light path

[0088] VPa, VPb, VPc, VPd: Virtual image position

[0089] VSa, VSb, VSC, VSd: Virtual image distance

[0090] VFa, VFb, VFc, VFd: Virtual image field of view

[0091] θa: First angle of departure

[0092] θb: Second exit angle

[0093] θc: Third exit angle

[0094] θd: Fourth exit angle

[0095] D: Direction

[0096] P: Photosensitive polymer

[0097] R,R',R”: Red light

[0098] G: Green Light

[0099] B: Blue light Detailed Implementation

[0100] Specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same element symbols in the drawings and description will be used to refer to the same or similar components. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes only and may therefore be implemented in many alternative forms, and should not be construed as being limited to the illustrative embodiments described herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the illustrative embodiments are not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed; rather, the illustrative embodiments are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of this disclosure.

[0101] Please refer to Figure 1 . Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. (As shown) Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the optical device 100 can be used in an augmented reality device, which can be implemented as, but is not limited to, a pair of glasses or other wearable display devices. Specifically, the optical device 100 includes a housing 110, two waveguide devices 120, and a projector 130. The housing 110 includes two frames 111, temples 112, and connecting members 113. The waveguide devices 120 are rotatably connected to the inner edges of the frames 111. The temples 112 are connected to the edge of one of the waveguide devices 120. The connecting members 113 connect between the frames 111. The projector 130 is disposed on the side of the temples 112 near one of the waveguide devices 120. The optical device 100 may include another temple 112 (not shown) connected to the edge of the other waveguide device 120. The main function of each waveguide device 120 is to overlay the virtual image generated by the projector 130 onto the real-world scene seen by the user through the waveguide device 120.

[0102] Please refer to Figure 2 . Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A front view of one of the waveguide devices 120. (See image.) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the waveguide device 120 includes a light-transmitting substrate 121, a first image coupling element 122a, a first image coupling element 123a, a second image coupling element 122b, a second image coupling element 123b, a third image coupling element 122c, a third image coupling element 123c, a fourth image coupling element 122d, and a fourth image coupling element 123d. The light-transmitting substrate 121 is rotatably connected to the inner edge of the frame 111 of the housing 110. The light-transmitting substrate 121 includes a central region 121a and a peripheral region 121b surrounding the central region 121a. The first image coupling element 122a, the second image coupling element 122b, the third image coupling element 122c, and the fourth image coupling element 122d are located in the peripheral region 121b. The first image coupling element 123a, the second image coupling element 123b, the third image coupling element 123c, and the fourth image coupling element 123d are located in the central region 121a. Specifically, the first image coupling element 122a and the first image coupling element 123a are radially aligned. The second image coupling element 122b and the second image coupling element 123b are radially aligned. The third image coupling element 122c and the third image coupling element 123c are radially aligned. The fourth image coupling element 122d and the fourth image coupling element 123d are radially aligned. That is, the combination of the first image coupling element 122a and the first image coupling element 123a, the combination of the second image coupling element 122b and the second image coupling element 123b, the combination of the third image coupling element 122c and the third image coupling element 123c, and the combination of the fourth image coupling element 122d and the fourth image coupling element 123d are arranged radially.

[0103] like Figure 1 As shown, and refer to Figure 2 In this embodiment, the projector 130 is configured to emit light toward the peripheral region 121b along an optical path OP. In this way, when the light-transmitting substrate 121 rotates counterclockwise relative to the frame 111 of the housing 110, the light emitted by the projector 130 is sequentially incident on the first image coupling element 122a, the second image coupling element 122b, the third image coupling element 122c, and the fourth image coupling element 122d.

[0104] In some embodiments, the central region 121a is rotatably connected to the peripheral region 121b. For example, the central region 121a is fixed relative to the frame 111 of the housing 110, while the peripheral region 121b is rotatable between the frame 111 and the central region 121a. In some embodiments, to address the refraction problem at the interface between the central region 121a and the peripheral region 121b, the interface can be filled with a material that matches the refractive index.

[0105] Please refer to Figure 3A . Figure 3A Show Figure 2 A partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device 120 in the diagram. (See attached diagram.) Figure 3A As shown, in this embodiment, the light-transmitting substrate 121 has a first surface 121c and a second surface 121d facing each other. A first image coupling element 122a is disposed on the first surface 121c and configured to diffract a first light beam La into the light-transmitting substrate 121. Specifically, the first light beam La is a parallel light beam. The first light beam La enters the light-transmitting substrate 121 from the second surface 121d and is incident perpendicularly on the first image coupling element 122a disposed on the first surface 121c. On the other hand, a first image coupling element 123a is disposed on the second surface 121d and configured to diffract the diffracted first light beam La into the light-transmitting substrate 121, and convert it into a first output light beam La1. Specifically, the first output light beam La1 exits the light-transmitting substrate 121 from the first surface 121c.

[0106] Please refer to Figure 3B . Figure 3B Show Figure 2 Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device 120 in the diagram. (See attached diagram.) Figure 3B As shown, in this embodiment, the second image coupling element 122b is disposed on the first surface 121c and configured to diffract the second light beam Lb through the light-transmitting substrate 121. Specifically, the second light beam Lb is a parallel light beam. The second light beam Lb enters the light-transmitting substrate 121 from the second surface 121d and is incident perpendicularly on the second image coupling element 122b disposed on the first surface 121c. On the other hand, the second image coupling element 123b is disposed on the second surface 121d and configured to diffract the diffracted second light beam Lb propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121, and convert it into a second output light beam Lb1. Specifically, the second output light beam Lb1 exits the light-transmitting substrate 121 from the first surface 121c.

[0107] Please refer to Figure 3C . Figure 3C Show Figure 2 Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device 120 in the diagram. (See attached diagram.) Figure 3CAs shown, in this embodiment, a third image coupling element 122c is disposed on the first surface 121c and configured to diffract the third beam Lc and propagate it in the light-transmitting substrate 121. Specifically, the third beam Lc is a parallel beam. The third beam Lc enters the light-transmitting substrate 121 from the second surface 121d and is incident perpendicularly on the third image coupling element 122c disposed on the first surface 121c. On the other hand, a third image coupling element 123c is disposed on the second surface 121d and configured to diffract the diffracted third beam Lc propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121, and convert it into a third output beam Lc1. Specifically, the third output beam Lc1 exits the light-transmitting substrate 121 from the first surface 121c.

[0108] Please refer to Figure 3D . Figure 3D Show Figure 2 Another partial schematic diagram of the waveguide device 120 in the diagram. (See attached diagram.) Figure 3D As shown, in this embodiment, a fourth image coupling element 122d is disposed on the first surface 121c and configured to diffract the fourth beam Ld and propagate it in the light-transmitting substrate 121. Specifically, the fourth beam Ld is a parallel beam. The fourth beam Ld enters the light-transmitting substrate 121 from the second surface 121d and is incident perpendicularly on the fourth image coupling element 122d disposed on the first surface 121c. On the other hand, a fourth image coupling element 123d is disposed on the second surface 121d and configured to diffract the diffracted fourth beam Ld propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121, and convert it into a fourth output beam Ld1. Specifically, the fourth output beam Ld1 exits the light-transmitting substrate 121 from the first surface 121c.

[0109] like Figures 3A to 3D As shown, it can be seen that the diffraction angles of the first image output element 123a, the second image output element 123b, the third image output element 123c, and the fourth image output element 123d are different from each other. In this way, the first exit angle θa of the first output beam La1 at the first surface 121c, the second exit angle θb of the second output beam Lb1 at the first surface 121c, the third exit angle θc of the third output beam Lc1 at the first surface 121c, and the fourth exit angle θd of the fourth output beam Ld1 at the first surface 121c are different from each other.

[0110] Please refer to Figure 4 . Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing different virtual image positions VPa, VPb, VPc, and VPd is provided. Figure 3A and Figure 4As shown, the virtual image presented by the first output beam La1 will correspond to what the user's eyes see. Figure 4 The virtual image location VPa in the image. For example... Figure 3B and Figure 4 As shown, the virtual image presented by the second output beam Lb1 will correspond to what the user's eyes see. Figure 4 The virtual image location VPb in the image. For example... Figure 3C and Figure 4 As shown, the virtual image presented by the third output beam Lc1 will correspond to what the user's eyes see. Figure 4 The virtual image location VPC in the image. For example... Figure 3D and Figure 4 As shown, the virtual image presented by the fourth output beam Ld1 will correspond to what the user's eyes see. Figure 4 The virtual image location VPd in ​​the image.

[0111] Please refer to Figure 5 . Figure 5 Show Figure 3A A partial schematic diagram of the first image coupling element 122a in the image. (See attached diagram.) Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the first image coupling element 122a includes at least one holographic grating 122a1. The holographic grating 122a1 is configured to diffract light (i.e., the first beam La) incident on the first image coupling element 122a. The holographic grating 122a1 of the first image coupling element 122a is a reflective holographic grating, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some other embodiments, the holographic grating 122a1 of the first image coupling element 122a may be a transmissive holographic grating, and the first image coupling element 122a may be disposed on the second surface 121d of the light-transmitting substrate 121. The holographic grating 122a1 is a volume holographic grating. It is worth noting that light diffracted by a volume holographic grating can propagate based on Bragg's law.

[0112] In some embodiments, the second image coupling element 122b may include at least one holographic grating configured to diffract light incident on the second image coupling element 122b (i.e., the second beam Lb). In some embodiments, the third image coupling element 122c may include at least one holographic grating configured to diffract light incident on the third image coupling element 122c (i.e., the third beam Lc). In some embodiments, the fourth image coupling element 122d may include at least one holographic grating configured to diffract light incident on the fourth image coupling element 122d (i.e., the fourth beam Ld).

[0113] like Figures 3B to 3DAs shown, in this embodiment, the holographic gratings of the second image coupling element 122b, the third image coupling element 122c, and the fourth image coupling element 122d are reflective holographic gratings, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some other embodiments, the holographic grating of at least one of the second image coupling element 122b, the third image coupling element 122c, and the fourth image coupling element 122d can be a transmissive holographic grating, and at least one of the aforementioned second image coupling element 122b, the third image coupling element 122c, and the fourth image coupling element 122d can be disposed on the second surface 121d of the light-transmitting substrate 121.

[0114] like Figures 3A to 3D As shown, in this embodiment, the first image coupling element 123a may include at least one holographic grating configured to diffract light propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 (i.e., the first beam La). The second image coupling element 123b may include at least one holographic grating configured to diffract light propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 (i.e., the second beam Lb). The third image coupling element 123c may include at least one holographic grating configured to diffract light propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 (i.e., the third beam Lc). The fourth image coupling element 123d may include at least one holographic grating configured to diffract light propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 (i.e., the fourth beam Ld). The holographic gratings of the first image coupling element 123a, the second image coupling element 123b, the third image coupling element 123c, and the fourth image coupling element 123d are reflective holographic gratings, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some other embodiments, the holographic grating of at least one of the first image coupling element 123a, the second image coupling element 123b, the third image coupling element 123c, and the fourth image coupling element 123d can be a transmissive holographic grating, and at least one of the aforementioned first image coupling element 123a, the second image coupling element 123b, the third image coupling element 123c, and the fourth image coupling element 123d can be disposed on the first surface 121c of the light-transmitting substrate 121.

[0115] In some embodiments, the first beam La, the second beam Lb, the third beam Lc, and the fourth beam Ld emitted by the projector 130 may have the same wavelength, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0116] Please refer to Figure 6 . Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an optical exposure system 900 used to manufacture holographic optical elements is shown. Figure 6As shown, the optical exposure system 900 includes two mirrors 920c and 920d, two half-wave plates 930a and 930b, a polarizing beam splitter 940, two spatial filters 950a and 950b, two lenses 960a and 960b, and a prism 970. A photosensitive polymer P is attached to one side of the prism 970. The optical exposure system 900 is configured to expose a portion of the photosensitive polymer P from opposite sides using two beams of light with different incident directions. The photosensitive polymer P comprises monomers, polymers, a photo-initiator, and a binder. When the photosensitive polymer P is exposed, the photo-initiator receives photons and generates free radicals, causing the monomers to begin polymerization (i.e., photopolymerization). By using an exposure method with holographic interference fringes, unilluminated monomers (i.e., in dark areas) diffuse to illuminated areas (i.e., bright areas) and polymerize, resulting in a gradient of non-uniform polymer concentration. Finally, after fixing, a phase grating containing staggered bright and dark stripes can be formed, and the photosensitive polymer P is transformed into a holographic optical element.

[0117] In some embodiments, at least one of the first image coupling element 122a, the second image coupling element 122b, the third image coupling element 122c, the fourth image coupling element 122d, the first image coupling element 123a, the second image coupling element 123b, the third image coupling element 123c, and the fourth image coupling element 123d can be coupled by means of... Figure 6 The optical exposure system 900 shown is manufactured.

[0118] Please refer to Figure 7 . Figure 7 A partial schematic diagram of a light-transmitting substrate 121' with a first image coupling element 122a' according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 7 As shown, in this embodiment, the first image coupling element 122a' formed on the surface of the light-transmitting substrate 121' includes a plurality of surface structures 122a1'. The first image coupling element 122a' uses the surface structures 122a1' to form a periodic width structure. The surface structures 122a1' can be manufactured to form a surface relief diffraction grating, and the surface relief diffraction grating can form a holographic grating. In this way, the diffraction characteristics of the holographic grating of the first image coupling element 122a' formed by the surface relief diffraction grating can be the same as or similar to the diffraction characteristics of the holographic grating of the first image coupling element 122a' formed by the volume holographic grating.

[0119] In some embodiments, at least one of the second image coupling element 122b, the third image coupling element 122c, the fourth image coupling element 122d, the first image coupling element 123a, the second image coupling element 123b, the third image coupling element 123c, and the fourth image coupling element 123d may include a plurality of surface structures forming a surface relief diffraction grating, just like the first image coupling element 122a'.

[0120] Please refer to Figure 8 . Figure 8 A partial schematic diagram of a first image coupling element 122a” according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the first image coupling element 122a” comprises a plurality of liquid crystal molecules 122a1” disposed between two photoalignment layers 122a2, and the photoalignment layers 122a2 are sandwiched between two light-transmitting substrates 122a3. A voltage can be applied to the photoalignment layers 122a2 to rotate the liquid crystal molecules 122a1” to form a periodic width structure. In other words, the first image coupling element 122a” uses the internal liquid crystal molecules 122a1” to form a periodic width structure, so the outer surface of the light-transmitting substrate 122a3 has no solid structure. The rotated liquid crystal molecules 122a1” can form a liquid crystal grating, and the liquid crystal grating can form a holographic grating. In this way, the diffraction characteristics of the holographic grating of the first image coupling element 122a” formed by the liquid crystal grating can be the same as or similar to the diffraction characteristics of the holographic grating of the first image coupling element 122a” formed by the volume holographic grating.

[0121] In some embodiments, at least one of the second image coupling element 122b, the third image coupling element 122c, the fourth image coupling element 122d, the first image coupling element 123a, the second image coupling element 123b, the third image coupling element 123c, and the fourth image coupling element 123d may include a liquid crystal grating, just like the first image coupling element 122a”.

[0122] Please refer to Figures 9A to 9D . Figures 9A to 9D Different partial schematic diagrams of a waveguide device 220 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown. For example... Figures 9A to 9D As shown, in this embodiment, the waveguide device 220 includes a light-transmitting substrate 121, a first image coupling element 222a, a second image coupling element 222b, a third image coupling element 222c, a fourth image coupling element 222d, a first image coupling element 223a, a second image coupling element 223b, a third image coupling element 223c, and a fourth image coupling element 223d. The relative positions of these components of the waveguide device 220 are as follows: Figures 2 to 3DThe components of the waveguide device 120 shown are in the same relative positions. The functions of the first image coupling element 222a, the second image coupling element 222b, the third image coupling element 222c, and the fourth image coupling element 222d are the same as those of the components of the waveguide device 120. The functions of the first image coupling element 223a, the second image coupling element 223b, the third image coupling element 223c, and the fourth image coupling element 223d are similar to those of the components of the waveguide device 120.

[0123] Specifically, the first image coupling element 223a is configured to diffract a first beam La propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 and convert it into a first output beam La2. The second image coupling element 223b is configured to diffract a second beam Lb propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 and convert it into a second output beam Lb2. The third image coupling element 223c is configured to diffract a third beam Lc propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 and convert it into a third output beam Lc2. The fourth image coupling element 223d is configured to diffract a fourth beam Ld propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 and convert it into a fourth output beam Ld2.

[0124] It should be noted that the first image coupling element 223a conforms to the first diffraction wave function, the second image coupling element 223b conforms to the second diffraction wave function, the third image coupling element 223c conforms to the third diffraction wave function, and the fourth image coupling element 223d conforms to the fourth diffraction wave function. The first, second, third, and fourth diffraction wave functions are different from each other. The first, second, third, and fourth diffraction wave functions are wave functions for different virtual image distances.

[0125] Please refer to Figure 10 . Figure 10 This diagram illustrates different virtual image distances. (Example) Figure 9A and Figure 10 As shown, the virtual image presented by the first output beam La2 will correspond to what the user's eye sees along direction D. Figure 10 The distance between the first virtual image and VSa. (e.g.) Figure 9B and Figure 10 As shown, the virtual image presented by the second output beam Lb2 will correspond to what the user's eye sees along direction D. Figure 10 The distance of the second virtual image in the image is VSb. For example... Figure 9C and Figure 10 As shown, the virtual image presented by the third output beam Lc2 will correspond to what the user's eyes see along direction D. Figure 10 The distance of the third virtual image in the image is VSC. For example... Figure 9D and Figure 10As shown, the virtual image presented by the fourth output beam Ld2 will correspond to what the user's eyes see along direction D. Figure 10 The fourth virtual image distance VSd in the first diffraction wave function is as follows. For example, the first virtual image distance VSa of the first diffraction wave function is infinitely far, the second virtual image distance VSb of the second diffraction wave function is about 3 meters, the third virtual image distance VSc of the third diffraction wave function is about 1 meter, and the fourth virtual image distance VSd of the fourth diffraction wave function is about 0.5 meters, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0126] Please refer to Figures 11A to 11D . Figures 11A to 11D Different partial schematic diagrams of a waveguide device 320 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown. For example... Figures 11A to 11D As shown, in this embodiment, the waveguide device 320 includes a light-transmitting substrate 121, a first image coupling element 322a, a second image coupling element 322b, a third image coupling element 322c, a fourth image coupling element 322d, a first image coupling element 323a, a second image coupling element 323b, a third image coupling element 323c, and a fourth image coupling element 323d. The relative positions of these components of the waveguide device 320 are as follows: Figures 2 to 3D The components of the waveguide device 120 shown are in the same relative positions. The functions of the first image coupling element 322a, the second image coupling element 322b, the third image coupling element 322c, and the fourth image coupling element 322d are the same as those of the components of the waveguide device 120. The functions of the first image coupling element 323a, the second image coupling element 323b, the third image coupling element 323c, and the fourth image coupling element 323d are similar to those of the components of the waveguide device 120.

[0127] Specifically, the first image coupling element 323a is configured to diffract a first beam La propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 and convert it into a first output beam La3. The second image coupling element 323b is configured to diffract a second beam Lb propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 and convert it into a second output beam Lb3. The third image coupling element 323c is configured to diffract a third beam Lc propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 and convert it into a third output beam Lc3. The fourth image coupling element 323d is configured to diffract a fourth beam Ld propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 121 and convert it into a fourth output beam Ld3.

[0128] It should be noted that the first image coupling element 323a conforms to the first diffraction wave function, the second image coupling element 323b conforms to the second diffraction wave function, the third image coupling element 323c conforms to the third diffraction wave function, and the fourth image coupling element 323d conforms to the fourth diffraction wave function. The first, second, third, and fourth diffraction wave functions are different from each other. The first, second, third, and fourth diffraction wave functions are wave functions representing different virtual image fields of view.

[0129] Please refer to Figure 12 . Figure 12 This diagram illustrates different virtual image viewpoints. (For example...) Figure 11A and Figure 12 As shown, the virtual image presented by the first output beam La3 will correspond to what the user's eyes see. Figure 12 The first virtual image field of view, VFa. (e.g.) Figure 11B and Figure 12 As shown, the virtual image presented by the second output beam Lb3 will correspond to what the user's eyes see. Figure 12 The second virtual image field of view (VFb) in the image. For example... Figure 11C and Figure 12 As shown, the virtual image presented by the third output beam Lc3 will correspond to what the user's eyes see. Figure 12 The third virtual image field of view (VFc) in the image. For example... Figure 11D and Figure 12 As shown, the virtual image presented by the fourth output beam Ld3 will correspond to what the user's eyes see. Figure 12 The fourth virtual image field of view (VFd) is given. For example, the first virtual image field of view (VFa) of the first diffraction wave function is approximately 60 degrees, the second virtual image field of view (VFb) of the second diffraction wave function is approximately 50 degrees, the third virtual image field of view (VFc) of the third diffraction wave function is approximately 40 degrees, and the fourth virtual image field of view (VFd) of the fourth diffraction wave function is approximately 30 degrees, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0130] Please refer to Figure 13 . Figure 13 A front view of a waveguide device 420 according to another embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Figure 13 As shown, in this embodiment, the waveguide device 420 includes a light-transmitting substrate 421, a first image coupling element 422a, a first image coupling element 423a, a second image coupling element 422b, a second image coupling element 423b, a third image coupling element 422c, and a third image coupling element 423c. The light-transmitting substrate 421 includes a central region 421a and a peripheral region 421b surrounding the central region 421a. The first image coupling element 422a is located in the peripheral region 421b and is configured to diffract a first light beam La (refer to...). Figure 3A The first image coupling element 423a is located in the central region 421a and is configured to diffract the first beam La propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 421. The second image coupling element 422b is located in the peripheral region 421b and is configured to diffract the second beam Lb (refer to...) Figure 3B The second image coupling element 423b is located in the central region 421a and is configured to diffract the diffracted second beam Lb propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 421. The third image coupling element 422c is located in the peripheral region 421b and is configured to diffract the third beam Lc (see reference). Figure 3C The light beam propagates in the light-transmitting substrate 421. The third image coupling element 423c is located in the central region 421a and is configured to diffract the diffracted third beam Lc propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 421.

[0131] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first image coupling element 423a includes a first diffraction grating, the second image coupling element 423b includes a second diffraction grating, and the third image coupling element 423c includes a third diffraction grating. The first, second, and third diffraction gratings intersect each other. That is, the first, second, and third diffraction gratings physically pass through each other. Therefore, the waveguide device 420 can have a smaller size.

[0132] In this embodiment, the first diffraction grating of the first image coupling element 423a is configured to diffract red light R. For example, the wavelength of the first light beam La diffracted by the first diffraction grating of the first image coupling element 423a is approximately 632 nanometers (within the wavelength range of red light R). The second diffraction grating of the second image coupling element 423b is configured to diffract green light G. For example, the wavelength of the second light beam Lb diffracted by the second diffraction grating of the second image coupling element 423b is approximately 532 nanometers (within the wavelength range of green light G). The third diffraction grating of the third image coupling element 423c is configured to diffract blue light B. For example, the wavelength of the third light beam Lc diffracted by the third diffraction grating of the third image coupling element 423c is approximately 465 nanometers (within the wavelength range of blue light B).

[0133] Reference Figure 14 . Figure 14 A front view of a waveguide device 520 according to another embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Figure 14As shown, in this embodiment, the waveguide device 420 includes transparent substrates 521a, 521b, 521c, a first image coupling element 522a, a first image coupling element 523a, a second image coupling element 522b, a second image coupling element 523b, a third image coupling element 522c, and a third image coupling element 523c. The functions of the first image coupling element 522a, the first image coupling element 523a, the second image coupling element 522b, the second image coupling element 523b, the third image coupling element 522c, and the third image coupling element 523c are the same as those of the first image coupling element 422a, the first image coupling element 423a, the second image coupling element 422b, the second image coupling element 423b, the third image coupling element 422c, and the third image coupling element 423c. Figure 13 and Figure 14 The differences between the implementation methods shown are discussed below.

[0134] like Figure 14 As shown, in this embodiment, the light-transmitting substrate 521a includes a central region 521a1 and a peripheral region 521a2 surrounding the central region 521a1. The light-transmitting substrate 521b includes a central region 521b1 and a peripheral region 521b2 surrounding the central region 521b1. The light-transmitting substrate 521c includes a central region 521c1 and a peripheral region 521c2 surrounding the central region 521c1. A first image coupling element 522a and a first image coupling element 523a are respectively located in the peripheral region 521a2 and the central region 521a1 of the light-transmitting substrate 521a. A second image coupling element 522b and a second image coupling element 523b are respectively located in the peripheral region 521b2 and the central region 521b1 of the light-transmitting substrate 521b. A third image coupling element 522c and a third image coupling element 523c are respectively located in the peripheral region 521c2 and the central region 521c1 of the light-transmitting substrate 521c. In other words, the combination of the light-transmitting substrate 521a, the first image coupling element 522a, and the first image coupling element 523a is responsible for diffracting red light R. The combination of the light-transmitting substrate 521b, the second image coupling element 522b, and the second image coupling element 523b is responsible for diffracting green light G. The combination of the light-transmitting substrate 521c, the third image coupling element 522c, and the third image coupling element 523c is responsible for diffracting blue light B.

[0135] Please refer to Figure 15 . Figure 15 A front view of a waveguide device 620 according to another embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Figure 15As shown, in this embodiment, the waveguide device 620 includes a light-transmitting substrate 621, a first image coupling element 622a, a first image coupling element 623a, a second image coupling element 622b, a second image coupling element 623b, a third image coupling element 622c, and a third image coupling element 623c. The light-transmitting substrate 621 includes a central region 621a and a peripheral region 621b surrounding the central region 621a. The first image coupling element 622a is located in the peripheral region 621b and is configured to diffract the first light beam La (refer to...). Figure 3A The first image coupling element 623a is located in the central region 621a and is configured to diffract the first beam La propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 621. The second image coupling element 622b is located in the peripheral region 621b and is configured to diffract the second beam Lb (see reference). Figure 3B The second image coupling element 623b is located in the central region 621a and is configured to diffract the diffracted second beam Lb propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 621. The third image coupling element 622c is located in the peripheral region 621b and is configured to diffract the third beam Lc (see reference). Figure 3C The light beam propagates in the light-transmitting substrate 621. The third image coupling element 623c is located in the central region 621a and is configured to diffract the diffracted third light beam Lc propagating in the light-transmitting substrate 621.

[0136] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first image coupling element 623a includes a first diffraction grating, the second image coupling element 623b includes a second diffraction grating, and the third image coupling element 623c includes a third diffraction grating. The first, second, and third diffraction gratings intersect each other. That is, the first, second, and third diffraction gratings physically pass through each other. Therefore, the waveguide device 620 can have a smaller size.

[0137] In this embodiment, the first diffraction grating of the first image coupling element 623a is configured to diffract red light R within a first diffraction angle range. For example, the first diffraction grating of the first image coupling element 623a is configured to diffract light with a wavelength of approximately 632 nanometers, causing it to propagate within the first diffraction angle (e.g., Figure 15 The red light R shown is illustrated. The second diffraction grating of the second image coupling element 623b is configured to diffract the red light R within a second diffraction angle range. For example, the second diffraction grating of the second image coupling element 623b is configured to diffract light with a wavelength of approximately 632 nanometers, causing it to propagate at a first diffraction angle plus 5 degrees (as shown). Figure 15The red light R' shown is illustrated. The third diffraction grating of the third image coupling element 623c is configured to diffract the red light R by a third diffraction angle. For example, the third diffraction grating of the third image coupling element 623c is configured to diffract light with a wavelength of approximately 632 nanometers, causing it to propagate by a first diffraction angle plus 10 degrees (as shown). Figure 15 The red light "R" is shown in the image.

[0138] Please refer to Figure 16 . Figure 16 A front view of a waveguide device 720 according to another embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Figure 16 As shown, in this embodiment, the waveguide device 720 includes transparent substrates 721a, 721b, 721c, a first image coupling element 722a, a first image coupling element 723a, a second image coupling element 722b, a second image coupling element 723b, a third image coupling element 722c, and a third image coupling element 723c. The functions of the first image coupling element 722a, the first image coupling element 723a, the second image coupling element 722b, the second image coupling element 723b, the third image coupling element 722c, and the third image coupling element 723c are the same as those of the first image coupling element 622a, the first image coupling element 623a, the second image coupling element 622b, the second image coupling element 623b, the third image coupling element 622c, and the third image coupling element 623c, respectively. Figure 15 and Figure 16 The differences between the implementation methods shown are discussed below.

[0139] like Figure 16As shown, in this embodiment, the light-transmitting substrate 721a includes a central region 721a1 and a peripheral region 721a2 surrounding the central region 721a1. The light-transmitting substrate 721b includes a central region 721b1 and a peripheral region 721b2 surrounding the central region 721b1. The light-transmitting substrate 721c includes a central region 721c1 and a peripheral region 721c2 surrounding the central region 721c1. A first image coupling element 722a and a first image coupling element 723a are respectively located in the peripheral region 721a2 and the central region 721a1 of the light-transmitting substrate 721a. A second image coupling element 722b and a second image coupling element 723b are respectively located in the peripheral region 721b2 and the central region 721b1 of the light-transmitting substrate 721b. A third image coupling element 722c and a third image coupling element 723c are respectively located in the peripheral region 721c2 and the central region 721c1 of the light-transmitting substrate 721c. In other words, the combination of the light-transmitting substrate 721a, the first image coupling element 722a, and the first image coupling element 723a is responsible for diffracting the red light R at a first diffraction angle. The combination of the light-transmitting substrate 721b, the second image coupling element 722b, and the second image coupling element 723b is responsible for diffracting the red light R at the first diffraction angle plus 5 degrees. The combination of the light-transmitting substrate 721c, the third image coupling element 722c, and the third image coupling element 723c is responsible for diffracting the red light R at the first diffraction angle plus 10 degrees.

[0140] From the detailed description of the specific embodiments of this disclosure above, it is evident that in the waveguide device and optical device of this disclosure, by disposing of multiple image coupling elements in the peripheral area of ​​the light-transmitting substrate and correspondingly disposing of multiple image coupling elements in the central area of ​​the light-transmitting substrate, independent optical guidance and output control of multiple beams can be achieved. Therefore, the waveguide device and optical device of this disclosure can effectively solve the bottlenecks encountered in the prior art, such as potential limitations in virtual image position, virtual image distance, or virtual image field of view, thereby providing more flexible and diverse virtual image presentation effects.

[0141] While this disclosure has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain embodiments thereof, other embodiments are also possible. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the embodiments included in this disclosure.

[0142] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the structure of this disclosure without departing from its scope or spirit. In view of the foregoing, this disclosure is intended to cover such modifications and variations, provided they fall within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A waveguide device, characterized in that, Include: At least one light-transmitting substrate includes a central region and a peripheral region surrounding the central region; A first image coupling element is located in the peripheral region and is configured to diffract a first light beam and propagate in the at least one light-transmitting substrate; A first image coupling element is located in the central region and is configured to diffract the diffracted first light beam propagating in the at least one light-transmitting substrate; A second image coupling element is located in the peripheral region and configured to diffract a second light beam through the at least one light-transmitting substrate; and A second image coupling element is located in the central region and configured to diffract the diffracted second beam propagating in the at least one light-transmitting substrate.

2. The waveguide device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first image coupling element is radially aligned with the first image coupling element, and the second image coupling element is radially aligned with the second image coupling element.

3. The waveguide device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first beam and the second beam have the same wavelength.

4. The waveguide device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first image coupling element is configured to diffract the diffracted first beam at a first diffraction angle, and the second image coupling element is configured to diffract the diffracted second beam at a second diffraction angle different from the first diffraction angle.

5. The waveguide device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first image coupling element conforms to a first diffraction wave function, and the second image coupling element conforms to a second diffraction wave function that is different from the first diffraction wave function.

6. The waveguide device as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first diffraction wave function is a wave function of a first virtual image distance, and the second diffraction wave function is a wave function of a second virtual image distance that is different from the first virtual image distance.

7. The waveguide device as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first diffraction wave function is a wave function of a first virtual image field of view, and the second diffraction wave function is a wave function of a second virtual image field of view, which is different from the first virtual image field of view.

8. The waveguide device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The first image coupling element includes a first diffraction grating, and the second image coupling element includes a second diffraction grating, wherein the first diffraction grating and the second diffraction grating intersect each other.

9. The waveguide device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one light-transmitting substrate includes a first light-transmitting substrate and a second light-transmitting substrate, the first image coupling element and the first image coupling element are located on the first light-transmitting substrate, and the second image coupling element and the second image coupling element are located on the second light-transmitting substrate.

10. The waveguide device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The first beam and the second beam have different wavelengths.

11. The waveguide device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The first beam and the second beam have the same wavelength.

12. The waveguide device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The central area is rotatably connected to the surrounding area.

13. An optical device, characterized in that, Include: A shell; A waveguide device, comprising: At least one light-transmitting substrate is rotatably connected to the housing and includes a central region and a peripheral region surrounding the central region; A first image coupling element is located in the peripheral region and is configured to diffract a first light beam and propagate in the at least one light-transmitting substrate; A first image coupling element is located in the central region and configured to diffract the diffracted first light beam propagating in the at least one light-transmitting substrate; A second image coupling element is located in the peripheral region and configured to diffract a second light beam through the at least one light-transmitting substrate; and A second image coupling element is located in the central region and configured to diffract the diffracted second beam propagating in the at least one light-transmitting substrate; as well as A projector is mounted on the housing and configured to emit the first beam and the second beam along an optical path toward the peripheral area.

14. The optical device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The first beam and the second beam have the same wavelength.

15. The optical device as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The first image coupling element is configured to diffract the diffracted first beam at a first diffraction angle, and the second image coupling element is configured to diffract the diffracted second beam at a second diffraction angle different from the first diffraction angle.

16. The optical device as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The first image coupling element conforms to a first diffraction wave function, and the second image coupling element conforms to a second diffraction wave function that is different from the first diffraction wave function.

17. The optical device as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The first diffraction wave function is a wave function of a first virtual image distance, and the second diffraction wave function is a wave function of a second virtual image distance that is different from the first virtual image distance.

18. The optical device as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The first diffraction wave function is a wave function of a first virtual image field of view, and the second diffraction wave function is a wave function of a second virtual image field of view, which is different from the first virtual image field of view.

19. The optical device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The first image coupling element includes a first diffraction grating, and the second image coupling element includes a second diffraction grating, wherein the first diffraction grating and the second diffraction grating intersect each other.

20. The optical device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The central area is rotatably connected to the surrounding area.

Images